Thursday, 31 October 2024
That's Food and Drink: Luscombe Drinks' Canned Soft Drinks Range Now Wide...
That's Food and Drink: Luscombe Drinks' Canned Soft Drinks Range Now Wide...: Luscombe Drinks, the innovative soft drinks producer renowned for its commitment to using only the finest ingredients available, is genuinel...
Wednesday, 30 October 2024
Mince pies make a difference: Help Sainsbury's donate over five million meals to families experiencing food poverty
This is part of Sainsbury’s commitment to donating over five million meals to families who are experiencing food poverty this winter and its mission to make good food accessible for all.
Customers can support by purchasing selected festive products, making a donation in store or online, or donating points through the Nectar app
A spokesperson said: "This Christmas, Sainsbury's is donating over five million meals to families experiencing food poverty through its partnership with Comic Relief and wants customers to show their support simply by purchasing a pack of mince pies during their festive shop.
"Throughout December, every penny from each pack of the by Sainsbury's and Free from classic mince pies sold will be donated to Comic Relief to help Sainsbury’s donate over 5 million meals.
"We at Sainsbury's expect to see over one million of these mince pie packs flying off the shelves over the month, and for the first time, every sale will be supporting those families who are experiencing food poverty this winter. When shopping in store or online, customers can feel good knowing that picking up one of these festive treats will help to spread a little bit of Christmas magic."
Alongside purchasing mince pies, customers will be encouraged to get involved by donating to Comic Relief in a variety of different ways. Customers can make a difference by donating what they can at tills or online, rounding up their shop, or donating their points via the Nectar app. Customers can also directly support their local community groups by giving grocery items at the donation points at the front of Sainsbury's stores.
Ruth Cranston, Director of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability at Sainsbury’s added: “While for many, Christmas is a magical time filled with presents and food, we know for those experiencing food poverty, this can be the hardest time of year, instead.
"Giving is at the heart of Christmas for our customers, and that’s why we’re committed to working together with them and Comic Relief to help donate over five million meals and help make good food accessible for all.
"With mince pies as an all-time British festive favourite, customers will be able to enjoy them even more this year knowing their festive treat is helping to make a real difference to those experiencing food poverty.”
Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief said: "For millions of families who are already facing impossible choices to get by, the cold winter months ahead bring fear and worry during a cost-of-living crisis. As we head into the toughest months of the year, addressing food poverty is now more urgent than ever. We’re extremely grateful to Sainsbury’s and its customers for their ongoing support in helping to provide essential food to those in greatest need this Christmas through the Nourish the Nation programme.”
Alongside this, from today until December 31st, for every purchase of a festive sandwich, 10p will be donated to Comic Relief. And until 24th December, Sainsbury's will also donate an extra £200,000 from the profits of its popular Nourish the Nation Christmas gifts and decorations supporting Comic Relief.
All donations will be directed to food redistribution charity FareShare, as well as organisations who are helping families experiencing food poverty get improved access to nutritious and balanced food. These organisations offer vital support whilst also helping to tackle food waste across the UK.
Through Sainsbury’s and Comic Relief’s Nourish the Nation programme, Sainsbury’s support will help to provide over five million meals to families experiencing food poverty this winter. This follows Sainsbury’s recent £2.7 million donation which is helping to provide over one million meals to support children experiencing food poverty during the school holidays.
How to put together the perfect vegan Christmas dinner
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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.
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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!
Your Drink Choice Could Make or Break Your Morning: The Best and Worst Hangovers Ranked
Key Points:
Alcohol expert reveals how darker spirits like whiskey and red wine are notorious for causing severe hangovers
Cheaper spirits and tequila often lead to pounding headaches and nausea, with recovery taking longer than expected
Tips and guidelines to follow to prevent the hangover of all hangovers
Almost all of us have experienced the morning-after effects of a night out or an evening of at home partying, but what many don’t realise is that the choice of beverage plays an important role in how severe those effects are.
According to expert Daniel Ufland, of online whisky retailer The Whisky Masters, the drink you choose can make all the difference when it comes to the intensity of your hangover the next day,
“Darker spirits, like whiskies or red wines are notorious for causing worse hangovers because they contain these chemical compounds called congeners, which make symptoms more intense,” Daniel explains.
“On the flip side, clearer spirits, like vodkas or white wines have fewer congeners, which leads to a milder, more manageable hangover. It’s not just about how much you drink but what you drink.”
Backed by scientific studies, the presence of congeners in certain alcohols is key in determining how you’ll feel the next morning. They are present in higher quantities in darker alcohols, contributing to symptoms like horrendous headaches, heavy heaves, and general malaise.
So, what should you avoid if you want to dodge a brutal hangover? Check out Daniel’s top 5 drinks to avoid, as well as the ones to look out for:
The Worst Drinks for Hangovers
1. Red Wine: Severe Headaches and Sensitivity to Light
Loaded with tannins and histamines, red wine will leave your head, lips and hips in a bit of a stir if you over-do it.
