This is a live show, anything could happen,” warns Edward Hayden.

The Kilkenny chef isn’t in the TV3 studio, which is almost like his second home. Instead, it’s a bright Saturday morning in Kilkenny and Edward is about to begin a demonstration at his cookery school in Graignamanagh.

Greeted by applause, his audience is already in raptures and Edward is a gracious host, for whom entertaining comes naturally.

The lesson today focuses on easy entertaining for family and friends. Since the school opened in July, he’s been holding a couple of courses every week, ranging from gluten-free cooking to tapas.

“There’s only one rule here – you have to try the recipes at home,” he says. “We all do these courses – marriage courses, cookery course – with great intentions.”

Most of the guests are local and have come in groups, but chat among themselves. Everyone is gathered around the kitchen worktop, close enough to see Edward at work.

recipes

The recipes are new twists on classics, from honey and multiseed brown soda bread to meringue roulade with toasted almonds.

Other dishes include parmesan-crusted chicken, lemon and ginger fish parcels and tomato and basil soup. With help from his good friend and cookery companion Olivia O’Driscoll, he makes each dish with a few tips and quips along the way.

“Spices won’t last years,” he says. “It’s like marriage – you have to work hard to keep spice in your cupboard.”

In fact, guests are in peals of laughter for the day and “I’ll give you a laugh” is Edward’s catchphrase during the demonstrations. However, we also feel comfortable enough to ask questions – and plenty are asked – with Edward happy to answer.

The chef is a firm believer in cooking with attainable ingredients.

“You won’t have to hop on the Orient Express for any of these ingredients,” he says.

“They have to be attainable, because ordinary people don’t have time to look.”

The response to the cookery school, which boasts a large kitchen and adjoining dining room, has been overwhelming.

“It’s been going really well. We’ve been really busy and I think it’s because the recipes can be recreated at home,” says Edward.

The demonstration lasts from noon until around 5pm, when dinner is served in the dining room. Of course, it’s the highlight of the day and we all vow to attempt the recipes at home.

Overall, Edward’s course was the perfect mix of entertainment and education.

Day courses cost €80 while evening classes cost €50. Both include meals. The school is also available for private events. For bookings, call 086-0676258 or 059 9724359. Email info@edwardentertains.com.