11 June 2012

A very special cookbook was launched at S4C’s Theatre at the National Urdd Eisteddfod in Glynllifon, Snowdonia on Thursday 7 June at 2.00pm.

The book Cog1nio (Cooking) is being released following the success of the cooking competition series of the same name that appeared on Stwnsh, S4C’s service for children aged 8 to 13 years old.

In the book, Anna Rees, winner of the culinary challenge shares five of her favourite recipes, as do well-known chefs and judges who took part in the series – amongst them Elin Williams (from Bant a la Cart delicatessen, Cardiff); Aled Williams (of Cennin restaurant in Beaumaris) and the series’ presenter, Ellen Roberts.

There are also recipes by film, TV and sport stars including Ioan Gruffudd, George North and Steffan Rhodri.

Anna Rees, aged 14 from Creigiau near Cardiff, is one of the 20 young chefs from across Wales who competed in the cooking series. The contestants were required to demonstrate their culinary talents by cooking their own recipes, as well as recreating dishes by professional chefs, with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients.

One of the prizes for winning the series was to have their own recipes published in this cook book.

Among Anna’s recipes is her mouth-watering chicken and noodle soup, and cheese and ginger cake, which made a big impression on the judges in the competition final.

Anna says: “I love experimenting with food – and I think I might like to have a career as a chef when I’m older. The competition has been a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills and get some great tips from the professionals.

“It was quite a shock to win the competition, especially as the standard of cooking was so high. It is a real privilege to see my own recipes in print, and it’s exciting to think that people will be cooking them in their own kitchens!”

The Welsh Government has contributed to the production of the book, which will be sent to all Welsh medium Secondary Schools in Wales.

Alun Davies, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Food Fisheries and European Programmes, who will be part of the launch says,

“The series and the book in particular is a great way to raise awareness of quality food and drink produced on our doorstep in Wales among the younger generation.

“What is also clear is that there is talent here in Wales and the series has been an excellent platform to showcase chefs of the future.”

There will be a second series of Cog1nio on Stwnsh during 2013.

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