Hello, I’m Emily, the person behind The Ancestral Pantry.

Last year I made my first loaf of traditional sourdough. Whilst I learnt to bake in my own kitchen, I was far from self-taught. I was community-taught.

My starter, gifted to me by a friend, was already multiple years old, holding many stories before finding me.

My mum, a talented home-baker, taught me not just how to navigate the kitchen frugally and efficiently, but the foundation of love that food is.

Recounting stories from memory, my mum acted as a bridge to the past, meaning I also had the privilege to learn many wise tips and tricks from generations back, even those I never met.

My close friends and family have shaped the journey just as much - the greatest of guinea pigs (and supporters) that I could dream of.

After only a few loaves, I was already moved deeply by the weight of creating such sustenance from scratch, and out of pure abundance and joy, I began to jump at any, and every chance to bake for anyone I could.

Just like that, one miraculous moment after the next, The Ancestral Pantry was born. In the most organic and accidental way (all the best things are).

It started with bread, but has spiralled into a deep yearning to spread the simple joy of fellowship around a meal. Bread was my ticket back to a world of tradition, and I trust it will be yours too.