Savouring Tradition: Celebrating Great British Beef Week

As the scent of sizzling steaks wafts through the air and the unmistakable aroma of roast beef fills kitchens across the nation, it can only mean one thing: Great British Beef Week is here! 

This annual celebration pays homage to one of Britain's most beloved culinary treasures – beef. 

From hearty Sunday roasts to succulent steaks, beef holds a special place in the hearts and palates of Britons far and wide.

A Rich Heritage:

The tradition of beef farming runs deep in the United Kingdom, with a history dating back centuries. From the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands to the lush pastures of the English countryside, British farmers have long been stewards of some of the finest beef-producing land in the world. Their dedication to quality and sustainability has ensured that British beef remains renowned for its exceptional taste and texture.

A Culinary Delight:

Great British Beef Week is a time to celebrate the culinary versatility of beef. Whether you prefer your beef rare, medium, or well-done, there's no denying the sheer indulgence of sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked steak. And let's not forget about the classic Sunday roast – a cherished tradition that brings families together around the dinner table to enjoy tender slices of roast beef, accompanied by all the trimmings.

Supporting Local Producers:

In addition to tantalising taste buds, Great British Beef Week also serves as an opportunity to support local farmers and producers. By choosing British beef, consumers can contribute to the sustainability of rural communities and help preserve the time-honoured tradition of farming in the UK. From small family-run farms to larger agricultural enterprises, every purchase of British beef helps to sustain the livelihoods of those who work tirelessly to bring this exceptional product to our tables.

A Commitment to Quality:

One of the hallmarks of British beef is its unparalleled quality. Rigorous standards and regulations ensure that beef produced in the UK is of the highest calibre, with strict protocols governing everything from animal welfare to environmental sustainability. When you buy British beef, you can trust that you're getting a product that meets the most stringent quality criteria, providing both peace of mind and culinary satisfaction.

Looking Ahead:

As Great British Beef Week draws to a close, let us carry forward the spirit of celebration and appreciation for this quintessentially British delicacy. Whether enjoyed in a gourmet restaurant or cooked up at home with friends and family, British beef is more than just food – it's a symbol of tradition, quality, and the enduring bond between farmers and consumers. So here's to another year of savouring the rich flavours and heritage of Great British Beef!

As we bid farewell to another Great British Beef Week, let us raise a fork (or perhaps a glass of red wine) in salute to the farmers, producers, and chefs who make this culinary celebration possible. May the tradition of British beef continue to thrive for generations to come, ensuring that future food-lovers have the opportunity to experience the unparalleled delight of savouring a taste of Great Britain's finest beef. Cheers to Great British Beef Week – long may it reign supreme on our plates and in our hearts!

Crafting a British-Inspired Meat Board Charcuterie: A Guide to Elevating Your Home Dining Experience

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests? Look no further than the timeless art of creating a meat board charcuterie. 

Originating from the French tradition of serving cured meats, charcuterie boards have become a beloved feature of dining experiences worldwide. Today, we'll delve into the world of British-inspired charcuterie and guide you through the steps to create your own exquisite meat board at home.

Selecting Your Meats: The foundation of any great charcuterie board lies in its meats. For a British twist, opt for a selection of locally sourced cured meats. Classic choices include:

Cumberland Salami: A robust and flavorful salami originating from the Lake District, characterised by its distinctive blend of spices.

Black Pudding: A quintessential British delicacy made from blood, fat, and oatmeal, cooked until rich and flavourful. Slice thinly for an unexpected addition to your board.

Honey-Glazed Ham: Choose a high-quality ham, preferably glazed with local honey for a touch of sweetness. Thin slices pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments.

Beef Bresaola: Air-dried and aged beef, thinly sliced for a tender and savory addition to your board. Look for cuts seasoned with juniper and black pepper for an extra depth of flavour.

Complementing Accompaniments: Enhance the flavours of your meats with a selection of complementary accompaniments. Consider including:

Artisanal Cheeses: Choose a variety of British cheeses such as aged cheddar, creamy Stilton, or tangy Wensleydale. Their rich textures and complex flavours will contrast beautifully with the meats.

Pickles and Chutneys: Add a burst of acidity and sweetness with a selection of pickles and chutneys. Opt for classics like Branston pickle or experiment with homemade fruit chutneys for a personalised, zingy touch.

