Cookery
Over the last four years, the Hidden Gardens has delivered a wide range of healthy eating classes – from basic cookery skills to baby weaning advice – using our own freshly picked produce whenever possible.
In addition to a focus on supporting people to make healthier choices and improve their cooking skills, The Hidden Gardens has also been using food as a way to explore cultural heritage and identity, and to build bridges between different communities through the Cultural Cookery Group.
The Cultural Cookery Group
This group brings together women from diverse backgrounds to learn, share and celebrate through food. Cooking takes place in a communal and supportive environment where everyone is viewed as having something valuable to contribute. Participants generally take turns sharing a recipe each week and everyone helps to prepare and sit down to a delicious meal.
Over the last year, 48 local women have participated in the Cultural Cookery Group and we have provided free childcare for 15 children under the age of 5 years old. We also have opportunities for Volunteer workshop assistants, who offer peer support to other women within the group whilst building their own skills and confidence.
The Cultural Cookery Group also caters for events in the Gardens such as Refugee Week, International Women’s Day, Glasgow Harvest, international onferences, and exhibition openings. Our second set of recipe postcards has just been launched and can be picked up from the Boilerhouse, or alternatively have a look at a selection of the recipes online.
Feedback from participants:
I love coming to this cookery group as I have made friends here and as we have a common interest they’re going to be long lasting friendships. I’ve learned new skills, tasted amazing food and had a great opportunity to share my skills and experiences. I also love being here as I can fully be myself with no worries, which is great after spending all my time with a toddler whose hobby is climbing everything!
I feel my cooking skills have improved and I’ve been learning new techniques. I enjoy meeting new people from different cultures in this nice bright, friendly environment. Here you are in touch with nature and greenery and flowers – it is peaceful and cheerful. It’s inspired me to cook again and experiment with recipes… We share recipes and taste new herbs and spices. I enjoy the multicultural cookery from around the world. We enjoy eating together and sharing as a group. There is non-judgemental guidance. I have gained confidence about doing things I wouldn’t normally do and like having a go at new things. I love the good company.
Coming to this class I have learned that deep down we are all the same no matter where we come from. We share all the same joys and sorrows and we make each other smile.
How to join
New 10 week block running:
Tuesdays 12.30-2.30pm
17 January – 27 March 2012
Classes held in the Boilerhouse at The Hidden Gardens, Tramway, 25 Albert Drive, Pollokshields, Glasgow G41 2PE
Free creche for children over 12 months old
For more information or to book your place contact:
Donna Borokinni – donna@thehiddengardens.org.uk / 0141 433 2722
