Introduction

Who knew that a TV show about an optimistic American football coach who takes a job managing a British premier league team would strike a chord with so many people?

Though Ted Lasso knows zilch about British football, what he lacks in knowledge he makes up for with his genuine kindness and empathy. His unbridled charm and exuberance resonate with us all—Ted Lasso gives us the hope to believe. To believe in one another, believe in teamwork, and, most importantly, to believe in ourselves.

This cookbook is a celebration of the spirit and themes found in Ted Lasso. Inspired by Ted’s world, it features recipes that mirror the scenes and characters from the show: from hearty meals found in bustling pubs to traditional American fare. There are also dishes inspired by different characters and scenes, like Sam Obisanya’s jollof rice, or Dani Rojas’s Mexican ponche, so this book is as diverse as AFC Richmond itself.

As it turns out, Coach Lasso’s sage advice works just as well in the kitchen as it does on a football pitch. Here are the top five Ted Lasso–inspired lessons for cooking:

1. A new recipe always smells like potential. Even if it appears daunting, trust the process, and if all else fails, remember: it’s still (hopefully) edible.
2. Be a goldfish with a ten-second memory. Sometimes, it’s okay to give one recipe a break and try another.
3. Be curious, not judgmental. Sure, some recipes might seem strange to you, but they’re perfectly normal elsewhere. Treat each recipe and ingredient with respect because someone, somewhere, loves it.
4. What may taste like a flavorful cup of tea to one person may actually be hot brown water (or absolute garbage water) to another. That’s okay, as long as you love it.
5. Believe in ghosts, and believe in your ability. Cooking isn’t about perfection; it’s about enjoying the process and sharing the end result.

Have fun exploring the connections between the show and these recipes—falling even more in love with the world and the cast of Ted Lasso. Most importantly, remember to believe in yourself and believe in the magic of cooking.