The Walled Garden Series: Valen’s Apple French Toast

For this instalment of The Walled Garden Series, we’re joined by Valen, one of our brilliant volunteers who has been with the Food Museum since spring 2025.

Valen grew up in Hong Kong, a city where food is more than just sustenance — it’s a way of life. As she puts it: “We are so obsessed with food that we often find ourselves talking about dinner while still having lunch.” From after-school meet-ups in Chinese dessert shops to street food crawls with friends, and sharing takeaway fried rice with classmates, almost all of Valen’s cherished memories are food-centred.

Food has always fascinated her, not only as a source of comfort and joy, but also as a powerful way of connecting across generations. “In many cultures, including my own, preparing and sharing food has been a way for people to connect, support one another and pass down knowledge — especially women. Whether it’s cultural recipes, cooking tips, or simply stories shared over a meal, these moments in the kitchen create a strong sense of belonging and community.”

Since joining the museum, Valen has been introduced to parts of British food culture she had never considered growing up in a big city: foraging, seasonal eating and the preservation of regional produce and heritage recipes. It has deepened her appreciation for where food comes from and the pride and memory rooted in every ingredient.

For her recipe in the series, Valen turned to one of autumn’s most iconic ingredients: apples from the walled garden. She transforms them into a beautifully spiced topping for rich, golden French toast.

Click here for the recipe.