Crusty Bread and Crackers: Provide a canvas for your meats and cheeses with a selection of crusty bread and crackers. Opt for wholemeal or seeded varieties, or homemade, to add texture and depth to each bite.

Arranging Your Board: Presentation is key when it comes to charcuterie boards. Arrange your meats and accompaniments in an aesthetically pleasing manner, ensuring a balance of colours, textures, and flavors. Start by placing larger items such as cheeses and bowls of chutney or pickles strategically around the board. Then, layer slices of cured meats in a fan-like pattern, alternating between varieties for visual interest. Fill any empty spaces with crackers or breadsticks, ensuring there are plenty of options for guests to enjoy.

Garnishing with Finishing Touches: Elevate your meat board charcuterie with a few final touches to delight the senses. Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme can add a pop of colour and fragrance to your presentation. Drizzle a quality olive oil or British rapeseed oil, over the meats and cheeses for a luxurious finish, or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an added burst of flavour.

Savouring the Experience: As you gather around your beautifully crafted meat board charcuterie, take a moment to savour the experience. Encourage your guests to explore the array of flavours and textures, pairing different combinations to discover their favourite bites. Share stories of the ingredients' origins and the inspiration behind your selection, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie around the table.

Creating your own meat board charcuterie at home is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to showcase the diverse flavors and traditions of British cuisine. With careful selection, thoughtful arrangement, and a dash of creativity, you can elevate any gathering into a memorable dining experience that celebrates the art of good food and good company. Cheers to indulging in the simple pleasures of life, one delicious bite at a time.

Time to upgrade your cooking oils to Borderfields?

Borderfields award-winning Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil is, in our opinion, the real deal. Why? Because it contains a very nearly perfect balance of Omega 3, 6 and 9. 

It also has 50% of the saturated fat content compared to olive oil, contains no additives and is a good source of natural Vitamin E. 

Like us you will probably have been shocked and maybe even horrified by the recent tripling of the price of olive oil in your usual shop or supermarket. 

However, you'll be cheered up to learn that there are some substantial savings benefits when comparing rapeseed oil to basic oils, such as olive oil.

The Borderfields story started  back in the year 2005, when a group of farmers from Northumberland and The Scottish Borders were able to expertly grow a crop and bottle an inaugural batch of rapeseed oil. 

Having cultivated rapeseed for a good many years, they carefully selected the ideal seed variety to produce an oil with a delectable flavour profile and an amazing golden hue. 

The partnership quickly joined forces with experienced Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire growers to press extra seeds to ensure future generations of farmers continue their responsibility to carefully nurture and manage crops and continue to improve environmental practice working in harmony with nature and not against it.

That's Food and Drink was interested to learn that rapeseed oil is from the third most important crop grown in the UK, following wheat and barley. Other vegetable oils, like olive oil or sunflower oil, are mainly imported from mainland Europe or even further afield. 

If you are ready to introduce this golden, healthy British produced oil into your kitchen and make substantial savings on your household budget, now's the time to do it.

You'll find it at your local supermarket, independent retailers, and also online. Visit their website for your nearest stockist or fill your basket via their online store for delivery direct to your doorstep (although a minimum order applies). 

www.borderfields.co.uk

Exploring the Delicious Diversity of British Street Foods

After hearing about the delights of street foods from all four corners of the globe, let's turn our attention to...British Street Foods? Yes, because British street foods are a real thing that we should be celebrating and trying for ourselves.

British cuisine is often associated with hearty roasts, comforting pies, and delicate afternoon teas. However, a lesser-known aspect of British gastronomy that is gaining recognition worldwide is its vibrant street food culture. 

From bustling markets to quirky food vans, British streets offer a smorgasbord of flavors and culinary delights that cater to every palate. In this blog post, we delve into the eclectic world of British street foods, exploring the diverse range of dishes that grace the pavements of cities and towns across the UK.

The Allure of Borough Market:

One cannot talk about British street foods without mentioning Borough Market in London. This iconic market is a culinary haven, bustling with stalls offering an array of artisanal foods from across the globe. Here, you can indulge in everything from freshly shucked oysters to gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, aromatic curries to succulent gourmet burgers. The market's vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Classic Fish and Chips:

No exploration of British street foods would be complete without a mention of the classic fish and chips. A quintessential British dish, fish and chips consist of deep-fried fish in crispy batter served with chunky chips and a side of mushy peas, depending which part of the country you are in. And in some remote areas there are still fish and chip vans which bring the fish and chip shop to people in isolated communities. 

