Nadiya Hussain is in Hillsborough and we caught up with her

The Hillsborough Castle & Gardens Food Festival is on this weekend. We chatted to TV chef, author, and 2015 winner of The Great British Bake Off Nadiya Hussain, who’ll be at the festival, about Belfast, baking for the Queen, and how to whip up a healthy family meal, fast.

The most surreal moment I’ve experienced since winning Bake Off?
Being asked to bake the Queen’s 90th birthday cake! It’s also one of my proudest moments.

My new book and series, Time to Eat (Michael Joseph, out July 11) is full of tips to make the most of everything you’ve got in the store cupboard that will help you save time. I’m also a big fan of when you’re making one meal, you’re actually making two… just pop one in the freezer. The freezer is your friend.

At the Hillsborough Castle & Gardens Food Festival this weekend, I’m going to be cooking recipes from the new book, so everyone can get a sneak peek at what’s to come: Bao Buns with Spicy Tuna and a Caramelised Biscuit Traybake.

I’ve been to Belfast a few times before for demonstrations and filming, but I’ve never had the chance to explore. I always love coming here – everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I also love seeing other chefs in action. You’re always learning.

The Hillsborough Castle & Gardens Food Festival runs this weekend, from Friday, July 5 through Sunday, July 7, 10am-6pm (Sunday, 10am-5pm). Nadiya Hussain is among the chefs taking part, along with Danni Barry, Glen Wheeler, James Devine, Dr Rupy Aujla, Paul Cunningham and many more. There will also be artisan producers, a tasting theatre, live cookery demonstrations, castle tours, children’s entertainment, music, street food and pop-up bars. For more details, visit hrpfoodfestivals.com/hillsborough-castle.

Ahead of our visit to the festival, we stayed at Ten Square Hotel, located in the heart of Belfast city, within a short walk to Belfast City Hall and Victoria Square. Rooms start from £120 for a double per night, tensquare.co.uk.

For more information on visiting Belfast, see visitbelfast.com.