Who is your role model and why?

I have full respect for anyone who has worked hard and created something for themselves or others, and especially when they enjoy what they do immensely – no matter the profession. It is hard to choose a role model when there are elements about so many people in my life that I respect and admire.

What ingredient could you not live without?

Maldon sea salt – I feel nervous without it.

What item, apart from your passport, can you not travel without?

My travel bag. It straps across my body rather than needing to be carried, leaving my hands free to touch, explore, eat and drink!

Where is your favourite place to eat in London and why? 

One of my favourite places of all has to be The Wolseley in London. Every meal time, every day, every hour brings completely different people, so it is fascinating to watch it all happen. It is the highest quality of people-watching enjoyment, so much so, that you can dine alone and still have sufficient entertainment. It really is incredible and I have spotted some incredible people there over the years.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given in your career?

Oh I’ll never forget it: ‘Nobody is ever going to care that you’re the girl who can cook everything… so stick to your Persian and Middle Eastern heritage and working hard at that instead.’

How do you like to spend a day off?

Chilling at home. My home is my sanctuary, I miss it when I’m on holiday. It’s small but it has every comfort I could ever hope for. Not glamorous, just familiar and cosy.

Apart from cooking, do you have any other passions?

I am full-blown travel junkie. The love goes hand-in-hand with my love for food and culture.

If you could choose anyone from today or history, who would be your ideal dinner party guest and why?

So many historical figures, from rulers like Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan to old Chinese and Persian ruling dynasties. Anyone to help me gain better understanding of the ancient world and the trade surrounding the Silk Roads and ancient Persia.

Sabrina Ghayour is the author of three cookery books about Middle Eastern and Persian food. Her latest book, Feasts, is out now; octopusbooks.co.uk. Click here to read three recipes from Feast and find out more about the book.