Morrisons launches search for 3,500 extra Christmas colleagues

Morrisons is looking for 3,500 extra colleagues to work in its stores, food manufacturing sites and logistics operations nationally to help meet increased demand over the busy Christmas period.

The wide range of roles available offer plenty of flexibility and with no prior experience necessary, there should be something for everyone. 

Morrisons is seeking applicants who are friendly and willing to help and all new colleagues will benefit from a 15% staff discount card as well as a 10% discount card for a friend or family member. 

As Morrisons gears up for the festive rush, it's seeking out people to join the business in temporary jobs ranging from customer assistants to home delivery drivers and production and warehouse operatives.  In previous years, many of the colleagues who joined in temporary roles have gone on to find permanent positions within Morrisons.

Clare Grainger, People Director at Morrisons, said: “Christmas is one of our busiest periods and we’re looking for an additional 3,500 people to join our talented teams.  These new colleagues will play a crucial role in creating and delivering the products our customers need to help make their celebrations special.  There are lots of great opportunities on offer across the UK with both temporary and permanent roles in our stores, manufacturing and logistics sites.”

To apply please visit: https://www.morrisons.jobs/christmas-at-morrisons

Incidentally, my parents both worked at Morisons in full time staff positions and were very happy working there.

"Boost Your Business for Free with That's Food and Drink & That's Christmas Blogs"

In the digital age, online presence is a crucial aspect of promoting your business. With countless marketing strategies available, it's often challenging to find cost-effective ways to reach a wider audience. 

However, two valuable resources stand out - That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs. These popular platforms offer businesses a unique opportunity to promote themselves for free. In this blog post, we'll explore how these blogs can help your business gain visibility, build credibility, and drive engagement without breaking the bank. (Yes, we are blowing our own trumpets. But if not us, who else?)

1. Showcase Your Products and Services

One of the most effective ways to promote your business is by showcasing your products or services. Whether you're in the food and beverage industry or have Christmas-themed offerings, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs provide a platform to feature what you have to offer. These blogs often have a dedicated section for business features or product spotlights. By submitting your business or product, you can reach their large, engaged audience who are already interested in your niche.

2. Gain Credibility and Trust

Being featured on reputable blogs can significantly boost your business's credibility. Both That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs have earned their readers' trust by consistently providing high-quality content. When your business gets mentioned on these blogs, potential customers are more likely to trust your brand. This is an excellent way to build a positive reputation and influence the decision-making process of your target audience.

3. Reach a Targeted Audience

The key to successful promotion is reaching the right audience. That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs are specialized in their respective niches, which means they have a dedicated readership interested in food, beverages, and Christmas-related topics. This focused audience is more likely to engage with your content and convert into customers, making it a valuable opportunity for businesses in these sectors.

4. SEO Benefits

Getting featured on these blogs can also have indirect but powerful SEO benefits. When your business is mentioned in a well-established blog, it creates valuable backlinks to your website. These backlinks can improve your website's search engine ranking, making it easier for potential customers to find your business when searching online.

5. Social Media Exposure

Both blogs have active social media profiles and regularly share their featured content. When your business is featured, it's likely to be shared across their social media channels, giving you additional exposure to a broader audience. This can lead to increased brand recognition and engagement on social platforms.

6. Leverage the Christmas Season

For That's Christmas, the Christmas season is a perfect time to gain exposure. Businesses related to Christmas gifts, decorations, and festivities can leverage the blog's holiday-themed content to showcase their offerings and generate more sales during this peak period.

7. Networking Opportunities

Engaging with That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs also opens doors to networking opportunities. You may connect with other businesses in your industry, exchange ideas, and potentially collaborate on future projects.

In conclusion, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs offer businesses valuable exposure and promotion opportunities for free. By leveraging their established platforms, businesses can reach a targeted audience, gain credibility, improve SEO, and enjoy the benefits of social media exposure. If you want to increase your brand's visibility and grow your customer base without breaking the bank, consider reaching out to these blogs for potential features. It's a cost-effective way to enhance your marketing efforts and build a strong online presence for your business.

To learn how we can help you for free (There's a reason why we have Google Adsense on our blogs!) please send an email to us at afj_uk@yahoo.com.

A Delicious Twist: Vegan Alternatives to the Traditional Christmas Dinner

Christmas is a time of joy, love, and feasting with our loved ones. For many, this often includes a traditional Christmas dinner, complete with succulent roast meats and rich, creamy sides. But what if you or your guests follow a vegan lifestyle, or you simply want to try something new this Christmas season? 

Fear not! There's a world of scrumptious vegan alternatives waiting to delight your taste buds. In this blog post, we'll explore some delectable options for a plant-based Christmas feast that can easily rival, if not surpass, the traditional spread.