Whether enjoyed wrapped in paper on a seaside promenade or from a bustling street vendor in the heart of the town or city, this hearty meal is a true British comfort food staple.

Gourmet Burgers and Hot Dogs:

In recent years, gourmet burgers and hot dogs have become ubiquitous in British street food scenes. From juicy beef patties topped with artisanal cheese and homemade relish to vegan-friendly alternatives made from plant-based ingredients, there's something to satisfy every burger craving. Similarly, hot dog vendors offer a variety of inventive toppings and condiments, elevating this humble street food to gourmet status.

International Flavours:

One of the joys of British street food is its celebration of culinary diversity. From fragrant Indian curries to spicy Jamaican jerk chicken, fragrant Thai noodles to authentic Italian pizzas, the streets of Britain offer a passport to flavours from around the world. Food vans and market and street stalls specialising in international cuisine bring a taste of global gastronomy to local communities, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of modern British society. And don't forget to try a tasty kebab!

Sweet Treats and Desserts:

No street food experience would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats and desserts. Whether you're craving traditional Scottish shortbread, fluffy Belgian waffles topped with decadent chocolate sauce, or delicate French macarons, or traditional Indian/Asian sweet treets, British streets are lined with vendors offering an array of sugary delights to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Conclusion:

British street food is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From bustling markets to quirky food trucks, the streets of Britain offer a diverse array of flavors and dishes that cater to every taste and preference. 

Whether you're a local looking to indulge in some comfort food classics or a visitor eager to sample international flavors, the vibrant street food scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. 

So, next time you find yourself wandering the streets of a British city or town, be sure to keep an eye out for the tantalising aromas and bustling stalls that signify the presence of delicious street food waiting to be savored.

(Image courtesy of GinniDeville from Pixabay)

A Hearty Tradition: Unraveling the History of the Traditional British Sunday Roast Dinner

The traditional British Sunday roast dinner is more than just a meal; it's a cultural institution that has stood the test of time. 

Rooted in history and infused with familial warmth, this culinary tradition has been a staple in British households for centuries. 

Join us on a journey through time as we unravel the fascinating history of the Sunday roast, exploring its origins, evolution, and enduring significance.

Origins of the Sunday Roast

The roots of the Sunday roast can be traced back to medieval England, where the English population played a crucial role in shaping the tradition. Historically, Sundays held a special place in British culture as a day dedicated to rest, reflection, and communal gatherings. Early in its inception, the Sunday roast was a communal affair, where families and communities gathered after church to enjoy a shared meal.

The choice of meat for the roast varied depending on the region and the wealth of the household. Wealthier families could afford larger cuts of meat, such as beef or lamb, while those with more modest means might opt for pork or chicken. Regardless of the meat selection, roasting was the preferred cooking method, with the centerpiece being slowly cooked to perfection over an open fire.

The Victorian Era and the Rise of the Sunday Roast

The Victorian era saw the Sunday roast solidify its place as a beloved British tradition. Advances in cooking technology, such as the introduction of closed ovens, made roasting more accessible to a wider population. This led to increased popularity and the standardisation of the Sunday roast as the quintessential Sunday meal.

In addition to its practicality, the Sunday roast became symbolic of familial values and the importance of gathering around the table. The meal served as a time for families to connect, share stories, and reinforce the bonds that held them together.

The Evolution of the Sunday Roast

Over the years, the traditional Sunday roast has evolved to accommodate changing tastes, dietary preferences, and lifestyles. While the classic roast beef with Yorkshire pudding remains an iconic choice, other meats like chicken, lamb, and pork have found their place on the Sunday table. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives have also gained popularity, reflecting the diverse dietary preferences of modern society.

Accompaniments and side dishes have evolved as well. Roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy continue to be staples, but contemporary variations may include more adventurous elements, showcasing the culinary creativity of chefs and home cooks alike. For example, many families now include cauliflower cheese with their Sunday roast. 

Revitalisation in the 21st Century

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in traditional culinary practices, and the Sunday roast has experienced a revival. Many restaurants and gastropubs now offer their unique twists on the classic dish, incorporating local and seasonal ingredients to elevate the dining experience.

