- You only have to look at the recent spate of recipe books on frugal cooking to gauge the current foodie zeitgeist. No surprise, then, that next month’s Real Food Festival has something of a thrifty theme.

This year, as well as showcasing Britain’s best artisan and ethical food producers, there are tips on the lost art of home economics from the campaign group Love Food Hate Waste, sessions on baking your own bread, plus a credit-crunch cookery school, hosted by the chef and local food champion Barny Haughton. The message? You can eat on a budget without compromising either your principles or your taste buds. The Real Food Festival, Earl’s Court, SW6, May 8-10; realfoodfestival.co.uk, 0844 412 4642

Sunday Times Style 19/4/09