Nadiya Bakes

There’s something undeniably satisfying about watching Hussain host her own show in which she can fully own her expertise and background without anyone second guessing it. Once beloved for being relatably flustered under pressure, Hussain doesn’t need a handshake from Hollywood anymore to prove that she knows what she’s doing.

There was a sensuous, immersive feel to the filming, with lingering slo-mo and whizzy time-lapse sequences of rising dough. Hussain encouraged us to mix with our hands, rather than utensils or gadgets. She bubbled with infectious enthusiasm.

It remains – even after half a dozen such series when the lure of attempting to mess with perfection must be becoming nigh overwhelming – just Nadiya, the kitchen counter, the camera and the magic they make among themselves. And Nadiya herself remains untouched by her increasing fame or fortune. She is just there, as happy, smiling, authentically, effortlessly herself as she ever was.

Nadiya Bakes is a soothing, scrumptious balm (especially these days), and reminds us why we fell in love with Nadiya during her Bake Off days years ago.