Melbourne Celebrity Pastry Chef Darren Purchese of Burch and Purchese is joining in the food celebration that is this year’s Feast for Freedom, a fundraiser in aid of people seeking asylum.

On joining Feast for Freedom Darren said, “I have been working with the ASRC for a short time now and it has become infectious. I always feel a real sense of compassion, love and community when I get involved in their important projects and it makes me humble and more appreciative of the things I have in my life that we all take for granted.

“I am excited to combine my love of food and working with the ASRC – Oh! And picking up a few new recipes along the way is always a bonus.”

Darren has gifted his family recipe for Rhubarb, Raspberry and Apple Crumble for people to cook as a part of this year’s Feast. Refugee and Feast for Freedom hero cook Hamed Allahayri has also created a delicious Persian Ice Cream to serve with Darren’s Apple Crumble recipe.

Hamed and Darren became fast friends when they recently met to collaborate on their special Feast for Freedom dessert, swapping recipes and cooking tips.

“Hamed is a warm, funny and generous guy and an extremely talented cook. Hamed came from Iran to Australia as a refugee and has overcome lots of hurdles along the way to open his own business. I have been learning about his inspiring story and delicious Persian cuisine and “discovering” few recipes along the way.”

“Fruit crumbles were a favourite dessert in our family, warming and comforting and great with custard or ice cream,” Darren said.

“Fillings varied from homegrown berries and rhubarb to apples, peaches or pears, this dessert is easy and filling. Lots of happy memories.”