Cookbooks are cultural artefacts in their own right. They capture the essence of an era or a community, reminding us how people lived, dined and enjoyed food together at that time. And every so often, they inspire us to experiment in the kitchen with a delightful touch of nostalgia..

To Your Heart, Through Your Stomach

In 2011, JFK International School compiled “Our Big Family Cook Book”, a vibrant collection of recipes gathered from their international community. “It is a book of love”, wrote William Lovell in the foreword, and that sentiment flavours every recipe. Here’s a gem that truly stands the test of time:

CONSTANCE LOVELL’S CHEESE PUFFS

These light, golden puffs are perfect as an appetiser or with drinks.
Serve on a decorative platter and enjoy!

Ingredients 30 pieces:

100 g grated cheddar cheese (or similar hard cheese)

1/8 tsp salt

55 g salted butter,

50 g flour

Method:

Combine the cheese, salt, butter, and flour in a bowl. Using your fingers, blend all the ingredients until smooth. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove the mixture from the fridge and roll the dough into 1cm balls. Place on a greased baking sheet and chill for a further 2 hours. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes, until golden.

by Gisela van Bulck
 

If you'd like your own copy of the JFK Cook Book, it's available for purchase at Müller Medien in Gstaad.
 

Try other recipes for these wonderfully nostalgic puffs

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