Irini explains: “Creating a cookbook is an enormous undertaking. Developing the recipes is only one part of the process. You can’t imagine how much stuff is involved in a cookery book photoshoot. We need tons of food for the 80 plus recipes, plus dozens of props, lighting and camera equipment, masses of linens, crockery and other bits and pieces which are essential in the staging of the pictures. Mungeon Barn was the ideal spot. The ample open-plan space allowed us to spread out and multitask. The kitchen in the barn is exceptionally well equipped with far more quality equipment than I’ve ever seen in a holiday property before. There were up to seven people moving around in the space at any one time without any incidents. It was very easy to function, and the barn coped brilliantly.

The whole process took 5 nights and 4 very long days of working flat out. Two or three people were able to cook at the same time, so the entire shoot was done efficiently with the minimum of fuss. We also appreciated the quiet location and beautiful setting, which made the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Several members of the crew stayed in the other Otter Tarn lodges, so there was no time lost in commuting back and forward. The team at Otter Tarn were so helpful and supportive throughout the process, and we all agreed that it was the perfect location for the shoot.

The book, ‘Under the Olive Tree’ is my 21st-century take on Greek-inspired cuisine and represents the way I like to eat now. The food is lighter than the recipes of my Mother and Grandmother and uses less oil and very little frying. But like traditional Greek cooking, the ingredients are fresh and simple using the finest local produce. The integrity of the ingredients is the most important thing for me. The recipes show how I like to experiment with flavour combinations by adding unexpected twists to classic dishes.”

Under the Olive Tree, is available for pre-order on Amazon. The launch date is 23 July 2020. Click here for details.

Book your stay at Mungeon Barn

Mungeon Barn is a detached stone barn conversion with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It has been luxuriously converted to an upside-down style holiday cottage with the open plan living accommodation on the first floor.

You will find a beautifully designed modern kitchen, a lovely wooden dining table to seat 8 people and top-quality appliances to provide for all your catering requirements. At the other end are comfy sofas to sink into and relax around the large wood-burning stove.

Outside you will find a private patio for al fresco dining, stunning views and a hot tub.

Click here to read more about Mungeon Barn and to check availability.