Tom Kerridge admits to 'stealing' popular recipe – but he's not the only one

By Matt Jackson, Content Editor

Tom Kerridge has admitted he sometimes takes credit for his mum's dish. (Image: PinPep)

Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge has opened up about "stealing" a beloved recipe and suffering through his share of "kitchen disasters".

Despite leading two Michelin-starred establishments, Tom, aged 51, recognises that everyone encounters similar culinary errors. These range from dropping food on the floor to "borrowing" a treasured family dish.

And it was one of Tom's nearest and dearest who fell victim to this culinary "crime". Speaking to the Daily Mail, the Great British Menu judge revealed he has taken credit for his mum's famous beef Bolognese on occasion.

His confession coincides with a startling survey indicating that one in six Brits have served food off the floor. Additionally, 28 percent have reused a spoon for cooking after tasting food with it.

MARLOW, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Tom Kerridge attends Pub In The Park 2024 at Higginson Park on May 16, 2024 in Marlow, England. (Photo by Ki Price/Getty Images) (Image: Ki Price/Getty Images)

Tom said: "I think it's brilliant to see so many of us share the same kitchen quirks and mishaps - whether it's dropping food on the floor or 'borrowing' a family recipe. Cooking should be fun, and it's those little imperfections that make it special.

"I've definitely had my fair share of disasters, and yes, I've been known to take credit for my mum's beef Bolognese. It's all about creating great food and memories with the people you love, no matter how you get there."

The culinary mogul, proprietor of the acclaimed The Hand and Flowers and The Coach gastropubs, both boasting Michelin stars, is now championing a new campaign that sheds light on the little-known facets of entertaining at home.

As part of the kitchen appliance titan NEFF's Hidden Heroes endeavour, Tom highlights the highs and lows of having people over for dinner.

Tom Kerridge (Image: Getty)

The campaign discovered that Tom isn't the only Brit who has borrowed a recipe from a family member. One in 10 younger Brits confessed to taking a family recipe and claiming it as their own, although most add their own personal touch.

The study also revealed that one of the top kitchen cheats is attempting to pass off a Google-found recipe as your own, joining the ranks of heating up a ready-meal or using pre-made pastry. Celebrity chef Tom gained fame after participating in the Great British Menu in 2010 and 2011.

He has since hosted numerous cooking shows and returned as a judge on the Great British Menu for 2022.