Tuesday, 10 September 2024
Holland and Barrett Advent Calendar Review.
Wednesday, 4 September 2024
Celebrating Christmas with DukesHill's Award-Winning Bacon: A Cut Above the Rest
When it comes to food, nothing quite epitomises the joy of Christmas like a hearty breakfast or a decadent brunch, and there’s no better way to elevate these festive meals than with DukesHill's award-winning bacon.
Why DukesHill Bacon?
Shropshire-based DukesHill is synonymous with quality. Renowned for their artisanal approach and commitment to traditional curing methods, DukesHill's bacon stands out as a cut above the rest. Their dedication to using only the finest British pork, combined with a meticulous curing process that can take up to two weeks, ensures that each slice of bacon is bursting with rich, smoky flavour.
The result is a product that has won numerous awards and, more importantly, the hearts of those who value exceptional food.
Festive Breakfast Ideas
Christmas morning is one of the most magical moments of the year, and starting it with a luxurious breakfast can set the tone for the day. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate DukesHill bacon into your festive breakfast:
1. The Ultimate Full English
No Christmas morning is complete without a full English breakfast. Crisp up some slices of DukesHill smoked back bacon and serve them alongside free-range eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and sausages. Add some black pudding, baked beans, and toast, and you’ve got a breakfast fit for a king.
2. Bacon and Egg Muffins
For a more portable option, consider making bacon and egg muffins. Line a muffin tin with slices of DukesHill streaky bacon, crack an egg into each, and bake until the eggs are set. These little parcels of joy are perfect for those who want a hearty breakfast without too much fuss.
3. Maple-Glazed Bacon Pancakes
For a sweet and savoury twist, try maple-glazed bacon pancakes. Fry up some DukesHill streaky bacon until it’s crispy, then drizzle with pure maple syrup. Stack the bacon between fluffy pancakes, and you’ve got a breakfast that’s sure to impress.
A Bacon-Infused Christmas Dinner
Bacon isn’t just for breakfast – it can also play a starring role in your Christmas dinner. Here are a few ways to incorporate DukesHill bacon into your festive feast:
1. Bacon-Wrapped Turkey
Elevate your turkey by wrapping it in DukesHill streaky bacon before roasting. The bacon will add flavour and keep the turkey moist, creating a show-stopping centrepiece for your Christmas table.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Chipolatas
No Christmas dinner is complete without pigs in blankets. Wrap DukesHill chipolatas in streaky bacon and roast until golden and crispy. These little morsels are a favourite for both young and old, and they’re incredibly easy to make.
3. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Even Brussels sprouts can be made delicious with the addition of DukesHill bacon. Sauté chopped bacon until crispy, then toss with roasted Brussels sprouts for a side dish that’s bursting with flavour.
Bacon as a Christmas Gift
For the food lovers in your life, consider giving the gift of DukesHill bacon this Christmas. Whether it’s part of a gourmet hamper or a stand-alone present, a selection of DukesHill's finest cuts is sure to be appreciated. After all, what could be better than receiving the gift of exceptional food?
In Conclusion
DukesHill's award-winning bacon is more than just an ingredient – it’s an experience. Its rich flavour and superior quality make it the perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This festive season, elevate your meals and create unforgettable moments with DukesHill bacon – a true cut above the rest.
The That's Christmas Guide to Eating Well, Feeling Good, and Living Better This Christmas
While Christmas is a time for merrymaking, it’s also an opportunity to focus on our well-being, both physical and mental.
This year, why not gift yourself and your loved ones a guide to eating well, feeling good, and living better?
The Art of Eating Well
Christmas is synonymous with food, from the traditional roast dinner to the endless selection of sweets and treats. However, eating well doesn’t mean you have to forgo the delights of the season. It’s about balance, quality, and mindfulness.
Embrace Whole Foods: Incorporate more whole foods into your festive meals. Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins not only nourish your body but also add vibrant flavours to your table. Consider roasted Brussels sprouts with chestnuts, quinoa-stuffed peppers, or a hearty lentil stew as part of your Christmas spread.
Portion Control with Pleasure: Enjoy your favourite festive foods, but be mindful of portion sizes. Smaller servings allow you to savour each bite without overindulging. Remember, you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry!
Smart Snacking: Christmas is often filled with grazing and snacking. Opt for healthier choices like nuts, fruit, or dark chocolate. These options satisfy your cravings and provide essential nutrients, keeping your energy levels stable throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when indulging in rich foods and festive drinks. Start your day with a glass of water, and keep a bottle close by to sip throughout the celebrations.
