As I approached the age of 50, I made a conscious decision to make the most of this milestone. I am fully aware of the privilege of reaching my half century, as many people in the music industry do not have the opportunity. And even for those who do, it can often be a difficult time. But I am fortunate to have reached this age relatively unscathed. Therefore, I am very mindful of my diet and what I put into my body. I understand the impact that food can have – it can provide comfort and enjoyment, but it can also have healing properties. This realization comes even as I just finished eating a sausage roll.
As a child, my meals consisted mainly of Jamaican dishes influenced by British cuisine. I recall requesting a shepherd’s pie from my mother, and although she made it for me, she added her own unique twist with more flavorful seasonings. This blending of food cultures was common in our household. However, certain dishes like welsh rarebit were a favorite of mine and I wouldn’t want them to be altered in any way. They were simply delicious.
I have never consumed alcohol. During one Christmas when I was approximately 14 years old, my uncle offered me a drink that I thought was orange juice, but it turned out to have vodka in it. I was excited for this Christmas treat, but it ended up making me extremely ill. I developed a rash around my mouth and neck and felt like I couldn’t breathe. I was sick for several days. My mother was concerned and asked if my uncle was trying to harm me. He was extremely embarrassed by the mistake and after that incident, I made the decision to never drink alcohol again.
Tea is my drink. Black tea in the morning, and then as the day goes on it’s the green teas, it’s the mints or chamomile or ginger or whatever. When I’m on tour, my rider consists … yes, you guessed it: kettle, lots of water, teabags. It’s the first thing I look for in any dressing room. I’m the cheapest date going!
I refrained from drinking during a time when it was not popular to abstain from alcohol. After performing at a club, I would request for some tea instead of alcohol. Back then, people would give me strange looks. Now, it is seen as a fun and unique aspect of my personality, definitely “Bev.”
In 1995, I relocated to London and was introduced to a variety of new and delicious foods. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I first tried Spanish cuisine and sushi. While growing up in Wolverhampton, I had access to Italian food and Indian food, but my move to London exposed me to a whole new world of cuisine that I thoroughly enjoyed.
My spouse used to work as a chef, so he often takes charge in the kitchen – lucky me! I introduced him to West Indian cuisine, specifically Jamaican dishes, and now he prepares them even better than I do, which can be frustrating. But he admits himself that he can be a bit of a nightmare in the kitchen. He tends to stand and watch, making comments like “I wouldn’t have done it that way…” He even does this to my 75-year-old mother, who has been cooking since she was six. She jokingly tells him to get out of her kitchen.
Prince was a brilliant host, brilliant. He invited me to Los Angeles in 2008 to perform at his Oscars party and I remember vividly walking into his house and him saying: “Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat?” I knew Prince didn’t eat meat, but he had a chef in and I got salmon and salads. And it was … it was a spread. I don’t know why I remember that salmon so much, but it was gorgeous.
My favourite things
Food
Throughout the entire day, I enjoy consuming ackee and saltfish. My perfect meal would consist of ackee, saltfish, a fried slice of breadfruit and plantain, as well as a small green banana and bammy, which is a cassava-based pancake.
Place to eat
Unfortunately, it is no longer in existence, but Pete Sanchez-Iglesias and his late brother Jonray once operated a highly acclaimed restaurant called Casamia in Bristol. It was truly exceptional and remains the most memorable culinary experience I have ever had. Currently, Pete is the owner of Paco Tapas, another Michelin-starred establishment that has become a close second in my list of favorites.
Dish to make
My specialty is jerk chicken served with rice and peas, but be warned – my version is spicy! You can confirm with my band.
The Fifth Chapter, the latest album from Beverley Knight, is now available. She will be appearing in Sister Act at the Dominion theatre in London from March 15th to June 8th (sisteractthemusical.co.uk).
Source: theguardian.com
