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    Ep 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

    enJuly 24, 2024
    Who are the hosts of the Off Menu podcast?
    What dish did Sisha Monica Jackson compare to chocolate?
    Which famous sitcom cast members have appeared on the podcast?
    What is the significance of the name 'Sisha' in the podcast?
    What type of wine does the ruler prefer in the conversation?

    Podcast Summary

    • Food and FriendshipThe Off Menu podcast brings together people from diverse backgrounds to share their favorite dishes, sparking conversations about cultural differences and similarities through the universal language of food and humor.

      The Off Menu podcast, hosted by Ed Gamble and James Haker, invites guests to share their favorite ever dish, including a side and a drink. The podcast has featured many cast members from the hit sitcom "Derry Girls," including Nicola Cockland, Chibor McSweeney, Tommy Tiernan, and Benita. During one episode, they had to guess the secret ingredient suggested by the audience, which was Brown Coddle, a savory stew. Sisha Monica Jackson, a sitcom royalty and their guest that week, was asked to describe her favorite dish using the analogy of turning milk chocolatey brown. If she said "savory cocoa pops," she would be out. The podcast has had guests from various backgrounds and nationalities, leading to interesting conversations about pronunciations and cultural differences. For instance, the name Sisha, which means freedom, is pronounced differently in different dialects. The podcast is a fun and engaging exploration of food, humor, and friendship.

    • Podcast essentials: Food and banterFood and witty banter are crucial elements in a successful podcast, and embracing new experiences and self-care are important for the hosts' well-being.

      Food and witty banter are essential elements in their podcast, and they value experiences that bring people together, like the Great British Menu Banquet. Another important aspect is self-care, whether it's washing your face or visiting a face gym for a relaxing experience. The conversation also touched on their shared love for food, with preferences ranging from high-end to home-cooked meals. The discussion showcased their playful and humorous dynamic, making it an enjoyable listen. Additionally, they highlighted the importance of embracing different experiences and adapting to new environments, as they both have had to adjust to living in London and dealing with its unique challenges.

    • Food dipsDiscovering new food dips can enhance dining experience and lead to unexpected discoveries, like shared preferences and cultural references.

      Food and its accompanying sauces or dips can greatly enhance the dining experience. The speakers in this conversation shared their preferences for various dips like Frank's hot sauce, lion pickle, green dip, and buffalo sauce. They discussed the importance of having a good selection of dips and even shared some unexpected discoveries, like the Irish phrase "a big woman for salsa or saw your cream" and the discovery that they were both ginger. The conversation also touched on the topic of food during the pandemic, with one speaker sharing an experience of accidentally ordering large quantities of chicken wings and another mentioning the noise of foxes, which in Ireland are sometimes referred to as Banshees. Overall, the conversation showcased the joy and excitement that comes from discovering new foods and sauces and the role they play in making meals more enjoyable.

    • Oyster flavors and texturesExperimenting with various sauces and textures enhances the enjoyment of oysters, highlighting the importance of recognizing individuality and creating unique experiences

      The speaker enjoys experimenting with different flavors and textures when preparing and eating oysters as a starter. They use various Tabasco sauces and garlic butter with langoustines, and each oyster receives a unique combination of sauces. The speaker also appreciates the importance of giving each flavor its moment, just as one would want to be recognized for their individuality. The experience of eating oysters is heightened by the sensitivity of the teeth, which can be amplified by the excitement of a special occasion. The speaker also shares anecdotes about creating characters and their relationships, reflecting the importance of companionship and creativity in life. Overall, the speaker's enjoyment of oysters is a celebration of individuality, experimentation, and the joy of shared experiences.

    • Relationships and FoodSpeaker's food preferences and experiences revealed insights into her personal relationships, including her ambivalent feelings towards her partner and her admiration for other chefs

      During a conversation about food and cooking, the speaker revealed her fondness for various dishes and shared her experiences of trying out new recipes. However, the discussion also unintentionally reflected her personal relationships and feelings towards them. For instance, she mentioned her partner, whom she described as a "little shitbag" who never gives her credit for her ideas, but she stays with him because of his attractive qualities. She also shared her admiration for other chefs and their recipes, expressing her desire to learn from them. Another interesting revelation was her admission that lamb, which she loves, is not actually made from baby lambs but from adult sheep, which she learned from a friend. Overall, the conversation showcased the speaker's passion for food and cooking, as well as her complex emotions towards her relationships.

    • Food preferences and experiencesSpeaker expresses strong preference for well-cooked lamb and spicy Bloody Mary, shares memorable experience with unique Bloody Mary from Hernhill, and imagines ideal meal with deconstructed roast and truffle mac and cheese.

