The British Navy under Vice Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson was the largest floating fighting force the world had ever seen, with hundreds of ships around the world, manned by thousand upon thousands of sailors. Hungry sailors, who were supposed to be fed the equivalent of roughly 5,000 calories a day! How those sailors would be fed was not only a cook’s challenge, but a logistical nightmare, as well – a logistical nightmare that would change not only culinary history but also help to ignite the Industrial Revolution.
The Culinary Historians of Canada are proud to present author, chef, and naval re-enactor Gurth Pretty in a fascinating talk – and hands-on demonstration – on just how Lord Nelson’s Navy managed this incredible feat – and what those hungry sailors actually ate. There will be samples – to see, touch and even a few to eat!
Gurth M. Pretty is a professional foodie. A graduate of both George Brown College’s culinary management diploma and of Toronto’s Cheese Education Guild’s cheese certified programme, he worked as a professional chef in Toronto, Atlanta, Dallas, Paris, Brussels, Dublin and Nuremberg, sharing his love of Canadian cuisine. He authored The Definitive Guide to Canadian Artisanal & Fine Cheese (Whitecap 2006), co-authored with Tony Aspler The Definitive Canadian Wine & Cheese Cookbook (Whitecap 2007) and contributed to the World Book of Cheese (DK Books 2009). Gurth is currently the Senior Category Manager – Special Projects for Deli Cheese for Loblaw Companies Limited.
His interest in historical recipes and cooking began upon receiving a copy of the book A Taste of History – The Origins of Quebec’s Gastronomy. His first on-site historic cooking class was in the kitchen of the officer’s mess at Fort York, lead by Ms. Fiona Lucas. His curiosity was piqued. Every historic site he visits, Gurth’s favourite room is the kitchen, looking for unique cooking equipment and learning techniques from the historical interpreters and volunteers. As a hobby, Gurth is a warrant officer as the ship’s cook, aboard HMS Royal George, an 1812 naval re-enactment unit. He prepares and cooks historical recipes over the open fire for his shipmates, at War of 1812 historical events, throughout Ontario.
Tuesday, 15 March 2016 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM (EDT)
The Naval Club of Toronto – 1910 Gerrard St East Toronto, Ontario CA
More information about booking
Langue(s) : English