Editor’s Choice: Free Healthy Cookery Course

By Culture Writer Elin Davies

Are you looking to improve your culinary talents in a sociable student friendly environment? Do you want inspiration for healthy recipes that won’t leave you out of pocket? Look no further because this February Uplands Diner is inspiring the students of Swansea with these culinary tasters.       

Anyone who’s been to Upland’s Diner and experienced their colossal hangover curing breakfasts may think that it’s a strange place to go for “healthy cooking lessons”. That being said, after discovering more about these lessons, I believe they are an enlightened idea for any student looking to learn a thing or two in the kitchen.

The objective of the lessons is to promote healthy eating, which is perfect for those looking to shed a few pounds this year. Added to this, I am assured that the recipes will be made as cheaply as possible so that when you come to do it yourself you won’t have to break the bank. The first lesson will begin with very simple meal ideas and as the weeks progress the recipes will gradually become more complicated.  This is ideal if you want to learn the basics and are starting from scratch. Alternatively, if you’re a little more experienced you can skip the initial lessons and join in later along the course.  The lessons will be individual so going to all isn’t necessary but for those who wish to attend each one, there will be a recurring theme.

Another appealing aspect of the first two of these lessons is that they will be given by famous Swansea chef Chris Keenan, formerly employed by the BBC. Keenan has years of experience in all sorts of cookery, from the exotic flavours of Moroccan and Malaysian food to the delights of native Welsh cuisine, so he is more than up to the challenge of bringing healthy eating to the diner. Picking up from Keenan will be the diner’s own skilled chef, Kyle, who is eagerly anticipating the challenge and will continue the lessons for at least two months, giving everyone a chance to get involved.

The lessons are open to both members of the public and students but the café are keen for more student interest. In fact, the predominant reason for these lessons is that the owner, Lance Pardoe, wants to give something back to the students of Swansea as a thank you for their continued support.

In addition, the diner is keen to continue their affiliation with the local charity “Zac’s Place” through this new idea. PR manager, Gareth Watts, informed me that as well as the diner sending weekly food down to their soup kitchen, Chris Keenan’s fee will also be given to the charity.

The first lesson on 7th February will be held between 6.00pm- 7.30pm, in the diner, situated in the Uplands area in Swansea. There is limited availability for the lesson, however, to be put on the list for this or any other lesson contact Gareth Watts at gareth.watts@hotmail.co.uk, or visit the webpage, www.uplandsdiner.co.uk.

Other events include a best recipe competition with the chance to win £500 in holiday vouchers and your recipe on the Uplands Diner menu. As well as an ongoing effort to increase their following on Facebook and Twitter which, if high enough, will raise BBC interest.