Delicious Alternatives to Chocolate for Easter Gifts: Catering to Allergic Loved Ones

A number of years ago my wife developed an allergy to chocolate. 

Finding alternatives for chocolate at times when chocolate is usually the go-to gift, thinking of Easter, Valentine's Day, birthdays and Christmas has been a bit of a struggle at times, which is why this blogpost was researched and written in the hope that if you have someone with a chocolate allergy to buy gifts for, it might help you and them. 

Easter is a time for celebration, joy, and of course, indulgence in sweet treats. For many, chocolate is the go-to Easter gift, but what about those who have allergies or sensitivities to this beloved confection? Don't fret! Because there are plenty of delightful alternatives that can make Easter just as special for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions. In this blog post, we'll explore a variety of alternatives to chocolate that are perfect for gifting to loved ones with allergies.

Fruit Baskets:

One of the healthiest and visually appealing alternatives to chocolate is a beautifully arranged fruit basket. You can include an assortment of fresh fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and kiwi. Not only is this option allergy-friendly, but it also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free treat.

Gourmet Popcorn:

Gourmet popcorn is another fantastic option that comes in a variety of flavours to suit every taste. From classic buttery popcorn to unique flavors like caramel, cheese, or even spicy varieties, there's something for everyone. Look for brands that cater specifically to allergy-friendly options, ensuring that your gift is safe for consumption. Or even pop your own at home using flavours you know they'll love?

Homemade Biscuits:

Show your love and care by baking a batch of homemade biscuits tailored to your loved one's allergies. There are numerous recipes available for allergen-free biscuits using alternatives like almond flour, coconut flour, or oats. Get creative with flavours by adding in ingredients such as dried fruits, nuts (if not allergic), or seeds. Package them in a decorative tin or box for a personalised touch.

Assorted Nuts and Seeds:

Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense snacks that are perfect for Easter gifting. Create a custom assortment of roasted nuts and seeds, such as almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Make sure to double-check for any nut allergies before gifting, and opt for raw or unsalted varieties if preferred.

Artisanal Tea or Coffee:

For those who prefer beverages over sweets, consider gifting artisanal tea or coffee blends. Choose high-quality loose-leaf teas or specialty coffee beans in unique flavours and aromas. Pair them with a stylish mug or teacup, or tea set, for a thoughtful Easter gift that will be enjoyed long after the Easter.

Dried Fruit and Nut Mixes:

Dried fruit and nut mixes are another excellent option for Easter gifts. Create your own blend using allergy-friendly dried fruits such as apricots, cranberries, or raisins, along with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This healthy and satisfying snack is perfect for munching on throughout the day.

Decorative Candles or Bath Bombs:

For a non-edible alternative, consider gifting decorative candles or luxurious bath bombs. Choose scents and designs that reflect the essence of spring, such as floral or citrus fragrances. These pampering gifts provide a delightful sensory experience without the worry of allergies.

This Easter, let's embrace inclusivity and thoughtfulness by choosing alternatives to chocolate for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Whether it's a vibrant fruit basket, a batch of homemade biscuits, cakes, or a selection of gourmet snacks, there are plenty of options to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities. With a little creativity and consideration, you can make this Easter a memorable and allergy-friendly occasion for all.

Creams Cafe, The UKs favourite dessert cafe, has some great Easter treets for you

Creams Cafe, the UK’s favourite dessert cafe, will be aiming to sweeten the Easter season with its new menu items crafted with care and creativity, as their customers have come to expect.

Fans of the famous high-street dessert chain can expect three new delicious menu items in March to dive straight into the Easter spirit.  

Ideal for kids (of all ages!) and those seeking a unique treat, the new Henry the Chick Waffle is both a flavour sensation and a feast for the eyes.

Nestled atop Creams Cafe’s signature delicious waffle with white chocolate sauce, sprinkles, fresh strawberry flowers and mini eggs is a mango sorbet ‘chick’ - Henry! This eggstra-special delight is almost (but not quite) too charming to devour!  

Perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging solo, the new Smashed Easter Egg Sundae is made with layers of chocolate fudge brownie gelato, vanilla soft serve and smothered in milk chocolate sauce before being topped with milk chocolate egg shards, half a Crème egg, mini eggs, and sprinkles. The iconic dessert chain is encouraging guests to embrace the Easter chaos and dive into the choccy delight. 

Crowds will be egg-static with Creams’ new Easter Basket Shake. This delicious treat is a mouth-watering concoction of crushed mini eggs swirled into Creams Cafe's legendary thick shake. 

Generously topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate flakes and a mini meringue nest complete with mini eggs. This shake is an Instagram worthy sensation which will look great on social media and taste even better. 

To find your nearest source (should that be sauce, even?) of Henry the Chick Waffle action please visit their website, here: https://www.creamscafe.com

All new desserts will be available to purchase at Creams Cafe nationwide until April 1st and will be sure to put a spring in your step! 

Redefine Meat Smashed "Lamb" Hot Cross Bun

Caper aioli, fennel slaw and watercress

Yield: 4 servings

Time: 30 minutes 

Difficulty: Moderate

Smashed Lamb burgers

250g Redefine Lamb kebab mince, defrosted 

Olive / cooking oil

Salt & pepper

Caper Aioli

100ml vegan mayonnaise

1 lemon, zested & juiced 

15ml dill chopped finely

30ml capers roughly chopped

Salt & pepper to taste

Fennel Slaw 

1 fennel bulb, finely sliced (keep the tops of the fennel to add to the slaw) use a mandolin 

60ml olive oil

30ml lemon juice

5ml mint, roughly chopped

5ml parsley, roughly chopped

Salt & pepper 

Assemble

4 hot cross buns 

30g watercress

Preparation

    1. Add mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, chopped dill and capers in a small mixing bowl. If needed, add a pinch of salt. Mix everything to prepare the sauce.

    2. In a large bowl, whisk together oil and lemon juice. Add sliced fennel, mint and parsley. Toss to coat, and rest for about 15 minutes to allow the fennel to wilt and the flavours to meld. Check the seasoning and adjust as needed.

