Young Brits Admit to ‘Borrowing’ Family Recipes and Claiming Them as Their Own
A recent study has shone light on a surprising trend among young Brits – ‘stealing’ family recipes and passing them off as original creations. The research, conducted by kitchen appliance brand NEFF as part of their Hidden Heroes campaign, delved into the culinary skills of young adults, revealing that 58 percent of Brits have honed their cooking abilities from family members.
Renowned chef Tom Kerridge, who spearheads the campaign, candidly confessed to borrowing his mum’s famous beef bolognese recipe. Kerridge emphasised the communal nature of cooking, stating, “Cooking should be fun, and it’s those little imperfections that make it special.” He further acknowledged the commonality of ‘borrowing’ family recipes, highlighting the universal appeal of sharing food and creating memories with loved ones.
The survey unearthed that 62 percent of respondents enjoy infusing family recipes with their own twists, with 11 percent of young Brits admitting to serving up a borrowed family recipe as their own creation. Additionally, nearly half of Brits (45 percent) enlist the help of family members in the kitchen, particularly when preparing cherished family dishes.
Despite their enthusiasm for culinary experimentation, 66 percent of Generation Z and Millennials expressed concerns about altering traditional family recipes, fearing potential familial disputes. In moments of kitchen chaos, parents emerge as the go-to culinary saviours, with 33 percent of Brits turning to mum and dad for guidance amidst cooking mishaps.
The NEFF Hidden Heroes campaign, spearheaded by Tom Kerridge, not only showcases the culinary talents of young Brits but also celebrates the tradition of sharing and preserving family recipes. The campaign serves as a reminder that behind every great dish lies a story of familial connection and shared experiences, bridging generations through the joy of cooking.
As the culinary landscape evolves with each generation, the thread of family recipes weaves a tapestry of heritage and innovation in kitchens across the UK. From nostalgic childhood favourites to reimagined classics, the act of ‘borrowing’ and adapting family recipes reflects a deep-rooted appreciation for the culinary legacy passed down through the ages.