Every year, I do my utmost to avoid Mince Pies until, at least, the second week of December. The description 'warm mince pie' always sounds far better than the factory produced supermarket offerings which frequent gatherings, events and parties at Christmas.I believe that making your own is simple, far more satisfying and, it will certainly … Continue reading The Pheasant Philosopher’s Christmas Diaries: Variations on the Mince Pie
Growing up in the 1980s there were so many things which 'made' Christmas. One of the main questions being, were your family 'Team Quality Street' or 'Team Roses'? My parents were firmly 'Team Roses', whilst my paternal Grandmother was 'Team Quality Street'.Of course, this was in the day when a tin of chocolates was really … Continue reading The Pheasant Philosopher’s Christmas Diaries: Down Memory Lane
In just over two weeks we'll all be opening that first, exciting door on the advent calendar and this year there are dozens of options to choose from. Not just for children, in recent years advent calendars have exploded in a plethora of extremely grown-up delights. From affordable luxury to extreme indulgence, these will … Continue reading An Advent-aegous Purchase
I have teamed up with the wonderful Abergavenny Food Festival Team to give my readers the chance to win a pair of wristbands for this year's Abergavenny Christmas Fair, allowing access to the yuletide markets and demo stage in the Market Hall, for the whole day. All the details are below so hop over to Twitter then … Continue reading Win 2 Ticket to Abergavenny Food Festival’s Christmas Fair on Sunday 10th December
This week heralds the beginning of the Christmas Market season and we are spoilt for choice in Monmouthshire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. I really enjoy visiting Christmas food festivals, they help get over the post Bonfire Night hump and provide the ideal excuse for a cheeky mulled wine or two, not to mention huge present shopping … Continue reading Christmas Markets and Making Merry – All the fun of the festive fair!
Bonfire Night; the air is filled with woodsmoke, a hint of sulphur remains from the recently released fireworks. The sparklers have sparkled and now, hunger strikes. What better warming winter dish to turn to than the humble British banger? A childhood favourite, steaming from the barbecue and tucked into a pappy white roll, maybe a … Continue reading Bangers and Bonfires #UKsausageweek
Roast Golden Beetroot Mezze with Honey and Pomegranate We are now firmly in Autumn's grip and what's left of the leaves are falling fast. One of the most vibrant and plentiful winter vegetables in the Beet, be it the rich red of the classic Beetroot or their bright, vibrant orange and yellow cousins, far less … Continue reading Autumn Recipes: A Roast Golden Beetroot Mezze, with Honey and Pomegranate #nationalhoneyweek
