Smithfield grandparents share century-old recipes

Bolton Clarke Smithfield aged care residents have printed the first edition of a cookbook sharing their favourite recipes – some dating back 100 years.

Inspired by the age-old tradition of school children putting together their favourite recipes in a cookbook, residents took on the project to share the flavours of their diverse backgrounds for family and friends to enjoy.

Resident Kathy said she approached the team at the home after seeing a cookbook at her daughter’s home and reminiscing back to when her children made their own in school.

“We are such a multicultural home so I thought we could come up with some really delicious recipes to share,” Kathy said.

“I sat down with the Lifestyle Coordinator Lisa and the ideas started flowing, and now that the book is finished it means something to all of us.

“I was able to have my bubble and squeak recipe on the first page of the cookbook which was really special as well!”

Residents and their families quickly jumped onboard to share their most treasured recipes along with the history behind them – whether it was an accidental concoction of ingredients or a great-grandmother’s tradition lovingly passed down the generations.  

For Coralie, narrowing down just one recipe to share was tough considering her green thumb.

“I shared my recipes for potato patties and leek and onion soup,” she said.

“I always enjoyed cooking and loved growing my own veggies at home so many of my meals always had fresh produce in them. 

“The cookbook has created some really nice moments of reminiscing for me, and it’s been nice to discuss and share our recipes.

“I have even shared some recipes that my sister taught me so it’s been a really fun experience.”

The Smithfield Cookbook is now available for residents, family and friends while the home prepares for their second edition to come out later this year.