Embrace the Craft: Why Artisan Cheese Trumps Mass-Produced Processed Cheese

In the realm of culinary delights, few things rival the satisfaction of a perfectly aged artisan cheese.

From its distinct flavours to its rich history of craftsmanship, artisan cheese stands as a testament to tradition and quality. In contrast, mass-produced processed cheese pales in comparison, lacking the depth of flavour, nutritional value, and cultural significance found in its artisanal counterpart. 

Here are some compelling reasons why you should opt for artisan cheese over mass-produced processed cheese:

Quality Ingredients: Artisan cheese makers prioritise quality over quantity. They source milk from local farms, often using traditional methods and organic practices. This results in cheese with superior taste and texture, as well as heightened nutritional value compared to processed cheese, which often contains additives and preservatives.

Craftsmanship and Tradition: Artisan cheese making is an art form passed down through generations. Each wheel or block of cheese is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who pour their passion and expertise into every batch. This dedication to tradition and craftsmanship shines through in the complexity and character of the final product, a quality that mass-produced processed cheese simply cannot replicate.

Diverse Flavours and Varieties: Artisan cheese offers an unparalleled variety of flavors and textures, ranging from creamy brie to sharp cheddar to tangy blue. Each cheese reflects the unique terroir of its region and the creativity of its maker. In contrast, mass-produced processed cheese tends to be uniform in flavour and texture, lacking the depth and complexity found in artisanal cheeses.

Supporting Local Communities: By choosing artisan cheese, you're not only treating your taste buds to a culinary adventure but also supporting local farmers and cheesemakers. Artisan cheese makers often operate on a small scale, contributing to the vitality of rural communities and preserving traditional farming practices.

Environmental Sustainability: Artisan cheese making typically involves sustainable practices that prioritises animal welfare and environmental stewardship. Local sourcing reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation, while small-scale farming methods promote biodiversity and soil health. In contrast, the industrial processes used to produce mass-produced processed cheese can have detrimental environmental impacts, such as deforestation and pollution.

Cultural Heritage: Artisan cheese is steeped in cultural heritage, with each cheese telling a story of its origin and the people who produced it. Whether it's a genuine Welsh farmhouse cheese, a rustic French Camembert or a tangy Italian pecorino, artisan cheese connects us to the rich tapestry of human history and culinary traditions.

In conclusion, opting for artisan cheese over mass-produced processed cheese is not just a matter of taste; it's a choice that reflects our values as consumers. By supporting local farmers and artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and prioritising quality and sustainability, we can indulge in the simple pleasure of cheese while making a positive impact on our communities and the planet. 

So, the next time you're at the cheese counter, dare to go artisan and savour the authentic flavours of tradition and craftsmanship.

You can Google cheesemongers near me to find your nearest cheesemonger. 

Hidden Gems: Uncovering Local Food Markets That Will Satiate Your Culinary Curiosity

In a world increasingly dominated by fast food chains and supermarket giants, there's something incredibly satisfying about exploring the local food markets that still dot many cities and towns around the globe. 

These markets, often tucked away in corners or nestled in alleys, offer a glimpse into the culinary heart of a community. 

From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, these hidden gems are a treasure trove for food enthusiasts looking to discover new flavours and ingredients. 

Join me as we embark on a journey to uncover some of these delightful local food markets that are sure to satiate your culinary curiosity.

The Farmer's Bounty Market, New Haven, Connecticut:

Nestled in the heart of New Haven, The Farmer's Bounty Market is a vibrant hub of local produce and artisanal goods. Every Saturday morning, farmers from the surrounding areas gather to sell their freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, alongside bakers offering crusty loaves of bread and homemade pastries. The atmosphere is buzzing with energy as shoppers weave through the stalls, sampling ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Don't miss the chance to chat with the growers themselves, who are always eager to share tips and recipes for making the most of their seasonal offerings.

Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid, Spain:

Stepping into Mercado de San Miguel is like entering a food lover's paradise. Located in the heart of Madrid, this historic market dates back to the 19th century and is renowned for its stunning architecture and mouthwatering array of tapas. Wander through the wrought iron halls and you'll find vendors selling everything from freshly shucked oysters to crispy churros dipped in rich chocolate. Pull up a stool at one of the market's bustling bars and indulge in a glass of Spanish wine paired with a plate of jamón ibérico. It's a sensory experience not to be missed.

Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok, Thailand:

For a taste of authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok. This sprawling labyrinth of stalls is a mecca for street food lovers, offering a dizzying array of dishes from across the country. Follow your nose to find vendors grilling up skewers of succulent satay or frying up crispy pad thai. Be sure to save room for dessert, as you'll find vendors serving up refreshing mango sticky rice and creamy coconut ice cream. And don't forget to explore the market's other offerings, from handmade crafts to vintage clothing – you never know what hidden treasures you might uncover.

Borough Market, London, United Kingdom:

Nestled beneath the shadow of London's iconic Shard skyscraper, Borough Market is a food lover's paradise. Dating back over a thousand years, this historic market is one of the city's oldest and largest, offering a dizzying array of gourmet delights from around the world. From freshly baked sourdough bread to artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, the market is a feast for the senses. Be sure to visit on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday when the market is at its busiest, and don't leave without sampling a piping hot Scotch egg or indulging in a fantastic cheese sandwich.

In a world where convenience often trumps quality, there's something incredibly rewarding about exploring the local food markets that still thrive in many communities around the world. Whether you're sampling street food in Bangkok or savoring tapas in Madrid, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the culinary soul of a place. So the next time you find yourself craving an adventure for your taste buds, skip the supermarket and seek out one of these local food markets, you never know what delicious discoveries await.

You might like to check out https://www.streetfood.org.uk for information about street food in the UK.

Eating Seasonally: Embracing Fresh Produce and Sustainable Food Practices

In an era where convenience often trumps conscientiousness, our relationship with food has undergone a significant transformation. 

From the proliferation of fast food chains to the globalised supply chain that brings us fruits and vegetables from all corners of the world all year-round, we've become increasingly disconnected from the natural rhythms of the seasons. 

However, there's a growing movement advocating for a return to eating seasonally – not just for the sake of health, but also for the sustainability of our planet.

Eating seasonally means consuming foods that are harvested at the peak of their freshness within a particular season. It's a practice deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, where communities relied on the natural cycles of the Earth to dictate their diets. Today, however, many of us have lost touch with this concept, accustomed to finding the same array of produce in our supermarkets regardless of the time of year.

But why should we care about eating seasonally? For starters, there's the undeniable advantage of flavor. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are often at their tastiest and most nutritious. Take tomatoes, for example. A ripe, juicy tomato picked at the height of summer bursts with flavour in a way that its pale, out-of-season counterpart simply cannot replicate. By embracing seasonal eating, we invite a diversity of flavorus and textures into our meals, making for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Beyond taste, there are compelling environmental reasons to opt for seasonal produce. The globalised food system, with its long-distance transportation and energy-intensive methods of production, exacts a heavy toll on the environment. 

By opting for locally grown, seasonal foods, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with our diets. Seasonal eating also supports local farmers, fostering a more resilient and sustainable food system within our communities.

Moreover, eating seasonally encourages us to reconnect with the natural world and its rhythms. It's a reminder that we are part of a larger ecosystem, one that operates according to its own cycles and patterns. By aligning our diets with the seasons, we develop a deeper appreciation for the ebb and flow of nature, cultivating a sense of gratitude for the abundance it provides.

Practical Tips for Eating Seasonally:

Know Your Seasons: Familiarise yourself with the seasons in your region and the produce that thrives during each. Websites, farmer's markets, farm shops etc, are excellent resources for this information.

Support Local Farmers: Visit farmer's markets or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to source fresh, seasonal produce directly from local growers.

Get Creative: Embrace the challenge of cooking with what's in season. Experiment with new recipes and ingredients, and relish the opportunity to explore the full spectrum of flavours available throughout the year.

Preserve the Harvest: To enjoy seasonal produce beyond its peak, consider preserving techniques such as canning, freezing, or fermenting. This allows you to enjoy your favorite fruits and vegetables throughout the year while still reaping the benefits of seasonal eating. My mother used to salt green beans that she and my father had grown in the garden.

