It seems most of us have vivid memories of August and its edible treats, thanks no doubt to the power of school holidays. For me, a countryside childhood in hot climates instilled a fearsome respect for this month, which my peers and I cherished in … [Read more...]
Cook it with flowers: chocolate rose cake, and tips for making pretty salads
June is the month of longest days, of herbaceous borders, roses and elderflower, of picnics, garden teas, barbecues and al fresco drinks – any excuse to eat and imbibe outside while we can. Even on those inevitable rainy days (this is English … [Read more...]
A Maytime tea celebration
“Point me to the nearest garden, beach and tea shop” May is the most liberated of months. It throws off all restraints to burst voluptuous into blossom and leaf. It’s also the month of bank holidays, when we migrate towards green space and … [Read more...]
Early spring magic: wild garlic, radishes and the common primrose
The softness of these early spring days is heartbreakingly lovely: the birdsong, the quality of light, the gentle but perceptible warmth of the sun; and who could resist the antics of those gangs of new lambs racing in the fields for the joy of … [Read more...]
A Valentine’s menu, and musings on love’s labours
We are all in search of easy ways to eat well, but when I see recipes that claim to be ‘effortless’, I raise my eyebrows. Feeding ourselves is a basic need that requires effort, even when it’s pleasurable, creative and appreciated. Preparing a … [Read more...]
Mimosa salad, crunch crunch
I am a fan of winter salads. This one is an old favourite my mother used to make when we were kids, using her cast-iron skillet to fry the bacon and deglaze its dripping with cider vinegar for the dressing. I can still hear that dramatic sizzling … [Read more...]