JUST LIKE MUM!

The old saying 'the apple doesn't fall far from the tree' certainly applies to these pairs!

- ELLIE FENNELL.

‘Mum's expertise is invaluable’

Mali Saberi, 53, lives in Henley with her partner, Nicholas, and youngest daughter, Celine, 10.

Growing up in a very close, traditional Persian family in Iran, eating together was a big deal. Some of my happiest memories are in the kitchen with my mum, Pari, and my grandma, Morasa, before our huge family feasts. Sitting on a little stool, I would help strip the herbs and stir the mixtures while they made dishes from recipes I still use today. They both taught me everything I know about Persian cuisine, and I often think of them while cooking.

NEW CHAPTER

I moved to the UK from Iran with my first husband when I was pregnant, aged 19, and continued to cook - with Mum again when she came here in 2014. My traditional first marriage meant I didn't work for many years, but that broke down. When I met my current partner Nicholas, in 2011, he encouraged me to believe in myself and pursue cooking.