Double power in the kitchen: Isabella and Sofia Bliss

Encouraged and taught by their mother Sylvana and nonna Rosa, these twins have an appreciation, knowledge and understanding of food that goes well beyond their years. Here they share some summer food favourites and why they believe it’s important to grow up learning to cook.

What seasonal ingredients do you love to cook with in summer?

Isabella – I personally love cooking with watermelon and stone fruits like peaches and plums because they have light and clean flavours and they add freshness to a dessert dish. They are also delicious in a salad - just slice a peach or nectarine and add it to your next green salad. YUM!

You enjoy cooking Sicilian-inspired food, what are some of your favourite local dishes to prepare and eat?

Sofia –Making lasagne, pizza and pretty much all types of pasta is always fun to cook! I also enjoy making pettole which is a Sicilian doughnut made with sweet fruits such as pear or apple and lemon or blueberries. They are fluffy, spongy, soft and scrumptious!

What foods do you think are important to eat to stay healthy?

Isabella – I think it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and eat fresh produce with good vitamins for your health such as fruits and vegetables as much as possible. Home grown and homemade is usually best.

What are the most important cooking lessons you’ve learnt from your mum, Sylvana, and Nonna, Rosa?

Sofia – There are lots of ways to fix mistakes in the kitchen and always practice if you get something wrong the first time! Another great tip is to always taste your food to see if the flavour is right, especially with seasoning!

How important do you think it is for children to grow up learning how to cook?

Isabella – It is very important for families and friends to teach children how to cook just by growing up helping in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to teach kids about family and cultural traditions as well as the best or healthy foods to use for a balanced diet.

What do you love most about cooking?

Sofia – Cooking is not just about cooking wonderful food but it is about cooking with people you love and making memories and having fun, as much as I love the cooking this is also a highlight of being in the kitchen!

What dish do you think everyone should be able to cook?

Isabella – I think everyone should learn to cook a breakfast dish like scrambled eggs or pancakes because it is important to start the day with a good meal.

We hear you’ve got plans to open up a restaurant one day - IsSofia, what do you think will the restaurant’s signature dish?

Isabella – the restaurant would have traditional Sicilian dishes with a modern twist such as canapé size falsomagro. Falsomagro would most likely be the signature dish because it is so delicious and full of rich and traditional ingredients. It’s also one our favourite dishes that is at least 50 years old!