Food is not related only to nutritional functions, it is also linked to our feelings. What I love best – the smell, the wet dirt of the morning dew – is to harvest my vegetables. It reminds me of my childhood, brings me love, happiness and the feeling of realising myself. All I do, I do with a great care and dedication. I work with artisans of gastronomy, people who work to provide produce of the highest quality. Cooking is an act of generosity. Even if you cook only for yourself, it’s not just your food that’s at stake. It is food for the spirit, food for soul.

Manoella Buffara, Manu (Curitiba, Brazil)