Crip Up the Kitchen

Cripping / Crip Up: A term used by disabled disability rights advocates and academia to signal taking back power, to lessen stigma, and to disrupt ableism as to ensure disabled voices are included in all aspects of life.

We live in a world where cooking is often depicted as an able-bodied pursuit: Crip Up the Kitchen: Tools, Tips, and Recipes for the Disabled Cook by Jules Sherred shatters preconceived notions and brings forth an empowering, delightful, and inclusive guide to cooking for people of all abilities. Sherred’s book is a breath of fresh air, opening up the culinary world to those with disabilities and encouraging everyone to embrace the joy of cooking, regardless of physical challenges. https://julessherred.com/ 

An image of Jules Sherred wearing a duckbill cap, black rimmed glasses, a Star Trek bowtie, a dotted shirt, and dark blue cardigan.

In Crip Up the Kitchen, Sherred never deviates from the focus and unwavering commitment to accessibility. The author addresses various disabilities, offering practical and ingenious solutions to make cooking a pleasurable experience for all. Sherred demonstrates a deep understanding of the obstacles disabled individuals might face in the kitchen and effectively presents workarounds using adaptive tools and techniques. From ergonomic utensils to ingenious hacks, the book champions resourcefulness, allowing disabled cooks to focus on creativity rather than limitations.

Sherred’s passion for cooking is infectious, as he introduces a plethora of useful tips and techniques that can enhance anyone’s culinary skills. The book goes beyond the basics, offering valuable insights into meal planning, time-saving strategies, and ways to minimize kitchen accidents. The tips cater to both novices and experienced cooks, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen library.

Crip Up the Kitchen boasts a diverse selection of delectable recipes that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. The book covers everything from quick and easy meals for busy days to elaborate dishes for special occasions. Each recipe is presented with clear instructions, accompanied by vivid photographs that are sure to make your mouth water. Sherred’s creativity shines through as he adapts classic recipes to suit various dietary needs, allowing everyone to enjoy the pleasures of a well-cooked meal. https://julessherred.com/ 

Sherred zeroes in on the use of three tools that enable anyone to cook, despite their challenges: the electric pressure cooker (think One Pot), air fryer and bread machine. This week, we share with you his Electric Pressure Cooker Hamburger Stew in our Recipe section. Pair the stew (or soup) with a big hunk of homemade bread, and your winter dinner just became a cozy blanket. 

A bowl of soup with vegetables

Description automatically generated

More than just a cookbook, Crip Up the Kitchen weaves personal narratives and stories throughout the pages. Sherred’s authenticity and openness about his own experiences add a layer of sincerity to the book, making it feel like a conversation with a friend rather than a cold instructional manual. Through his writing, Sherred empowers disabled cooks to embrace their passion for cooking, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences. Purchase the book at https://www.touchwoodeditions.com/book/crip-up-the-kitchen/ or go to our Giveaway section and win this inclusive cookbook. 

Crip Up the Kitchen: Tools, Tips, and Recipes for the Disabled Cook by Jules Sherred is a remarkable and empowering cookbook that brings inclusivity to the forefront of the culinary world. Sherred’s dedication to accessibility, practical tips, and mouthwatering recipes makes this book a must-have for every kitchen, regardless of ability. It challenges conventional norms, redefining the joy of cooking for a broader audience and encouraging all cooks to revel in the art of creating delicious meals. Whether you’re a disabled cook or simply someone looking to expand their culinary skills, Crip Up the Kitchen is a heartwarming, eye-opening, and transformative read that will forever change the way you view cooking.

Contents and images used with permission by TouchWood Editions. https://www.touchwoodeditions.com/book/crip-up-the-kitchen/ Photography by Jules Sherred. https://julessherred.com/