      During a conversation about food experiences, it was revealed that the speaker has a strong preference for well-cooked lamb and a spicy Bloody Mary. They also mentioned a memorable experience with a unique type of Bloody Mary from Hernhill. The speaker expressed their love for spicy food and how they have grown to appreciate it since moving to England. They also imagined their ideal meal, which included a deconstructed roast with various sides, and even suggested adding truffle mac and cheese as an alternative. The conversation also included some playful banter about a character named "Little Shipbag." Overall, the conversation showcased the speaker's passion for food and their appreciation for unique and spicy flavors.

    • Hairstyles and drinksPeople's preferences for hairstyles and drinks can lead to engaging conversations. As people age, their tastes and preferences evolve, and it's important to be conscious of one's breath, especially for those who have quit smoking.

      The conversation between the two individuals revolves around various topics including their hairstyles, past trends, and favorite drinks. The ruler in the conversation expresses his satisfaction with being a ruler and reminisces about past trends like the "night tick" and girls having diamonds in their teeth. He also discusses his preference for Italian red wine, specifically a multi-puciano. The conversation also touches upon the evolution of tastes and preferences as people age, and the importance of being conscious of one's breath, especially for those who have quit smoking. Despite some misunderstandings, they continue to engage in a light-hearted and playful conversation.

    • Alcohol preferencesOur speaker dislikes the taste and potential negative consequences of shots but enjoys lighter wines and fondly remembers desserts, particularly a knickerbocker glory.

      Despite the occasional indulgence in a shot or two, our speaker generally dislikes the experience of taking shots due to their unpleasant taste and potential negative consequences. However, they may make an exception for special occasions or in the company of close friends. When it comes to wine, the speaker enjoys it but doesn't claim to be an expert. They prefer lighter wines that don't leave a strong taste or residue on the lips. The speaker also shared their disdain for surprise shots, especially those containing strong-tasting liquors like Sambuca. The conversation then shifted to desserts, with the speaker expressing fond memories of a famous ice cream parlor in Derry and their preferred dessert, a knickerbocker glory. Overall, the conversation touched on various topics, including alcohol, wine, and desserts, with the speaker sharing their personal preferences and experiences.

    • Nicki Boca GloriesNostalgia for a childhood dessert, imagined as the epitome of deliciousness, can create a lifelong attachment despite never having tasted it.

      The speaker fondly remembers the childhood excitement and craving for a dessert called Nicki Boca Glories, which they first heard about in a children's book. Despite never having tasted it, they have maintained a strong attachment to it, imagining it as the epitome of delicious ice cream with various toppings and sauces. The name of the dessert is believed to be derived from the Nicobar Hotel in Manhattan. The conversation also touches upon the speaker's past obsession with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and their desire to meet him. The discussion revolves around food, nostalgia, and the power of imagination in creating long-lasting desires.

    • Embracing the PresentStay open to new opportunities and experiences, as the future may bring technological advancements and entertainment opportunities that can enrich our lives

      The future, in terms of technological advancements and innovations, is likely already here. The speaker encourages staying open to opportunities and looking on the bright side, as you never know what the day may bring. Additionally, Nish Kavar, a comedian, briefly interrupted the podcast to promote his new tour and invite listeners to check out his tickets at nishkavar.co.uk. The speaker's delivery was on its way, and he was excited about it. Overall, the message is to embrace the present and be open to new experiences, whether they come in the form of technological advancements or entertainment opportunities.

    Recent Episodes from Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


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    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 259: Will Ospreay

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    AEW All In is at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 25th August. Get tickets here.

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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 258: Phil Dunster

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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 257: Amy Annette

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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 256: Hammed Animashaun

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    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

    Ep 255: Saoirse-Monica Jackson

    ‘Derry Girls’ and ‘The Decameron’ star Saoirse-Monica Jackson joins us in the Dream Restaurant this week. And we’re all getting Nike ticks shaved on our heads.


    Saoirse-Monica Jackson stars in ‘The Decameron’ which launched on Netflix on 25th July. Watch it here.

    Follow Saoirse-Monica on Instagram @saoirsemonicajackson


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 254: Michelle de Swarte

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    Follow Michelle on Instagram @michelledeswarte


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Ep 253: Sophie Willan

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    Follow Sophie on Instagram @sophiewillan


    Tickets for ‘Off Menu: Live in London’ go on sale this Friday 12th July at 10am. Visit offmenupodcast.co.uk for details.


    Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

    Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).


    Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

    And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.


    Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.