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AUTUMN Recipe Selection
As soon as the kids go back to school in September, I swear there's a shift in the air. The evenings cool, the light changes and suddenly I can smell the sweetness of fallen leaves.
This is probably my favourite season for cooking too. Apples start appearing through the garden gate, the oven gets switched on more often and I suddenly remember how much I like a big pot of something bubbling away.
"But What if I Fall?" ... "Oh But My Darling, What if You Fly?"
Chocolate & Mangelwurzel Brownies
Rich, chocolatey, fudgy brownies with a rather unexpected ingredient hiding inside ... Mangelwurzel might not be the first thing you'd think of when reaching for your baking tin, but its natural moisture makes it surprisingly at home in a batch of homemade Chocolate & Mangelwurzel Brownies. Think squidgy centres, slightly crisp edges and plenty of chocolate. You wouldn't necessarily guess what's in them, but that's rather the fun of it. Why Mangelwurzel? Mangelwurzel is ofte
3 min read
Sugar Plum, Apple & Mangelwurzel Jelly
A little autumn sunshine in a jar, with an unexpected Somerset twist ... Sometimes the best kitchen experiments start with an ingredient that makes you stop and wonder what on earth you're going to do with it ... Enter the mangelwurzel. Traditionally grown as a fodder crop, this rather magnificent root vegetable has been keeping me busy in the kitchen, finding its way into everything from brownies and truffles to savoury bakes and, now, a rather lovely little preserve. This
3 min read
Mangelwurzel & Caramelised Onion Cheese Scones
Golden, fluffy, wonderfully savoury scones with a rather unexpected ingredient hiding inside ... I've been having a little fun finding new ways to use mangelwurzel, that rather overlooked traditional root vegetable. Having experimented with brownies, truffles, jellies and drinks, I thought it was time to see what it could bring to the savoury side of the kitchen ,,, And so, into the scone mixture it went. Finely grated raw mangelwurzel brings moisture and a gentle earthiness
3 min read
Somerset Cider Braised Lamb Shanks with Apple, Pearl Onions & Rosemary
Apples and lamb? It just works. There's something rather lovely about letting the seasons lead the way in the kitchen. A couple of lamb shanks, a bottle of medium-sweet Somerset cider, some Bramley apples, and a few wedges of crisp, sharp eating apple, little pearl onions and a few sprigs of rosemary. Nothing complicated, just a collection of ingredients that seem to understand one another. Slow-braised until the lamb is beautifully tender, with the Bramley melting into the c
4 min read
Quince & Apple Brown Sugar Tarte Tatin
Golden puff pastry, tender quince, rosy pink apples and a buttery brown sugar caramel. A proper autumn pudding that looks rather grand but is surprisingly achievable. There are some recipes that come together exactly as planned. And then there are the ones that take you on a few twists and turns. This Quince & Apple Brown Sugar Tarte Tatin began with a couple of quinces, some apples and an idea. I wanted the floral sweetness of quince, the familiar comfort of apple and a cara
5 min read
Wild Mushroom & Creamy Garlic Boursin Galette with Thyme
Golden, buttery pastry, savoury roasted mushrooms and a gloriously garlicky, creamy centre. Autumn comfort food, with very little faffing, and without the wait. There is something rather lovely about a galette. It looks as though you've made a huge effort, but really, it's all about a few good ingredients, a little clever preparation and the willingness to embrace pastry that doesn't need to be perfectly behaved. This Wild Mushroom & Creamy Garlic Boursin Galette is all about
3 min read
Homemade Quince Cheese: A Little Pot of Autumn Magic
This year, my little quince tree finally came up trumps. Sixteen beautifully perfumed quinces, all mine. I was rather pleased with myself, if I'm honest. There's something deeply satisfying about watching a tree you've planted reward you with its own little harvest. And then, just as I was admiring my modest quince collection, a neighbour turned up and offloaded two baskets of the things on my doorstep. Two baskets!! Apparently, I had been promoted from someone with a quince
4 min read
Quince Cheese Pavlova with Poached Quince, Cream & Thyme