Daniel’s Tip: “If you can’t resist a good glass of red, make sure you drink water between glasses to stay hydrated. Hydration is key in preventing disastrous hangovers.”
2. Cheap Spirits: Pounding Headaches
Budget-friendly but body-punishing, cheap spirits often contain more impurities than premium products. These impurities make recovery slower, and the symptoms last longer.
Daniel’s Tip: “Opt for higher-quality spirits with fewer additives and, of course, stay hydrated to lessen the morning blow.”
3. Dark Spirits (Whisky): Severe Headaches
Whisky is one of the more congener-rich alcohols. The deep, smoky, woodgrain flavors may be appealing during the night, but the next day can bring a lingering malaise, making it one of the worst choices for avoiding a hangover.
Daniel’s Tip: “If you choose whisky, follow it up with at least a pint of water before bed to minimize the impact the morning after. A big meal beforehand is also a big help.”
4. Tequila: Headaches and Loss of Appetite
While 20 shots of tequila might seem like a good idea at the time, they often lead to a rough morning. It also causes a loss of appetite, a common post-tequila symptom.
Daniel’s Tip: “If tequila is on the menu, limit yourself to one or two shots and eat something beforehand to slow alcohol absorption. And don’t forget the salt and lime!”
5. Rum: Dizziness and Dehydration
Rum, especially the darker varieties, can lead to dizziness and severe dehydration. Its sugar content may also contribute to headaches, leaving you feeling worse for wear the next morning.
Daniel’s Tip: “Drink rum cocktails with lighter mixers like sugar-free sodas or soda waters to avoid adding more sugar to the mix. There’s enough in it already.”
The Best Drinks for Hangovers
1. Clear Spirits (Vodka): Mild Headaches and Quicker Recovery
Vodka is one of the better options if you’re hoping to avoid a hangover altogether. It contains fewer congeners, resulting in milder symptoms such as slight headaches and a quicker recovery.
Daniel’s Tip: “Pair vodka with hydrating mixers like sugar-free sodas or a light tonic, and don’t forget to drink a glass of water before bed for a smoother morning.”
2. White Wine: Mild to Moderate Headaches and Dehydration
Lighter and less likely to leave you suffering from a severe headache, white wine still causes a bit of dehydration. However, it tends to be kinder than its red counterpart when it comes to hangover severity.
Daniel’s Tip: “Stick to one or two glasses to reduce the chance of dehydration-related headaches.”
3. Champagne: Headaches
The carbonation in champagne accelerates alcohol absorption, which can result in quicker intoxication and, unfortunately, faster hangover onset. However, its lower alcohol content means hangovers from champagne tend to be less severe than darker spirits.
Daniel’s Tip: “Sip champagne slowly and avoid drinking on an empty stomach to mitigate the effects.”
4. Beer: Bloating and Sluggishness
Beer often causes bloating and sluggishness due to its high carb content, but its lower alcohol content makes it a more forgiving option than spirits. You may experience dull headaches, but they’re usually manageable compared to the symptoms caused by stronger drinks.
Daniel’s Tip: “Nothing wrong with a few light beers if you’re aiming for a more manageable morning and pace yourself throughout the night. But if you go for the heavier stuff make sure you line your stomach beforehand.”
5. Craft Cocktails: Variable
Craft cocktails, depending on the ingredients, can be a wildcard. Some may leave you feeling perfectly fine, while others - especially those with sugar-heavy mixers - can lead to projectile vomiting. The complexity of the ingredients can also affect how your body processes the alcohol, making it harder to predict the after-effects.
Daniel’s Tip: “If you’re going for cocktails, stick to simpler recipes with clear spirits and low-sugar/sugar-free mixers.”
Daniel Ufland of The Whisky Masters Commented:
“Your drink choice plays a huge role in how you feel the next morning. Darker spirits like whiskey and red wine are loaded with congeners—substances that increase the severity of hangovers. On the other hand, clearer spirits like vodka contain fewer congeners, making for a milder recovery.
“We’ve all heard the saying ‘drink in moderation,’ but it’s also important to know that drinking water between alcoholic beverages and before bed can make a massive difference. What’s more, avoiding sugary mixers and sticking to higher-quality alcohol can help reduce those dreaded morning-after symptoms. By being mindful of what you drink and how you stay hydrated, you can enjoy your night without paying the price the next day.”
That's Christmas would like to thank Daniel Uffland and the Whisky Masters website. https://thewhiskymasters.com
Incidentally here's a tip from That's Christmas: If you are drinking alcoholic drinks avoid having carbonated drink in between, as the bubbles can help the alcohol get into your bloodstream quicker. Drink non-carbonated drinks instead.
How to Make the Perfect British Christmas Dinner: Recipes and Tips for the Ultimate Christmas Feast
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.
That's Food and Drink: Why Restaurants, Pubs, and Hotels Should Approach ...
