Wednesday, 25 September 2024
That's Food and Drink: A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Belton Farm Cheeses
That's Food and Drink: A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Belton Farm Cheeses: When it comes to British cheese, few names evoke the same sense of heritage, craftsmanship, and flavour as Belton Farm. Nestled in the heart...
How to Cook the Perfect Singleton Christmas Feast: A Guide for One
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Whether you’re opting for the traditional roast, or something a bit more inventive, here’s how to make your singleton Christmas feast a perfect culinary experience – all while avoiding excess stress or waste.
1. Plan Your Menu
Cooking for one at Christmas doesn't mean you need to hold back. However, it does mean you should be strategic. Instead of cooking an entire turkey, consider a turkey crown or turkey breast. Both offer that classic flavour but with far less waste. If turkey’s not your thing, a Cornish hen, duck breast, or even a beef fillet might hit the spot. Pair your main protein with the classic roast vegetables—carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. Or if you are vegan a nut roast might fit the bill.
2. Scaling Down Ingredients
The key challenge in cooking a Christmas meal for one is avoiding excess quantities of food. Use online portion calculators to help scale down your ingredients. For example, you might need just 1 or 2 King Edward potatoes, a small bunch of sprouts, or a couple of parsnips. Many supermarkets offer smaller portions of vegetables or ready-to-roast options in small packaging.
If you're roasting a bird, consider getting turkey legs, turkey crown, turkey slices or chicken thighs. These cook quickly and still give you the essence of a traditional Christmas roast without needing a whole bird.
3. Perfect Timing for a Stress-Free Day
Timing is crucial when it comes to preparing a meal that will be ready all at once. Here’s a rough timeline for a simple yet perfect roast meal:
1:30 PM: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C). Season your turkey breast or other meat of choice with herbs, butter, and seasoning. Place it in the oven to roast, checking the recommended cooking time per 500g.
2:00 PM: Prepare your vegetables. Cut your King Edward potatoes into quarters, parsnips into spears, and carrots into chunks. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and rosemary, then pop them on a baking tray.
2:30 PM: Add your potatoes and veg to the oven. If you’re making pigs in blankets, these can go in on a small tray at this point too.
2:45 PM: Boil some water and get your Brussels sprouts on the hob. They need about 5-7 minutes to soften. You can also prepare a quick gravy with stock and any drippings from your meat. Consider adding a dash of sherry for a festive twist.
3:00 PM: Everything should be ready. Let your meat rest for a few minutes while you plate up the vegetables and pour your gravy.
4. The Essentials for a Solo Feast
While it’s tempting to go all out, it’s important not to overwhelm yourself. Stick to the essentials that you really love. Here are a few must-haves to make your feast special:
Roast Potatoes: These are a Christmas staple, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Cook them in goose fat or olive oil for that golden crispness.
Stuffing: A single-serving stuffing is easy to make. Mix breadcrumbs with herbs, onions, and sausage meat, roll into balls, and roast alongside your other veg.
Gravy: Whether homemade or store-bought, gravy ties the whole meal together. Add a splash of red wine or cranberry juice to give it a festive kick.
5. Dessert: Christmas Pudding or Something Simple
No Christmas meal is complete without a sweet ending. If you love tradition, a mini Christmas pudding is perfect—just the right size for one. You can buy a ready-made pudding that takes only minutes to heat up in the microwave. Top it with brandy butter or cream.
For something lighter, consider a single-serving mousse, trifle, or even a homemade chocolate fondant. The goal is to treat yourself without overcomplicating things.
6. Leftovers: The Best Part?
Even when cooking for one, you’re likely to have a few leftovers. Don’t let them go to waste! Here are some ideas to transform them into something exciting:
Turkey Sandwich: Layer your turkey with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and a bit of gravy in a crusty bread roll.
Bubble and Squeak: Fry up your leftover potatoes, sprouts, and vegetables with a bit of butter, making a crispy bubble and squeak. Serve with a poached egg on top for Boxing Day breakfast.
7. Creating the Ambience
Just because you’re cooking for yourself doesn’t mean you should skip the festive ambience. Set the table with a proper plate, napkin, and maybe even a small centrepiece. Light a few candles, play your favourite Christmas music, and make the day feel special.
Conclusion
A singleton Christmas feast can be every bit as enjoyable as a large family gathering, if not more. You can cook exactly what you want, at your own pace, and treat yourself to a delicious, stress-free day. With careful planning and a bit of festive cheer, your solo Christmas will be one to savour.
Enjoy your meal and have a Merry Christmas!
Mixing Fantastic Vegan-Friendly Cocktails for Your Christmas Home Bar
This year, why not impress your guests with a selection of vegan-friendly cocktails at your Christmas home bar? These delightful, plant-based drinks are perfect for everyone, whether they're vegan or not.
Here’s a selection of five must-try Christmas cocktails that are not only festive but also free from animal products, ensuring that you and your guests can sip on something delicious and cruelty-free.
1. Cranberry & Ginger Sparkler
A bubbly, refreshing drink with a warming hint of ginger – the perfect Christmas party starter!
Ingredients:
200ml cranberry juice (make sure it’s unsweetened and vegan-friendly)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
150ml ginger beer (check the label for vegan status)
50ml vodka (optional for an alcoholic version)
Fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for garnish
Ice cubes
Method:
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour the cranberry juice and lime juice over the ice.
Add the vodka if you're going for the alcoholic version.
Top it off with ginger beer, stir gently, and garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wheel for a festive touch.
2. Vegan White Russian
This creamy cocktail, traditionally made with dairy, gets a vegan makeover while still maintaining its indulgent flair. A classic for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
50ml vodka
25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa now offers a vegan version)
25ml coconut cream or oat cream
Ice cubes
Method:
In a rocks glass, fill halfway with ice.
Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
Gently pour the coconut cream over the top, allowing it to float for that classic layered look.
Stir gently to combine, and enjoy the velvety texture!
3. Mulled Wine with a Twist
A warm, spiced mulled wine is a Christmas essential, but this version adds a little extra something for your vegan guests. Most wine is suitable, but double-check that it’s vegan as some use animal products in the fining process.
Ingredients:
750ml vegan-friendly red wine
100ml apple juice
50ml brandy (optional)
3 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup
2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 star anise
Zest of 1 orange and juice of half
Zest of 1 lemon
Method:
In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients over medium heat.
Stir and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil or you’ll cook off the alcohol).
Reduce the heat and let it gently mull for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and serve hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
4. Peppermint Mocha Martini
For coffee lovers who want a holiday treat, this cocktail combines the best of both worlds – peppermint and mocha! It’s like sipping on a festive dessert.
Ingredients:
50ml vodka
25ml coffee liqueur
25ml vegan chocolate syrup
100ml peppermint-infused almond milk (or your favourite plant milk)
Ice cubes
Crushed candy canes or dark chocolate shavings for garnish
Method:
In a shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, chocolate syrup, and peppermint-infused almond milk with ice.
Shake vigorously until chilled.
Strain into a martini glass.
Garnish with crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings.
5. Spiced Apple Cider Punch
A perfect non-alcoholic option for your guests, this spiced apple cider punch is fruity, fragrant, and warming. It’s also great as a base for an alcoholic punch if you want to add a splash of something stronger.
Ingredients:
1 litre vegan-friendly apple cider (check the label, as some ciders use non-vegan processing agents)
200ml orange juice
2 cinnamon sticks
3 whole cloves
1 star anise
A thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
Orange slices for garnish
Ice cubes
Method:
In a large jug, mix the apple cider and orange juice.
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger.
Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the spices infuse.
Strain before serving and garnish with fresh orange slices.
A Few Tips for the Perfect Vegan Home Bar
Check your spirits: Many spirits are naturally vegan, but some may use animal products in the filtration or colouring process. Vodka, gin, and rum are generally safe bets, but it’s always good to check. Barnivore.com is a great resource for checking the vegan status of your favourite alcohol.
Dairy alternatives: There are plenty of rich, plant-based alternatives to dairy milk and cream. Almond, oat, coconut, and cashew milk are great substitutes for creamy cocktails.
Sweeteners: Not all sweeteners are vegan – honey, for example, is often used in cocktails. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or simple sugar syrup are excellent plant-based alternatives.
Bottoms Up!
These vegan-friendly cocktails are sure to bring some Christmas cheer to your home bar. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive bash, these drinks will have everyone raising their glasses in seasonal merriment. So, break out the glasses, pour yourself something delicious, and enjoy a cruelty-free Christmas!
Happy Christmas and cheers!
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Spread the Christmas Love: Bonne Maman Reveals Festive Jar for Christmas 2024
Combining their much-loved spread with a touch of holiday magic, it's a perfect addition to festive snacking or makes a delicious stocking filler gift.
The whole jar is overlaid with an evocative, snowy Christmas design. Once the Hazelnut Chocolate Spread has been thoroughly enjoyed by all, simply clean, remove the label then upcycle as an adorable way to store or gift some home-made seasonal goodies or create your very own Christmas decoration!
Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread is made with top quality, all-natural ingredients, including a generous 20% hazelnuts and no palm oil. Perfect simply spread on toast, croissants or brioche, it also makes a wonderfully satisfying snack at any time of the day added to warm crumpets, waffles and crispy French crêpes or just popped on a simple biscuit for a special moment all of one's own. Spread on digestive biscuits is my thing!
Available while stocks last, the limited edition 360g Xmas jar will be on shelves at all major retailers from early October at rrp £3.60.
Coasting to success this Christmas? Experience Some Maritime Magic at Folkestone Harbour's Festive Marketplace
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From Friday, 15th November until Sunday 22nd December, the market will open every Friday from 4pm to 8pm, and every Saturday and Sunday from 11am until 6pm.
For the last-minute shoppers, there'll be a special Monday opening on 23rd December from 11am to 6pm and on Christmas Eve, until 4pm.
Set against the amazing backdrop of Folkestone's coastline and world-class views of the English Channel, this year's Festive Marketplace promises a truly magical shopping experience.
Visitors can explore beautifully decorated fisherman huts brimming with local handmade crafts, delicious foods, and unique gift ideas. From artisan treasures to Christmas time goodies, you'll find something special for everyone, set within a wintery wonderland of snowy blizzards and festive lights with a Christmas tree as its centrepiece.
Besides a wide variety of marvellous festive stalls, the market will also feature free classic Christmas-themed films on the Big Screen, adding an extra dose of fun for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy live music performances and community events, and drink in the lively atmosphere of a seaside Christmas celebration.
The Harbour Grotto, new last year will make a very popular return this year. Online booking for the Grotto will be available soon here: https://folkestoneharbourarm.co.uk
Also, enjoy fine dining opportunities in one of Folkestone Harbour's cosy indoor dining options?
FACTFILE:-
When:
Fridays 4pm until 8pm, Saturdays & Sundays 11am until 6pm, starting Friday 15th November until Sunday 22nd
Monday, 23rd December: 11am to 6pm
Christmas Eve:11am to 4pm
Where: Folkestone Harbour
What to Expect: Handmade items, food and drink, crafts, original gifts, live music, family films, and community events
Admission: Free
Plan your visit to Folkestone Harbour by visiting the website and following @folkestoneharbour on Instagram. Please note, individual business opening hours may vary, check the website for timings.
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