Feeling Good Inside and Out
Christmas can be a whirlwind of activities, and it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health amidst the hustle and bustle.
Mindful Eating: Slow down and truly enjoy your meals. Take the time to appreciate the flavours, textures, and aromas of your food. Mindful eating not only enhances your dining experience but also aids digestion and helps you tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
Keep Moving: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine, even during the festive season. A brisk walk, a dance session in the living room, or a quick yoga flow can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being. Exercise helps counteract the effects of indulgent meals and keeps your energy levels up.
Prioritise Rest: With parties, shopping, and socialising, it’s easy to skimp on sleep. However, getting enough rest is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and don’t be afraid to take a nap if you need it.
Practice Gratitude: Christmas is a time for reflection and gratitude. Take a moment each day to acknowledge the things you’re thankful for. Practising gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, enhance relationships, and boost overall happiness.
Living Better Through the Festive Season
Living better this Christmas is about finding joy in simplicity, being present in the moment, and creating meaningful connections with loved ones.
Simplify Your Celebrations: This year, consider scaling back on the excess and focusing on what truly matters. Whether it’s opting for homemade gifts, choosing fewer but more meaningful presents, or simplifying your Christmas dinner menu, a more mindful approach can reduce stress and enhance your enjoyment.
Quality Time Over Quantity: Christmas is about spending time with loved ones. Instead of trying to fit in as many events as possible, focus on creating quality moments with the people who matter most. A cosy night in with family, a leisurely walk with a friend, or a heartfelt conversation can leave lasting memories.
Give Back: There’s no better way to live better than by giving back to others. Whether it’s donating to a charity, volunteering your time, or simply offering a kind gesture to someone in need, acts of kindness enrich your own life and spread the true spirit of Christmas.
Set Intentions for the New Year: As the year comes to a close, take some time to reflect on the past twelve months and set positive intentions for the year ahead. Whether it’s adopting healthier habits, pursuing a new passion, or deepening your relationships, setting intentions can help you start the new year on a positive note.
This Christmas, let’s make a conscious effort to eat well, feel good, and live better. By embracing balance, mindfulness, and simplicity, we can enjoy all the delights of the season while nurturing our bodies, minds, and spirits. So, as you deck the halls and prepare for the festivities, remember that the best gift you can give yourself and others is the gift of well-being. Merry Christmas!
Have Your Cake and Gift It Too This Christmas With Fitzbillies Christmas Goodies
If you're on the lookout for the perfect gift that combines the warmth of tradition with a dash of luxury, look no further than Fitzbillies.
This iconic Cambridge bakery has been serving up mouth-watering delights since 1920, and this Christmas, they’re pulling out all the stops with their range of festive treats that are perfect for gifting—or keeping all to yourself!
A Taste of Tradition
Fitzbillies is renowned for its rich history and unwavering commitment to quality. Their famous Chelsea buns, with their sticky, sweet, and spicy perfection, are a staple that has drawn in locals and visitors alike for decades. This year, they’ve taken their expertise in crafting traditional British baked goods and infused it with festive cheer, offering a selection of Christmas goodies that are as delightful to receive as they are to eat.
The Perfect Christmas Cake
What’s Christmas without a proper Christmas cake? Fitzbillies' Christmas cake is a masterpiece of rich, fruity goodness, generously laden with dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of warming spice. It's then lovingly soaked in brandy, ensuring each bite is a moist, flavourful explosion. The cake is beautifully decorated with a layer of marzipan and icing, making it a stunning centrepiece for any festive table. Whether you're hosting Christmas dinner or gifting it to a loved one, this cake is sure to impress.
Fabulous Festive Hampers
For those who want to go the extra mile, Fitzbillies offers a selection of Christmas hampers, packed to the brim with an array of their finest treats. From mince pies with buttery, crumbly pastry and a rich fruit filling to festive gingerbread and their signature Chelsea buns, these hampers are the ultimate gift for food lovers. Each item is crafted with care, using the finest ingredients to ensure that every bite is a celebration of the season.
Customisable Goodies for a Personal Touch
Fitzbillies understands that every gift should feel special, which is why they offer the option to personalise your Christmas goodies. Add a heartfelt message to a cake or choose a selection of your favourite treats to create a bespoke hamper. This personal touch ensures that your gift is not just delicious but also memorable.