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Tesco unveils 2024 Christmas sandwich line-up, bringing festive cheer to lunchtime on the go
Available in stores and online from Monday 21 October, Tesco’s food on-the-go experts have worked to bring a variety of festive flavours and great quality ingredients together, to cater to all tastes and preferences and offer excellent value - with Clubcard members paying just £3.60 for a main, snack and drink.
Whether you’re looking for a tasty traditional turkey sandwich or keen on a gravy mayo dipper for a Christmas twist, there’s a seasonal sarnie, wrap or side for you, so you can enjoy a merry meal deal while on the go.
2024 Christmas Meal Deal Mains
Tesco is pulling out all the stops to ensure its Christmas lunch range is packed with delicious, festive flavours, with a lineup that promises to bring Christmas cheer ahead of the big day. Highlights include:
NEW Tesco Christmas Cracking Currywurst Sub: A hearty nod to German Christmas markets, this sub is filled with juicy pork sausage, smoky caramelised onions, and tangy curry ketchup, wrapped up in an egg-glazed sub roll.
Tesco Turkey & Trimmings Sandwich: Returning to the lineup, this is the ultimate festive sarnie, packed with tender turkey breast, sausage, sage and onion stuffing, and beechwood smoked bacon. Layered with mayo and cranberry sauce and served on malted bread.
NEW Tesco Ho-Ho-Hog Wrap: Slow-cooked pulled pork seasoned with fennel and garlic is paired with rosemary gravy mayo and a crunchy apple slaw for a fresh, festive bite. Wrapped in a tasty tortilla, this is a festive favourite with a modern twist.
NEW Tesco Plant Chef Christmas Veg Fest Wrap: A plant based delight, this wrap is inspired by festive leftovers, featuring roasted carrots, sweet parsnips, and spiced red cabbage. The vibrant veggie filling is brought together with a savoury vegan gravy mayo, all tucked inside a spinach tortilla.
Tesco Gluten Free Festive Chicken & Trimmings: This Tesco gluten-free option brings the taste of Christmas through tender chicken breast, layered with pork, sage and onion stuffing mayo, and cranberry sauce, all sandwiched between two slices of seeded gluten-free bread.
Tesco Premium Meal Deal
For those looking to upgrade their festive meal deal, there are three new seasonal additions to the Premium meal deal. For just £5 with a Clubcard you can pick up a Premium main alongside a side and drink from the wider meal deal range. (Note to self: I really must find my Tesco Clubcard!)
NEW Tesco Finest Festive Chicken & Bacon Wrap with Gravy Mayonnaise Dip: This festive wrap offers a twist on the traditional Christmas dinner. Succulent chargrilled chicken breast and maple-cured bacon are paired with a tangy cranberry chilli chutney and wrapped in a soft, bar-marked tortilla. The star of the show - a rich sage and black pepper gravy mayonnaise served on the side, for dipping.
NEW Tesco Festive Chicken, Bacon & Stuffing Mayo Baguette: The ultimate Christmas feast packed into a baguette, it features seasoned chicken breast, beechwood smoked bacon, sage and onion stuffing mayo, and cranberry sauce, giving this crunchy lunchtime meal a hearty taste of the holiday season.
NEW Tesco Finest Turkey BLT: For a transatlantic take on a sandwich staple, this BLT is inspired by New York delis. It features pastrami-style turkey, maple-cured bacon, Emmental cheese, and tangy gherkin mayo, all served on rye and caraway bread.
2024 Christmas Meal Deal Snacks
After proving a hit last year, the festive Mini Pork Pies and Pig in Blanket Sausage Rolls are returning, alongside some delicious new seasonal snack options.
NEW Tesco Mini Christmas Bangers with Gravy Mayo Dip: These cocktail sausages, made with pork, apple, and cranberry, bring the flavours of Christmas to your lunch. Perfectly sized for snacking, they’re served with a rich sage and black pepper mayo dip on the side for a herby, festive finish.
NEW Tesco Christmassy Chicken Bites with Festive Cranberry Dip: Tender chicken bites, seasoned with stuffing, are a great grab-and-go snack with a yuletide twist. Dunk them into the zesty cranberry dip for a true taste of Christmas.
Tesco Mini Pork Pies: These two mini pork pies are a festive take on a classic, featuring seasoned cured pork, sweetened dried cranberries, and cranberry sauce wrapped in a crisp hot water crust pastry.
Tesco Pig in Blanket Sausage Rolls: Enjoy the iconic Christmas flavour of pigs in blankets in these sausage rolls. Succulent pork sausage meat is wrapped in dry cured smoked bacon and finished with flaky puff pastry and classic sage and onion seasoning.
Other returning favourites include:
Tesco Christmas Wrapped Up
Tesco Yuletide Half & Half Sandwich
Tesco Jingle Brie Sandwich
Tesco Festive Chicken & Trimmings Sub
The Tesco Christmas Meal Deal range is available now online and in stores.
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