International Beasts Event

Celebrating Diversity and Sustainability: Inside Out's International Beasts Event

At Inside Out, we pride ourselves on nurturing a culture of diversity and sustainability. As part of this we recently hosted another quarterly International Beasts Event. This celebration brought together our employees to share dishes from their heritage or upbringing, promoting sustainable food production and supporting local farmers.

A Culinary Journey Around the World

Our International Beasts Event featured a buffet of dishes prepared by our employees, each reflecting their unique cultural backgrounds and traditions. Here’s a taste of what we enjoyed:

• Salt & Chilli Chicken: A staple in British Chinese takeaways, this dish represents the fusion of British and Chinese culinary traditions. The crispy, spicy chicken was a crowd favourite, highlighting the rich flavours and versatility of Chinese cuisine adapted to local tastes.
• Guacamole and Salsa: These vibrant Mexican dishes brought a burst of colour and freshness to the table. Made with ripe avocados, tangy tomatoes, and a mix of spices, the guacamole and salsa were perfect with homemade tortilla chips. These dishes underscore the importance of using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create authentic flavours.
• Bulgarian Banitsa: A traditional Bulgarian pastry, banitsa is made with layers of filo dough filled with a mixture of cheese and eggs. On special occasions, lucky charms are hidden inside the pastry, adding an element of surprise and joy. This dish reflects the deep-rooted customs and community spirit in Bulgarian culture.
• Sesame Prawn on Toast: Originating from Hong Kong, this dish combines the savoury taste of prawns with the crunchiness of toasted bread, topped with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds. It’s a delightful example of how simple ingredients can create an exquisite and memorable dish.
• British Delights: Our event also showcased traditional British treats. We enjoyed delicious rainbow cookies, fudge made right here in Greenwich, and a fresh organic tomato and red onion salad. The salad, made by our colleague Hannah, featured tomatoes grown on the Isle of Wight and purchased from the Art of Zero Living, Greenwich’s first Zero Waste Shop. Hannah shared a touching story about her family's farming legacy and the importance of sustainable living and local produce.

Promoting Sustainable Food Practices

Our International Beasts Event was more than just a celebration of diverse cuisines; it was a commitment to promoting sustainable food practices. By sourcing ingredients from local farmers and markets, we supported the local economy and reduced our carbon footprint. This aligns perfectly with the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 12, which emphasises responsible consumption and production.

Looking Forward

The success of the second of this year's International Beasts Event has inspired us to continue our efforts in promoting sustainable food production and celebrating cultural diversity. We plan to host more events like this in the future, encouraging our employees to share their culinary traditions while supporting local farmers and sustainable practices.

At Inside Out, we believe that by coming together to enjoy good food and share our stories, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world. Let's continue to embrace diversity, celebrate our heritage, and support sustainable living in every bite.