Deep Dive
Why did Chris O'Dowd and Dawn O'Porter choose to get married on a boat?
They got married on a boat called the Battersea Barge, a small venue where they did the official ceremony with family and friends. The next day, they had a larger, more informal reception in an illegal venue.
What is the historical significance of the harp on the Irish passport?
The harp is the only musical instrument featured on a passport in the world, and it has cultural significance in Ireland. There was a time when the harp was illegal, and Henry VIII would chop off the fingers of anyone found playing it, making it a symbol of resistance and national pride.
Why did Dawn O'Porter and Josie Norton start the charity Choose Love?
Dawn and Josie Norton started the charity (originally called Help Refugees) after a boozy Sunday lunch where they discussed the lack of action around the refugee crisis in Calais. They decided to send a truckload of supplies and received an overwhelming response, which eventually led to a full-fledged charity operation.
What kind of vinaigrette does Dawn O'Porter recommend for a garlicky side salad?
Dawn recommends a simple vinaigrette made with high-quality olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of mustard powder, and crushed garlic. It's a raw, garlicky dressing that she finds delicious and refreshing.
Why does Chris O'Dowd love breakfast?
Chris O'Dowd loves breakfast because it's his favorite meal. He enjoys a builder's breakfast twice a day when he was at drama school, and now he prefers a morning coffee or smoothie followed by eggs, avocado, and bacon around 10 AM.
What is the most memorable food experience Chris O'Dowd had during his childhood?
Chris's most memorable food experience was the produce around his hometown in Ireland, especially the sausages. He notes that the sausages are really good and that his nana's sausages have won awards.
What is Dawn O'Porter's favorite hangover food?
Dawn's favorite hangover food is a combination of potato salad and salt and vinegar kettle chips. She finds this comforting and carb-heavy combination perfect for recovery.
What is the Irish contribution to the wedding reception menu?
At their wedding reception, they had stations with food from different places, including Irish stew and colcannon. The Irish food was served in the corners to represent their heritage.
Why did Dawn O'Porter decide not to pursue acting after drama school?
Dawn realized during her third year at drama school that acting wasn't her true passion. Instead of doing a play for her final project, she worked as a runner on the Badil and Skinner show, which led her to a career behind the scenes in TV.
What is the best thing Chris O'Dowd and Dawn O'Porter have cooked together?
One of the best things Dawn has cooked is a chorizo, tomato, and chili bake with melted cheese and toasted ciabatta. Chris makes a great Irish lamb stew that has been marinating for hours or even a couple of days.
What is the most successful pudding Dawn O'Porter has made for guests?
Dawn's most successful pudding is an avocado chocolate mousse, a dairy-free and gluten-free dessert that is both decadent and delicious. Her version is a hit with her kids and guests.
How has Choose Love grown over the past 10 years?
Choose Love, originally called Help Refugees, has raised £120 million over 10 years to support refugees in 41 countries. The charity was started with a simple idea of sending supplies to Calais and has evolved into a comprehensive support system with a physical store on Regent Street in London.
What is Chris O'Dowd's nostalgic taste or smell from his childhood?
Chris's nostalgic taste is rhubarb crumble, which his grandfather used to grow in the back garden. The crumble was mostly sugar but had a sharp hit of rhubarb. He usually had it with custard and sometimes a bit of cream or ice cream.
Why do Chris O'Dowd and Dawn O'Porter think the Irish harp is significant on the passport?
The Irish harp is significant because it was once illegal in Ireland, and Henry VIII would chop off the fingers of anyone found playing it. This makes it a symbol of resistance and national pride, now featured on the Irish passport.
- Live episode of Table Manners
- Union Chapel in Islington
- Choose Love charity
- Guests: Chris O’Dowd and Dawn O’Porter
- Canapés and chicken soup prepared
Shownotes Transcript