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Q&A: Tamal

Tamal reveals the worst reaction that someone has ever had to his bake…

What first inspired you to bake?

My sister got me into baking. We used to make simple things for our parents like fairy cakes and apple crumbles.

What has been your biggest baking disaster ever?

The worst reaction I’ve ever had was from my nephew when he was a baby. I gave him a piece of lemon drizzle cake I’d made and he promptly projectile vomited at me. There was also the time I tried to make Christmas cranberry toffee and went to the bathroom only to come back to a kitchen full of black smoke and a ruined saucepan. My parents were not pleased.

And your baking triumph ever?

My biggest baking triumph would be the wedding cake I made for my cousin last Summer. It took five and half days (the half being the all nighter I pulled) and was a recreation of the top four tiers of the Royal Wedding Cake.

How does the presence of Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry affect your nerves in the kitchen?

It’s strange how being in the tent can turn you into a little kid again. I found myself really wanting not to disappoint the judges and hoping they wouldn’t notice all the burnt bits I was trying to hide!

Which past Bake Off contestants have impressed you the most and why?

Mary-Anne from series 2 was amazing! She was so knowledgeable and had a lot of skill. definitely an inspiration. I really liked James from series 3 and Kate from the last series – both very talented and seemed like lovely people.

What is your biggest fear in the kitchen?

I can be a bit clumsy!

Quick questions…

Tea or coffee? Coffee
White or brown bread? Brown
Chocolate or vanilla? Vanilla
Paul or Mary? Both!