With all the profits going to Women’s Refuge NZ, Collectively Homegrown is a collaboration with local chefs and home cooks from around Aotearoa. The recipes are diverse and delicious, with everything from fusion food to nostalgic treats to modern twists on family favourites. There are plant-based recipes, dishes with meat and fish, as well as superb, sweet treats.
There are so many stand-out recipes in this cookbook. If I had to choose, I’d recommend the Lemon Risotto with Roast Vegetable, Garlic and Leek, the divine Pumpkin Soup for the Soul, and the delightedly fresh Smashed Cucumber Salad. The Vietnamese Fish Cakes and Coconut Chicken Pesto Pasta were both a hit. For something sweet, I loved the Banana Bread, and the Decadent Vegan Chocolate Mousse.
I really loved the variety of recipes in this cookbook. There is something for everyone, and it seems to be recipes that are already tried and true favourites from the contributors that have been selected.
There are numerous contributors to this book, but credit must go to the mum and daughter team Elke and Nadia for putting together this project. Collectively Homegrown is beautifully presented and created with love.
Reviewer: Karen McMillan
Key & Co Publishers, RRP $49.99