Originally from the UK, I was just starting to gain a reputation as a decent cake maker...

...when I was uprooted to come and live in the wilds of Shikoku, Japan. I am an often stressed SAHM to three noisy but very loveable kids, trying my best to make the most of what we have here.

How long have you been a Daring Baker/Daring Cook and what’s your favorite thing about being in the group(s) so far?

I joined in January 2009. I’m loving being pushed to try out new things. When each challenge is released, I always think, oh, that’s too difficult for me, perhaps I should sit this one out!

What’s your favorite kitchen gadget? How about your favorite kitchen appliance?

My citrus press (an old-fashioned lemon squeezer) – I love how it turns the lemons inside-out! And my dishwasher – well no-one else is going to wash the dishes for me.

Are you known for making a certain dish or dessert? If so, what is it?

Anything sweet. Most likely with chocolate.

You’ve just won $5000.00!!! What would you spend it on?

A proper, reliable oven, one big enough to take more than one cake tin at a time.

What is the ultimate comfort food to you?

Macaroni cheese

Which season (Winter, Summer, Spring, Fall) is your favorite.. why?

Spring, because it’s the end of Winter. I hate having cold toes.

Other than cooking and/or baking.. what hobbies do you enjoy?

I like the idea of gardening, but the insects here are terrifying…

What’s your favorite cookbook for desserts/baking? What’s your favorite cookbook for savory/cooking?

Nigella, Nigella, Nigella

Is there one food that you seriously dislike/hate? If so, which is it and why?

Konnyaku, a kind of jelly made from Devil’s Tongue. I don’t care that it doesn’t contain any calories, nor that it is good for your digestive system – that stuff is evil!

Who taught you how to cook and/or bake?

My mum. She’s a great cook – I blame her for my sweet tooth!

What did you eat for dinner last night? Did you prepare it or someone else?

Tempura, grilled hamachi (amberjack/yellowtail) for the non-vegetarians, salad, rice and miso soup, with otabe (a sweet mochi delicacy from Kyoto ) for dessert, all prepared by me.

Do you have a time saving kitchen tip you’d like to share with us?

Prep bowls are your friend!

You can visit Angela on her blog Creating A Stir