This past Friday, I had the pleasure of meeting Jamie Oliver mere moments before he walked on stage at Massey Hall here in Toronto. He is currently promoting his newest cookbook , Jamie Oliver's Great Britain (Hyperion, 2012), a repository of classic – and not-so-classic – British recipes that showcase Britain's multicultural heritage. He was kind, down to earth and on a mission to get us back into the kitchen. Jamie shared personal stories about how he started his career and the current projects he has in the works. His greatest passion? Teaching people how to cook. He talked about his experiences with the kids he's met in his efforts to reform school lunches and how he's never met a kid who, if given the chance, didn't enjoy learning how to cook. Growing up in his parents' pub, Jamie discussed the first dish he ever made: a cheese and tomato omelette. The rest is history, as some might say! Another fun fact? When asked about inspirational people in his life, Jamie cited Paul Smith, the English designer known for adding eccentric touches to well-tailored suits. The two met when Jamie was training at The River Café in London and they've been friends ever since. To read more about Jamie, take a look at my interview. And now, for our giveaway! I have a copy of Jamie Oliver's Great Britain to give away to a lucky reader. To enter the contest, simply leave a comment on this blog and let me know about a specific Jamie Oliver recipe that you love to make at home. I'll choose my favourite answer and the winner will receive the cookbook in the mail. Good luck! Contest closes November 23, 2012, at 12 p.m. EST. You can enter once only. Open to all residents of Canada with a valid mailing address. Not open to any Transcontinental Media employees, their families or any other persons with whom they reside. Good luck!