    3. Add the lamb mince to a mixing bowl, season with salt and pepper, form into 4 even balls approx. 60-65g each.

    4. Pre-heat a large frying pan on a medium-high heat, add a splash of oil to the pan once hot. Add the lamb balls to the pan and using the back of a large spatula push down to form smashed patties. Allow to caramelise nicely (approx. 3 minutes per side - try avoiding turning to soon), turn then cook on the opposite side. Once cooked remove from the heat and allow to rest while you assemble the burgers. 

    5. While the burgers are cooking halve the hot cross buns and gently toast in a toaster or under the oven grill. To assemble add a generous amount of the caper aioli to each side of the toasted buns, on the bottom of the bun, add water cress and the dressed fennel slaw, add the cooked smashed patty, finish with the top of the bun. 

Redefine Easter Lamb Pie

Served with minted spring peas 

Yield: 6 servings

Time: 1hr 30 mins

Difficulty: Moderate

Easter Lamb Pie

250g Redefine Lamb Kofta Mix, defrosted 

120ml red wine

60ml olive oil

1 bay leaf

1 rosemary sprig

250ml tomato sauce / pasta base, store bought

1 vegetable stock, gel pack

5ml gravy browning 

1 shortcrust pastry pack (vegan) 

30ml soy cream / milk alternative 

Minted Peas

450g spring peas / petit pois 

60ml olive oil

1 lemon, juice and zest

2 fresh mint sprigs

Salt & pepper

Preparation

    1. Heat a large frying pan on a medium-high heat, once the pan is hot adding the oil. Then add the Redefine Lamb Kofta Mix. Allow to caramelise, working the mince to avoid the mince clumping together.

    2. Add the tomato sauce base, vegetable gel stock pot, browning gravy, rosemary and bay leaf. Bring the sauce to the boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow the sauce base to reduce to desired consistency, remove from heat and check the seasoning.

    3. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan. Remove the dough from the fridge. Roll out ⅔ of the pastry on a lightly floured surface to twice the diameter of a 26cm round pie dish or baking tin, then place the dough into the tin and carefully push down into the corners of the tin evenly. Place the base in the fridge to chill. Roll the remaining pastry and cut out a piece slightly larger than your base, this will be the lid.

    4. Once the lamb base has cooled add to the chilled pie base, top with the pastry lid and crimp the sides to seal. 

    5. Brush the top of the pie with soy cream, use a sharp knife make 2 holes in the centre of the pie and top with nigella seeds, cracked salt and pepper.  Place into the pre-heated oven and bake for 20-30 mins, or until golden brown. Remove the pie from the oven and leave to stand for 10 mins before slicing.

    6. Add salt to a saucepan of water and bring it to a boil. Add the peas and mint sprig. Bring back to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the peas are just tender.

    7. Drain the peas. Return them to the saucepan and toss them with olive oil, lemon juice and zest, freshly cracked salt and black pepper. Transfer to a warmed serving dish and garnish with chopped mint.

    8. To serve portion the pie and serve with a side of minted spring peas.

https://www.redefinemeat.com

The idea of a "lamb" hot cross bun is certainly not something That's Food and Drink had ever thought of before, but it does make perfect sense, seeing the connections between lamb, Hot Cross Buns and Easter.

Want something special for Easter? Then opt for Stoneleigh

The Stoneleigh range of Marlborough wines is guaranteed to be 100% vegan and gluten free. 

But not only that, they feature 100% sustainably sourced grapes from unique terroir. 

Begin by nature, the winery’s philosophy of minimum intervention ensures that the vibrant flavours of Stoneleigh wines really are captured in each and every bottle that is sold to discerning wine lovers. 

From one of Marlborough's most famous producers, the Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc displays fresh and varietally true aromas of passionfruit and cut grass. 

On the palate, you will find vibrant citrus fights to burst through before a succulent and crisp finish. 

Serve lightly chilled on its own or as an aperitif as a delicious Easter tipple with your family and friends.

The RRP is £10.50 and it's available to purchase at Sainsbury's. 

https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/product/stoneleigh-sauvignon-blanc-75cl

Incidentally, That's Food and Drink have just noticed that the current price at Sainsbury's is now £9.00 per bottle.

Hattingley Valley Wines will make a fine Easter meal accompaniment

Classic Reserve NV Anniversary Magnum (£95)

Best with…canapés, seafood dishes

Bubbles are always a good way to start of any celebration and the elegant and award-winning Classic Reserve NV Anniversary Magnum is sure to please everyone.

This English sparkling magnum has been specially crafted from the 2016 harvest in celebration of the brands' 10th anniversary. This is a limited-edition vintage that cries out to be tasted and is perfect for larger gatherings with friends and family.

With aromas of citrus, creamy nougat and freshly baked brioche, enjoy paired alongside seasonal, springtime appetizers and seafood dishes or simply raise a glass for Easter.

Blanc de Blancs 2015 (£49)

Best with…seafood

For Good Friday and the fish devotees among us, the Blanc de Blancs 2015 is a well suited wine made using only the very finest parcels of chardonnay. 

With a deliciously fruity and honeyed taste, pastry and brioche notes on the palate and citrus and green apple aromas, this bottle is an ideal accompaniment to a Good Friday supper spread of seafood. This light and crispy sparkling can also be enjoyed with lighter bites like salmon and cream cheese bagels or Hampshire hot smoked trout pâte piled high onto crispy bread and herb laced crackers.

Entice dessert wine (£25)

Best with… chocolate and cheese

Made using only 100% Bacchus grapes, expect a pale lemon-gold liquid with a delicious, honeyed character and a creamy mouthfeel that bursts with aromas of tropical fruits and blossom, and notes of lemon and elderflower on the palate.

Light yet luscious, this one-of-a-kind dessert wine is served best chilled and alongside boards filled with big blue and strong, creamy cheeses, or with your haul of chocolate eggs. 

All wines are available from www.hattingleyvalley.com by the bottle, case or in a beautiful presentation box for perfect Easter gifting.