An autumn pavlova with a little surprise tucked inside ... There are pavlovas, and then there are pavlovas that make you wonder why on earth you've never thought of doing this before ... This one started with a batch of homemade quince cheese and a slightly mischievous idea. What if, instead of keeping quince cheese on the cheeseboard, we tucked it inside a French meringue pavlova? .. Not stirred through completely, not blended into a uniformly pink mixture, but swirled throu
7 min read
Quince Cheese & Brie: A Little Kitchen Twist
You know when you make something and then start wondering what else you can do with it? That's where we are in my kitchen with quince cheese ... Now, quince cheese is perfectly happy doing its usual job on a cheeseboard. A little square alongside a lovely sharp cheese, a few crackers and some pickles, and everyone's perfectly content. Nothing wrong with that at all ... But where's the fun in leaving well enough alone? Because if you've got a batch of homemade quince cheese si
2 min read
Pork, Nduja and Fennel Meatballs with Apple and Fennel Rémoulade
There are burgers, and then there are burgers that demand a pile of napkins and absolutely no attempt at eating gracefully ... These Pork, Nduja & Fennel Meatballs with Apple & Fennel Rémoulade fall firmly into the latter category. I've combined juicy pork mince with fiery nduja paste, fennel seeds, garlic and ground coriander to make meatballs that are packed with flavour. They're baked in the oven until beautifully golden, then tucked into soft burger buns with a generous
3 min read
Salami, French Cheese & Quince Puff Pastry Tart with Thyme
Golden, buttery puff pastry topped with creamy French cheese, savoury salami, sweet quince cheese and fragrant thyme. A little French-inspired kitchen improvisation that turned out rather well ... When the Fridge Has Other Plans You know those moments when you have a perfectly good idea for something to cook, only to discover that the fridge hasn't quite got the memo? ... This was one of those moments. The original plan involved bacon and Brie, which sounded rather lovely. E
3 min read
Sherry, Chorizo & Quince Terrine
There are certain things that mark the changing of the seasons for me. The smell in the air of the first fires in the grate. The hedgerows turning from green to gold. The sudden appearance of enormous pumpkins ... And, perhaps my favourite of all, the moment one of the neighbours down the road announces on Facebook that her quinces are ready. There is something wonderfully exciting about that little message appearing. The quinces are ready ... And I'm off! Yesterday, howeve
6 min read
Fig & Rosemary Chutney
Because when you decide all of the figs need to come off the tree NOW, you immediately acquire a completely different problem: a fig glut ... There are worse problems to have, admittedly. A basket overflowing with fat, ripe figs is a rather beautiful sight. Right up until you realise that there are only so many figs you can eat warm from the tree, only so many you can tuck into a tart, and that the fruit bowl is beginning to look less like an invitation to dinner and more li
4 min read
Honey Roasted Quince Custard Tarts
Honey-roasted quince, nestled into crisp buttery pastry and baked beneath a silky vanilla custard ... There are some things that are worth taking your time over, and quince is very definitely one of them. These little Honey Roasted Quince Custard Tarts started with a handful of quinces and the idea of roasting them slowly with honey and thyme until they became soft, golden and sticky. Once I had them, putting them into a custard tart seemed almost inevitable. The quince bring
4 min read
Roasted Plum & Peanut Butter Crumble
There are some recipes that begin with a plan ... And then there are the ones that happen because you have eight deeply dark, beautifully ripe Victoria plums sitting in the kitchen and absolutely no intention of letting them go to waste ... This was very much the latter. The plums were big, soft and properly ripe — the sort that practically collapse when you cut into them. I wanted to roast them gently and see what happened, so into the oven they went with a splash of orange
4 min read
Slow-Cooked Cider & Apple Pork Shoulder with Mustard
Slow-cooked pork shoulder in Somerset cider, with sweet apples, fennel and mustard There are recipes you plan days in advance, and then there are the ones that happen because you've got a pork shoulder in the fridge and a bottle of cider sitting on the worktop. This was one of those. I'd been making chutney, which left me with cider, and suddenly the idea of putting that cider into a slow-cooked pork shoulder seemed far more sensible than drinking it while I decided what to d
