David Woods, head chef of the Sofitel Hotel, bloggs on what's good to eat and cook in Sussex

Healthy eating gets flavour boost

January 16th 2012

David Woods, head chef of the Sofitel hotel, serves up healthy eating dishes packed with flavour, but it has to be haggis when it comes to the annual Burns Night Supper.

Indulge in chocolate heaven

October 27th 2011

Sofitel Hotel's head chef, David Woods, makes a number of foodie discoveries in Sussex this week and reveals the easiest chocolate mousse recipe ever.

An apple a day.....

October 4th 2011

Head chef, David Woods, shares his top tip on how to store Bramley apples, and urges Sussex residents to `use it or lose it' when it comes to their local butcher.

pick of the recipe crop for courgettes

August 4th 2011

If your courgette plants are going mad and you have run out of ideas on what to do with them, then grab a few eggs and make this simple fritatta, says David Woods, head chef of the Sofitel Hotel, based at Gatwick's north terminal.

Going bananas at the Sofitel

July 18th 2011

When the going gets tough, the tough go bananas! At least that's what they do in the Sofitel kitchens. Despite a busy week, the chefs still found time to experiment with new recipes for discoloured bananas, and head chef, David Woods, managed a quick trip out to buy the best lardy cake he has ever tasted.

A quick cherry pud for busy lifestyles

June 23rd 2011

As the holiday season approaches, David Woods faces a hectic schedule at the Sofitel but finds time to make a delicious quick pudding using English cherries which are now in season.

Chocolate, strawberries and all things nice!

June 9th 2011

This week, head chef David Woods is inspired by locally-produced chocolate and reveals his ultimate recipe for strawberry jam.

Make British lamb the perfect picnic food

May 27th 2011

David Woods, head chef of the Sofitel Hotel, based at Gatwick's north terminal, puts British lamb on the menu - and in the picnic hamper. And prepares for 200 unexpected guests due to the ash cloud chaos.

In praise of British asparagus and barbecue weather

May 10th 2011

David Woods, head chef of the Sofitel Hotel, based at Gatwick's north terminal shares his mayonnaise recipe which is perfect for dipping grilled British asapragus. And he takes a veg trip to Steyning.

Jersey Royal potatoes get the Sofitel treatment

April 12th 2011

Jersey Royal potatoes are seasonal stars of the La Brasserie menu at the Sofitel Hotel, and head chef, David Woods, reveals some of his favourite recipes. On his days off, he prepares for a fishing competition with the Newhaven Deep Sea Anglers Club.