Roasted Stuffed Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the perfect candidate for a vegan main course. Roast it to perfection, then fill it with a flavourful stuffing made from quinoa, nuts, cranberries, and herbs. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and watch your guests' eyes light up at this hearty, visually stunning dish.

Portobello Mushroom Wellington

Mushrooms are a vegan's best friend when it comes to crafting a rich, meaty flavour. Try a Portobello mushroom Wellington as the centrepiece of your holiday meal. Wrap the savoury mushrooms in puff pastry, along with spinach, caramelized onions, and a touch of garlic. Bake until golden brown, and voila – you have an impressive, satisfying entrée.

Lentil and Nut Roast

A lentil and nut roast is a classic vegan choice for Christmas dinner. Packed with protein, this dish combines lentils, nuts, breadcrumbs, and an array of seasonings. The result is a mouth-watering roast that can easily replace meat. Serve it with a generous helping of vegan gravy and all the traditional trimmings.

Vegan Nut Roast

Alternatively, consider a vegan nut roast. This delightful dish features a mixture of chopped nuts, seeds, and vegetables, held together with flax or chia seeds. The nut roast can be personalised with various herbs and spices, creating a festive, flavourful centrepiece for your Christmas dinner table.

Stuffed Peppers

For a light yet satisfying main course, stuffed peppers are an excellent option. Fill colourful bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices. Roast until tender, and serve with a zesty tomato sauce. The vibrant presentation adds a splash of Christmas cheer to your meal.

Vegan Gravy

No Christmas dinner is complete without a tasty and hearty gravy. Swap the traditional meat-based gravy for a rich, flavoursome vegan version. You can make a delicious gravy using ingredients like vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, mushrooms, and various seasonings. Pour it generously over your vegan roast for a burst of flavour.

Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Christmas dinner essential. To create a vegan-friendly version, simply replace butter and cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and almond or soy milk. Add roasted garlic for a flavourful twist, and you'll have creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes that will please everyone at the table.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect side dish for any holiday meal. Toss them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup, then roast until crispy and caramelised. Their unique, robust flavour is a delightful addition to your vegan Christmas feast. (As a fan of Brussel sprouts, I approve of this idea!)

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a Christmas dinner classic that's already vegan! Homemade cranberry sauce, sweetened with sugar or maple syrup, is a vibrant, tangy condiment that pairs wonderfully with your main dishes.

Vegan Desserts

For a sweet ending to your vegan Christmas dinner, indulge in vegan desserts like pumpkin pie with coconut whipped cream, vegan chocolate yule log, or gingerbread cookies. These treats are just as decadent and delicious as their non-vegan counterparts.

This Christmas, embrace the spirit of inclusivity and try something new by exploring these delectable vegan alternatives to the traditional Christmas dinner. From savoury main courses to mouth-watering sides and scrumptious desserts, there are plenty of options to satisfy the palate and share a compassionate, eco-friendly meal with your loved ones. Make this Christmas season one to remember with a vegan feast that celebrates delicious food and the spirit of togetherness.

Supermarkets such as Asda, Morrisons, Sainsburys, Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, the Co-Op, etc are offering an increasing range of vegetarian and vegan food so are well worth checking out.

(Image courtesy of Jana from Pixabay)

Seven Exciting and New Christmas Cocktails to Brighten Your Christmas Season

As the Christmas season rushes toward us, it's high time to get into the festive spirit with some creative and delicious Christmas cocktails. While classics like mulled wine are always comforting, why not add a dash of excitement to your holiday gatherings with some new and innovative Christmas cocktail recipes? 

In this blog post, we'll explore seven exciting and fresh Christmas cocktails that are sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.

Christmas Mule

The Moscow Mule gets a festive makeover with the Christmas Mule. Swap the traditional copper mug for a red or green one, and mix vodka, cranberry juice, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a truly holiday-inspired cocktail.

Candy Cane Martini

Nothing screams Christmas more than candy canes. This Candy Cane Martini is a delightful blend of vanilla vodka, white crème de menthe, and peppermint schnapps. Crushed candy canes rimmed on the glass give it that classic Christmas look and an extra burst of peppermint flavour.

Winter Wonderland Punch

Perfect for large gatherings, the Winter Wonderland Punch is a delightful combination of white rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a splash of blue curaçao. The result is a beautiful, icy-blue drink that's reminiscent of a snowy Christmas day. Serve it in a punch bowl with floating star-shaped ice cubes.

Spiced Pear Bellini

If you prefer a touch of elegance at your Christmas brunch, the Spiced Pear Bellini is the way to go. Combine pear nectar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of Prosecco for a bubbly and aromatic drink. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear for an extra touch of sophistication.

Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria

Sangria isn't just for summer! The Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria is a winter twist on the classic Spanish beverage. Mix red wine, cranberry juice, pomegranate seeds, and a hint of cinnamon. Let the flavours meld together in the fridge, and serve it over ice for a refreshing, fruity Christmas drink.

Hot Buttered Rum

Warm up your holiday gatherings with a comforting and classic Hot Buttered Rum. Blend dark rum with a spiced, buttery batter made from brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add hot water, stir, and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

Gingerbread Old Fashioned

Give the Old Fashioned cocktail a gingerbread twist. Muddle sugar, Angostura bitters, and a slice of orange in a glass. Add bourbon, a splash of ginger liqueur, and a dash of cinnamon. The result is a warming, spicy, and nostalgic drink that embodies the essence of the holidays.

This Christmas season, don't limit yourself to the same old holiday drinks. Step out of your comfort zone and explore these exciting and new Christmas cocktails that will make your celebrations even more joyful. Whether you're hosting a festive party or looking for a cosy drink by the fireplace, these creative cocktails are sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories with family and friends. Cheers to a joyful and spirited holiday season!

That's Christmas would like to point out that by using alcohol free versions of famous spirt drinks you can create tasty alcohol free versions of these seven utterly delicious cocktails for designated drivers or for those who do not consume alcohol. 

(Image courtesy of Михаил Прокопенко from Pixabay)

That's Food and Drink: Speciality Brands Takes Exclusive UK Distribution ...

That's Food and Drink: Speciality Brands Takes Exclusive UK Distribution ...: Chopin Vodka is a proudly family-owned company based in Eastern Poland which has been pioneering the super-premium vodka category for in exc...

A Taste of Down Under: Exploring the Typical Australian Christmas Meal

When you think of Christmas, you'll probably envision snow, warm, cosy open fires, and hot mulled wine. 

But in the Land Down Under in Australia, where December is the peak of their summer, the Christmas season unfolds quite differently. Australians have adapted their Christmas traditions to the scorching sun and clear blue skies, including their Christmas meals. In this blog post, we'll explore the typical Australian Christmas meal and the unique culinary traditions that make it a memorable and mouth-watering experience.

Fresh Seafood

Christmas in Australia often begins with some fresh seafood. With the country's vast coastline and abundant marine life, it's no wonder prawns, oysters, and crayfish make their way onto the holiday table. Prawns, especially, are an iconic Christmas dish, often served cold with cocktail sauce or simply grilled with a touch of lemon. These delicious crustaceans symbolise the Australian love for outdoor barbecues and beachside gatherings during the festive season.

Roast Meats

While roast turkey or ham is a traditional Christmas centrepiece in many countries, Australians often opt for roast meats that are more suited to their warmer climate. Lamb, beef, or pork roasts are popular choices, often cooked on the barbecue to keep the heat out of the kitchen. These succulent roasts are typically seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and native herbs, giving them a distinctive Australian flavour.

Barbecue Bonanza 

Australians are known for their love of barbecues, and Christmas Day is no exception to this rule. Barbecues are often fired up to grill various meats, sausages, and even seafoods. Also in addition to the roast meats, you might find kangaroo steaks or emu sausages, which add a unique and exotic twist to the festive feasting.

Salads and Sides

Given the heat, a variety of salads and refreshing side dishes really are a must on the Australian Christmas table. Classic salads such as potato salad, coleslaw, and Greek salad are often featured alongside more innovative options such as mango and avocado salads, all designed to cool the palate and complement the grilled and roasted main dishes.

Australia also produces a range of interesting and tasty cheeses which find their way onto Australian Christmas cheeseboards. 

Christmas Pudding and Pavlova

Despite the heat, some Australian Christmas traditions align with those of the Northern Hemisphere. Christmas pudding, a rich, fruity, and spiced dessert, is still very much enjoyed, although it may be served with a dollop of ice cream to combat the warmth. But the true star of the Australian Christmas dessert table is the pavlova. This meringue-based dessert is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and traditionally topped with fresh fruits like passionfruit, kiwi, and strawberries.

Tropical Fruits

Australians take full advantage of the seasonal fruits that thrive in their warmer climate. Mangoes, cherries, watermelons, and lychees are commonly served during Christmastime, either as a refreshing snack or incorporated into desserts and fruit salads. These juicy, tropical fruits add a burst of colour and flavour to the festive feasting. 

Drinks

To beat the summer heat, Australians enjoy a variety of beverages during their Christmas celebrations. Iced tea, lemonade, and sparkling wines are some popular choices. Some may even indulge in a classic Aussie beer or a glass of chilled rosé. A non-alcoholic favourite is the "Aussie Punch," which is a fruity concoction made with fruit juices, soda, and a hint of mint.

