Land, Sea & Hills - Fiona Richmond talks to Emma Bouglet, about the publication of this gorgeous new book

What makes East Lothian such a special county for food and drink?

East Lothian has an extraordinary geographic, fertile farmland, a stunning coastline and rolling heather- clad hills, all within a compact area. This diversity shapes what we grow, make, catch, brew, and bake. Add this to a strong sense of community and collaboration and you have a food and drink scene that is high quality but also deeply rooted in place

What can readers expect to find in the book?

What started out as a recipe book, soon developed into storytelling about the people of East Lothian and why they do what they do, tied to the landscape and traditions of the area

Were there any stories you uncovered that particularly resonated with you?

The common theme is the quiet determination shared by so many producers. People who have chosen a harder more thoughtful route. Whether this is farming regeneratively, building a business from scratch slowly or reviving traditional skills, there’s a clear sense of purpose and pride that runs through the county

Any surprising facts about the area’s food and drink that others might not know of?

What has surprised many is just how much is produced here and to such a high standard. East Lothian is also known as ‘Scotland’s bread basket’ or ‘Scotland’s food and drink county’

Are there any dishes/products unique to the region?

Yes, but it is the interpretation that is unique. East Lothian Lamb, pork, potatoes, barley, and

seafood are exceptional in their own right, but what makes them special is how the local producers and cooks work with them. Keeping things simple and letting the ingredients speak for themselves

The photography is beautiful – what was it like working with Amanda Farnese-Heath and why were the visuals so important?

Working with Amanda was such a joy. I have known her for many years and always admired her ability to create magic in her photoshoots. In my mind, the visuals are vital as the book needed to bring in the essence of the people we were photographing. We did not want anything over styled or curated as we wanted the essence of the people to shine through and tell their own unique story. Amanda’s photography helps tell that story instantly and emotionally

Anything else you’d like to share?

The book is a collaboration. From the openness and generosity of East Lothian businesses that helped build the book, the editor and photography, designer and illustrator to the East Lothian producers, makers, and supporters. We hope it encourages people to shop locally, eat seasonally and feel so proud of what is on their doorstep, and those further afield to plan a holiday to East Lothian to discover it, too

Books can be purchased directly from www.landseahills.co.uk and various local stockists. If you would like to stock this bool please go to the website or follow @landseahills on Instagram

Fiona Richmond is Head of Regional Food & Drink at Scotland Food & Drink

Emma Bouget is Business Manager for Land, Sea and Hills.