She’s just released her 25th and latest cookbook, Essential, a collection of her life’s greatest work in the kitchen. But, that’s not the only reason Annabel Langbein is on cloud nine.
Chatting to New Zealand Woman’s Weekly, the free-range cook proudly reveals she’s just been presented with an honorary doctorate from Lincoln University in Canterbury – in commerce.
“That really blew me away,” a chuffed Annabel tells. “What an honour!”
While you might be surprised the doctorate is in business, those who are familiar with Annabel’s story won’t be. The award recognises her incredible business nous and her creation of the Annabel Langbein brand, which has seen 25 cookbooks, YouTube videos, and local and international television shows.
It’s a big deal for Annabel, who says she started writing recipes all those years ago simply to spark joy in others, to share her love of food and her knowledge of how to prepare it- and to make people inspired to cook, rather than see it as a chore.
The chef, who is now based in Wanaka but makes frequent trips to Auckland, has certainly come a long way from her humble beginnings.
It was 1988 when she released her first book, Annabel Langbein’s Cookbook, and the resulting years have seen no less blood, sweat and tears as she diligently – and unorthodoxly – built her empire.
But, it wasn’t without its struggles. Annabel candidly tells of her anxiety attacks and self-doubt, but says it all comes down to having “gumption” and giving things a go.
For more, see this week’s issue of New Zealand Woman’s Weekly, out now.
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