New Holst cookbook full of recipes for one or two people

New Holst cookbook full of recipes for one or two people

Inspiration and instruction for cooking for one or two people is being helped with a new book by renowned culinary experts Simon and Dame Alison Holst.

They have just produced their latest recipe book Meals for 1 or 2, with proceeds from copies purchased through Age Concern helping fund the organisation’s work and supportive services for people over 65 years of age.

Together, Simon and Dame Alison have written more than 30 cookbooks, with nearly 2 million copies sold to date.

Dame Alison says the new book is quite different from their previous ones, which have focused on family meal recipes.

“We think these recipes for one or two people are just as nutritious and interesting, and they provide a good variety of foods and avoid waste.”

In addition to over 100 step-by-step instructions for breakfasts, lunches and light meals, mains, desserts and baking; there are plenty of handy tips including how to save and re-use leftovers in interesting ways.

Dame Alison says over the years they have had many requests for a book catering for those cooking for themselves or for couples.

But she says preparing and cooking food may be difficult for some people for a variety of reasons, including inadequate knowledge or skills, and that this can result in poor nutrition.

“We eat to maintain good health of our minds and bodies and for the full enjoyment of our lives.

“An overriding principle of any dietary plan is that the meals we eat should contain a variety of foods, not only to maintain our interest, but to provide the proper intake of water, protein, carbohydrates, fat, minerals and vitamins.”

Age Concern New Zealand national president Evelyn Weir says poor nutrition is a hidden problem for older people.

“It can be hard to keep your interest in food when you're cooking for only yourself and maybe you don't feel so hungry. But don't let yourself slip into poor eating habits.

“Cutting back too far on food can lead you into malnutrition, which will damage your health, resistance to illness, recovery times and morale. Healthy eating is a key to maintaining your health.”

Mrs Weir says dietary malnutrition is more common in older people than many realise, but it can be prevented or alleviated.

She says Age Concern works with older people, offering nutrition advice and education so that they can keep themselves healthy.

Age Concern is the only charity dedicated solely to older New Zealanders, promoting well-being, inclusion and respect.

More than 30 Age Concerns and the national office provide vital information and advice to enable older people, their families and carers to make informed choices; provide services to combat loneliness and social isolation; services to tackle elder abuse and neglect; and maintain an active voice on issues affecting older people.

Meals for 1 or 2 costs $20 and copies are available from Age Concern offices throughout New Zealand or online at ageconcern.org.nz/meals

ENDS

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