TV Masterchef Matei Baran presents recipes from his new book Big Chef Mini Chef, created with the help of his son Armin in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust
Little Armin Baran can be proud of himself, having inspired his dad, chef Matei Baran, to publish a new collection of recipes – Big Chef Mini Chef – in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
Matei Baran, executive head chef at Salt Cove, Tynemouth, created the book to celebrate the bond he has with his son and to encourage children to cook healthy food.
Armin, six, was born with cystic fibrosis and was seriously ill as a baby. Operations, daily medication, physiotherapy, physical activity and a healthy diet means that he appears now like most other six-year-olds. However, his mother Luminita Hatnaimu says: “If you look at him you would never know, but believe me the struggle is inside. All the pain is inside the body.
“Armin loves cooking and he loves food. He’s very proud of his dad’s job. The book shows the bond between Matei and his son. It’s important the way you live, not how many years you live. I’m very proud of them both. It’s their story.”
Big Chef Mini Chef features recipes prepared by Matei and Armin with the help of other mini chefs. “It’s all about cooking for kids with kids,” said Matei. “Every dad is proud of his children and Armin is so brave and happy, I wanted us to do something really special together.
“Eating healthy food is so important – not just for children with cystic fibrosis. Learning about ingredients and cooking when you are very young means you have a lifetime of understanding and enjoyment of good food ahead of you.”
Food wholesaler Bidfood, based in Gateshead, and Delifresh from Cramlington are supporting the project.
Big Chef Mini Chef is £19.95 and available at www.mateibaran.com
Baked red pepper with pilau rice, tomato sauce and sour cream
Cajun king prawns with chicory salad, croutons and lime dressing
