In Praise of Sprouts and Pigs in Blankets: The Unsung Heroes of Christmas Dinner

When it comes to the Christmas feast, certain dishes steal the limelight – a golden roast turkey, fluffy roast potatoes, or a glistening Christmas pudding. 

But as we gather around the table this festive season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes of the plate: sprouts and pigs in blankets.

Sprouts: The Maligned Marvel

Ah, Brussels sprouts – often the subject of unjust ridicule, yet they hold a rightful place on any Christmas dinner plate. 

These little green gems are a culinary marvel when treated with the care they deserve. Forget the soggy, over-boiled versions of Christmas past. Instead, roast them until golden and crisp, toss them with chestnuts and pancetta, or glaze them with honey and balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness.

Sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins C and K, they’re the perfect antidote to the season’s indulgences. Plus, their earthy, nutty flavour provides a beautiful balance to the richness of the roast and gravy.

For those who claim they “hate sprouts,” perhaps they’ve never had them properly prepared. This Christmas, be bold. Transform the humble sprout from a scorned afterthought to a star in its own right.

Pigs in Blankets: The Little Indulgence We Can’t Resist

Now, let’s turn our attention to the undeniable crowd-pleaser: pigs in blankets. These bite-sized wonders – smoky sausages wrapped in salty, crispy bacon – are a festive essential. They may not be the main event, but their absence would surely leave a hole in the Christmas meal.

The beauty of pigs in blankets lies in their simplicity. They add a burst of savoury joy to every bite, pairing beautifully with stuffing, gravy, or even the cranberry sauce. 

And let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite like sneaking an extra one (or three) from the platter before dinner is officially served!

For a twist, why not experiment with flavoured sausages or use streaky bacon brushed with maple syrup for a sweet, caramelised finish? Whether classic or customised, pigs in blankets are guaranteed to make spirits bright.

Together, They Shine

While the turkey and trimmings may command attention, sprouts and pigs in blankets play a vital role in completing the Christmas dinner experience. Their flavours, textures, and versatility bring balance and joy to the plate.

So this year, let’s raise a toast to these festive favourites. Whether you’re a lifelong sprout devotee or a pigs-in-blankets purist, let’s give them the spotlight they so richly deserve.

Merry Christmas – and happy feasting!

Sauce Shop® Unveils Two New Festive Flavours: Brussels Sprout Kimchi Hot Sauce & Spiced Cranberry Hot Honey

Sauce Shop®, the UK's favourite craft condiments brand is launching another two bold limited-edition flavours: Brussels Sprout Kimchi Hot Sauce and Spiced Cranberry Hot Honey. These new creations bring a playful, flavourful twist on typical festive flavours.

Sauce Shop® X Aldi Brussels Sprout Kimchi Hot Sauce is a bold and tangy savoury blend that reimagines the classic sprout with a Korean-inspired twist. 

The secret to Sauce Shop's range of tasty hot sauces is their signature fermented chillies – taking perfectly ripened chillies, salting them and ageing them for 2-4 weeks for layers of flavour. 

For their latest creation, they've taken things a step further, fermenting Brussels sprouts and green jalapeños together.

Tapping into the increasing consumer demand for gut-friendly foods that deliver on both taste and functionality, the Sauce Shop® X Aldi Brussels Sprout Kimchi Hot Sauce does it all.

Product highlights:

Heat level: Hot

Serving suggestions: in a leftovers sandwich, as an alternative Christmas dinner condiment or with a cheeseboard

Availability: Available from the 28th of November 2024 in over 1,000 Aldi stores nationwide

Packaging: Available in a recyclable 155g glass bottle

RRP: £ 3.49

Suitable for Vegans.

Sauce Shop® X Aldi Spiced Cranberry Hot Honey is a festive take on the brand's Honey Sriracha Drizzle. It's a sweet and sticky honey-dominated condiment, with tart cranberries and punchy chilli heat from the brand's own fermented habanero and jalapeño chillies. It's a festive twist on the classic Cranberry Sauce as we know it!

