Rachel Khoo, renowned cookbook author and judge on The Great Australian Bake Off, has always had a passion for food, despite her father’s strong grounding in science. At 44, Khoo reflects on the influential men in her life, her admiration for fellow cookbook author Donna Hay, and how meeting her husband transformed her views on marriage. Known for her past attraction to “bad boys,” Khoo’s story offers a glimpse into the personal experiences that shaped her culinary career and personal life.
Khoo candidly admits that she used to date “bad boys,” much to her mother’s dismay. Her father, Kheng, played a pivotal role in her upbringing, instilling in her the value of hard work and a love for science. Born in Malaysia, Kheng received a scholarship to study at the University of Bath in the UK at the age of 18. Coming from a large family, he relied on his elder brother for financial support while studying abroad, as their father had passed away.
The Influence of a Scientific Mind
Kheng’s immigrant background and work ethic left a lasting impression on Khoo. “Dad comes from a hard-working immigrant family and taught me that nothing comes from nothing,” she recalls. Although he worked in IT, his passion for science extended to his children. “As kids, my brother Michael and I would go to chess club. It wasn’t really my thing, and I’d sneak off to the tuckshop to buy sweets, but Dad made sure Michael and I knew a lot about science, from black-hole theories to Stephen Hawking,” Khoo shares.
Her parents’ meeting in a London pub is a testament to the serendipity of life. Her Austrian mother moved to the UK at 19 to work as an au pair, where she met Kheng, who is ten years her senior. Despite his traditional views, Kheng never imposed gender limitations on his children. “He taught us to study hard and to work hard,” Khoo notes.
From “Red Flags” to True Love
Khoo’s dating history of “red flag” boys took a turn when she met her husband, a relationship that changed her perspective on marriage. While she doesn’t delve into the specifics of how they met, Khoo emphasizes the significance of finding a partner who aligns with her values and supports her ambitions.
Her admiration for Donna Hay, a fellow culinary icon, highlights Khoo’s appreciation for strong, successful women in her field. “I have a crush on Donna Hay,” she admits, acknowledging the influence of such figures on her career.
Reflections on Marriage and Family
Rachel Khoo’s journey from dating “bad boys” to finding a supportive partner mirrors her broader life journey from science to the culinary arts. Her story underscores the importance of family, hard work, and the courage to follow one’s passion, regardless of societal expectations.
As Khoo continues to inspire through her cookbooks and television appearances, her personal narrative offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, family values, and the transformative power of love. Her story is a reminder that personal growth often comes from embracing one’s roots while daring to forge a new path.
Looking ahead, Khoo’s experiences provide a foundation for her continued success in the culinary world, where she remains a beloved figure for her authenticity and dedication to her craft.
