In this episode of Zebras to Apples, host Bryndis Whitson talks with Bridget Rathwell, a culinary entrepreneur who turned her lifelong love of cooking into several successful food ventures. Growing up in a family where food and hospitality were central, Bridget learned the importance of homemade, nourishing meals, and now shares the traditions taught to her by her mother through her meal-prep service and Indian cooking classes.

Bridget began with a bakery that offered homemade desserts, coffee, and daily take-home dinners, then, as demand grew, she expanded into catering and created a line of jarred curry/simmer sauces. She sold at farmers' markets and through retail stores. These operations required careful logistics. She and Bryndis discuss the intricacies of sourcing quality spices free of radiation treatment from Montreal, managing commercial kitchen production, maintaining food freshness, and transporting hot meals. Today, Bridget focuses on meal prep and the Indian cooking classes that happen right in client homes. She tailors menus to dietary needs such as gluten-free, keto, or low-carb. Her passion is for homemade, wholesome meals, which her husband, who is her business partner, and children, her taste testers, help make come true for a real family business.

About Bridget Rathwell:

Bridget’s whole life seemed to have been centered around the kitchen; the good mornings, tea times, coffees, discussions, celebrations, events, and all the grace that came with those things. All of these memories were surrounded by beautiful food and lots of laughter.

Her parents are Anglo-Indians from Pakistan. They had a glorious love for food and took great pride in their family. She has a great respect for her Mom and Dad, and every time she cooks, she pays tribute to them. Her Mom has always been her greatest teacher and still gives Bridget inspiration for her cooking. Her Mom has taught her to understand the blending and balancing of spices and how to achieve beautiful flavours.

Bridget held on to the wisdom of what she learned from her Mom so she could bring the love and care of Indian cooking into other homes. All of the curry sauces and dishes that she makes are traditional dishes that she’s been taught, just as her beautiful mother was taught.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson:

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn
  
  

Contact Bridget Rathwell:

• Website: TheCurryQueen.com
• Instagram: @bridgetsthecurryqueen