Get MEAT Smart this Christmas with Amazing Deals from MEATER

MEATER, the world’s top selling wireless meat thermometer brand, is pleased to announce that it will be slicing up to 30% off its prices this Christmas. 

Now's the absolutely ideal time join the revolution of cooking meat to temperature, not time! 

Included in the deal is the new, exclusive to Amazon, MEATER SE, which you can grab in time for Christmas for just £55.

MEATER smart kitchen gadgets boast unbeaten quality and effortless perfection. BBQ and foodie enthusiasts across the globe rave about them, along with over 40,000 customers on Amazon. 

Whether you’re a gadget loving BBQ enthusiast, budding chef, dinner party host, or busy parent that loves to treat your family and friends to a perfectly cooked roast dinner, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to add a MEATER to your collection of culinary gadgets - and with the prices carved, they also make juicy stocking fillers. 

This will also make a great Christmas gift for the meat cooks in your life.

MEATER helps you to achieve succulent, tasty meat or fish each and every time, and ensure that it is perfectly safe to eat without you having to poke, prod or cut into it to check. Super smart, the no wires, no fuss MEATER wireless meat thermometers are desirable gadgets that have their own free app featuring a smart guided cook system. It’s not complicated, so you don’t need to be tech savvy to use it, but it's guaranteed to be feature-rich, offering plenty of possibilities to experiment with. Simply connect to a mobile smart device and let the delicious creative juices flow.

MEATER’s patented smart technology provides estimated cooking times, continuously monitors both ambient and internal temperature whilst meat is cooking and sends alerts to mobile devices when perfection is achieved. It takes away all the stress of under or over cooked meat and lets you cook any new cut or fish with absolute confidence. This simple to use, must-have culinary gadget is cooking 2.0! Perfect (Turkey) made easy.

Prime Cuts:

MEATER SE: CUT TO £55 (SRP £79.00)

Cook to temperature - not time, for less, with the exclusive to Amazon MEATER SE. The perfect foodie stocking filler this Christmas.

MEATER Plus: CUT TO £79.00 (SRP £99.00).

MEATER’s best-selling probe with over 33,000 5/5 star user review on Amazon

MEATER Pro: CUT TO £99.00 (RRP £129.00).

MEATER’s latest probe featuring a longer wireless range, slimmer design, higher temperature tolerance for open flame cooking, and waterproof design to allow deep frying and sous vide.

MEATER Block: CUT TO £175.00 (SRP £219.00).

Perfect for the cook and BBQ enthusiast, the MEATER Block stores and charges up to four MEATER Plus probes ready to cook and monitor four delicious meats or fish simultaneously. Boasts Standalone Mode – so if you don’t have Wi-Fi, no problem! A touch control screen allows you to cook easily, with built-in speakers providing audible notifications.

MEATER has celebrated over 60million cooks from its users worldwide with numbers continuing to grow every day. Check out @MEATERmade, the possibilities are endless.

To find out more about the MEATER range, and to grab yourself a digital sous chef, visit MEATER.

https://www.meater.com

How to Avoid the Classic Christmas Turkey Disaster

Christmas dinner is the centrepiece of the festive season, but every year, countless households unintentionally spoil the feast by mishandling the turkey. 

Whether it’s buying a substandard bird, failing to thaw a frozen one in time, or undercooking it, mistakes can lead to a less-than-merry meal—or worse, food poisoning. 

The good news is that these pitfalls are entirely avoidable with proper planning and care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensuring your turkey is both safe and delicious this Christmas.

The Basics: Fresh vs. Frozen

Before you even think about how to prepare your turkey, you need to decide whether to go fresh or frozen. Both have their pros and cons:

Fresh turkeys: These are convenient if you have limited freezer space and can often taste better due to the lack of freezing. However, they require prompt cooking to avoid spoilage.

Frozen turkeys: These are often more affordable and can be bought well in advance, making them a great option for planners. The downside? They take time (and patience) to thaw correctly.

Proper Handling: Fresh Turkeys

A fresh turkey may sound like less hassle, but it requires careful handling:

Keep it cold: Your turkey should be refrigerated at 0–5°C. Place it on a tray or dish to catch any drips and avoid cross-contamination.

