Make it, one step at a time.
Choose a tiny first collection
Start with four recipes instead of trying to document an entire family kitchen. Ask each contributor which dish they want included and whether the recipe may be shared.
Capture the instructions
Copy quantities, units, equipment, temperatures, and timings exactly as supplied. Mark anything uncertain as “confirm with the contributor” rather than guessing.
Ask about the story
Use one question at a time: Who taught you this? When do you make it? What do you change? Write down the answer in the person’s own words where possible.
Make a readable page
Use the recipe template for ingredients and method; put the story on the reverse or a facing page. Leave generous space and use dark ink. Include the contributor’s name only with permission.
Check and collect
Let the contributor review the page. Add a date and place the pages in a folder. Treat untested recipes as family records, not verified food-safety instructions.
The simpler version
Capture one recipe and one sentence about its story this year. Add another next year.
A little help goes a long way
Let a child illustrate the page or ask a question. An adult handles any cooking; this project itself requires none.
Before you begin
Old recipes may omit quantities or storage guidance. Do not fill gaps from memory or use unverified preserving methods; choose a tested source before cooking.