We’re very excited to count ourselves amongst the incredible chefs, food and drink producers, and industry insiders from Devon and Cornwall who have come together in a show of solidarity in the wake of the Covid-19 crisis to create the Comfort Cookbook.
‘Comfort’ is a collaborative digital cookbook that it is hoped will “inspire comfort in adversity,” during the Covid-19 crisis, which has forced the mass closure of businesses and left the hospitality sector and its employees facing an uncertain future. Everyone involved is giving their time and expertise free of charge, with all funds going directly to Hospitality Action, a national charity which supports hospitality workers and has launched a Covid19 Emergency Appeal.
The production team describe the cookbook as: “A snapshot of the unique and diverse food and drink culture we have nurtured here in the West Country, and the rich network of chefs, producers and entrepreneurs who together make the region a world-class gourmet destination.”
The cookbook will feature recipes from chefs including Mitch Tonks, Nathan Outlaw, Jude Kereama, River Cottage, Michael Caines, Paul Ainsworth, Ben Tunnicliffe, Mark Dodson, Mick Smith, Ben Prior, Simon Stallard, Emily Scott, Elly Wentworth, Madeleine Olivia, Tia Tamblyn, Daaku, Chris Eden, and Philleigh Way’s own Rupert; each will be easy for families to prepare at home using local, seasonal produce – with links through to websites where the ingredients can be purchased.
Rupert has contributed two recipes to the cookbook, one for a quick and easy pan pizza, and another for a Cornish-style cassoulet.
The Comfort Cookbook project is a collaboration between Lucy Studley, a Cornish food and drink writer, marketer and PR specialist; Gabriella Dyson, who is Editor at publisher The Maverick Guide; and experienced food stylist, photographer and designer, Ali Green. Lucy came up with the idea after speaking to clients devastated at having to close their businesses and tell staff to stay at home.
A JustGiving page has been set up and everyone who donates any amount, large or small, will be sent a link to download the cookbook when it is ready.