Order Online for Nationwide Delivery
One of the best things about Fitzbillies is that you don’t have to be in Cambridge to enjoy their incredible offerings. Their Christmas goodies can be ordered online and delivered nationwide, making it easy to send a taste of Cambridge to your friends and family, no matter where they are. Whether you want to treat yourself to a little festive indulgence or surprise someone special, Fitzbillies' online shop is the perfect place to start.
The Sweetest Gift of All
This Christmas, why not give a gift that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to someone’s face? Fitzbillies’ Christmas goodies are not just treats—they’re a tradition, a taste of history, and a reminder of the simple pleasures that make the festive season so special. So go ahead, have your cake and gift it too, with Fitzbillies' irresistible Christmas collection.
With their rich heritage, commitment to quality, and a dash of festive flair, Fitzbillies has all the ingredients for the perfect Christmas gift. Whether you're sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself, their Christmas goodies are sure to make this festive season a little sweeter.
Don't forget to add in a few extra gastronomic indulgences for any home-based entertaining when you place your order, that way you spend less time in the kitchen and more time savouring the taste of Christmas with friends and family.
Last date for Christmas orders is 19th December 2024.
To see the full range of seasonal bakes from Fitzbillies, visit https://www.fitzbillies.com
Christmas is Coming! Revealing the 2024 Bonne Maman Advent Calendar
Among the many beloved traditions that mark this special time of year, advent calendars hold a unique place, turning the countdown to Christmas into a daily celebration.
For those who cherish moments of sweetness and indulgence, the 2024 Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is a gift that promises to make each December morning a delightful surprise.
The Charm of Bonne Maman
Bonne Maman, known for its iconic checkered lids and charming jars, has long been a staple in kitchens across the UK. Their preserves, with flavours as rich and comforting as the memories they evoke, have a timeless appeal that transcends generations. Each jar is a tribute to traditional French craftsmanship, made with natural ingredients and no artificial additives. It’s no wonder that Bonne Maman has become synonymous with quality and authenticity.
A Taste of Christmas Every Day
The 2024 Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is a feast for the senses, designed to bring joy to the countdown to Christmas. Housed in an elegant, festive box adorned with a winter wonderland theme, this calendar is more than just a collection of jams—it's a daily journey through the world of Bonne Maman’s exquisite flavours.
Each of the 24 windows reveals a miniature jar of a unique Bonne Maman preserve or honey, including some exclusive seasonal flavours that are only available in the advent calendar. From classic favourites like Strawberry and Raspberry to more adventurous offerings such as Cherry with Hibiscus Flower or Pear with Cocoa Nibs, this calendar is a celebration of creativity and tradition.
New Flavours to Discover
Bonne Maman has once again outdone itself with the 2024 calendar, introducing new, limited-edition flavours that are sure to become instant favourites. While the exact lineup remains a closely guarded secret, fans can expect a mix of fruity, floral, and festive flavours, each crafted to evoke the spirit of the season. Whether you're spreading these delectable preserves on your morning toast, swirling them into yoghurt, or using them to elevate your baking, each jar offers a moment of pure indulgence.
The Perfect Gift
The Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is more than just a treat for yourself; it's a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates fine foods and the simple pleasure of a delicious jam. Whether you're looking to surprise a loved one or want to add a touch of sweetness to your own festive celebrations, this calendar is a perfect choice. Its charming presentation and the promise of daily delights make it a gift that keeps on giving, right up until Christmas Eve.
Where to Find It
The 2024 Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is available at various retailers across the UK, both in-store and online. However, given its popularity in previous years, it's wise to secure yours early, as it tends to sell out quickly. Whether you're a long-time fan of Bonne Maman or new to the brand, this advent calendar is sure to add an extra layer of joy to your Christmas season.
Conclusion
As the countdown to Christmas begins, there's no better way to savour the anticipation than with the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar. Each jar inside is a little treasure, capturing the warmth and joy of the festive season. So, as the days grow shorter and the nights colder, let Bonne Maman fill your December mornings with sweetness, one jar at a time.
Christmas is coming, and with it, the promise of 24 days of delicious discovery. Don’t miss out on this year’s Bonne Maman Advent Calendar—after all, a little sweetness makes the Christmas season that much brighter.
A delicious way to spread the festive joy this Christmas season, the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is available to order from September online at www.bonnemaman.co.uk at £28.00 rrp.
Tuesday, 3 September 2024
That's Food and Drink: A ghostly investigation
That's Food and Drink: A ghostly investigation: Sometimes we take time off from blogging about food, drink and Christmas gifting ideas. This is a part of what we do in our leisure time.
Friday, 30 August 2024
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