James May: Oh Cook!

James sets the bar high by taking on some classic dishes from France, the home of haute cuisine. Expect oniony thrills and soupy spills as he tries to sort out his croque from his coq.

James puts his culinary skills to the test as he tackles the exquisite and delicate world of Japanese cooking. Katsu curry, vegetable tempura, and Temaki rolls are all on the menu, but whilst James is surprisingly adept with a sharp knife, it turns out he's less graceful with a rolling pin.

It's party time, 1970s style, and James is in his element as he grooves his way through the classics of the age. Vol-au-vents and Stroganoffs, cheese and onion hedgehogs, and flaming Crepe Suzettes make the party go with a swing, all before the Babycham has even had a chance to go warm.

James explores the delights of vegan food and discovers a world of delicious recipes that will convert many a meat eater. Tasty burgers without the moo and Shepherd's pie without the ewe prove a hit with the crew, while a smoky tofu stir fry almost turns the air blue.

Beer will flow and sausages fly as James tackles the wonders of German cuisine. From curry wurst and sauerkraut, to classic pretzels, to an unpronounceable potato and plum dumpling dessert, James (and Nikki) will reveal just how delicious German food can be.

What better way to celebrate summer that with a sumptuous selection of classic picnic recipes? From giant sausage rolls to animal shaped scones, scotch eggs to coronation chicken-a-la-May, all the ingredients are here for an al fresco summertime feast. All, that is, apart from the weather.

James has travelled the globe, but he's never been to Mexico. So he'll need to muster all his culinary know-how to tackle a complex chuck steak chili, the smoky delights of tacos two-ways, and Latin American classic – via Portugal and Spain - of churros with chocolate sauce.