Hi, I'm Jen, a professional chef with over 20 years of experience in kitchens, catering and recipe development. I believe that the best food doesn't come from fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. It comes from fresh produce, simple skills and the confidence to use them.

I grew up in New Zealand where some of my earliest and happiest memories were made in the kitchen and the garden. Food, for me, has always been about connection. About bringing people together and creating something worth gathering around.

After more than a decade working as a professional chef and years developing recipes for home cooks through my former platform The Modern Mess, I moved to Abu Dhabi 18 months ago. Since then I've continued doing what I love most, creating recipes, teaching cooking and helping people find genuine confidence in the kitchen.

My work spans recipe development, for brands, food businesses and my own platform, cooking classes for all levels and now Cook Confident - a beginner’s cooking class for household helpers here in Abu Dhabi. Throughout all my work, I like to make everyday cooking more accessible and most importantly, delicious.

When I'm not in the kitchen I'm exploring the Abu Dhabi food scene and always thinking about the next meal.

Take a look at what I offer, or get in touch. I'd love to hear from you.

Jen x