You've heard me going on enough about the sticky deliciousness that is a Spread chutney/ kasundi/ relish both here and here. Actually, I just took a look at the Spreadjampickle Facebook page and am glad to see that I'm not the only one who loves every spoonful- there is a lot of love out there for these tasty condiments!
In trying to figure out why Spread products are so moreish, I had a chat with owner Lydia Puglisi McDonald whose passion for family, friends and food is captured in every little jar she makes.
In trying to figure out why Spread products are so moreish, I had a chat with owner Lydia Puglisi McDonald whose passion for family, friends and food is captured in every little jar she makes.
The lovely Lydia was born to Italian parents in a little Victorian country town, and grew up helping out in the family cafe. After gleaning foodie knowledge from traveling around the world and working with top chefs, she opened a bakery cafe in Melbourne and made tasty chutneys and jams to enhance her baked goods. I've no doubt there would have been some awesome ciabatta happening there...
A few years ago she decided on a sea change, packed everything up and moved to the picturesque town of Port Campbell where she has kicked off her new venture: Spread. And I for one am I glad she did, because my homemade burgers have never tasted so good!
Spread products have graced so many butter knives (including those at iconic Melbourne restaurant Vue De Monde) that Lydia is back in Melbourne again. So keep an eye out for one of these jars of goodness at a local market, and meet the woman behind the Spread success below!
60 Seconds With Lydia Puglisi McDonald, Owner, Spread
Why did you start Spread?
Spread began from a desire to eat fresh, low sugar and low or no salt chutneys and jam made with quality ingredients. My sister inlaw is a Certified Organic Farmer so I'm set when it comes to top produce.
What is one of your most memorable foodie moments?
The first time I ate at est est est Melbourne, I knew from the first taste I had to work for Donovan Cooke and Phillippa Sibley, because I to wanted to be the best chef I could be.
What are some interesting ways that you've used your product?
Spread is about using each product for more than one thing eg rhubarb Rose Geranium Jam of course toast, crumpets, croissant and English Muffins, but wonderful with lemon curd as an individual tartlets, or Eton Mess with fresh strawberries, meringues, chocolate chunks and cream or yogurt or even with pork.
What would surprise people most about your job?
That even so it's long hours, unpredictable, and low income. The best part is it's mine. I have the opportunity to create and hopefully inspire others to be creative with food. I feel a great sense of pride in my work and am able to fulfil my hunger to create new products.
If you could invite five people to dinner, who would they be and why?
Husband, when we first meet he was a chef now a helicopter pilot. He would be helping me! I like to be in his company as much as possible.
My Mother, died when I was 30 from cancer, I would love to be able to cook a meal for her again, tell her of my achievements, introduce my husband and of course show off my talents.
Stephine Alexander, an amazing women who changed the way we eat, think and grow our food. A woman who changed Australia for the better.
Maggie Beer, another Australian food icon whom I admire and respect. A women who is always smiling and happy is always welcome in my home.
Elizthbeth David, enough said.
What is in store for Spread Experience in 2014/2015?
2014-15 is going to be big! Spread will be lauching something different and exciting, a new range and concept, that's all I can say. Keep an eye on our website, Twitter or Facebook for release dates and all information on Spread products.
Website: Spread
Twitter: @spreadjampickle
Facebook: Spreadjampickle
A few years ago she decided on a sea change, packed everything up and moved to the picturesque town of Port Campbell where she has kicked off her new venture: Spread. And I for one am I glad she did, because my homemade burgers have never tasted so good!
Spread products have graced so many butter knives (including those at iconic Melbourne restaurant Vue De Monde) that Lydia is back in Melbourne again. So keep an eye out for one of these jars of goodness at a local market, and meet the woman behind the Spread success below!
60 Seconds With Lydia Puglisi McDonald, Owner, Spread
Why did you start Spread?
Spread began from a desire to eat fresh, low sugar and low or no salt chutneys and jam made with quality ingredients. My sister inlaw is a Certified Organic Farmer so I'm set when it comes to top produce.
What is one of your most memorable foodie moments?
The first time I ate at est est est Melbourne, I knew from the first taste I had to work for Donovan Cooke and Phillippa Sibley, because I to wanted to be the best chef I could be.
What are some interesting ways that you've used your product?
Spread is about using each product for more than one thing eg rhubarb Rose Geranium Jam of course toast, crumpets, croissant and English Muffins, but wonderful with lemon curd as an individual tartlets, or Eton Mess with fresh strawberries, meringues, chocolate chunks and cream or yogurt or even with pork.
What would surprise people most about your job?
That even so it's long hours, unpredictable, and low income. The best part is it's mine. I have the opportunity to create and hopefully inspire others to be creative with food. I feel a great sense of pride in my work and am able to fulfil my hunger to create new products.
If you could invite five people to dinner, who would they be and why?
Husband, when we first meet he was a chef now a helicopter pilot. He would be helping me! I like to be in his company as much as possible.
My Mother, died when I was 30 from cancer, I would love to be able to cook a meal for her again, tell her of my achievements, introduce my husband and of course show off my talents.
Stephine Alexander, an amazing women who changed the way we eat, think and grow our food. A woman who changed Australia for the better.
Maggie Beer, another Australian food icon whom I admire and respect. A women who is always smiling and happy is always welcome in my home.
Elizthbeth David, enough said.
What is in store for Spread Experience in 2014/2015?
2014-15 is going to be big! Spread will be lauching something different and exciting, a new range and concept, that's all I can say. Keep an eye on our website, Twitter or Facebook for release dates and all information on Spread products.
Website: Spread
Twitter: @spreadjampickle
Facebook: Spreadjampickle
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