Product highlights:

Heat level: Medium

Serving suggestions: with sausage rolls, gyoza, chicken bites and all other Christmas party food. As a glaze for ham, drizzled over baked camembert or with a cheeseboard

Availability: Available from the 28th of November 2024 in over 1,000 Aldi stores nationwide

Packaging: Available in a 180g glass bottle

RRP £3.49

Suitable for Vegetarians.

"After the runaway success of our Brussels Sprout Ketchup over the past few years, we're excited to unveil two brand new festive flavours in collaboration with Aldi. We like to push the boundaries of flavour and thought Christmas condiments needed more of a spruce-up. After an experimental Brussels sprout ferment went well (which took place under our stairs at home!), we thought "why not make that into a hot sauce?" It sounds odd, but it really works.

And our Spiced Cranberry Hot Honey gives traditional cranberry sauce a run for its money. It's a festive all-rounder, making the perfect dip for party food and I implore everyone who grabs a bottle to pour it in the centre of a baked camembert at some point!” Comments Pam Digva, Co-Founder of Sauce Shop®.

Julie Ashfield, who is MD of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “Our latest collaboration with Sauce Shop might be our most controversial yet. Love them or hate them, we're confident this unique hot sauce will win over even the most sprout averse.”

Both sauces are made using 100% natural ingredients, like all products in the Sauce Shop® range.

Also in the Aldi Specialbuys feature launching in over 1,000 stores on the 28th November 2024 is the Sauce Shop® Spicy Breakfast Sauce (£3.49, 320g), Sauce Shop® Honey Chipotle BBQ Sauce (£3.49, 340g) and Sauce Shop® Tomato Ketchup (£3.49, 490g).

For more tasty updates, follow Sauce Shop® on social media at @sauce_shop or visit https://www.sauceshop.co

How to put together the perfect vegan Christmas dinner

Creating a perfect vegan Christmas dinner doesn’t have to mean compromising on flavour or festivity. 

Whether you're catering for plant-based eaters or looking to try something different, there are plenty of ways to craft a delicious and indulgent meal that celebrates all the joy and tradition of the season. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a standout vegan Christmas dinner that’s sure to wow everyone around the table.

1. Starters: Savoury and Elegant

Begin with something light yet impressive. For vegan Christmas starters, you can’t go wrong with flavours like roasted beetroot, figs, chestnuts, and winter herbs.

Option 1: Mushroom and Chestnut Pâté

Rich, earthy, and full of flavour, a mushroom and chestnut pâté is both sophisticated and satisfying. Serve with toasted sourdough, a handful of microgreens, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a beautiful presentation.

Option 2: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up with a velvety butternut squash soup topped with toasted seeds or pomegranate arils. Add a touch of nutmeg and fresh thyme to bring out that perfect winter taste.

The Centrepiece: Show-stopping Mains

A festive main course is the star of any Christmas meal, and for a vegan Christmas dinner, it’s all about rich, hearty flavours and a stunning presentation.

Option 1: Stuffed Butternut Squash Roast

Cut a butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and stuff it with a savoury filling of wild rice, cranberries, and sage. After baking, it has a lovely golden hue and a slightly sweet, nutty flavour. You can add chestnuts or walnuts for extra richness.

Option 2: Lentil and Nut Wellington

For something that feels quintessentially Christmas, a vegan Wellington can be a brilliant centrepiece. Make a filling of mushrooms, lentils, and nuts, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Wrap it in puff pastry and bake until golden and flaky. Slice into rounds to reveal the rich filling and serve with a rich red wine reduction.

3. Sides: Festive Flavours

No Christmas dinner is complete without an array of delicious sides. Go for classics that bring in seasonal tastes and colours.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple and Pecans

A perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and nutty, roasted Brussels sprouts are a Christmas staple. Toss with a little olive oil, maple syrup, and pecans for a delicious caramelised result.

Honey-Glazed Carrots and Parsnips (with Maple Syrup)

For a vegan twist on honey-glazed vegetables, use maple syrup to achieve the same sweetness. Roast with rosemary and thyme for a fragrant and festive flavour.