Amarula Cream Liqueur for your Easter festivities

Amarula is a very tasty award-winning range of distinctive spirits crafted with the unique flavour of the ethically sourced marula fruit. 

Found in sub-equatorial Africa, the marula fruit is jam packed with flavour. What doers it taste like? It has a pleasing, sweet-and-sour taste, which has hints of lychee or perhaps of plums. 

This helps to cut through the creamy flavour, giving the liqueur a nicely balanced finish perfect for refreshing the palate after a big meal (or simply after a big day of feasting on Easter chocolates).

Best served over ice, Amarula can also be added to hot chocolates for a boozy hit or use the spirits in your Easter baking to give the sweet treats a fruity finish.

Find Their special Easter-themed recipe for chocolate liqueur elephants below.

Amarula Cream Liqueur (17% ABV) is available on Amazon, Sainsbury’s and Tesco.

It'a priced at £12.50 and is also available in several different flavours: Vanilla Spice, Raspberry Chocolate and Baobab, plus Ethiopian Coffee. There's also a vegan version, too.

https://amarula.com

Amarula Chocolate Elephants Amarula Cream (Easter)

Ingredients:

50ml Amarula Cream Liqueur

300g milk chocolate

100g crumbled biscuits

100g ground almonds

1 sachet vanilla sugar

2 tsp icing sugar

50g cream cheese

50g butter

Cocoa and brittle for rolling

Method:

Melt the milk chocolate in a bain-marie and then leave to cool

Put the butter, cream cheese, vanilla sugar and icing sugar in a bowl and mix together

Add the Amarula Cream Liqueur, almonds, crumbled biscuits and the cooled chocolate and mix well

Place the finished mixture in the fridge for about an hour

Next form small balls from the mixture and roll them in the cocoa or brittle

Finally, place the finished chocolates in the fridge for an hour and enjoy.

Recipes to Add a Touch of Flair to Your Easter Celebrations

After weeks of keeping, or trying to keep Lenten promises, many of us will be ready for a delicious feast on Easter Sunday. 

Throughout Europe, as well as enjoying plenty of chocolate eggs, Easter is a time to enjoy a special meal with friends and family, giving everyone the chance to discover and enjoy the versatility of French cheeses.

Planning an Easter celebration? Why not impress guests with some delicious Morbier arancini? It's a semi soft cheese with a distinctive line of ash pressed into its heart, Morbier has a persistent aroma and a light creamy, almost fruity flavour. Its soft, yielding texture melts very well which gives the arancini a gooey goodness. It's also a great cheese for pizzas, pies and for raclette.

For a lighter aperitif use fromage frais to create stuffed cherry tomatoes by mixing with spices, aromatic herbs, garlic or onion for a delicious dip or spread. 

These little bites will be fresh, tasty and a great menu item for those wanting to leave plenty of room for the main course. Place any leftover filling into a bowl to spread onto freshly baked bread, later. Delicious!

Tradition has long been to eat lamb at Easter, the meat is beautiful at this time of year and is realty appreciated by those who celebrate throughout Europe. 

For an extra special side dish or a vegetarian main, Carrot Gnocchi with Saint-Félicien is a bright and indulgent side dish and a great way to sneak some vegetables onto the children's plates too.

If you have a little more time on the day try a Carrot, Cumin and Cantal Soufflé that is sure to impress your guests. Cantal is a sweet nutty cheese made in the centre of France and is great to cook with.

For a sweet and savoury end to the meal, opt for a cheese course served with fresh apples, grapes and figs plus dried apricots, cranberries, dates and nuts. 

We recommend you start with a soft cheese such as Brillat-Savarin or Camembert, then an uncooked pressed cheese like a Tomme de Savoie, a cooked pressed cheese such as Beaufort and a blue such as Bleu d'Auvergne or Bleu de Gex.

We hope that you have a joyful Easter. With such a vast and versatile variety of European cheeses at your disposal it is sure to be delicious one.

https://www.filiere-laitiere.fr/fr/les-organisations/cniel

NEW Springtime Baking with Bonne Maman Madeleines

Just in time for the That's Food and Drink Eastertime dining and drinking feature, we are pleased to be able to bring you some very welcome news from Bonne Maman.

Bonne Maman has launched two brand-new seasonal recipes using their absolutely delicious and utterly irresistible all-butter Madeleines. 

Deliciously moist and authentically French, Bonne Maman’s irresistible Madeleines are created only with the finest quality butter, the freshest of eggs and all-natural ingredients giving that very welcome home-made taste.

Very Berry Showstopper Cake

Turn a simple Victoria sandwich into an Easter showstopper with delicious Bonne Maman Madeleines. The classic flavour combination of Bonne Maman Strawberry or Raspberry Conserve and cream finished with delicious all butter Madeleines and fresh summer berries. The perfect dessert to serve up after Easter lunch.

Madeleine Strawberry Picnic Pots

Prettily presented in an upcycled Bonne Maman Conserve jar, these luscious pots make the perfect ending to a springtime picnic. A simple, make ahead, no-bake pudding made in minutes. For extra fruitiness, spoon in a generous layer of Bonne Maman Strawberry Conserve.

For full details of the above recipes and more please visit https://www.bonnemaman.co.uk/recipes

Exploring Easter Cuisine: Traditional and Modern Delights

As Easter approaches, households around the world are bustling with preparations, not only for religious observances but also for culinary delights. Easter, a celebration of rebirth and renewal, is often marked with festive feasting. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into the diverse array of traditional and modern Easter meals and dishes, showcasing the rich tapestry of culinary traditions associated with this joyous occasion.

Traditional Fare:

Roast Lamb: A quintessential Easter centerpiece in many cultures, roast lamb symbolises the sacrificial lamb and the renewal of life. Seasoned with herbs and spices, roasted to tender perfection, it graces the tables of numerous Easter gatherings.

Hot Cross Buns: These spiced, sweet buns adorned with a cross on top are deeply entrenched in Easter tradition, with their origins dating back centuries. Symbolising the crucifixion, they are enjoyed as breakfast treats or snacks during Easter week.

