The Mayor of Hammersmith & Fulham left no egg uncracked at a free cookery class at the Nourish Hub in Shepherds Bush.
Cllr Patricia Quigley was joined by local residents as they learned how to make tasty burritos and omelettes from rescued ingredients.
The hub's state-of-the-art training kitchen offers a chance for learners of all abilities to improve their cooking skills and master new recipes.
"I've gone away learning how to reuse food, make use of it – and nothing is going to waste," said Mayor Quigley. "I would recommend anybody come and learn how to cook. Best of all – it's free."
Under the guidance of professional chefs and nutritionists, residents can pick up practical tips on how to save money, eat well and make the most of their food.
NourishED
The community hub hosted 170 education session and community events for more than 4,000 residents in 2023.
The two-hour sessions offer space for up to 12 adults, with all ingredients and equipment provided free of charge. Taster sessions for little tots take place during school break.
Keep an eye on the Nourish Hub events webpage to secure your free spot for upcoming classes.
The recipes can be easily recreated at home, with minimal access to kitchen equipment and electrical appliances. It's part of the food education programme run by parent charity UKHarvest – called NourishED.
"I jumped at the chance seeing the cookery course advert on the door," said fellow trainee chef Charlie, 30.
"Not only was it free. I had been coming to eat at this Nourish Hub for a few months and had often wondered what the recipes were for the dishes. I loved the idea of learning in the environment I had grown familiar with, and with such lovely welcoming people."
Residents can support the programme and the hub by giving to the charity's Winter Match Fund Appeal. Every £ donated is set to be match-funded. Donate on the UKHarvest website.
Meet and eat
The W12 community kitchen has been offering support to residents during the cost-of-living crisis.
A space for all to meet and eat, it offers ever-changing healthy meals on a pay-what-you-can basis. In 2023, the hub served 45,000 meals by rescuing and repurposing 15 tonnes of food.
Try their award-winning meals every weekday at lunchtime, and twice a month for breakfast, at Swanscombe House, Edward Woods Estate.
Check the dates and other events on the Nourish Hub website.