3 min read
Bramley Apple Potato Salad - A Somerset Orchard Potato Salad with Dill, Warm Cheddar Jalapeño Hot Links & Creamy Dressing
Nature's Larder It's about this time of year in Somerset that Bramley apples have a habit of appearing on doorsteps .. less cherry knocking, more apple knocking. You certainly can't walk through a Somerset village at this time of year without tripping over a box of Bramley apples. Left hopefully outside a gate with a little handwritten note inviting you to take a few, they're one of my favourite signs that the seasons are beginning to shift. This hearty potato salad is my wa
3 min read
Easy Kitchen Cupboard Nut Brittle
A crisp caramel brittle for scattering over ice cream, cakes and puddings. There always seems to be a handful of nuts left in the cupboard. Half a packet of hazelnuts, a few lonely walnuts, the last spoonful of pumpkin seeds. Not quite enough of anything to make a recipe ... but together? They're perfect for nut brittle. This is one of those wonderfully forgiving recipes that changes every time you make it. Use whatever nuts and seeds need using up, provided they roughly fil
2 min read
Decadent Brown Butter & Bourbon Ice Cream
A rich no-churn ice cream with toasted brown butter, a splash of bourbon, maple syrup and homemade brittle. There are recipes you set out to make ... and then there are recipes that simply appear because your curiosity gets the better of you. This one began with a pan of butter, not for toast, not for baking. Just because I wanted to watch it transform. As it melted, the butter slowly turned from pale yellow to liquid gold. Tiny milk solids settled on the bottom of the pan
3 min read
Delicious Hearty Italian Sausage Kale and Tortellini Soup Recipe You Must Try
This Italian Sausage Kale and Tortellini Soup is hearty, comforting and apparently capable of converting kale sceptics ... There are some recipes that receive a warm reception when they arrive at the table. This was not one of them ... When I announced that dinner was Italian Sausage, Kale & Tortellini Soup, my husband looked deeply suspicious. He has long suspected that many of my recipes are simply elaborate vehicles for getting more kale onto the table ... To be fair, he i
3 min read
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pappardelle A Comforting Vegetarian Delight
My eldest is home from university for the summer, which means I'm back in vegetarian cooking mode. Like most students, she's become remarkably adept at surviving on whatever happens to be available, but there are still a few home comforts she looks forward to when she comes back. This creamy garlic mushroom pappardelle is one of them. The funny thing is that while she loves the rich, savoury flavour mushrooms bring to a dish, she isn't keen on their texture. So every time I m
3 min read
Deliciously Creamy Apple Custard Tart Recipe for Perfect Autumnal Dessert
If you love the cosy flavours of autumn, this apple custard tart will quickly become your go-to dessert. Imagine sweet, juicy apple slices nestled in a smooth, creamy vanilla custard, all resting on a buttery, crumbly crust. It’s a treat that combines the best of textures and tastes, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a quiet moment at home. Just a quick tip before you start: make sure your tart bakes on a level shelf in the oven, unlike my last effort which res
3 min read
Messy but Delicious Peruvian Roast Chicken Sandwiches with Creamy Green Sauce
My daughter is home from Uni and there is just not enough time this weekend to cook everything I want to make for her this weekend. So, where to start? ... I always say this is the home of the messy sandwich and I know she absolutely loves them, and wanting to pack as much flavour in as possible, I knew this Peruvian roast chicken sandwich with a creamy sour cream green sauce would be perfect. It’s a messy, flavourful meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold tastes
3 min read
Tardy Taco Tuesday: Irresistible White Chicken Chilli Tacos Recipe