Easter Eggs: Beyond their role in Easter egg hunts, eggs hold symbolic significance, representing new life and fertility. Hard-boiled eggs dyed in vibrant colors or intricately decorated are a staple of Easter tables across cultures.

Simnel Cake: This is type of fruitcake widely eaten in the UK, Ireland and other countries linked to them. It has layers of marzipan, usually one in the middle and one on top, and a set of eleven marzipan balls on the top.

Tsoureki: In Greek tradition, Tsoureki is a sweet, braided bread enriched with flavors of orange zest, mahlab (a spice made from ground cherry pits), and mastiha (a resin obtained from the mastic tree). It's often served as a dessert or enjoyed with coffee.

Modern Twists:

Vegetarian Roasts: With the rise of vegetarianism and veganism, modern Easter menus often include plant-based alternatives to traditional meat dishes. Roasted vegetables, stuffed peppers, or nut roasts offer hearty options that cater to diverse dietary preferences.

Easter Brunch: In recent years, Easter brunch has gained popularity as a relaxed and indulgent way to celebrate the holiday. From avocado toast to smoked salmon bagels, brunch menus feature an assortment of savory and sweet dishes alongside mimosas and specialty coffees.

Artisanal Chocolates: While chocolate eggs remain a classic Easter treat, modern confectioners have elevated chocolate craftsmanship with artisanal creations. Hand-painted chocolates, filled with exotic flavors like lavender or sea salt caramel, add a touch of luxury to Easter festivities.

Global Fusion: As culinary boundaries blur, modern Easter menus often showcase a fusion of flavors from around the world. From Mexican-inspired huevos rancheros to Middle Eastern-inspired lamb kebabs, diverse cuisines intertwine to create unique and memorable Easter feasts.

Easter cuisine embodies a rich tapestry of tradition and innovation, reflecting cultural heritage and evolving tastes. Whether savoring time-honoured classics or embracing modern twists, Easter meals bring loved ones together to celebrate the spirit of renewal and abundance. As we gather around the table this Easter, let us relish in the joy of shared meals and cherished traditions, forging new memories to treasure for years to come.

Say goodbye to chocolate eggs this Easter and say hell to Butlers Farmhouse Cheese W'egg'dges!

I haven't been able to buy my wife a chocolate Easter egg for many years since she developed an allergy to chocolate. 

I have tried to source non-chocolate eggs with no success. Until now, that is! How so? Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has the answer I need.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses is famed for its range of “Cheester” Easter eggs at this time of year, but this Easter, the rural Lancashire cheesemakers are changing things up a bit.

They are introducing the Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE - the cheese that thinks it’s an Easter egg. 

The fourth-generation family cheesemakers had to, with considerable regret, put their annual Easter egg production on hold after a devastating fire at their offices and packing site last November. 

However, Butlers have put their shoulders to the (cheese) wheel and they are 'crazy busy' handmaking their full range of hard, soft and blue cheeses at the dairy (luckily on a separate site unaffected by the heartbreaking fire), to replenish their lost cheese stocks.

In an egg-cellent twist and in response to Blacksticks’ loyal fanbase flooding Butlers’ inbox asking when the egg will be launched, Butlers have got as close to its most popular Cheester egg flavour, Blacksticks, as it can, with the Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE, meaning cheese lovers can still enjoy Blacksticks on their Easter cheeseboards. 

The Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE (150g) wants to be an egg so much, it has a picture of one on the outside of the pack, but inside you will find the original wedge that is known and loved for its distinct orange colour, delicate blue bite and indulgent and divine creamy texture. The Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE is whatever you want it to be, and it's available to buy now from Butlers’ online cheese store, £4 plus postage. You will find their online cheesemonger's shop here https://butlerscheeses.co.uk/shop

Also returning for Easter is the ever-popular Perfect British Cheeseboard for two (155g). This letterbox cheeseboard includes three showstopping, Great Taste Award winning cheeses; Blacksticks (blue), Button Mill (soft) and Sunday Best (hard). £6 plus postage Butlers’ online cheese store delivered direct from the dairy to your front door. 

Blacksticks fans can also keep their eyes peeled for a range of exciting products coming very soon. Whether it’s a mid-week sandwich, summer BBQ or a cheeky snack, Blacksticks will have you (and your bread or crackers!) covered. 

Artisan Bean to Bar Chocolate Easter Eggs from Darts Farm

Darts Farm's in-house chocolatier, Cow & Cacao, handcrafts incredible artisanal treats using cacao beans sourced from small scale growers in the world's best growing regions. 

They are, justifiably, in our opinion, proud to be one of the very few UK producers who take the time and effort to craft chocolate from bean to bar. Here are some of our favourites from their Easter Range.

Cow & Cacao Chocolate Quail Eggs filled with Salted Caramel & Hazelnut Praline £17.99 (available from www.dartsfarm.co.uk) To us this sounds like chocolate heaven in the form of an egg!

A dozen handcrafted egg shaped truffles, crafted with single origin bean-to-bar chocolate and filled with salted caramel and hazelnut praline.

Cow & Cacao Dark Chocolate Single Origin Egg - £14 (available in store from Darts Farm)

Darts Farm's single origin eggs are handmade using their Madagascan bean-to-bar chocolate, which their in-house chocolatiers craft on the farm, using sustainably sourced cacao beans and their 6-stage process.

For further information on Darts Farm and their in-house chocolatier, Cow & Cacao, please visit www.dartsfarm.co.uk and follow Darts Farm on Facebook and Instagram.  

Three Easter Recipes from DukesHill

Gather up family and friends and celebrate Easter with DukesHill's dishes to delight. Lemon-glazed ham with seasonal wild garlic pesto, shoulder of lamb with chickpeas and peaches and finally a leg of lamb with lemon and mint. 

DukesHill is known for its unwavering dedication to producing the finest quality, British, high-welfare meat. 

Their traditionally cured hams, sausages and bacon comes from outdoor-bred British pork. Their poultry are given the freedom to roam and forage on grasses and clover. 