The history of the traditional British Sunday roast dinner is a testament to its enduring appeal and cultural significance. From its humble origins in medieval England to its evolution in the modern era, the Sunday roast remains a cherished tradition that brings families and communities together. 

As we continue to celebrate this culinary heritage, the Sunday roast serves not only as a delicious meal but also as a reminder of the timeless joy found in sharing good food with loved ones.

(Image courtesy of Robert Owen-Wahl from Pixabay)

A Culinary Journey: Exploring Traditional Irish and British Comfort Foods

In the realm of comfort foods, the culinary traditions of Ireland and Britain stand out for their hearty and wholesome offerings. 

These dishes are not only a testament to the rich history of these regions but also a source of warmth and nostalgia for those who indulge in their savory delights. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we explore the comforting world of traditional Irish and British fare.

Irish Comfort Classics:

Irish Stew:

At the heart of Irish comfort cuisine is the iconic Irish stew. A simple yet satisfying dish, it typically consists of lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots, slow-cooked to perfection. The combination of tender meat and root vegetables in a flavorful broth makes it a go-to comfort meal, especially during chilly evenings.

Colcannon:

Colcannon is a traditional Irish mashed potato dish infused with kale or cabbage and often flavored with spring onions. This creamy concoction not only warms the soul but also celebrates the bountiful produce of the Irish countryside. Often served with a knob of butter on top, colcannon is a staple during festive occasions.

Boxty:

Boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake, is a versatile comfort food that can be enjoyed at any meal. Made with a combination of raw and mashed potatoes, it can be pan-fried or baked to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Often served with savory or sweet toppings, boxty reflects the resourcefulness of Irish cuisine.

British Comfort Classics:

Fish and Chips:

No discussion of British comfort foods would be complete without mentioning the beloved fish and chips. A marriage of crispy battered fish and golden fries, this dish has become a culinary symbol of British tradition. Whether enjoyed wrapped in newspaper by the seaside or in a cozy pub, fish and chips offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Shepherd's Pie:

A classic British comfort dish, Shepherd's Pie, combines minced lamb with vegetables, all topped with a crown of creamy mashed potatoes. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty pie exudes warmth and familiarity. It's a staple on family tables and a timeless reminder of British culinary heritage.

Cottage Pie: Very similar to Shepherd's Pie, but made with minced beef rather than minced lamb.

Ploughman's Lunch:

A rustic and wholesome choice, the Ploughman's Lunch is a traditional British meal that typically includes a selection of cheeses, pickles, crusty bread, and sometimes ham or pâté. Its origins lie in the hearty meals provided to ploughmen working in the fields. Today, it's a delightful and uncomplicated way to enjoy a satisfying lunch.

In the world of comfort foods, the traditional dishes of Ireland and Britain stand as hearty representatives of culinary heritage. From the heartwarming Irish stews to the iconic British fish and chips, each dish tells a story of tradition, resilience, and the warmth of shared meals. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening by the fireplace or in the heart of a bustling pub, these comfort classics continue to bring joy and satisfaction to those seeking a taste of Irish and British culinary history. So, the next time you crave comfort in a plate, consider taking a culinary journey through the traditions of Ireland and Britain.

(Image courtesy of Natalie from Pixabay)

Our pizza secrets revealed!

A new nationwide poll reveals we Brits have developed a taste for top-notch pizza toppings with pizza customisation at home sweeping across the nation and giving rise to a new breed of pizza “super toppers." Plus, our top pizza toppings uncovered.

Every year, the UK sees a massive £5 billion spent on pizzas, and while 80% of these are typically purchased from restaurants and takeaways, the landscape is evolving. This shift has led to a growing appetite for homemade pizzas and shop-bought alternatives that can be personalised and enjoyed in the comfort of one's own home.

Cooks&Co, the award-winning range of exciting store cupboard ingredients, is at the forefront of this pizza revolution, witnessing first-hand the surging demand for its quality ingredients as pizza toppings. 

Its Green Frenk Chillies is now the no.1 best seller and its Sweety Drop Peppers has entered the top 10 best sellers list, too. In response, 

the brand recently conducted an extensive nationwide study to dig deeper into the pizza-topping preferences of Brits, revealing a nation of astute pizza enthusiasts who relish the chance to become culinary pizza artistes, experimenting with a diverse range of favourite toppings and flavours.