Garlic and Rosemary Hasselback Potatoes

These stylish potatoes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Simply slice thinly without cutting all the way through, brush with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary and garlic, then bake until crisp.

Vegan Cauliflower Cheese

A Christmas favourite made vegan, this cauliflower cheese is creamy and satisfying. Use a plant-based milk and a vegan cheese sauce with nutritional yeast for a comforting, cheesy flavour.

4. Desserts: Decadent and Dairy-Free

After a satisfying Christmas feast, it’s time for a sweet ending. Go for indulgent desserts that feel luxurious and festive.

Option 1: Vegan Christmas Pudding

Rich, dense, and full of spices, a classic Christmas pudding is surprisingly easy to veganise. Use dried fruit, nuts, and warming spices, and serve with a vegan brandy sauce. You can even make this ahead of time to save yourself the trouble on the day.

Option 2: Chocolate Yule Log

For chocolate lovers, a vegan yule log is a perfect dessert. Make a light, vegan sponge filled with dairy-free chocolate ganache, then roll it up and frost with more ganache. Dust with powdered sugar and add a few festive decorations, like fresh rosemary or holly berries.

5. Drinks to Complete the Meal

No Christmas meal would be complete without the right beverages. Serve a mix of warming mulled wines, festive cocktails, and cosy non-alcoholic options.

Classic Mulled Wine

Simmer red wine with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a bit of star anise for a deliciously aromatic drink that fills the house with the scent of Christmas.

Festive Cranberry Mocktail

For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, mix cranberry juice with a splash of soda, a bit of lime, and a garnish of fresh cranberries and rosemary. This makes a bright, festive drink that looks lovely alongside any Christmas meal.

Tips for a Smooth Vegan Christmas

Prep Ahead: Christmas is a busy day, so prep whatever you can in advance. You can make the pâté, soup, and even the Wellington filling a day or two beforehand.

Check Labels: Many ingredients, like puff pastry, can be vegan, but it’s always wise to double-check labels to ensure they’re free from animal products.

Keep It Festive: A vegan Christmas dinner can still be full of traditional colours, tastes, and aromas. Use herbs, spices, and garnishes to give each dish that cosy holiday feel.

Creating a vegan Christmas dinner that’s memorable and delicious is all about using bold flavours, rich textures, and vibrant colours. Whether you're serving seasoned vegans or adventurous eaters, this spread is sure to bring warmth and joy to the table. Wishing you a very merry, plant-based Christmas!

How to Make the Perfect British Christmas Dinner: Recipes and Tips for the Ultimate Christmas Feast

The British Christmas dinner is a truly grand affair, steeped in tradition and overflowing with flavour. 

From a perfectly roasted turkey and crispy roast potatoes to the rich and indulgent Christmas pudding, each dish holds a special place in our festive celebrations. 

If you're looking to create the ultimate British Christmas feast, here's a guide with recipes and tips to help you bring some holiday magic to the table.

1. The Centrepiece: Roast Turkey

The turkey is the star of the show, and preparing it well will ensure a delicious and juicy centrepiece for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients:

1 whole turkey (approx. 4-5kg for 6-8 people)

100g butter, softened

2 lemons, quartered

Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, and sage work well)

Salt and pepper

1 onion, halved

4-5 cloves of garlic, peeled

Method:

Prepare the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) or 200°C. Rinse and pat dry the turkey. Season the cavity with salt and pepper, then stuff it with lemon quarters, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Butter the Skin: Gently lift the skin over the breast and spread half the butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter over the skin, ensuring the turkey is evenly coated. This will give it that golden, crispy finish.

Season and Cover: Generously season with salt and pepper. Cover the turkey loosely with foil to prevent it from over-browning.

Roast: Roast the turkey for around 2.5-3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with its own juices. Remove the foil for the last 45 minutes to achieve a beautifully crisp skin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C at the thickest part.

Rest: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to settle, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

2. Perfect Roast Potatoes

Roast potatoes are an essential side dish. They should be fluffy on the inside with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior.

Ingredients:

1kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled and quartered

3-4 tbsp goose fat or duck fat (vegetable oil as a substitute)

Salt

Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Method:

Parboil: Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 8-10 minutes until slightly softened but not fully cooked. Drain and let them steam dry in the colander for a few minutes.

