A Cook’s Calendar – Seasonal inspiration for the food of Marlborough

Posted: 21/10/2009 6:21:59 p.m.

The book came about after the local Cancer Society decided that a new fund raising idea was needed and that some years previously there had been a recipe booklet created by enthusiastic locals which had sold very well. That’s where Tricia Johnson and Fran Jessep stepped up to the plate (no pun intended…!) and put together a group of us volunteers to make it happen.

The resulting book with its array of totally doable recipes and succulent colour photography is going down very well! Each chapter is named after a month, so from January to December you can be sure to find out what’s in season and be inspired with great ideas as to its preparation and enjoyment. As well as Maree’s recipes there is a local famous foodie who has contributed to each chapter. These include Louis Schindler from Tamara Lodge, Chris Gibb of Gibb’s Vineyard Restaurant and Jeremy Jones who often talks food on National Radio. The foreword is by none other than my friend and foodie extraordinaire, Peta Mathias.

The photography is by Jaap Van der Stoel and makes for mouth-watering viewing. Design is contemporary yet comforting and is by Marilyn (China) Ching while yours truly came up with the concept, words and performed the role of Editor.

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors (a wide range of local businesses) who covered the cost of printing the book, the full retail price of $19.99 is being donated to Cancer Society Marlborough. And it’s also a huge thanks to the retailers who have jumped on board to stock the book without taking any profit.

The end of a great project, dedicated to the friends and family we have lost to cancer over the period of time it has taken us to produce the book.