Use it quickly: Fresh turkeys should be cooked within two days of purchase. Don’t leave them lingering in the fridge!

Avoid washing: Rinsing raw poultry can splash harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter onto nearby surfaces. Instead, pat it dry with paper towels.

Proper Handling: Frozen Turkeys

Frozen turkeys are a brilliant option, but they need to be treated with care to ensure they’re safe to eat. Here’s how:

Plan for thawing: A large turkey can take days to thaw properly. The rule of thumb is to allow 24 hours of fridge thawing time for every 2kg of bird.

Thaw safely: Always thaw the turkey in the fridge. Never defrost it on the counter, as this encourages bacteria to grow. If you’re short on time, you can defrost it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

Check for readiness: Before cooking, ensure the turkey is fully thawed. The breast and cavity should be soft, with no ice crystals remaining.

Cooking: The Golden Rules

The way you cook your turkey will make or break your Christmas dinner. Follow these guidelines for success:

Stuff wisely: If you’re stuffing the bird, do it just before cooking. Pre-stuffing can lead to bacterial growth. Better yet, cook the stuffing separately to ensure it’s heated evenly.

Cook thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 74°C in the thickest part of the breast and 82°C in the thigh.

Rest it: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for at least 20–30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bird.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving the giblets in: Always remove the giblets before cooking! They’re often hidden in the cavity, so don’t forget to check.

Undercooking: Pink meat isn’t festive. Use a thermometer to guarantee doneness.

Not planning ahead: Whether it’s forgetting to thaw the bird or running out of fridge space, poor planning can derail the day.

The Takeaway

Your Christmas turkey doesn’t have to be a source of stress or disappointment. With a little forethought and proper care, you can serve a meal that your family and friends will rave about. By safely handling and correctly cooking your turkey, you’ll avoid the pitfalls that turn festive cheer into culinary calamity.

Here’s to a perfectly roasted turkey and a joyous Christmas dinner!

Seeking Out Vegan Alternatives for a Tasty, Satisfying Christmas Cheeseboard

The festive season is a time for indulgence, and few things evoke the warm spirit of Christmas like a carefully curated cheeseboard. 

For those embracing a vegan lifestyle or catering to plant-based guests, creating a cheeseboard that’s both delicious and satisfying might seem daunting at first. 

However, with the abundance of vegan cheese options now available, you can craft a board that rivals any traditional spread. Here's how to assemble a show-stopping vegan Christmas cheeseboard. And here is the vegan cheseboard post I mentioned earlier.

1. Choose Your Vegan Cheeses

Vegan cheese has come a long way, and there’s now a rich variety to explore. Aim for a mix of textures and flavours to keep things interesting:

Soft and Creamy: Opt for vegan cream cheeses, cashew-based bries, or almond-based camemberts. These provide the luscious, spreadable texture many associate with festive cheeseboards.

Aged and Tangy: Look for plant-based blue cheeses or aged cheddars made from fermented cashews or soy. They offer the sharp, robust flavours that contrast beautifully with sweeter accompaniments.

Firm and Sliced: Include firmer options like vegan gouda or smoked cheeses, which can be sliced for crackers or nibbled on their own.

Pro tip: Brands like Violife, Kinda Co., and Mouse’s Favourite (a UK-based artisanal vegan cheesemaker) are fantastic starting points.

2. Add Complementary Crackers and Breads

The foundation for your cheeses deserves just as much thought. Opt for an assortment of textures:

Rustic sourdough or seeded bread slices for a hearty bite.

Gluten-free crispbreads for coeliac or gluten-sensitive guests.

Flavoured crackers like rosemary, charcoal, or oat-based options to complement different cheeses.

3. Sweet and Savoury Pairings

A good cheeseboard balances flavours with clever accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

Fruits: Fresh options like grapes, figs, or apple slices; dried choices like apricots or dates.

Chutneys and Jams: Festive chutneys such as spiced plum, cranberry, or fig and walnut add seasonal flair.

Nuts: Roasted almonds, candied pecans, or plain walnuts for added crunch.

Olives and Pickles: Provide a savoury contrast with marinated olives, pickled onions, or cornichons.

