Think back to some of the best conversations you’ve ever had, they probably happened over a plate of good food. In this case, it was a bowl of soup!

So, when food writer extraordinaire Sudi Pigottasked to interview me at home for The Telegraph to discuss my Pumpkin Pepper Soup, a modern twist on my mother’s Nigerian Pepper Soup, brimming with the enchanting flavours and cherished memories of home, I was deeply humbled and excited to say yes.

Soup cooked, photos taken in my new London kitchen, and even my dog Tuppence couldn’t resist stealing the spotlight (as always). We shared stories about the healing power of soup and how my mum’s aromatic elixir continues to be the ultimate hug in a bowl.

This experience reminded me of a question I’ve been asked countless times: “Why do you keep banging on about African food?”

The answer is simple, obvious, and necessary. I do so that we are not erased from the narrative of life. I do it for moments like this: when the food we eat and the stories that shape us are celebrated on a global stage. I do it so that the vibrant, varied foods from across the African continent are counted, honoured, and enjoyed by as many as possible. Food is a powerful tool which I have the privilege to share from my cookbook, radio, television, newspapers and magazines, bringing our stories to the homes and hearts of cooks everywhere. After all, to know a person is to know their food.

I am ever so thrilled that my boy Tuppence was featured too. I love him dearly and this image is made more complete with him in it, as he is always by my side, and could not help but insert himself into the photo.

Check out the lovely feature here I have sent this as a gift to you since I am a subscriber to the paper, otherwise the article is behind the newspaper’s premium paywall. Feel free to pass on the links far and wide. I’ll share the recipes for my Nigerian & Moroccan Version of Pepper soup to subscribers, and if you can’t wait, find it in your copy of Africana Cookbook.