My article, "In Tomato Fields", tells the story of the 'Jersey tomato' in its heyday, during the years when my sisters and I were growing up surrounded by fields of them. It relates how the collective memory of those who loved it and lamented its … [Read more...]
Cambridge in August: tomato prosciutto tart and raspberry dacquoise
Summer has come good after all. This is the time when fast food is fresh food: when a few choice tomatoes and some good olive oil can make a meal; when a perfect slice of melon can make your eyes open wide; and a simple salad eaten outdoors can tune … [Read more...]
Italian comfort: baked chicken with potato, tomato and parmesan
This dish is called 'Aunt Di’s chicken' in our house. It’s one of those comfort meals I grew up eating with the Italian side of my family and have made for many years since for my own family, for friends, and sometimes just for myself in the company … [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...]
Baked winter squash with tomato, onion and camembert
My recent experiments with Henri Toulouse-Lautrec's pumpkin gratin led me to this shortcut version that makes use of the same winning combination of winter squash, tomato and onion. For a main-course meatless meal, or a lovely starter, add some … [Read more...]
October in Cambridge: apples and squashes
"All this colour and crunch. It’s better than living in an Impressionist painting.” October is the golden month, its honey sunlight on a blue-sky-day giving even ordinary scenes a radiant glow. Grasses, leaves, nuts and berries: everywhere there … [Read more...]