Johann Lafer, who has won many awards as a top chef and is not only a master of his art but is also a media star, is serving up his gourmet works of art for you. He is not just giving you practical recipes that he has found particularly successful. There is more to it than that – he wants to convey the sheer pleasure of enjoyment, without which you will never achieve anything in the kitchen. This does not just involve having everything to hand and getting everything ready, quite obviously a well laid table and relaxed dining are all part of the experience.

Recipes from our FRIENDS ideas magazine: