Hall of Fame Award (Posthumous) | 2016

Born in England, James Barber immigrated to Canada in 1952 after serving in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. Before he established himself as a chef, cookbook author, and illustrator, he explored several careers outside of the kitchen. He became a household name as a spokesperson for Money’s Mushrooms and then as host of The Urban Peasant, a long-running cooking show on CBC that was syndicated around the world. Barber also wrote for newspapers like the National Post and the Vancouver Sun, alongside writing a dozen bestselling cookbooks. In 1971, he published Ginger Tea Makes Friends, which showcased Barber’s humourous sketches and witty commentary. The recipes incorporate accessible and affordable ingredients that produce delicious results. While his cookbooks appealed to all, beginner cooks appreciated the way that Barber made cooking look easy and fun. Admired throughout the broadcasting and culinary world, Barber will be remembered for his enthusiasm for cooking, both on and off camera.

Barber, James. Ginger Tea Makes Friends. Toronto: McClelland and Stewart Limited, 1971. Archival & Special Collections, University of Guelph Library (TX715.6 B36).