In 1995 my book on Traditional Irish Food was published.  This book recorded traditional foods, recipes and culture.  It is still in print and continues to sell well, however my publisher has asked me to work on a new extended edition.
I am searching for any descriptions of traditional food, methods of preparation or production. Â Any information or memories of what you, your mother or grandmother cooked, (and indeed grandfathers!) would be greatly welcomed. Even memories of conversations about food and old family recipes would be valuable. Â I am be particularly interested in old handwritten recipes and if people lend me books I will look after them carefully and guarantee to return them.
Many families had their own way of preparing and cooking dishes and sadly these were not always documented, often its only when somebody has passed on that we realise that we no longer have the old recipes. Â Perhaps all we have are some sketchy memories. Â There is a real urgency to record this information before its too late, Â food has changed utterly in our generation and we need to remember and document the food that has delighted and nourished us over the years.
Please send any memories, recipes, notebooks, recipe books or details you are willing to share to me at the Ballymaloe Cookery School by one of the following means.
Email: traditionalfood@cookingisfun.ie
Post:
Darina Allen
Traditional Irish Cookbook
Ballymaloe Cookery School
Shanagarry
Co. Cork
Ireland.
Please include your name, address and phone number if possible.
Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from anyone with recipes to share and keep.