Bio

Half-Thai Dominique Woolf was the winner of ‘The Great Cookbook Challenge with Jamie Oliver’ on Channel 4. She wowed the judges with her simple, accessible Asian recipes, and her book, Dominique’s Kitchen, became a Sunday Times bestseller. 

Dominique is also the Founder of food business The Woolf’s Kitchen’, selling a range of Asian sauces, chilli oils and pastes inspired by those her Thai auntie used to make. Her Great Taste award-winning products are now stocked in The Co-op and Selfridges.  

Her second book, The Asian Pantry, is out in June 2024. 

Life before Leiths
Stay-at-home parent and before that a singer-songwriter.

What inspired you to enrol at Leiths?:

“I had had three kids in quick succession with no career to go back to. I felt I needed a purpose, something for myself and after much soul searching I realised that food was the passion I wanted to make a career out of. I wanted to immerse myself in the industry and learn some new skills. Leiths is the gold standard and I loved the sound of the course.” 

Life after graduation:

“I started a food business, The Woolf’s Kitchen, then got the opportunity to go on The Great Cookbook Challenge. My time plan came into its own and definitely helped me during the competition! After Dominique’s Kitchen was published I did the food festival circuit and have since demoed at numerous events. I also write recipes for publications and create food and content for other brands and clients, as well as writing my second book.”

Any wise words for future grads?:

“There are so many different opportunities in food, it really is an exciting time to be part of it. Hone your skills and get as much experience as you can. Develop your network and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.”

Photographer credit: Lisa Gilby @selfmadeandseen