DIY Pizza Customisation Sweeps the Nation and gives rise to Super Toppers

On average, pizza-loving Brits across the UK tastefully embellish their pizzas with just under 3 distinct toppings. However, there's an extraordinary league of pizza enthusiasts, 2.7 million strong, known as the "super toppers," who take culinary creativity to new heights by piling on an impressive 6 or more toppings.

The art of pizza customisation isn’t just reserved for home-made pizzas either, nearly half (47%) of Brits admit to pimping up their shop-bought pizzas with extra toppings.

Surprisingly, almost a fifth (19%) of Brits admit to going one step beyond and stripping away toppings from store-bought pizzas and replacing them with their own favourites. The 25-34 age group takes the reins in this picky topping transformation, with a third (33%) of them doing it. Northern Ireland residents proudly claim the title of champions in the customisation arena, with a quarter (25%) confessing to taking part in this flavourful makeover.

Beloved Ingredients, Taste Divisions and Trending Ingredients

In the world of pizza toppings, the preferences are absolutely clear. The top five favourites include extra cheese, shredded or chopped chicken, pepperoni, onions, and mushrooms. Conversely, the list of least-liked toppings comprises figs, jackfruit, aubergine, broccoli, artichoke, and seafood. The ever-controversial pineapple is still a topic of fierce debate, with almost half (48%) embracing its sweet tang, just over 2 in 5 (43%) staunchly refusing it, and 1 in 12 (9%) remaining undecided.

The popularity of pizza toppings like sweet peppers, chillies/jalapeños, and sundried tomatoes, mirrors broader culinary trends. These flavours offer bold, unique taste experiences, aligning with the growing interest in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines, where these ingredients frequently shine forth.

 Paired with other ingredients they help elevate pizzas to new heights of flavour and excitement, making them increasingly popular among pizza enthusiasts in the UK.

Said Katie Atkin, Brand Manager, Cooks&Co: "In Britain, we're a nation of pizza lovers who value quality ingredients and enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavours. The findings shed light on the ever-evolving world of pizza, where customisation knows no bounds, and the quest for the perfect slice is a culinary adventure in itself.

“Our commitment to providing premium ingredients for the pizza-loving community and other dishes aligns perfectly with the creativity and passion we see in Brits' pizza-making endeavours and we're thrilled to be part of this flavourful journey.”

For more information on Cooks&Co's premium ingredients, please visit their website https://cooksandco.co.uk

Sunshine and Showers is the Ideal Combination of Sun and Rain for the Perfect Apple Harvest at Thatchers Cider

For the next several months the orchard team at Thatchers Cider will be working very hard, harvesting the apples for pressing into their beautiful ciders down at Myrtle Farm.

The mix of abundant sun and rain throughout Spring and Summer has been really beneficial to the apple trees. 

The fruit is looking healthy and plentiful, containing just the right balance of acidity and sweetness to press into the perfect cider.

As always, amongst the first apples to come into the mill are their deliciously rosy Katy apples.

Chris Muntz Torres, their farm manager, who looks after their 500 acres of apple trees in and around Myrtle Farm, says, “The good weather in Spring meant our apples got off to a good start with an effective pollination thanks to our amazing bees. In fact, our Katy apples have developed so well we've been harvesting them a few days earlier than in previous years.

“After Katy, towards the end of September, we'll begin to see the early bittersweet apples ripening, such as Somerset Redstreak, Gilly and Hastings. They'll benefit from the sunshine and warmth we're now experiencing, cider apples love a mild autumn to help them ripen slowly and develop their unique flavours."

He went on to say: “With the sun ripening the apples and helping boost the fruit's natural sugar levels, the recent rain has also been feeding the trees and giving them much needed nourishment. Importantly, the warmth of the sun helps develop the tannins in our bittersweet varieties, giving depth and body to our ciders.”

In fact it's been a pretty near-perfect year for the apples. Apple trees always need a spell of cold weather to break their dormancy over the wintertime, and at the beginning of the year we had sufficient low temperatures to reset growth and wake up the trees. This was followed by a period of warmer weather and plenty of moisture in the deep, rich Somerset soil to allow the trees to do their very important work. 