The typical Australian Christmas meal is a reflection of the country's unique climate, culture, and culinary traditions. From fresh seafood and barbecued meats to tropical fruits and pavlova, the Australian Christmas feast is a true celebration of the nation's diversity and love for the outdoors. So, if you ever find yourself celebrating Christmas Down Under, be prepared for a mouth-watering and memorable culinary adventure that is sure to leave you feeling full and festive.

(Image courtesy of Uwe Jelting from Pixabay)

Sharpham Dairy's Christmas Cheeseboards will delight your Christmas guests

Sharpham Dairy has got the makings of the perfect Christmas cheeseboards for you!

The oozy crowd-pleaser - Sharpham Camembert - £6.50 / 280g

It's a moist, soft, creamy, surface-ripened cows' milk cheese, Camembert is made in individual rounds which makes it perfect for baking. When heated, Sharpham Camembert becomes yielding, oozing and is perfect for dipping.

Sharpham Camembert is a unique combination of traditional Normandy methods and singular South Devon terroir. It's inspired by the much-loved French classic, but it is very much its own cheese.

The talking point cheese - Sharpham Rushmore £5.50 / 230g

Known as 'the mistake cheese', Sharpham Rushmore was serendipitously created when their farmer accidentally poured goat's milk into the same tank as some cow's milk. Determined to avoid any waste of milk, the cheesemakers continued to craft cheese with the mixed milk to see how it would taste. Delighted with their creation, the cheese went on to win the hearts of guests at a food show, before becoming an instant hit.

Rushmore is rich and creamy with a subtle floral sweetness and a lingering finish.

The highly decorated famous cheese - Sharpham Cremet £14.85 / 480g

Cremet was awarded the heralded 3-stars in the Great Taste Awards, putting them in the top 2% of the largest and most trusted food and drink awards on the planet. Handcrafted from goat's milk and cow's double cream, judges said the cheese was 'exquisite' and 'extraordinary' in blind taste tests. 

With nothing else like it produced in the UK, Sharpham's Cremet has a subtle, fresh and creamy flavour, with a mousse like texture when young, deepening to a full, rich flavour with earthy undertones when ripe. 

The new accompaniment - Sharpham Dairy Scotch Bonnet Chilli Jam £4.50 / 230g

Introducing the new Sharpham Dairy Scotch Bonnet Chilli Jam to adds a welcome kick to warming wintery flavours.

Perfectly balanced, it packs a punch with heat and sweetness in one delicious package. It's the perfect accompaniment with Christmas gammon, cold cuts or the all-important festive cheeseboard.

Top Tips from the Big Cheese - Greg Parsons

Greg believes there's no right or wrong way to building the ultimate cheeseboard – it's all about preference. Here are top tips for making cheese selections over Christmas.

How to pair wine and cheese

It's a good rule of thumb to pair cheese and wines with equal intensity. Generally, creamy soft cheeses pair beautifully with sparkling wines. If you're going for a cheese with a delicate character, avoid overpowering it with a full bodied red wine.

As you venture into the realm of complex aged cheeses, look for bold or fortified wines to match them with. It's also true what they say, what grows together, goes together. For example, Sharpham Wine and Cheese are made along the River Dart and the terroir shapes products that pair exceptionally well together.  

How much cheese to serve?

If you plan to serve cheese as part of a meal, a typical recommendation is to provide 80g per person. However, over the Christmas period, guests may wish to savour the cheeseboard with drinks, so consider increasing the amount to 150g per person. 

What cheeses to go for?

Opting for a variety of textures and characters is a guaranteed way to please everyone. A classic choice includes a blue cheese, a soft cheese, a semi-hard cheese, a cheddar and a goat's cheese.

Sharpham Dairy has gathered up some of the most popular cheeses in the 'Essential Devon Cheese Board' - £30. Includes the Devon classics; Sharpham Brie, Sharpham Rustic, Sharpham Ticklemore Goat, Quicke's Mature Cheddar and Ticklemore Devon Blue.

Top pairings for the Christmas season

Greg says, “I love the delicate floral notes of our Sharpham Rushmore paired with a light-bodied, aromatic white such as a sauvignon blanc.

“Christmas is a time for popping open the bubbly, which I would pair with one of my favourites – our brie. A good brie is a Christmas cheeseboard essential. I'd also pair our Sharpham Brie with something with a little acidity like apple or plums.”

Final tips:

Once cheese has been cut into, it's best eaten within a couple of weeks. (That's Christmas notes that the life of our cheeses once open is often measured in days or even hours rather than weeks!)

Don't forget to take cheese out of the fridge an hour or two before serving to come up to room temperature.

Do chat to your cheesemonger - they're often a font of knowledge and eager to introduce you to new cheeses, offer tasters and help build the perfect cheeseboard.

To learn more or to buy cheeses and gift vouchers please visit https://sharphamcheese.co.uk.