Lamb and beef is meticulously sourced from British farms with the highest regard for animal welfare. DukesHill's online food hall is a celebration of the best quality artisanal produce. 

Glazed lemon marmalade ham and wild garlic pesto

This tangy-glazed ham is bursting with flavour, you can make it in advance and any left-overs will be pounced upon for sensational sandwiches. Serve with this bang in season wild garlic pesto for the perfect Easter spread.

Serves 6

For the ham 

DukesHill 1.2kg midi boneless Wiltshire ham

3 tbsp lemon marmalade

1 tbsp Light brown sugar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

If the ham is uncooked:

1 onion, peeled and quartered

2 carrots, peeled and roughly sliced

1 tbsp allspice berries

1sp cloves

1 tsp black peppercorns

For the pesto

 wild garlic leaves, stems chopped

40g Parmesan, finely grated

40g pine nuts

2 tbsp olive oil

Squeeze of lemon juice

Method

If you're using a cooked ham, skip the following steps and dive straight into the glazing stage. If not, then place the ham in a large stock pot and add the onions, carrots and spices. Pour over cold water to cover the ham. Bring to the boil and allow to simmer until the ham reaches a core temperature of 75c when probed with a meat thermometer - for a 1.2kg ham it will take approximately 1 hour. Skim the scum off the surface from time to time. When it's cooked and cool enough to handle, slice the skin off the top of the ham and score a diamond pattern into the fat. Allow to cool before glazing.

Preheat the oven to 190c. 

In a small saucepan, whisk together the glaze ingredients and bring to the boil. When all the ingredients have melted together into a sticky syrup consistency, remove from the heat. Use a basting brush to coat the glaze generously over the ham, before placing on a baking tray. Roast for 30 minutes but baste occasionally, using the glaze from the tray. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing.

For the pesto, place the pine nuts, Parmesan and salt in a mortar and pestle and bash until it has become a paste. Add the wild garlic and continue to pound it until it comes together into a smooth consistency, then slowly add the olive oil and lemon juice to taste. Check the seasoning before serving.

Enjoy with new potatoes and British asparagus if it's in season. 

Wine pairing from Tanners Wines (of Shrewsbury https://www.tanners-wines.co.uk)

Barolo del Comune di La Morra, Crissante 2018

“A light, bright, sophisticated red with depth and richness is the ideal accompaniment to a tasty Easter ham. The Italian leaning of this recipe, with the wild garlic pesto, leads us to think of Barolo. It is textured and rich, with a fruity depth and richness to balance and compliment the flavours of the dish.” Tanners Wines.

Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with peaches and chickpeas

Once you've tried this dish, it's bound to become your favourite way to enjoy lamb. Incredibly succulent, tender enough to pull with a spoon, full of flavour and effortless to prepare - it's a foolproof dish to impress your guests. The peaches braise down to create a jammy compote that accompanies the lamb beautifully.

Serves 6

1.6kg lamb shoulder, bone in

7 onions, halved

2 x 400g cans of chickpeas, including water

2 x 410g tinned peaches in juice

Bunch of coriander, chopped

Bunch of mint, chopped

1 tbsp Ras el hanout, plus an additional 1 tsp for the lamb

2 heads of garlic, halved horizontally

350ml chicken stock

350ml lamb stock

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Method

Preheat the oven to 165c.

Stir the balsamic vinegar and ras el hanout into the stock and season the mixture generously with freshly ground black pepper.

Tip the entire contents of the can of chickpeas (including the water), garlic halves, onions and peaches (along with the juice) into a deep sided roasting tray. Pour over the stock and mix well. 

Place the lamb on top and season it with salt, pepper and a teaspoon of ras el hanout. 

Cook for approximately 3.5 hours, covering with foil after about 1.5 hours to avoid it over-browning. 

When the lamb is cooked through and tender, remove from the oven and allow to rest for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped herbs and serve.

Wine pairing from Tanners Wines

Crozes-Hermitage Coeur de Clairmont 2020

“This updated take on the classic Easter lamb, calls for a wine that is a modern take on a classic too. Crozes Hermitage is the largest of the Northern Rhône Cru's and consequently can come in many different quality levels and styles. This 100% Syrah is from a wonderful small-scale quality focussed cooperative consisting of just nine families. It is full of creamy, red cherries and damsons with a nice touch of spice, and a nice streak of freshness to balance out the richness of the meat.” Tanners Wines 

Lemon and mint leg of lamb

A classic centrepiece to enjoy over the long Easter weekend. This simple recipe infuses the lamb with a lemon mint puree and is served with sweet, caramelised roasted fennel. The cooking juices combined with the bed of onions make a delicious sauce. 

Serves 8

Ingredients

2kg DukesHill whole bone-in leg of lamb

2 onions, peeled, quartered and sliced

1 lemon, grated zest

20g fresh mint leaves

2 tbsp olive or rapeseed oil

2 fennel bulbs, each cut into 6 wedges

2 tbsp plain flour

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

75ml Vegetable stock

Method

Remove the leg of lamb from the fridge an hour before cooking to allow it to come up to room temperature.

Place the sliced onions in the base of the roasting tin and season. Lay the lamb on top. Slice a diamond pattern on the top of the leg of lamb, making deep slits to take the puree. 

To make the puree, place the lemon zest, mint leaves, oil, garlic and seasoning into a small food processor and whizz together. Stuff into the incisions made in the lamb. Any extra can be smeared over the sides of the meat and onto the bed of onions. Place the fennel wedges around the lamb.

Roast for 1 hour or 15 minutes longer if you prefer lamb well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the core internal temperature - 55 - 60c will be medium, 70 for well done. 

Remove the lamb and fennel from the roasting tin and place on a warm serving dish. Cover with foil and allow to rest in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. 

Add the flour to the cooked onions, stir well and heat until the flour is browned. Add the Worcestershire sauce and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil and simmer for a couple of minutes until thickened, check for seasoning and serve in a sauce boat or warm jug. The sauce should be liquidised if preferred.