Chris continues, “At Myrtle Farm the signs are really good for a bumper harvest this year. That's both in terms of quantity, and just as importantly, quality, meaning the very best, tastiest apples in our ciders.”   

Thatchers has apple orchards throughout the West Country of England. Here apples are grown for their range of Somerset ciders. 

Thatchers are one of the few cider makers to have a regular orchard planting programme, allowing them to meet the increasing demand for their ciders, as well as working with apple growers throughout the entire region who provide specific apple varieties under long-term partnerships.

One of the important things they look at when planting new trees is the timing of harvest, to make sure that the arrival of apples is spread out throughout the season.

“We press our apples as soon as they arrive at the farm to capture them at their freshest. So having different varieties that ripen at different times allows us to have a continued supply of fruit from August through to November,” he concluded.

With the weather conditions in Somerset providing a perfect climate for apple growing, it's not surprising that the county has become the home of cider making, with Thatchers seeing record sales to help it become the UK's fastest growing cider maker.

https://www.thatcherscider.co.uk

Another first for Asda. It's the first supermarket to stock 'vertical salads'

Asda has announced it's the first UK supermarket group to stock a range of bagged salads nationally and also online which have been grown in ‘vertical farms,’ which significantly reduces the amount of energy and water required to grow them.

A new British salad range brand, Homegrown, is being launched in Asda stores this week. The range includes three SKUs: 80g Mixed Salad, 60g Rocket and 80g Hot & Peppery Cress.

Grown using 90% less water than traditional farming, and powered with 100% renewable energy, the products grown all year round in Gloucestershire will be available nationally online and in 270 Asda stores nationwide from now onwards. 

The plants are grown in trays, stacked vertically, and are exposed to optimum growing conditions. They are fed nutrient-rich solutions, and by using temperature control and artificial lighting, Homegrown can achieve year-round crop production whilst also reducing water, chemicals used and land use.

Asda is continuously looking to offer its customers sustainable healthy options when they visit their stores and reduce its overall environmental impact. 

Asda recently published its ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) report for 2022, and this year marks 10 years of the Asda Supplier Sustainability Exchange, helping suppliers share knowledge and improve their own environmental impact.

Dom Edwards, who is Asda's Produce Director said: “We’re delighted to be the first British retailer supplying a vertically farmed bagged salad range at this kind of scale, enabling customers to buy nationally and online. As well as clear sustainability benefits, the salad leaves aren’t subject to adverse weather – resulting in better availability and more consistent quality for our customers.”

www.asda.com

This week is British Sandwich Week

So, what exactly is British Sandwich Week? It's a special week-long celebration of the world's greatest food to go and quite possibly the most iconic British culinary invention, the Sandwich.

The sandwich is celebrated in all its towering glory during British Sandwich Week and year-on-year the buzz around the week seems to grow, with more and more companies using the week to promote their business. 

#BritishSandwichWeek trends across Twitter during the week and newspapers, magazines, TV shows and radio programmes join in celebrating what is a staple part of the British diet.

Sandwich manufacturers and retailers all over Britain all have their own unique and special ways of celebrating this fantastic food item, many are offering special promotions and new ranges during British Sandwich Week. 

Several are also building on their charitable links by donating some of their proceeds or even having buy-one-donate-one initiatives for customers to take participate in.

On the theme of celebrating, the sandwich industry also holds its annual Awards, the Sammies, where the best New Sandwich, Sandwich Retailer of the Year and many more are crowned. Like the Oscars, we recognise that there’s so much that goes on behind the scenes, with awards in technical, marketing and environmental categories.

Visit the Sammies Awards Website to learn more awards.sandwich.org.uk.

British Berry Season is a great way to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III

British Berry Season is a great way to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. And here are some really nifty recipes that you can try.

Why not try a pie?

Freeform blackberry and apple pies

You don’t need a fancy tin to make this pie in, just a normal baking sheet.