Rough Them Up: Shake the colander gently to roughen the edges. This step is key for extra crispy potatoes.

Preheat Fat: Place the goose fat in a roasting tin and heat it in the oven at 200°C until sizzling hot.

Roast: Carefully add the potatoes to the hot fat, turning them to coat evenly. Roast for 45-50 minutes, turning halfway through. Add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme for extra flavour in the last 10 minutes.

Serve: Season generously with salt and serve immediately for maximum crunch!

3. Classic Christmas Vegetables

Traditional Christmas vegetables like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and carrots add colour and variety to the meal. Here’s a quick way to prepare them.

Ingredients:

500g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

4 large carrots, peeled and cut into batons

4 parsnips, peeled and quartered

Olive oil, for roasting

Salt and pepper

Honey (optional)

Method:

Prepare Vegetables: Toss the parsnips and carrots in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 200°C for 25-30 minutes until tender. For a festive touch, drizzle with honey for the final 10 minutes.

Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Steam or blanch the Brussels sprouts until slightly tender. Then sauté them in a pan with a little butter or olive oil. Add chopped chestnuts or a sprinkle of crispy bacon for extra flavour.

4. Rich and Fruity Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding is the traditional British dessert, and it’s worth making it ahead of time to allow the flavours to develop fully.

Ingredients:

100g raisins

100g sultanas

100g currants

50g chopped dried figs

75g dark brown sugar

100g breadcrumbs

100g suet (vegetable suet for vegetarians)

1 apple, grated

Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange

1 tsp mixed spice

2 large eggs

100ml stout or dark ale

2 tbsp brandy

Method:

Mix Ingredients: Combine all the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the grated apple, citrus zest, eggs, stout, and brandy. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Let It Rest: Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel and leave it to sit overnight for the flavours to meld.

Steam: Grease a pudding basin, spoon in the mixture, and cover with a layer of baking parchment and foil. Steam for 5-6 hours, checking the water level occasionally.

Store: Once cooled, store the pudding in a cool, dark place. On Christmas Day, reheat by steaming for 2 hours before serving.

Serving Tip:

Serve with brandy butter, custard, or a dollop of double cream. For a show-stopping finish, warm a few tablespoons of brandy, pour it over the pudding, and light it just before serving. Or serve with Christmas ice cream, if available.

Extra Tips for the Ultimate Christmas Dinner

Plan Ahead: Make your Christmas pudding a few weeks ahead of time and prepare your vegetables the day before. This will reduce stress on the big day.

Brine the Turkey: If you have the time, brining the turkey overnight can enhance its flavour and juiciness.

Serve Family-Style: Present all the dishes on the table for a cosy, communal atmosphere.

Don’t Forget the Crackers: Christmas dinner wouldn’t be complete without a festive cracker for each guest!

A British Christmas dinner is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition and togetherness. With these recipes and tips, you’re all set to make your Christmas dinner a memorable feast filled with flavour and joy. Happy cooking, and Merry Christmas!

We'll look at catering for a vegan Christmas in a subsequent post, so please do keep an eye out for that.

New Twists on Classical Christmas Foods and Drinks

Christmas is a time steeped in tradition, especially when it comes to food and drink. From succulent roasted turkey to steaming cups of mulled wine, the festive season brings with it a host of culinary delights that have stood the test of time. 

However, there's no harm in shaking things up a bit. Here are some innovative twists on classical Christmas foods and drinks that will add a touch of excitement to your holiday table.

1. Roasted Turkey with a Citrus Glaze

The centrepiece of many Christmas dinners is the turkey, typically served with cranberry sauce and stuffing. This year, why not give the traditional roast turkey a zesty update? A citrus glaze can add a fresh and vibrant flavour to the bird, cutting through the richness of the meat and bringing a welcome brightness to your plate.

Recipe Idea: Prepare a glaze using a blend of orange, lemon, and lime juice, combined with honey, garlic, and a dash of chilli flakes. Baste the turkey with this mixture during the last hour of roasting for a beautifully caramelised skin and a succulent, flavour-infused meat.

