‘Yaz is so much more than a good cook. Every request is possible. She brings a wide range of creativity and healthy living that will fit everyone.’ Tom Kenyon-Slaney

I have learnt all my cooking skills from my mum, Ghillie Basan. Food has played a big part in our lives and we have always been encouraged to sit around, take our time and share a meal together at the end of the day. I have watched my mum over the years effortlessly put together the most delicious spread like it’s nothing and create interesting dishes out of barely any ingredients. Her passion for flavour and the stories and culture surrounding food has rubbed off on me too. I often help my mum at our home host a variety of ‘Spirit and Spice’ events for large corporate groups.

I enjoy learning about different ingredients and the origin of the food we are cooking. I cooked on yachts for 3 years in the Mediterranean and off the west coast of Scotland with very little space and resources but I enjoy the challenge of putting together a spread for everyone with little to work with. I now spend a lot of time in the Summer cooking and hosting in lodges around Scotland.

‘Yaz’s cooking was on another level - from fresh, crisp salads rich in Turkish, Greek and Moroccan flavour to hearty lasagnes, exquisite seafood and a particularly delicious pistachio and chocolate creation. She is such a versatile chef and a complete professional, as well as a delightfully cheerful person to have around.’ - Katie Moran

I love meeting new people and helping provide the easiest and most comfortable holiday in Scotland you can have. I take care of all the shopping and meals, as well as all the clearing up and laying of tables. I am always keen to get people swimming in the lochs that these lodges are often situated on or taking part in some form of work-out, so if you want to combine some of my skills for a different holiday experience then just let me know.

‘Yaz is a superb cook and brilliant to work with. She cooks delicious diverse food with a Middle Eastern twist. She is friendly, flexible and very hard working. I couldn’t recommend her more’ - Lucy Birbeck

If you wish to book a unique ‘Spirit and Spice’ culinary experience you can do so on the Spirit and Spice website.