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Gastronomy can be described as the style of cooking of a particular region; a cultural expression of the world’s natural and cultural diversity. Meanwhile sustainability considers how to carry out processes in a way that is not wasteful of natural resources – and that can be continued into the future without any detrimental effects.

Sustainable Gastronomy, therefore, takes into account where ingredients are from, how they are produced and the methods by which they are delivered.

It is clear that chefs are becoming more mindful about how they are using natural resources and also how they choose, prepare and serve food. We’re seeing an increased amount of restaurants holding themselves accountable both for their ethical and environmental standards, offering dining experiences that combine culinary excellence with outstanding eco-friendly commitments. 

Essential Cuisine and Solina UK joined forces, planning a day dedicated to sustainable cuisine, further educating ourselves on topics including agricultural development, sustainable food production, wastage and nutrition – as well as enjoying some delicious, locally sourced food of course!

The Essential Cuisine team enjoyed sausages, cooked on the BBQ, sourced from the Packington farms of Staffordshire, served in fresh buns purchased from a local bakery, and a variety of BBQ sauces made in-house. The team enjoyed flavours including maple and mustard; pork and apple, pork and leek, ginger and plum and jalapeño and smoked cheddar.

Over at Solina UK in Elland, the team tucked into a turkey tikka and a vegetable balti, all using ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. The team also showcased some chutneys and dips that were originally produced for a customer presentation - it just goes to show that with a little thought and imagination you can produce various dishes with ingredients you already have, helping your pocket, the environment, whilst cutting down on food wastage!

With a common goal, we can have more of an impact than we might realise. Together with Love British Food, we made a pledge to support local producers; eat seasonally, keep culinary traditions alive and avoid food wastage. Join us!