Get cooking this winter with Buffalo and Erie County Food Policy Council's 'Emergency Eats' cookbook

Winners announced from 2024 Emergency Eats Challenge

Submitted by the Erie County Department of Health 

The Buffalo and Erie County Food Policy Council has published the “Emergency Eats” cookbook. This fall, the FPC encouraged the public to submit simple recipes that can be made during emergencies, especially when power, resources and fresh food may be limited.

“Creating the ‘Emergency Eats’ cookbook is a testament to our community's resilience and creativity,” FPC Chair Sarah Gatti said. “By sharing simple and accessible recipes, we aim to ensure that everyone in Erie County can prepare nourishing meals during emergencies, no matter the circumstances.”

The black bean soup recipe submitted by Patricia DiLutis from Buffalo won the “Most Cost Effective” category. DiLutis explained, “Had I been aware of resources like the Food Policy Council when I was raising my son over 30 years ago, my life would have been a lot easier. I had no idea how to cook nutritious food on a very limited budget and thought buying a box of mac and cheese for 25 cents was being frugal. ... FPC provides a much-needed resource to provide ways to feed your family and keep them healthy on a tight budget, and I am so grateful the council is available for today's young families."

The cookbook is available online and physical copies will be available through the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library.

Submissions submitted: 

•Cost about $10 or less to make 

•Require minimal cooking or specialty equipment 

•Fit into one of the following award categories: 

√ Most Resourceful: Making the most of limited ingredients. 

√ Healthiest: Promoting nutritious and balanced meals. 

√ Best Cultural Representation: Highlighting diverse cultural flavors and traditions. 

√ Most Cost Effective: Providing delicious meals on a budget.

Winners: 

√ Most Resourceful: Cinnamon sugar tortillas by Rachel Colondres from Lackawanna 

√ Healthiest: Asian-inspired protein bowl by Kelly Anne Flynn from Amherst 

√ Best Cultural Representation: Lebanese moudardara by Wafa El Sohl from Orchard Park 

√ Most Cost Effective: Black bean soup by Patti Dilutis from Buffalo 

Winners received: 

•A Food Policy Council tote bag 

•A printed and bound copy of the “Emergency Eats” cookbook 

•A $25 gift card to a grocery store

For more:

• Food Policy Council of Buffalo and Erie County: www.erie.gov/fpc 
• Link to cookbook: https://www3.erie.gov/fpc/sites/www3.erie.gov.fpc/files/2024-10/emergencyeatscookbookfpc.pdf