Unprofessional Recipe Book: Editorial Design for Student Cooking
I created a digital recipe book to help students cook budget-friendly food with limited time and resources. Moving to the UK during my studies, I wasn't used to the prices and had to learn how to cook well on a tight budget.
I wasn't used to the prices and had to learn how to cook well on a tight budget. I started cooking during COVID and wanted to share what I'd learned through an accessible, practical guide. This was a personal project distributed freely through my website.
Making the Book
I based every recipe on my own cooking experience.They were meals I'd tested, adjusted, and relied on as a student myself. I knew the audience had limited time, so I focused on simplicity above everything else. Clear instructions, easy-to-find ingredients, and realistic portion sizes.
I had friends help me try out the recipes to make sure they actually worked for other people. What seemed obvious to me might confuse someone else. Their feedback influenced how I wrote the instructions and which variations to include. I also added dietary tags and alternative versions so people with different needs or preferences could still use the book.
About the Book
The book includes 17 recipes covering different ways to make noodles, rice, burgers, and chocolate desserts on a budget. I designed it with a clean, modern look that didn't feel cluttered or overwhelming. Each recipe page includes a QR code that links to Samsung Food, where readers can see exactly where to shop for ingredients at their local supermarket. I researched over 20 different apps before settling on Samsung Food because it covered the features I needed. The PDF version also has clickable hyperlinks, making it easy to jump between sections or access shopping information directly.
The Result
People found it helpful. I distributed the book through my website and also printed physical copies for friends and family. The feedback was positive, and seeing people actually use the recipes made the five months of work worthwhile. It was a wholesome experience that combined my passion for food with a genuine need I'd experienced firsthand.