2. Parsnip and Maple Syrup Mash

Mashed potatoes are a staple at Christmas dinner, but this year, try swapping them out for a parsnip and maple syrup mash. Parsnips provide a slightly sweet and earthy flavour, which pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of maple syrup.

Recipe Idea: Boil parsnips until tender, then mash with a generous knob of butter, a splash of milk, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warming, comforting side dish that complements the richness of your main course.

3. Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Pomegranate

Brussels sprouts are often met with mixed feelings, but this recipe is sure to win over even the most reluctant diner. By adding crispy pancetta and sweet, tangy pomegranate seeds, you can transform these humble greens into a festive treat.

Recipe Idea: Sauté halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil until they start to brown. Add diced pancetta and cook until crisp. Toss in a handful of pomegranate seeds just before serving. The result is a delightful combination of flavours and textures that will add a pop of colour to your Christmas spread.

4. Gingerbread Espresso Martini

For a festive twist on a classic cocktail, try a Gingerbread Espresso Martini. This drink captures the essence of Christmas with its rich, spicy notes and warming kick.

Recipe Idea: Combine espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and a homemade gingerbread syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a small gingerbread biscuit on the rim for an extra touch of Christmas cheer.

5. Spiced Apple and Cranberry Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a Christmas classic, but this year, consider adding some apple and cranberry to the mix for a fruity, aromatic twist.

Recipe Idea: In a large saucepan, gently heat red wine with apple juice, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a slice of orange. Sweeten to taste with brown sugar or honey. Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the flavours to meld together, then ladle into mugs and serve warm.

6. Chocolate and Cherry Trifle

Trifle is a beloved British dessert that graces many a Christmas table. This year, switch up the traditional recipe by incorporating chocolate and cherries for a decadent, festive treat.

Recipe Idea: Layer chocolate sponge cake, cherry compote, chocolate custard, and whipped cream in a large trifle bowl. Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for a stunning centrepiece that tastes as good as it looks.

These new twists on classical Christmas foods and drinks are sure to impress your guests and bring a fresh flavour to your holiday celebrations. Whether you're a traditionalist at heart or a culinary adventurer, these ideas offer a delicious way to spice up your Christmas menu.

Sprout sales up early this Christmas season

Sales of Waitrose Brussels sprouts have increased by a dramatic 150% vs same time last year.

Searches for ‘Brussels sprouts’ are up +87% month on month and recipe searches for ‘shredded sprouts’ are up +607% month on month and +65% compared to the same time last year.

Waitrose is predicting that this will be a huge year for Brussels sprouts.

The humble Brussels sprout is no longer just for Christmas. With just a little while 'til the big day, Waitrose is already seeing a boost in recipe searches which is also being reflected in a surge in sales of brussels sprouts. Cooking them is no longer just dropping them into a pan of boiling water and hoping for the best. Because today, cooks are being inspired by restaurant menus and the many recipes illustrating the variety of ways you can cook and serve sprouts.  

With top restaurants around the country offering creative new ways to serve up the humble sprout, home cooks are seeking out their own recipes as recipe searches on Waitrose.com for ‘shredded sprouts’ surge 607% month on month and 65% year on year.

Sam Witherington, Vegetable Buyer at Waitrose said: “The Brussels sprout was once consigned to Christmas lunch, over cooked and under loved. But in recent years, as the sprout has made its way onto restaurant menus, home cooks are now getting more creative too.  If these current sales of brussels sprouts are anything to go by it’s going to be a bumper year for Brussels”.

This cooking inspiration has led to a rise in sales of large bags of Waitrose Brussels sprouts up a whopping 150% on this time last year and Waitrose predict this increase will continue all the way to Christmas and beyond.

London diners are raving about these great ways to cook and serve Brussels sprouts.  A diner at Italian eatery Trullo in North London recommends cooking them with pancetta, chestnuts and gorgonzola and describes them as ‘divine’. While diners at Japanese restaurant Shoryu Ramen commented that the brussels sprout tempura was ‘very unique and yummy.'