Serve the lamb with the fennel wedges, sauce and seasonal vegetables.

https://www.dukeshill.co.uk

Easter Treats from DukesHill

Discerning foodies can celebrate Easter with artisan food producer and fine foods supplier DukesHill. In addition to their renowned hams which are cured using time honoured traditional techniques, DukesHill has also handpicked a selection of the finest artisan food from independent producers to enjoy this Easter, from a whole bone-in leg of lamb to a classic Simnel cake topped with sweet and nutty marzipan.

With an uncompromising commitment to sourcing and creating the very best British produce and having the highest regard for animal welfare, Royal Warrant Holder DukesHill's Easter collection is full of delicious food and flavours.

DukesHill's Easter Food Highlights

Half Boneless Apple & Sultana Glazed Easter Ham - DukesHill, prices from £77 and available in half ham (min 2kg) and whole ham (min 4.5kg) 

A limited edition for Easter, DukesHill's famous Wiltshire ham is topped with a sweetly spiced Bramley and Braeburn apple and sultana glaze, flavours reminiscent of hot cross buns. DukesHill's legendary Wiltshire Cure involves the hams spending almost a week maturing in their own-recipe brine to which a touch of unrefined brown sugar is added, giving a deliciously mild and subtly sweet flavour. 

The ham is then air dried for a further week to mature and remove excess moisture before being steam cooked for 12 hours, allowing the fat to render and soften creating a buttery texture. Once cooked the ham is hand-skinned and trimmed then coated in DukesHill's Apple & Sultana glaze before being finished off in the glazing oven. All DukesHill hams can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Whole Bone-In Leg of Lamb - DukesHill, £49.95 (min 2 kg)

DukesHill's whole bone-in leg of lamb is produced from the finest British lamb. Naturally reared, its succulent and delicious taste makes the perfect centrepiece for an Easter celebration.

Dressed Side of Oak Smoked Salmon - DukesHill, £47 (min 1kg)

A whole side of salmon is gently roasted and slowly oak smoked creating a mellow, smoky flavour. Dressed with full fat soft cheese, fragrant dill and king prawns, it's a stunning choice for a show-stopping centrepiece, starter or to include in an Easter afternoon tea. 

Mini Easter Banquet - DukesHill, £109 (10 items)

The Mini Easter banquet showcases some of DukesHill's much-loved artisan classics including a delicious award-winning trimmed rack of lamb, baked baby ham and sliced oak smoked salmon. There's also the full flavoured Isle of Mull cheddar, creamy Montagnolo Affine cheese with a lightly piquant flavour, Scottish oatcakes, cracked black pepper crackers, an indulgent sticky toffee pudding, Simnel loaf cake and a bottle of Tanners Cava Brut.

Easter Feast - DukesHill, £105 (8 items)

DukesHill's Easter Feast is a tasty box of quality produce which includes the famous midi boneless Wiltshire ham, unsmoked dry cured back bacon, traditional pork chipolatas, sliced oak smoked salmon, Isle of Mull Cheddar, an extra large pork pie, chocolate tiffin and a Simnel loaf cake.

Simnel Cake - DukesHill, £26.50 (6”, Ikg)

An Easter classic that's traditionally eaten to mark the end of Lent, DukesHill's pretty Simnel cake is a deliciously light fruit cake with an almond paste baked into the middle and decorated with marzipan balls.

Sarah's Pickled Oranges - DukesHill, £12.50 (Kilner Jar), £4.50 (Standard Jar)

A real treat for your tastebuds - if you haven't tasted DukesHill's pickled spiced oranges, you've been missing out! Originally created in the farmhouse kitchen of Sarah Hollingsworth, who established the DukesHill brand with her husband Neale, these piquant pickled oranges are mixed with a sprinkling of cloves, cinnamon and mace, and pair beautifully with ham and other cold cuts of meat.

The DukesHill Easter shop will open from 26th February at: dukeshill.co.uk 

Craft Gin Club Celebrates Easter With Hot Cross Bun Gin Collaboration

The Craft Gin Club (www.craftginclub.co.uk) is the UK's largest gin subscription club, with over 100,000 gin-loving members trusting its gin experts and connoisseurs to seek out the very best artisan gins from the UK, and around the world, every month. 

This Easter, the expert curators and mixologists at the Craft Gin Club have worked with Cornwall's Tarquin's Gin team to bring gin fans a stunning limited-edition craft gin that's perfect for Easter and beyond, Tarquin's Hot Cross Bun Gin (ABV 42%, £37.00 per 70cl bottle), available exclusively from Craft Gin Club (and no membership needed!).

There's a fantastic symphony of mouth-watering, delicious spice and dried fruit flavours, which you'd normally find in a hot cross bun, it is a beautiful edition that no gin fan will want to miss! 

Warming Easter spices are joined by rich juniper on the nose and some wonderful, sweet fruit notes on the smooth palate. 

And they all last long into the luxurious finish. Ideal served with a premium Indian tonic or a high quality ginger ale and garnish with fresh orange and a sprig of rosemary.

The botanicals included are: juniper, fresh lemon, fresh orange, fresh grapefruit, orris root, green cardamon, bitter almond, coriander seed, cinnamon, angelica root, violets, carrot, mulberries, vanilla pods and dried orange peel and Pedro Ximenez sherry.

What is Tarquin's Cornish Gin?

Tarquin's Cornish Gin is carefully handcrafted on the wild Cornish coast by the maverick Master Distiller Tarquin Leadbetter, using four unique flame-fired copper pot stills. Tarquin is self-taught in distilling and the youngest ever winner of World's Best Gin at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Tarquin's is an independent, family-run company hand crafting award-winning gins in tiny batches the old-fashioned way, every bottle is waxed and stamped by hand, featuring unique batch character tasting notes on every bottle.

