"THE idea behind this collection of recipes is to make people think a little differently about that stash of relishes most of us have sitting in the cupboard,” says Hawkshead Relish director Maria Whitehead MBE of the her newly published cookbook.

From Black Garlic Ketchup to Westmorland Chutney and Raspberry & Vanilla Jam, the recipes are designed to make the most of "kitchen staples" crafted by the family-run business, founded by Maria and husband Mark.

Author Maria said the book, Embellish With Relish, includes family favourites, tried and tested classics, inventive creations and contemporary dishes with a twist, such as My Mum's Legendary Hotpot, Westmorland Sausage Roll, Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich, Chilli Rocky Road, Fig & Orange Brioche Pudding and Banana & Salted Caramel Showstopper Cake.

The foreword has been penned by food journalist and broadcaster Nigel Barden,who joined Maria at the book's recent launch to the food industry at London's Speciality and Fine Food Fair.

“My role in life is to champion artisan producers and Hawkshead is exactly the type of company to exalt," wrote Nigel in the foreword. "The founders, their daughters Abbie and Izzy, and the whole Hawkshead Relish team should be proud of their huge achievements. To capture something of the World Heritage Site that is the Lake District in every one of the 5,000 jars they turn out daily by hand is pretty remarkable.”

TV's Hairy Biker cook Dave Myers, who hails from Barrow-in-Furness, has also praised Maria's new venture, saying: "Hawkshead Relish has the most amazing range of products, but the story of this family business is also extraordinary. Their products are so versatile and are truly part of the cook’s armoury. They are creative but above all really tasty, and the business is a great ambassador for Cumbria."

Featuring more than 50 recipes, the 160-page paperback was inspired by the Whiteheads' travels, their family dinner table and the relishes they produce at their 16th century barn on the shores of Esthwaite Water - visited by HRH Prince Charles back in April to celebrate the firm's 20th anniversary.

l Embellish With Relish is on sale at bookshops, Amazon and www.hawksheadrelish.com, £16.