Spencer Watts is a Canadian chef renowned for his energetic persona and culinary expertise. Growing up in British Columbia, he was inspired by the region’s abundant fresh ingredients, which ignited his passion for cooking. He began his culinary journey in high school, participating in competitions, and later graduate the top of his class from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts in Vancouver. He honed his skills at establishments like The Westin Grand and C Restaurant. https://chefspencerwatts.com/
Spencer has hosted several cooking series, including “Fish the Dish,” “Spencer’s BIG 30,” and “Watts on the Grill,” where he shares his love for seafood and grilling. His show “Spencer’s BIG 30” focuses on preparing healthy, hearty meals for four in about 30 minutes, all for around 30 dollars. The book is peppered with photographs of the film crew working with Spencer and his kitchen for the best shots. In addition to his television work, Spencer has authored cookbooks such as Fish for You which we showcased in September: https://canadiancookbooks.ca/cookbook-reviews/2/
Few things in life offer the same level of emotional satisfaction as a warm, hearty meal. With his latest cookbook, Comfort Food, Chef Spencer Watts invites readers into his kitchen for a journey through nostalgia, indulgence, and pure culinary joy. Known for his energetic personality and deep appreciation for bold flavors, Watts has created a collection of recipes that celebrate comfort food in all its forms, blending childhood memories with refined culinary expertise.
Watts infuses Comfort Food with his own experiences and passion for cooking. His introduction recalls a pivotal moment as a teenager when he tasted risotto for the first time—a memory so impactful that it set him on his path to becoming a chef. This deeply personal storytelling weaves through the entire book, making it more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a reflection of the joys, memories, and traditions that food creates. https://www.instagram.com/chefspencerwatts/
Watts also acknowledges the influence of his family’s diverse culinary preferences. His father’s love for American classics and his mother’s flair for exotic flavors are evident in the recipes, making this book a beautiful blend of cultural inspirations. You’ll find Beer & Cheesy Brew Soup in our Recipe section. Combine dad’s love of beer with mom’s fondue, you get a blend of comforting heat on a cold winter’s day.
The cookbook is divided into six cleverly named chapters, each focusing on a different facet of comfort food:
- Forkless – A tribute to handheld delights, featuring recipes like French Onion Smash Burgers and Szechuan Meatloaf Bao Buns.
- Fowl Language – A poultry-lover’s paradise, highlighting dishes like Adobo Chicken Thighs and Dill Pickle Chicken Wings.
- Bowls – Cozy, hearty one-bowl meals, including Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodle Bowl and Indian Spiced Cauliflower Korma Soup.
- Carbaholic – The ultimate carb-lover’s dream, packed with dishes like Bolognese Stuffed Tortellini and White Truffle & Pancetta Scalloped Potatoes.
- Any Given Sunday – A celebration of weekend feasts, from Whole Roasted Chicken with Mandarin Orange Glaze to Seared Tuscan Pork Chops.
- Sugar Coated – Indulgent desserts, including Eggnog Crème Caramel and Miso Caramel Apple & Pear Crumble.
One of the book’s strengths is how Watts takes traditional comfort foods and elevates them with unexpected twists. His Bolognese Stuffed Tortellini with Cheesy Rose Sauce takes inspiration from a simple childhood dish—Chef Boyardee ravioli mixed with Kraft cheese—but transforms it into a gourmet experience. Similarly, his Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodle Bowl delivers the warmth and depth of Asian flavors with a Watts-style punch. Watts provides helpful cooking tips throughout, such as achieving the perfect crust on a smash burger or properly layering scalloped potatoes for the ultimate creamy texture.
Chef Spencer Watts’ Comfort Food is more than just a cookbook—it’s an invitation to reminisce, experiment, and savor every bite. The blend of personal anecdotes, practical cooking tips, and inventive yet familiar recipes makes this book a standout in the world of comfort cuisine. Whether you’re looking to recreate a childhood favorite or try something new, this book delivers warmth, flavor, and a whole lot of heart. Purchase the book at https://www.whitecap.ca/Detail/9781770503809 (on sale March 1/25) or win a copy in our Giveaway section.
For anyone who believes that food is more than just sustenance—that it’s a source of joy, connection, and nostalgia—Comfort Food is a must-have addition to your kitchen.
Contents and images used with permission by Whitecap Books. https://www.whitecap.ca/Detail/9781770503809