Serves 6

Preparation time: 35 minutes

Chilling time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Pastry

250 g (9 oz) plain flour

50 g (2 oz) caster or icing sugar

1 lemon, grated rind only

125 g (4½oz) butter, diced

3 egg yolks

Filling

500 g (1 lb 2 oz) cooking apples, quartered, cored, peeled and sliced

Juice 1 lemon

175 g (6 oz) blackberries

50 g (2 oz) caster sugar

1 tablespoon cornflour

Little beaten egg or milk to glaze

Little extra caster sugar for sprinkling

1)    To make the pastry, add the flour, sugar, lemon rind and butter to a mixing bowl. Rub the butter into the flour with fingertips or an electric mixer until it resembles fine crumbs. Add the egg yolks and mix with a round bladed knife then squeeze together with fingertips to make a soft dough. Chill for 30 minutes.

2)    Mix the apple slices with the lemon juice then add the blackberries, sugar and cornflour and toss together.

3)    Lightly knead the pastry then roll out on a lightly floured surface until a rough shaped circle about 33 cm (13 inches) in diameter. Lift over a rolling pin on to a large baking sheet. Pile the fruit mix high in the centre then fold the pastry up and over the filling, leaving the centre uncovered and pleating the pastry slightly to make a large round pie.

Brush the top edges of the pastry with beaten egg or milk then sprinkle with a little caster sugar. Bake in a preheated oven set to 190°c (375°F) Gas Mark 5 for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is golden and the fruit tender. Serve warm cut into wedges with scoops of vanilla ice cream.

We thank https://www.lovefreshberries.co.uk for allowing us to share their recipe with our readers.

Please check out their website for other recipes including some cocktail drinks, too. 

Here are some eggcellent Coronation-themed British Lion egg recipes

Eggs are a nutritious, protein-packed, affordable household staple. When cooking with eggs, remember that you should look out for the British Lion mark on both shell and pack, which guarantees they’ve been produced to the highest standards of food safety and can be eaten runny or raw, if you'd prefer.

You can find the following recipes at the site:- 

Minted pea & pancetta quiche, Salmon and Pea Quiche, Forget the pastry quiche, Rainbow chard quiche with roasted garlic, Summer quiche

Asparagus, Smoked Salmon and Egg Tart: This puff pastry delight is spread with cream cheese before being topped with boiled eggs, seasonal British asparagus and smoked salmon. It’s a perfect dish for easy entertaining.

Lemon Curd and Blueberry Tarts: Treat yourself to these tempting mini tarts which are made using ready-made tart cases, so they are super-simple to make. Filled with homemade lemon curd and topped with blueberries, they are cleverly frosted by coating in egg white and rolling in sugar.

Mini Blue Cheese and Spring Onion Scones with Herby Egg Mayo: These delicious savoury scones combine British blue cheese with fresh spring onions, which are then topped with a generous spoonful of herby egg mayo. These are perfect served with a cuppa for a celebratory afternoon tea.

All recipes are here www.egginfo.com/recipes.

All very fit for the Royalty in your life!

British Pie Awards: Calling All Pie Makers

The organisers of the British Pie Awards are reminding all professional pie makers to submit their entries to the fourth annual awards as the deadline fast approaches (13th April 2012). Butchers and bakers can enter their pies in 18 different classes with the chance to win one of the top accolades in the pie making industry.

The awards are organised by the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association and take place on Wednesday 25th April 2012 at St. Mary’s Church, Melton Mowbray. The contest is judged by a panel of over 70 pie experts, food writers and celebrity chefs led by Andrew Chisholm. Xanthe Clay, Charles Champion and many more knowledgeable foodies have already confirmed their attendance as judges.

Matthew O’Callaghan, Chairman of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association comments: “We organise the British Pie Awards to celebrate one of Britain’s most recognised food products. This event offers a great opportunity for pie makers from across the country to demonstrate their finest produce. The standard of entries is always very high.

“To mark this important year, when the world will be looking in the direction of the UK for the Olympics and Diamond Jubilee, we have introduced new categories including the Celebration Pie class, for which pie makers can stretch their creative skills to design special commemorative products.

“We are also grateful for the support of our sponsors and this year we can confirm that Hospitality and Catering News is sponsoring the ‘Football Pie’ class; Sturgess of Leicester, the approved Jaguar dealer is sponsoring the ‘Beef and Ale Pie’ class; the Bramley Apple Campaign is supporting the ‘Bramley Apple’ category; and Nelsons for Cartons & Packaging are supporting the ‘Chicken and any Flavour’ class.”

To download an application form and for further information please visit www.britishpieawards.co.uk or contact Sarah Clothier on 0116 2344523 or sarah.clothier@mmppa.co.uk