Delicooks

> Lola Puig, l´ecocuine

Lola Puig is the driving force   behind Km0 (a slow cooking food movement) in Catalonia.  She is president of Eco Markets Mon Emporda and an advisor for organic school meals in Girona.

Along with her husband she also runs the restaurant and Hotel El Fort Ullastret.   A warm and peaceful place with delicate cuisine and the smell of delicious aromas. The grounds of the hotel have its own allotment and are surrounded by the wonderful country side of Baix Emporda.  Lola puts her heart into everything she does, and it shows…

You are a teacher, natural therapist and chef.  Does this explain why you have a commitment and desire to convey the importance of organic food?

I believe our chefs have a responsibility to offer healthy foods to our customers in addition to ensuring the sustainability of our planet.

How would you describe your cooking?

Simple, fresh, healthy and nutrient-rich cuisine that nourishes the senses and the soul.

What type of reception have you received from your clients on the slow food and KM0 movement?

At the moment there is still a lack of sensitivity and understanding of the movement.

Is it easier to live a healthier life style outside of the city?  How do you recommend (to people who live in city) to live healthier and more sustainable lifestyles?

Apparently people in rural areas have it easy, however chemicals are used on the fields, groundwater is contaminated by nitrates from manures, and there are fields full of crops which are genetically modified.
I recommend that we should inform others what is happening to our country side and try to eat organic food.

Do you think we should go back to the time when there were no pesticides and chemicals?  A time when people eat fruit and vegetables that are only in season?

I believe we need to be more aware as to what is happening in the world.

Your cooking is full of subtle aromas.  Tell us your secret to a healthy cuisine!

A variety of things!  Olive oil cooked on a low heat, unrefined sea salt, brown sugar, freshly ground whole meal flour… All without chemicals and for the finishing touches fresh aromatic herbs, along with love, happiness and patience.

What is a must in your refrigerator?
Very few things, but always some seasonal vegetables.

What inspires you?
I’m inspired by good music, good light, nature (land and sea), good company, a good book, birdsong, and the heady scent of a plant (especially marjoram).   Beautiful things inspire me

Do you have any future projects?
Yes, I have a project on the go that integrates food nutrition with health and cooking.  But this is just the beginning!