4. Include Vegan Meats and Extras

For added variety, incorporate plant-based charcuterie slices, pâtés, or even marinated tofu bites. Look for vegan brands offering salamis, chorizo slices, or mushroom-based pâtés to round out your board.

5. Finish with Festive Flourishes

6. Source some vegan wines, beers and ciders 

There are now a wide and growing range of wines, beers and ciders that are vegan-friendly which will make fine accompaniments for your carefully curated range of vegan cheeses and vegan meats. 

Presentation is key to making your cheeseboard truly special. Arrange your cheeses and accompaniments on a beautiful wooden board or slate. Garnish with rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, or pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.

Tips for Success

Shop Local: Check your local deli or farmer’s market for small-batch vegan cheeses; these often have unique flavours and textures.

Serve at Room Temperature: Vegan cheeses, like traditional ones, taste best when slightly softened. Remove them from the fridge 30–45 minutes before serving.

Label Everything: If you’re catering to a mix of dietary needs, label your cheeses and accompaniments to avoid any confusion.

By thoughtfully assembling a vegan Christmas cheeseboard, you can surprise your guests with a spread that’s every bit as indulgent and celebratory as the traditional version. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this festive cheeseboard will prove that everyone can partake in the cheesy joy of the season.

What are your favourite vegan cheeses or accompaniments? Share your suggestions in the comments!

Elevate Your Christmas Feast with Venison and Game

Christmas is a time for celebrating with family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. 

While many households stick to the traditional turkey or roast beef for their festive meal, there's something truly special about embracing a bit of culinary adventure. 

But this Christmas, why not consider adding a touch of tradition with a twist by serving venison or other game meat? 

Not only does it offer a rich and unique flavour profile, but it’s also a nod to classic British fare that can make your festive feast truly memorable.

Why Choose Venison or Game for Christmas?

Opting for venison or game meats, such as pheasant, wild duck, or partridge, can bring a sense of rustic elegance to your Christmas dinner. Game meats are often leaner, more flavourful, and packed with nutrients compared to more conventional meats. Plus, they have a distinctive taste that lends itself beautifully to hearty, festive dishes.

Here are some reasons why choosing game for your Christmas dinner is worth considering:

Rich, Deep Flavours: Venison and game meats have a rich, earthy flavour that pairs exceptionally well with seasonal ingredients like cranberries, chestnuts, and red wine.

Sustainability: Game meats are often more sustainable than farmed meats. Many game species are sourced from wild populations managed to ensure ecological balance, making them a more environmentally conscious choice.

Nutritional Benefits: Venison, for instance, is a fantastic source of lean protein, iron, and B vitamins. It’s lower in fat and cholesterol than traditional Christmas meats like turkey or goose.

Venison: The Star of the Show

If you’re looking for a main dish that will truly impress, venison is a fantastic option. This meat is both versatile and flavourful, lending itself to a variety of festive preparations. Whether roasted whole, slow-cooked, or served as steaks, venison pairs beautifully with seasonal spices and rich sauces.

Venison Roast Recipe Idea:

Ingredients: A venison haunch or loin, fresh rosemary, garlic cloves, olive oil, juniper berries, and a splash of red wine.

Instructions: Rub the venison with olive oil, crushed garlic, chopped rosemary, and ground juniper berries. Roast in the oven until medium-rare (about 20 minutes per pound at 180°C). Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. Serve with a rich red wine gravy, roasted root vegetables, and cranberry sauce for a festive finish.

Pro Tip: Marinate the meat overnight in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and herbs to enhance its flavour and tenderness.

A Festive Game Feast: Pheasant, Wild Duck, and Partridge

If you want to offer something different but still keep it traditional, consider incorporating a selection of game birds. These smaller birds are perfect for a more intimate Christmas dinner or can be served alongside a larger roast to offer guests a variety of flavours.

Roasted Pheasant: Pheasant has a mild game flavour that’s perfect for those new to game meats. Try roasting it with butter, thyme, and a drizzle of honey for a golden, crispy skin. Serve with bread sauce, Brussels sprouts, and roasted potatoes for a truly British Christmas experience.