Ever been told off by your kid for missing Taco Tuesday? Well, that happened here. My little boy gave me the side-eye last night because I skipped making White Chicken Chilli Tacos on Tuesday. So, I’m embracing the new tradition: Tardy Taco Tuesday —because sometimes, good food just can’t wait. These soft tacos are loaded with a hearty white bean chilli and gooey Monterey Jack cheese, then baked until crispy and melty. If you love tacos but want something a little different,
3 min read
My Delicious Twist on White Chicken Chilli You Need to Try
I in no way claim this to be an authentic white chicken chilli recipe, but it's one that I've adapted over time to create a really hearty, flavour packed dish. To give this chilli it's deep flavourful base, I like to start by roasting a whole small chicken, then cook the onions, garlic and pickled chillies in the chicken drippings to give the base a really rich and flavourful depth. The added combination of spices, tomatillo salsa and pickled chillies adds a smoky, tangy kic
2 min read
Perfectly Braised Red Cabbage Recipe to Elevate Your Holiday Feast
Braised red cabbage is a classic side dish that always makes an appearance around this time of year in our house. Its natural sweetness and tangy notes balance beautifully with rich, savoury meats like pork belly. Why Braised Red Cabbage Works So Well Red cabbage has a firm texture and a slightly bitter edge when raw. Braising softens the cabbage and allows it to absorb the flavors of butter, sugar, port, and vinegar. The sweetness from the brown sugar and grated apple cuts t
2 min read
Indulge in Decadence with This Eggless Expresso Martini Mousse Recipe
Generally for me, nothing beats a goof tiramisu as the ultimate coffee-flavoured dessert, in fact my love with tiramisu is a well known thing, I've even got a dedicated Tiramisu shelf in my fridge, but just recently I've started a little side dalliance with this creamy Expresso Martini Mousse heaven-ness. It’s creamy, rich, and has just the right kick of espresso and chocolate to make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it one of those quick easy p
3 min read
The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe: Creamy Bacon and Red Onion Potato Gratin
On those chilly autumn days, nothing beats the warmth of a serving of Creamy Bacon and Red Onion Potato Gratin. It’s not just food; it’s a feeling of cosiness, bringing together family and friends around the table. With layers of soft potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish offers comfort in every bite. Creamy Bacon and Red Onion Potato Gratin - The Recipe Ingredients 1 kg potatoes, thinly sliced 2 tbsp unsalted butter 180 g bacon lardons 1 red onio
3 min read
Deliciously Cosy Spiced Apple Juice Donut Cake Recipe to Embrace Autumn Flavours
As autumn leaves drift and the air gets chillier, the pumpkin spice lattes firmly take over their seasonal annual reign, but perhaps controversially I will never be convinced that pumpkin spice has any place in my latte. I believe another comforting flavour deserves your attention: spiced apple juice donut cake! This apple juice donut cake is more than a treat; it’s an experience. Each moist bite bursts with the tangy sweetness of apple juice, perfectly matched with warm
2 min read
Vibrant Persian Style Carrot and Fresh Herb Chutney Salad Recipe
Are you craving a fresh and vibrant salad that is both healthy and packed with flavour? Look no further! The Persian Style Carrot and Fresh Herb Chutney Salad is a colourful dish that is easy to make and sure to delight your taste buds. With the perfect mix of sweet carrots, zesty chutney, and aromatic herbs, it shines as a light lunch or a standout side dish for any gathering. I love to serve this alongside my herby Pea & Feta and Giant Couscous Salad Persian Style Carrot a
2 min read
Elevate Your Turkish Eggs with a Vibrant Persian Herb Chutney Recipe
If you're ready to take your breakfast or brunch to the next level, look no further than Turkish eggs, a classic dish that combines creamy yogurt with perfectly poached eggs. Recently, I found an exciting way to enhance this beloved meal by pairing it with a vibrant Persian herb chutney, a recipe heavily inspired by my new foodie crush, Sabzi's Deli. This condiment adds a burst of fresh flavour that beautifully complements the richness of the eggs. What Are Turkish Eggs? Turk
3 min read
Heavenly Ghormeh Sabzi - Persian Herb Stew
I am in a full on foodie crush at the moment and it's been inspiring a lot of the dishes I have been making over the last couple of weeks....
