Sue Heazlewood’s Tangleby Gardens were first immortalised in her children’s books. Then, the keen ‘home cook and gardening aficionado’ discovered there was a whole world of food writing to explore. And thus, A Table at Tangleby and A Table at Tangleby II were born. thisNZlife talked to Sue about Tangleby, her earliest kitchen memories and her top dinner party tips.

Tell us about your journey to A Table at Tangleby. What inspired you to write the two volumes of cookbooks after writing children’s books?

After writing my first children’s book with over 40 recipes included in it, I realised how many flavour combinations and recipes I had in my head. That really inspired me to publish the two A Table at Tangleby books.

What were your earliest memories in your kitchen?

My earliest memories in the kitchen were when I was a pre-schooler. Mum would roll out any leftover pastry she had. I would cut it into shapes, top each shape with hundreds and thousands and bake them for a tea party with my dolls.

Where in New Zealand is your garden?

My garden is in Ohoka which is about 30 minutes north of Christchurch.

How much food do you get from your glasshouse? How long did it take for it to establish?

Over the spring, summer and autumn we get the majority of our vegetables from the vegetable garden. In the autumn we also have apples, plums, apricots, figs and watermelons. It took no time at all to set up a productive vegetable and herb garden.

What are some of your favourite things to cook in winter?

I am a huge fan of slow cooking in the winter. I have a lot of beautiful meals in both of my books for slow-cooked meats in the oven to succulent casserole-style meals in the slow cooker. You get such a great depth of flavour and tenderness with this style of cooking.

Your dishes are often designed for entertaining. What are your top tips for dinner party hosting?

I always prepare as much as I can the day before, including setting the table. I like to serve a couple of canapes first so that people get to mingle well before the main is served.

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A Table at Tangleby II by Sue Heazlewood | Photography by Neil Smith. Published by Auckram Publishing | $64.95. Available from tangleby.co.nz and specialty stores nationwide.