At Big Issue we like to find opportunities to make things better. When our longstanding vendors Paul Logan and Kelvin Gregory met Big Issue ambassador Sophie Winkleman last month, they got to discussing recipes and how good it would be if Big Issue carried a few. In the past, we have had recipes from our vendors and at Christmas we look to wallet-beating alternatives to the seasonal splurge.
This time, it’s a little different. Going with a good idea from that cold day in London, we want to build a useful recipe collection, of delicious meals at pocket-friendly prices. And we want everybody involved: The Big Issue Recipe Collection is to be drawn from our vendors, our readers, our supporters; just about anybody who wants to get involved. Recipes can be for easy snacks or big dinners, vegetarian, vegan or meat. We’re particularly keen to share tried and tested family favourites that you want the world to taste.
We’re delighted that long time friend of Big Issue Jamie Oliver is launching the collection today. He has provided a couple of recipes to begin and has also given a few more that will appear on this website in the coming weeks. So get involved. We want to hear from you. Send your recipe to editorial@bigissue.com. Include photos too. Get cooking.
A word from Sophie Winkleman, Big Issue ambassador
“I met vendor Paul on the coldest day of the year. He was in his usual Oxford Street spot, stoical and patient in the icy weather, and we began to chat. He is such a clever man, thoughtful and interesting – great company. We discussed the magazine and its many strengths and he told me he’d always harboured a dream for there to be a recipe page. Either a weekly competition or donated recipes from readers/ sellers/ chefs.
“We chatted more and it clearly was a brilliant idea – weekly inspiration on how to eat well on a super-tight budget. I called my friend Jamie when I got home to tell him about Paul. He thought it was a brilliant idea too, and offered to launch Paul’s idea with some recipes of his own. So well done Paul, huge thanks to Jamie Oliver and his team and here’s to good eating in 2024.”
Jamie Oliver: Why I’m backing The Big Issue Recipe Collection
“I’ve always been a big fan of Big Issue. When I heard about Paul’s wish to have low-cost recipes in the magazine, I wanted to share these budget-friendly ones. With financial pressures as high as ever, knowing how to cook has never been more relevant. I’ve created these to help your money go further. Whether it’s making the most of your oven or freezer, or using store-cupboard ingredients, these flavour-packed favourites are nutritious and delicious.”