3 min read
Autumn Sips: How to Craft the Perfect Pear and Rosemary Gin Fizz
As autumn arrives and the leaves change colour, it’s the ideal time to embrace the season's flavours. Every month I like to showcase a trending flavour in the cocktail world in my monthly newsletter. As we slip into Autumn, the flavour on the tip of everyone's tongue for 2025, are elegant Pear and the warming, spicy herbaceous notes of rosemary. I decided to waste no time in trying this gorgeous sounding combination in a Pear and Rosemary Gin Fizz, to bring a refreshing and
3 min read
Elevate Your Salad Game with Mango Chutney and Curried Yoghurt Roast Potato Salad
If you're searching for a way to enhance your salad experience, you’ve come to the right place! I'm so excited to share a recipe that has...
2 min read
Deliciously Accidental Butternut Squash Chorizo & Sage Börek
Sometimes, the most delicious recipes arise from a dash of spontaneity and a sprinkle of creativity. This is how this Butternut Squash...
3 min read
Creamy Green Chilli Chicken Recipe for a Comforting Midweek Meal
After a long day, we all want a meal that is both satisfying and simple to make. That's where Creamy Green Chilli Chicken comes in—a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken thighs with a rich, creamy sauce that has just a warming hint of spice. Perfect for those cosy nights, this recipe will impress your family or guests without requiring hours of prep. Let’s explore the ingredients and straightforward steps to prepare this delightful dish, great for pairing with pasta o
2 min read
A Hearty Giant Couscous Salad for a Flavourful Autumn Transition
As autumn sweeps in, it brings vivid colours and delightful flavours. It's the perfect season to enjoy hearty dishes that nourish and...
2 min read
Elevate Your Lunch with This Gorgeous Middle Eastern Vibe Pea and Feta Salad
Perhaps you will permit me a petite pause on your post perusals ... Presently I am prone to ponder pourquoi the unpretentious pea is perpetually passed over rather than promoted as the prevailing performer in our principal meal, when perhaps precociously on my part, I perceive the plain pea can pack the perfect palate punch ... Particularly in this Pea & Feta Salad! But in all seriousness, there's something captivating about discovering a dish that delights both your eyes and
3 min read
Sumac and Paprika Roasted Butternut Squash served on Creamy Homemade Labneh - A Budget Friendly Taste of Autumn Elegance
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to embrace the rich flavours of fall. Enter the Sumac and Paprika Roasted Butternut Squash served on Creamy Homemade Labneh . This stunning dish combines the sweet, nutty notes of roasted butternut squash with the cooling, salty richness of labneh. Perfect for a cosy dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe will impress your guests without straining your budget. The Allure of Butternut Squash Butternut squash is
4 min read
Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich A Flavourful Messy Delight
I am often heard to credit this house as the Home of the Messy Sandwich and when you think of sandwiches, I mean the ones that really do stand out for their explosion of flavour and mouth watering textures. The Fajita Spiced Picanha Steak Ciabatta Sandwich is one such creation that bursts with deliciousness whilst challenging you to keep your top clean as you eat it! Imagine succulent steak, colourful veggies, and creamy toppings all packed into a soft ciabatta roll. If you l
4 min read
Warm Up Your Mornings with Evaporated Milk Porridge with Caramelised Apples and Nuts
As the chill of autumn blankets the air, few things feel as comforting as a warm breakfast to kickstart your day. One delightful choice...
3 min read
The Art of Patience: Mastering a Caramelised Onion Tart with a Short Pastry Base
When it comes to baking, it's hard not to feel fulfilled creating a dish that requires extra love and attention. One standout option is...
3 min read
Comfort in a Bowl: A Heart Warming Twist on Persian Noodle Soup for University Farewells
As autumn paints the world in vibrant hues, there's something soothing about a steaming bowl of soup. For many families, this season...
3 min read
Delicious Yorkshire Pudding Wraps: A Creative Twist on a Classic Dish
This week, I had a great time experimenting in the kitchen with a fun twist on a classic British dish: Yorkshire pudding wraps. If you...
4 min read
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