Vegetarian for Life Charity - Glasgow ‘Roving Chef’ Marks Milestone with 175th Cookery Demo

Vegetarian for Life Chef Inspires Scottish Communities with Plant-Based Culinary Creations

Claire Bannerman, Vegetarian for Life’s (VfL) dedicated Roving Chef for Scotland, has reached an incredible milestone – delivering her 175th community cookery demonstration. From Glasgow to the Highlands, Claire has spent years inspiring people with her creative and nutritious plant-based recipes, tailored to older vegetarians and vegans.

From Gran’s Kitchen to a Culinary Calling

Claire’s journey to becoming a chef started in her grandmother’s kitchen. “I always wanted to work with food after learning to cook with my gran,” she recalls. Although her career began in food manufacturing, she quickly realised her passion lay in hands-on recipe development, particularly with local, seasonal ingredients. A lifelong vegetarian, Claire’s ethos revolves around making plant-based cooking both tasty and nutritious.

Claire’s connection to VfL began at a vegan festival, where she met the charity’s team. Drawn by their shared mission, she joined as Scotland’s Roving Chef, using her skills to support older adults in embracing vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.

Signature Dishes and Memorable Moments

Known for her vibrant curries, Claire credits her expertise to workshops at the Ashoka Cook School and her time in Kerala, India. “I like South Indian flavours in the sauce, but I mix up the base – tofu, paneer, or mushroom and chickpea – so there’s something for everyone,” she explains.

When asked about her most memorable meal, Claire fondly recalls her first experience with vegetarian sushi. “It was a new dish and a new way of eating. We shared long benches and bento boxes. My bench mate turned out to be Richard Branson, who also opted for the bento box!”

A Focus on Nutrition and Community

Claire’s cookery sessions are designed with older adults in mind, emphasising protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and other vital nutrients. “With smaller appetites, it’s important to make every bite matter,” she says, highlighting the importance of fortification and hydration.

Her workshops are more than just cooking classes – they’re opportunities to build connections. “Food is a great icebreaker,” Claire shares. “It’s about sharing memories and creating a sense of community.”

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

From adapting menus to suit diverse tastes to creating naturally vegan dishes, Claire embraces challenges with creativity. She’s a strong advocate for mastering tofu, calling it “super versatile.”

“Not liking tofu is like not enjoying curry,” she laughs. “You just need the right recipe.”

Looking Ahead

As demand for her cookery demonstrations grows, Claire is focused on developing sustainable menu options and ensuring they meet the nutritional needs of older adults.

“It’s an honour to help older vegetarians and vegans enjoy nutritious, delicious food,” she says. “By sharing accessible recipes, I hope to inspire others to explore plant-based cooking.”

Get Involved

Claire’s cookery demonstrations are open to groups supporting individuals over 50 years old. To book a session or learn more, contact Claire via Vegetarian for Life at info@vegetarianforlife.org.uk.

Ends

Editors notes

VfL is the world’s only charity working on behalf of older vegans and vegetarians.

It publishes a popular lifestyle magazine for older veg*ns, and a range of glossy guides, from nutrition, through to seasonal recipes, cooking for one, and information on meal-delivery services.

It runs its own veggie pen- and phone-pals scheme; provides information on the veggie-friendly care homes that it works with; and offers grants to support independent living.

And if you’ve ever wondered how your dietary beliefs would be protected should you lose capacity, VfL has the answers.

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Vegetarian for Life is a charity registered in England and Wales, number 1120687 | Company number 6294709.