Malaysian Scottish chef to give Paisley Book Festival audience Sama more recipes to bring people together
Renowned Glasgow restaurant co-founder to discuss new book and influences as she appears alongside The Hebridean Baker, Pam Brunton and Katie Goh.
Article Source: Paisley Book Festival
Last Updated: 24 April 2025 10:50
Chef Julie Lin is in no doubt about the inspiring influences behind her life-defining love for good food and great company.
“Growing up, it was really shaped by the women in my life - my mum’s incredible dinner parties, her determination to recreate the bold flavours of Malaysia in a new country, and my Scottish grandmother’s baking. Those memories are at the heart of my cooking,” she says.
The co-founder of award-winning Glasgow restaurant Gaga, who grew up in the city, has drawn on fun and flavours from her vibrant multicultural background to inspire others in the kitchen with the launch of her new cookery book, Sama Sama.
And she will share some of the stories behind the recipes when she takes to the stage at Paisley Book Festival, appropriately themed on The Lives We Live.
When it came to developing her book, Julie wanted it to feel personal, like handwritten recipes from a friend, not just a list of instructions. Her approach is always organic, using ingredients she has to hand to ensure there is minimal food waste, trusting her senses, and letting the natural fusion of flavours guide the process.
Julie explains: “Dishes like my quick carbonara with Chinese sausage or a comforting char kway teow - which takes me back to my childhood - are born out of that fusion of tradition and the business of everyday life.
“I’ve also been deeply inspired by the women around me - from my mentor Lori McMillan to the amazing community of female chefs in Glasgow - and I believe fiercely in creating space for everyone in our industry.
“Food is connection, care, and culture. I’m proud to carry that forward in every dish I make.”
Julie will share a stage at Paisley Town Hall with The Hebridean Baker, Pam Brunton and Katie Goh between 2:30pm and 3:30pm tomorrow (Friday, April 25).
As they discuss the power of the culinary world to shape who we are as part of the book festival’s Life’s Fundamentals strand, Paisley Food and Drink will be taking place outside, in Abbey Close and Bridge Street.
OneRen Chief Executive Victoria Hollows said: “Food is a strand in all of our lives - with the kitchen the heart of many homes - and we’re delighted to have such a strong line-up of culinary talent to bring that to life at Paisley Book Festival.
“With the food and drink festival happening at the same time, this is a weekend which promises to be a slice of something special for foodies and book lovers alike. A great showcase for the town.”
Paisley Book Festival is organised by OneRen with support from Creative Scotland.
Full details about the line-up - including booking information - are available at www.paisleybookfestival.com
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