SBS Food’s “Memory Bites” welcomes Courtney Act this Monday, adding a dash of glamour and a heaping spoonful of nostalgia to Chef Matt Moran’s kitchen. This isn’t just about fancy restaurant fare; it’s about the dishes that shaped childhoods, the food memories that linger long after the plates are cleared. For Courtney, those memories are tied to her upbringing in 1980s Brisbane and a mother, Annette, whose culinary skills were as vibrant as her career as a beautician.
From cheese and asparagus vol-au-vents (a retro classic if ever there was one) to the delicate artistry of Danish smørrebrød, the episode revisits the dishes that graced Courtney’s childhood table. But “Memory Bites” isn’t just a cooking show; it’s a journey into personal history. The show’s signature “Memory Box” serves as a prompt, unearthing stories and moments that shaped both Shane and Courtney. A seemingly simple lemon-boiled lolly, for example, unlocks a poignant memory of Courtney’s German Oma, leading to the recreation of a beloved family treat: Mohnkuchen cake.
Expect laughter, perhaps a few tears, and definitely some delicious food as Matt Moran and Courtney Act work their culinary magic. The episode explores not just the recipes but also the role food played in fostering Courtney’s creativity and sense of self. It’s a reminder that food is more than sustenance; it’s the stuff of memories, family, and identity.
Tune in to SBS Food this Monday, April 7 at 7:30pm for a taste of Courtney Act’s past – and some culinary inspiration for your own future.