Braised Wild Duck: For a richer, more decadent option, wild duck is a fantastic choice. Braising the duck with orange zest, star anise, and a splash of port creates a sweet and tangy sauce that cuts through the richness of the meat.

Stuffed Partridge: Partridge is tender and subtly flavoured, making it ideal for stuffing. Consider a stuffing mix of sausage, apple, chestnuts, and sage for a festive twist. Bake until golden, and serve with a rich game jus.

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

Game meats pair exceptionally well with hearty, seasonal sides that celebrate the winter harvest. Here are some ideas to complement your Christmas game feast:

Red Cabbage with Apples: Slow-cooked red cabbage with apples, cinnamon, and a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy contrast to rich game meats.

Celeriac Mash: Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for creamy celeriac mash for a nutty, earthy flavour.

Cranberry and Port Sauce: This rich sauce works beautifully with venison and game birds, adding a festive sweetness to the dish.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right wine can elevate your Christmas game meal to new heights. Game meats often pair well with full-bodied red wines that can stand up to their robust flavours.

Venison: Opt for a rich, tannic wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Malbec.

Pheasant: Try a lighter red such as Pinot Noir or a classic French Burgundy.

Wild Duck and Partridge: Pair with a fruit-forward wine like a Zinfandel or a Merlot, which balances the richness of the meat.

Tips for Cooking Game

Cooking game can seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before, but with a few tips, you’ll be serving up a succulent, show-stopping Christmas dinner:

Don’t Overcook It: Game meats, particularly venison, are leaner than beef or lamb. To prevent it from becoming tough, aim for a medium-rare finish.

Rest the Meat: Allow your roast to rest after cooking so the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.

Use Bold Flavours: Game meats can handle strong herbs and spices, so don’t be shy with ingredients like juniper, thyme, and rosemary.

Wrapping Up: A Festive Feast to Remember

This Christmas, why not break with tradition and surprise your family and friends with a feast centred around venison or game? Not only will it make for a memorable meal, but it’s also a wonderful way to bring a touch of heritage and elegance to your festive table.

Whether you choose a tender venison roast or a succulent pheasant dish, serving game at Christmas is a celebration of flavour, tradition, and the spirit of the season. With the right preparation and accompaniments, you’ll create a festive meal that’s sure to become a cherished Christmas tradition.

My wife and I have tried game meats before, we are probably going with the more traditional options of turkey or beef.

However, we are wishing you a Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and delicious food!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas... Kebab? Yes! With I am Doner!

Oh! You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout we’re telling you why! The Christmas Dinner Doner is coming to town. That’s right, a Christmas dinner... but in a kebab!

Better kebab brand, I am Doner, are encouraging everyone to don your ugly Christmas jumpers and brave the cold for a visit to one of their stores as they bring back this legendary Christmas special.

Packed full of honey and sage roast turkey doner with roast potatoes, shredded sprout, crispy parsnips, red cabbage, root vegetable and cranberries, smothered in turkey gravy, all in a wrap or in a bowl. And those who don't eat meat needn't feel left out, because a vegan option is also available.

The special will run right through to the end of December in all its UK stores.

Founder, Paul Baron said: "After the incredible success of the Christmas Kebab in recent years we’ve brought back and expect it to be bigger than ever before as we introduce it to our new customers at our London, Liverpool and Datchet stores! With each kebab featuring at least ten items of veg we are providing 2 of the five a day, making it much more than a guilty pleasure, or you could even say ‘elfy!”

https://www.iamdoner.co.uk.

Donald Russell meats

Royal Warrant holder and mail order butcher, Donald Russell (www.donaldrussell.com), is passionate about supplying its customers with only the best and its range of delicious food products are perfect for Christmas.

Browse from the huge selection of products online, for starters opt for Ultimate Gravadlax Salmon which has been lightly smoked over Oakwood chips, for your Christmas dinner choose between Free-Range Loué Geese, Free-Range Turkey, Easy Carving Roasts or a 5-Bone Rib of Beef, grass-fed and traditionally matured on the bone.

And for the perfect ending to your Christmas meal enjoy a Mosimann's Christmas Pudding created by legendary chef Anton Mosimann (prices on request).