Editorial Team

Author
Annabel Karmel
Annabel Karmel
Annabel Karmel
Annabel Karmel

With expertise spanning over 30 years, Annabel Karmel MBE reigns as the UK’s no. 1 children’s cookery author, bestselling international author, and a world-leading expert on devising delicious, nutritious meals for babies, children and families.

 

From kitchen table to global stage, Annabel has raised millions of families on her go-to recipes. The most trusted name in supporting families with practical, tasty ideas and advice, she is currently cooking up her 51st cookbook, which launches in March 2025.                                                                      

Q. So you’ve been working with P&O Cruises to create a brand new children’s menu! Can you tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind the dishes?

 

A. I am honestly so honoured to be working with such a wonderful company. P&O Cruises provides the most incredible experiences to bring the whole family together, and food is no exception!

 

Just like grown-ups, I want children on board to enjoy the ultimate food adventure. So, I’ve worked closely with the amazing culinary team to come up with a showstopping menu that is fun, nutritious, and most importantly – delicious!

 

Children eat with their eyes, so every dish is packed with colour and flavour. I’ve created fun twists on firm kids classics such as my glazed chicken strips. I’ve supercharged my spag bol with FIVE veggies. And we set sail across the globe with my fruity chicken curry.

 

The menu is perfect for both younger children and older kids, and I’m confident that even the pickiest of seafarers will love it! 

Glazed chicken strips
Glazed chicken strips
Glazed chicken strips
Glazed chicken strips

Q. What is your favourite dish on the menu and what would you recommend to families sailing with us this summer?

 

A. Holidays are about enjoying time off from thinking about and preparing endless family meals - and coaxing kids to eat!

 

I truly believe that eating shouldn’t be a chore for children. On board P&O Cruises, I want them to have a fun experience with food where they get to take charge.  My nutritious recipes are designed to add a splash of theatre to mealtimes and get kids refuelling on the right foods. 

Grilled salmon fillet
Grilled salmon fillet
Grilled salmon fillet
Grilled salmon fillet

My fresh take on the traditional nugget with my honey and soy glazed chicken strips is an absolute winner.  I’m pretty sure I have a goujon ghost in my kitchen because every batch I prepare goes mysteriously missing!

 

And another hands-down favourite must be my kid-friendly curry.  With just the right amount of mild spice and flavour, it’s an easy way to get children sailing through mealtimes.  Plus, the mini poppadums are fun for dipping!

 

From babies, to tots and tweens, I’ve packed variety and goodness into every dish for young explorers.

Learn more about family cruise holidays here.

Fruity chicken curry
Fruity chicken curry
Fruity chicken curry
Fruity chicken curry

Q. What would you say to any parents who are worried they’ll struggle with mealtimes on holiday?

 

A. Most importantly, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to ensure they are clearing their plates. Thankfully, my delicious recipes on board P&O Cruises take care of that, but if they are having a day of food refusals, let them have a little of what they like and start afresh the next day!

 

There is so much to do for families on board ship that you can always be sure they’ll build up an appetite for mealtimes.  My recipes are made for big adventures!

Chocolate fridge cake
Chocolate fridge cake
Chocolate fridge cake
Chocolate fridge cake

Learn more about our dining options here.

Feeling inspired?

 

Book your cruise holiday here.