I’m often asked about the inspiration for Ruthie’s Table 4. The answer is easy. Two words — Ian McKellen.

For some years, Richard and I invited actors to perform at our home. Ian ended his performance with a reading of a recipe for Ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup. Compelling as any sonnet, we were all spellbound.

Ian is known to everyone as different characters — Macbeth, King Lear, Gandalf. I think of him as one character, inspiring, kind and brave. For this podcast, we went to his beautiful house overlooking the Thames. A morning and a conversation I shall always remember.

Ruthie’s Table 4, made in partnership with @me_andem