2020 marks 35 years of operation for the Okotoks Food Bank.

For the big anniversary, they'll be releasing a cookbook filled with recipes from organizations and residents across the Foothills.

Though they've reached out to several local businesses for recipes, they're also accepting submissions from anyone who'd like to contribute to the book.

Pamela McLean, Executive Director of the Okotoks Food Bank says there is some criteria in place.

"In the criteria, we're asking that these recipes, if possible, have been inspired by our local community, with accessible ingredients, very limited amounts of processed foods, preferably concise and easy to follow directions, cost effective if possible, and we also want to includes the basics like preparation time, cooking time, and temperatures."

The book will be divided into four parts, each corresponding to a different season.

McLean says they also hope to include some extra local flavour when it comes to the stories and extra details behind the recipes.

"Any particular cooking tips, food tips, something germane in particular to either the recipe or an ingredient in the recipe, or family folklore; we would love if they included that. We envision that we're going to have these little asides, something to make our cookbook unique."

The food bank is also planning to stay local when it comes to printing and distribution, with plans to make the book available at various local businesses.

They hope to have the cookbook available by September of 2020, with recipe submissions being accepted until January 15th, 2020.

Recipe submissions can be sent to cookbook@okotoksfoodbank.ca

 

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