Helena Kouppi's interview in Greek:
Until the age of 12, Helena grew up in Thomastown, Victoria with her parents and younger sister. When her family went on a holiday to Cyprus they were so captivated by the beautiful, simple lifestyle that they decided to relocate there.
They stayed for 15 years before returning to Australia and it was then that Helena would live some tragic events, that would mark her forever.
In Cyprus, she met her first love. who had a motorbike accident and was declared brain dead. A few years later, she met her second love, with whom she had two children. They moved to Australia to give their family a better quality of life. Unfortunately, five years ago, he too had a motorbike accident and passed away at the scene of the crash. Helena’s traumatic life events still haunt her, but she remains very positive and communicates the importance of making her children’s life as rich and colourful as possible.
Helena leads by example, determined to be a pillar of strength for her kids and to live life to the fullest. When it comes to cooking, Helena is inspired by her mum. She remembers her mum always being in the kitchen or in the garden growing fantastic produce. Helena has continued this tradition in her home with her own beautiful, big veggie garden.
Source: SBS Food
She often decides on the dishes she is cooking based on what ingredients are in her garden. Now Helena’s main inspiration is her children. She recreates traditional dishes but modifies them with a healthier alternative, particularly some of the heavier dishes that require frying.
Have we got your attention and your tastebuds? The Chefs’ Line premieres Monday 6 August, 6pm weeknights, on SBS followed by an encore screening at 9.30pm on SBS Food Network. Episodes will be available after broadcast via SBS On Demand. Join the conversation #TheChefsLine on Instagram @sbsfood, Facebook @SBSFood and Twitter @SBS_Food. Check out sbs.com.au/thechefsline for episode guides, cuisine lowdowns, recipes and more!
