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+---
+title: "Cookbook Release — 2026.3.21"
+description: "Initial project setup: recipe format, 5 starter recipes, and interactive grocery list generator."
+type: reference
+domain: development
+tags: [release-notes, deployment, cookbook]
+---
+
+# Cookbook Release — 2026.3.21
+
+**Date:** 2026-03-21
+**Repo:** `cal/cookbook` on git.manticorum.com
+
+## Release Summary
+
+New personal cookbook project using markdown files with YAML frontmatter. Designed around Cal's preference for low-effort meals and short ingredient lists. Includes an interactive grocery list generator served as a single HTML page.
+
+## Changes
+
+### New Features
+
+- **Recipe format** — markdown with YAML frontmatter using three-tier ingredient system: `ingredients` (must buy), `optional` (nice to have), `pantry` (already on hand)
+- **5 starter recipes** — spaghetti, chicken stir fry, breakfast for dinner, boxed pancakes, upgraded ramen
+- **Grocery list generator** (`grocery.html`) — single-page HTML app that combines ingredients across selected recipes, renders interactive checklist with localStorage persistence, mobile-friendly
+- **Serve script** (`serve.sh`) — quick bash script to spin up HTTP server for network access to the grocery list
+- **Dietary tagging** — `contains-lactose` tag rule for household lactose intolerance; recipes with dairy allowed but must be tagged
+
+### Format Decisions
+
+- `effort` field (low/medium/high) for filtering by cooking motivation
+- `optional` section keeps core ingredient list short while preserving variation ideas
+- `pantry` section separates staples (salt, pepper, oil) from shopping items
+- Kebab-case filenames, concise step instructions