The Public Open University Čakovec (POU Čakovec) proudly presents a new publication, released in collaboration with Međimurje County. Preparing a delicious meal and discovering the joy of cooking will be easier for all readers with the book “The Fundamentals of Cooking Skills.” Its author, Anica Naranča, and co-author, Krunoslav Tilošanec, presented the book at a ceremonial event on Monday, 22 April 2024, in the Scheier Building in Čakovec, as part of the Međimurje County Days celebration.
The book “The Fundamentals of Cooking Skills” is intended for everyone, from beginners taking their first culinary steps to established kitchen masters seeking to expand their skills. It contains both a theoretical section and a practical section with recipes ranging from appetisers and main courses to desserts, accompanied by appropriate photographs that the authors have collected throughout their long-standing careers. A special contribution by the authors is the inclusion of local ingredients in the recipes—such as local pumpkin seed oil and homemade cow’s cheese—and its accessible writing style, which is suitable for persons with special educational needs.
The book launch program was moderated by Željka Ivančok Varga, who also served as the book’s language editor. The authors themselves spoke about the book, supported by the renowned Croatian chef Tomislav Špiček. He emphasised that the book is simple, readable, and understandable for amateurs and professionals alike. Mr. Špiček concluded by encouraging the authors to continue creating such handbooks, stating that educators who know how to prepare students for the professional kitchen are exceptionally important for Croatia. It was also announced that Mr. Špiček will hold a series of workshops at the Public Open University Čakovec in the autumn; for more information, please follow the University’s website and social media pages.
The Director of POU Čakovec, Mario Zamuda, stated that today’s youth are increasingly engaged with modern technologies and less with practical skills. He is therefore particularly pleased that POU Čakovec is publishing this cooking handbook, intended for anyone who wishes to learn or perfect their cooking. Mr. Zamuda also invited all interested individuals to begin their culinary journey, noting that it is never too late, and to explore the educational offerings of the Public Open University Čakovec. He highlighted that certain educational programs, such as the preparation of simple sweet dishes, can be enrolled in completely free of charge through the HZZ voucher measure.
The book launch was also attended by the Mayor of the City of Čakovec, Ljerka Cividini. She expressed her belief that this book will not be the last and wished the authors perseverance in their effort, work, and enthusiasm, as writing such a book requires a great deal of dedication and sacrifice. On behalf of Međimurje County, County Prefect Matija Posavec also congratulated the authors on their excellent work, stressing that “this is something that remains as a legacy for all of us, and especially for our education system, which we strive to make excellent.” He noted that the outstanding work of POU Čakovec and their collaborator, Anica Naranča, is proof of this commitment.
The event was enhanced by musical performances from singer Filip Hozjak and pianist Zvonimir Glibušić. Following the official program, the social gathering continued with an appropriate reception.
Photos/Text by: POU Čakovec and medjimurski.hr