Hot Cross Bun Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

50ml Tarquin's Hot Cross Bun Gin

30ml Chilled Coffee or Cold Brew (we like Here & Now Nitro Colombian Black Iced Coffee)

15ml Coffee Liqueur (we enjoy a classic Tia Maria)

15ml Simple Syrup

Powdered Cinnamon for dusting (optional)

Get all of the ingredients (in full sized bottles) with the Hot Cross Bun Espresso Martini Cocktail Kit for £69.00 (a saving of over 10%)

Method

Pour each of your ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice

Shake and strain into a cocktail coupe

Place chopsticks at right angles over your coupe and dust with cinnamon

Watch the making of video here:-

Also new to Craft Gin Club for Easter is the Egg Royale Chocolate Liqueur (ABV 15%, £25.00 per 70cl bottle), which has to be the best chocolate Easter egg for grownups for 2023! Nestled in a gorgeous box of gold and teal, discover a chocolate egg shaped glass bottle filled to the brim with creamy chocolate liqueur from the creative minds at Gravity Drinks. 

Made with the finest cocoa, lashings of real cream and mellow touches of vanilla, the chocolate liqueur is wonderful simply served over ice or mixed into cocktails, it also makes for a luxurious ice cream topping and it's a great way to add a boozy kick to chocolate icing for an adults-only celebration cake. 

A great Easter treat with St-Rémy Brandy

Spring is here! We're all looking forward to saying goodbye to the winter blues, and whilst we're waiting for warmer days, St-Rémy Brandy can help us celebrate Easter with a series of two deliciously chocolatey Exclusive Easter cocktails that are certain to warm us up and beat any Easter eggs!

Perfect for a Sunday afternoon at home with friends, the St-Rémy White Mocha is a delightfully indulgent cocktail, provided you serve with extra whipped cream of course! Composed of St-Rémy XO, black coffee and chocolate syrup, it's the ultimate Easter treat in a glass!

Recipe:

45ml / 1.5oz St-Rémy XO

60ml / 2oz Black Coffee

30ml / 1oz Chocolate Syrup

30ml / 1oz Whole Milk

Add all ingredients to a mug and stir.

Top with whipped cream and chocolate powder.

Hosting an Easter feast? The St-Rémy French Alexander will provide the perfect post lunch pick me up, with St-Rémy Signature, cacao cream and grated nutmeg.

Recipe:

45ml St-Rémy Signature

20ml thick cream

15ml cacao cream

8ml simple syrup

Shake hard with ice, and fine strain into a coupe glass or glass coffee mug.

Garnish with  nutmeg grated all over the top.

St-Rémy is the world's number one and most renowned French brandy, prized by connoisseurs and critics alike since 1886. Originally from the heart of the French Loire Valley, St-Rémy has garnered international recognition for its peerless savoir-faire and distinctive aromatic identity and style.

This Easter, say no to eggs! Choose Flapjackery Easter Flapjacks for the Perfect Sweet Treat, instead!

Flapjackery has the perfect edible gluten free Easter treats to send by post with its range of delicious flapjacks that are the perfect alternative to a traditional chocolate egg. 

All their flapjacks are gluten free, vegetarian and contain no palm oil. 

They are suitable for home freezing and have a varying shelf life, depending upon the ingredients, with the shortest shelf life being two weeks. They are individually wrapped and delivered in a recyclable cardboard box.

Pick the box you fancy and send it with love this Easter. Order online at www.flapjackery.co.uk

Happy Easter Plaque Message Flapjack Box £34

Wish someone a very Happy Easter with this Message Flapjack Box. A giant slab (the equivalent of 4 pieces) of delicious Millionaire Flapjack has been hand written with the message 'Happy Easter' in white chocolate.

A delicious way to send Easter well wishes, each box includes a brilliant selection of flapjack flavours that are ideal for sharing with family and friends. The perfect unique gift idea for Easter, this scrumptious box of artisan flapjacks is sure to go down a treat.

Mega Happy Easter Message Flapjack Box £48

The indulgent Mega Happy Easter Message Flapjack Box is the perfect alternative to chocolate eggs this Easter. A giant slab (the equivalent of 4 pieces) of  delicious Millionaire Flapjack of Flapjack has been hand written with the message 'Happy Easter' in white chocolate.

A delicious way to send Easter well wishes, each box includes a brilliant selection of flapjack flavours that are ideal for sharing with family and friends. The brilliantly unique gift idea for Easter, this scrumptious box of artisan flapjacks is sure to go down a treat.

Easter Flapjack Box from £12

The Easter Flapjack Box is an indulgent box of flapjacks which include its fabulous and unique Millionaires Egg Splat Flapjack and Chocolate Fudge Egg Smash Up Flapjack.

Truly delicious and chocolatey for an indulgent nibble over the Easter holidays, each flapjack is handmade in Devon with only the finest ingredients. A great gift idea for families and an ideal addition to any Easter food table, this scrumptious box of artisan flapjacks is sure to go down a treat.

Chocolate Fudge Egg Smash Up Flapjack from £12

The Chocolate Fudge Egg Smash Up Flapjack is the ultimate Easter treat. The rich dark chocolate fudge flapjack base has been generously topped with smashed up mini Easter eggs and a white chocolate drizzle.

This rich and scrumptious chocolate flapjack is the perfect indulgent treat and a great alternative to an Easter egg. With gift wrapping available, this would also be a wonderful gift for any chocolate lover or flapjack fan.

Millionaires Egg Splat Flapjack Box from £12

A fun Easter twist has been added to the classic and ever-popular Millionaire's Flapjack. Handmade in Devon with only the finest natural ingredients, the buttery flapjack base has been topped with a smooth layer of creamy fudge and a luxurious Belgian milk chocolate layer.

This is then wonderfully finished with a hand-created free-range egg design in white and orange chocolate. 

This deliciously decadent flapjack is the perfect indulgent treat and a great alternative to chocolate Easter eggs. With gift wrapping available, this would also be a wonderful Easter gift for any flapjack fan.

Easter Celebration Ideas from Mandira's Kitchen

Easter celebrations are a really good chance to meet with friends and family and enjoy good food and good times. But who wants to be slaving away in the kitchen and missing out on all the fun?  

