In the world of culinary delights, few dishes are as universally adored as a hearty, rich bolognese sauce. It's a staple that warms the soul and fills the belly, a recipe passed down through generations, each with their own twist. But what if I told you that one of Australia's most cherished chefs has a secret ingredient that could transform your bolognese from familiar to phenomenal?


Celebrity chef Iain 'Huey' Hewitson, a name synonymous with Australian cooking, has been dishing out his kitchen wisdom for decades. From his early days on 'Healthy, Wealthy and Wise' to the beloved 'Huey's Cooking Adventures' and 'Huey's Kitchen', Hewitson has become a fixture in Aussie homes, teaching us the joy of cooking with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of love.


After a hiatus from television, Huey has made a triumphant return, not on the small screen, but on the social media platform TikTok, where he's captured the hearts of a new generation and rekindled the nostalgia of long-time fans. His daughter Charlotte, recognizing the potential for her father's charm and expertise to thrive in the digital age, encouraged him to join TikTok. The result? A viral sensation, with hundreds of thousands of views and a growing community of food enthusiasts eager for Huey's culinary counsel.


As we gather around the table for festive feasts or seek comfort in a family dinner, Huey's insights into the Christmas menu are particularly timely. While his glazed leg of ham remains a non-negotiable tradition, his approach to the holiday spread is refreshingly flexible. He's a proponent of starting with pre-prepared dishes to minimize kitchen time on the day, suggesting smoked salmon or trout, blanched and refreshed asparagus and beans, and an array of cheeses served with ripe summer tomatoes, bread, and a drizzle of fig balsamic and olive oil.

But let's delve into the sauce that has everyone talking. Huey's bolognese sauce trick is as simple as it is surprising: a square of dark chocolate. Before you raise an eyebrow, consider the depth and richness chocolate adds to Mexican mole sauces. It's this same principle that Huey applies to his bolognese, enriching the flavor without overpowering it. The chocolate melds into the sauce, creating a complexity that will leave your guests guessing and your taste buds dancing.

Huey's kitchen wisdom doesn't stop there. His tips for the perfect scrambled eggs—using heavy cream and a fork instead of a whisk, cooking gently, and removing from heat before they're fully set—will ensure your breakfast is as fluffy as a cloud. For mashed potatoes, he champions the use of floury varieties, a touch of milk, cream, and butter, and a preference for a rustic texture with the addition of chives and spring onion.


When it comes to steak, Huey's advice is clear: buy from a butcher, let the meat come to room temperature before cooking, and always rest it after grilling to ensure the juices redistribute for a tender, succulent bite.

Beyond these specific dishes, Huey's pantry staples reflect his culinary philosophy: good olive oil, balsamic and sherry vinegar, and a quartet of Asian sauces—soy, oyster, hoisin, and sambal—are non-negotiables. His love for sambal is so profound that he's even incorporated it into his puttanesca sauce, alongside soy sauce, defying purists and delighting palates with his bold fusion of flavors.

Huey's approach to cooking with butter and cream is one of moderation, a lesson learned from his long-lived relatives who never shied away from these ingredients but used them judiciously. And when it comes to vegetables, he reminds us that sometimes simplicity is key—a bit of oil, garlic, and ginger can elevate a stir fry to new heights.

You can watch Huey's video here:


As we reflect on Huey's culinary journey and embrace his kitchen secrets, we're reminded that cooking is not just about following recipes to the letter. It's about experimentation, personal touches, and, above all, sharing the love of food with friends and family. So next time you're in the kitchen, channel your inner Huey—add that unexpected ingredient, tweak the traditional methods, and don't forget to serve up your creations with a generous side of joy.
What's your secret ingredient for a classic dish? Have you ever tried adding chocolate to your bolognese, or do you have another unconventional trick up your sleeve? Share your culinary revelations with us in the comments below, and let's continue to celebrate the art of cooking together!