So now we have all this wonderful fresh food growing on our doorsteps we need to ensure people know how to use it.
It’s great having a few cooking pointers on signs next to the growing food but we can pass on our knowledge and love of food by doing a cooking demonstration.
If you can guarantee the weather, then outside next to the fresh food is the perfect location however hiring a hall in the community with a kitchen in place is also a good option. Make sure you have plenty of seating, some toilets available, heating or ventilation as comfort requires.
Check the kitchen is safe to use, as Churches and community halls not used for cooking events or for one off cooking events don’t usually need the Food Standards Agency checks, so it might be up to you to make sure it’s safe.
See the Cooking food in the community or at an event section for information on the Golden Rules, risk assessments, fire extinguishers and health and safety.
Make sure you do a housekeeping brief:
- have a sign in sheet for attendees,
- point out fire exits and meeting points (make sure doors open and are not obstructed)
- point out toilets
- have a comfort break
Keep the recipes simple so they are easy to follow, have some recipes printed out to take-away and have plenty of taster pots or plates to hand out the food once cooked – after all trying free food is what attracts many people to attend a demo.
Make sure you include using some of the fresh local herbs, an Incredible Edible constant which can be readily picked after the event. Identify where the herbs can be found and inform your audience about how easily they can be grown at home.