But! Mandira's Kitchen have put together a special menu for Easter which can be ordered from March to be delivered or collected the week before Easter.

For the Easter weekend only, Mandira's Kitchen have put together some special spring menus for you to enjoy. You can opt between Classic or Vegetarian dining.

The special menu includes Spinach and Onion Pakoras with green chutney, and Bombay Mix.  The main course is a choice of Classic Easter Lamb Currey or Paneer for the vegetarian option.  Saffron rice; Jaipuri Baingan (roasted aubergines in a spicy masala); Vegetable Handi (a rich vegetable curry); Garlic and Coriander Naan bread; poppadums and Palak Raita (Spiced yoghurt with spinach). 

No feast would be complete without some Sweet Endings, which include: - Rasmalai (Milk dumplings in a rose and pistachio sauce); Boondi Ladoo (A delicious Indian treat made with sugar, spices and gram flour); Masala Chai and cans of Ready-to-drink Silent Pool Gin & Tonic and Firebird IPA (one per person). 

Mandira Sarkar, owner and founder of Mandira's Kitchen says: “Easter weekend is traditionally about families getting together and we want to help make sure they spend as much time together in conversation and as little time in the kitchen as possible with our Easter family feasts.”

Of course, Mandira's Kitchen will cater for any dietary restrictions, and you can discuss your individual needs by emailing orders@mandiraskitchen.com.

All items can be ordered online from https://www.mandiraskitchen.com/collections/easter-2022/products/easter-menu-2023 for  UK-wide free delivery by Thursday 6th April or choose a click and collect right up to Easter Weekend (although the shop will be closed on Easter Sunday 9 April). All food arrives frozen and can be kept in the fridge for 48 hours or in the freezer for up to 6 months.  Dishes can be heated in the microwave in 4 minutes, or in the oven.  Full details https://www.mandiraskitchen.com

Introducing: Egg Royale

This has got to be the most indulgent ‘adult chocolate egg’ for Easter 2023.

Introducing the Egg Royale for Easter 2023, a chocolate egg like no other. Experience the most indulgent and rich chocolate alcoholic cream liqueur made from the finest cocoa and vanilla and blended with real cream nestling within a beautiful glass egg.

Developed over two years by Gravity Drinks, which is the team behind the cult favourite Christmas Globe Gin Liqueur and Sixpence Pud Gin Liqueur, Egg Royale is set to become another seasonal favourite.

It's perfect as a unique Easter gift for adults, the glass egg will be found sitting within a special art-deco style box with a beautiful foil printed handle.

Delicious served straight over ice, in a cocktail or even to add a boozy kick to your Easter chocolate cake!

It's available in stores from this month, February 2023.

700ml – 15% alc/vol and the RRP is £29.00.

You'll find it stocked at Harvey Nichols and is also available via Amazon.

Make Easter Special With Thorntons

2012 is set to be the year of Rule Britannia and to celebrate, Britain's favourite chocolatier Thorntons is this Easter launching its delicious Great British Puds Eggs.

Combining Britain's best loved chocolate eggs with some of the nation's favourite desserts, the collection includes Eton Mess, Banoffee Pie and Lemon Meringue Pie, all available in Thorntons' store and online for RRP £14.99. The striking shell design, made up of real fruit pieces bursting with authentic flavour, makes these eggs the ideal Easter gift for any dessert lover.

The Lemon Meringue Egg is a white chocolate shell infused with natural lemon oil, decorated on the front with real lemon and meringue pieces, creating a crunchy texture and sweet zesty flavour.

The Eton Mess Egg is made from Thorntons tasty chocolate, with bursts of berry flavour making it truly reminiscent of the classic dessert. The pink shell is strawberry flavoured and the raspberry and meringue pieces in the front give that special finishing touch.

The Banoffee Pie Egg is a chunky milk chocolate egg with banana slices in the front, coupled with Thorntons very own Special Toffee, together with Special Toffee inclusions in the shell for that extra indulgence. Did you know that Banoffee Pie was created in East Sussex in 1972?

For those looking for the ultimate bespoke Easter gift, there is the new Thorntons Perfect Egg RSP £7.99. Featuring a half milk chocolate egg shell, chocolate lovers can choose to fill it with their 12 favourite Thorntons' chocolates and it will then be beautifully gift wrapped in store, giving that extra special personal touch this Easter.

Thorntons first ever chocolatier created the Thorntons Continental range in 1954 and it is still the chocolatier's most popular box of chocolates sixty years on. For the second year running it is available as the Continental Egg - an elegantly decorated milk chocolate egg packaged with a box of Continental chocolates. New for 2012, those looking for the ultimate indulgence can choose the stunning Continental Statement Egg (RRP £24.99), which features a triple layer of chocolates and is presented in a glamorous display case box.

There are many more fantastic products in the Easter range, with an array of ice-able eggs and little gifts to ensure Thorntons customers young and old enjoy a special Easter together this year.

Thorntons celebrated its 100th birthday in 2011.
Thorntons is the number one 'Chocolate and Confectionery' brand and the number 20 overall brand in the UK according to Superbrands' latest research.
Established by Joseph William Thornton in 1911, Thorntons is one of the UK's oldest chocolate retailers, headquartered in Derbyshire with more than 4,000 employees.
Thorntons has nearly 600 stores, including franchises across the country, as well as a strong direct (www.thorntons.co.uk) and commercial business, supplying all major supermarkets.
Products range from gift selections, chocolate blocks to toffee and ice cream.
Keith Hurdman is Thorntons' award winning Master Chocolatier. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Keith is an unusual phenomenon for the British chocolate industry as a homegrown talent with extensive training with some of Europe's finest confectioners and chocolatiers in Belgium, Switzerland and France. He is now widely recognised as one of the UK's most talented chocolatiers and in 2011 was crowned Joint Chocolatier of the Year by the Academy of Chocolate.
In 2011, Thorntons won four Academy of Chocolate Gold Awards for its Tonka bar and Centenary filled chocolates Raspberry & Rose, Vanilla Caramel and Crunchy Praline.