Be Flexible: While eating seasonally is ideal, it's also important to practice flexibility, especially in regions with limited growing seasons. Aim to prioritise seasonal produce whenever possible while recognising that some flexibility may be necessary to maintain a balanced diet.

In conclusion, embracing seasonal eating is about more than just food, it's a lifestyle choice that promotes health, sustainability, and a deeper connection to the world around us. 

By opting for fresh, locally sourced produce that aligns with the rhythms of nature, we can nourish our bodies, support our communities, and tread more lightly on the planet. So let's savor the flavours of each season and rediscover the joy of eating in harmony with the Earth.

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EU climate report - ProVeg responds

Food awareness organisation, ProVeg International, has responded to a Recommendation by the European Commission on how Europe will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 on its road to climate neutrality by 2050.

The Recommendation published this week does not specifically mention meat reduction or clear emissions reductions targets from agriculture.

However, ProVeg notes the Impact Assessment upon which the Recommendation is based acknowledges that tackling meat consumption is a key to reducing emissions. 

“There is a growing body of research which is filtering into policy documents highlighting the significant impact of shifting towards more plant-centric diets to address the climate crisis”, Lucia Hortelano, EU Senior Policy Manager at ProVeg, said.

“The Commission’s Impact Assessment makes this clear too and we would have liked to have seen this message transferred into the final Recommendation. But, in its absence, we hope policymakers will heed the advice and ensure political efforts are made to promote plant-based diets wherever possible, be that through more research funding, inclusion of plant-based milk in schools or a shift in subsidies towards the production of ingredients for plant-based products,” Hortelano said. 

Specifically, the Impact Assessment states that the reduction of meat consumption and consequent shift to more plant-based diets “generates significant co-benefits for air quality, since it reduces methane emissions, a short-lived climate forcer but also a precursor of ozone, and ammonia emissions”. 

“Hence, an increase in plant-based diets in the EU is improving human health both directly through more healthy diets and indirectly through cleaner air, which creates economic benefits from improved human health that would compensate for some part of the economic losses in the agricultural sector,” the Impact Assessment states.

Smarter protein

The Impact Assessment also states that public consultation has revealed that 82% of EU citizens have said they are willing to “adopt new lifestyles and to adopt a variety of individual actions to reduce their own carbon footprint”. “As an example,” the report states, “a high share of EU citizens indicated their inclination in the public consultation to eat food with a lower climate impact, such as plant-based, local, or sustainably produced food”.

In fact, EU citizens are already choosing to reduce their meat consumption, as ProVeg found out when it conducted a survey through the EU-funded Smart Protein project.

The pan-European survey, called “Evolving appetites: an in-depth look at European attitudes towards plant-based eating” found that 51% of meat eaters in Europe claim they are actively reducing their annual meat consumption, up from 46% in 2021.

“The Commission’s advice on reducing meat consumption goes hand-in-hand with what we already know about consumer eating habits in the EU,” Hortelano said.

“The people of the EU have an appetite for change and they are taking action themselves through their own dietary choices,” she added.

proveg.org

From St Kilda to your lover. The St Kilda Sour

The St Kilda Sour is the absolutely perfect ideal drink to share with someone special this Valentine’s, combining the smooth, maritime taste of Isle of Harris Gin with sweet strawberry and tangy lime flavours. 

Taking its name from the age-old courtship rituals on the isle of Hiort in St Kilda, the cocktail is an ode to the young men on the isle, some 45 miles off the Harris coast, who throughout time would perform a delicate balancing act on a stone cliff high above the sea to prove their worthiness of marriage. 

Paying tribute to the romantic tradition of the Isle, the St Kilda Sour is the perfect way to prove your love to someone this Valentine’s Day, without the need to balance on any rocks, of course! 

Created by Glasgow's leading bartender Jack Cain, The St Kilda Sour is available at the cocktail bar ‘Rascal’ in the West End of Glasgow and can easily be recreated and enjoyed with loved ones at home.

St Kilda Sour

Taking its name from the age-old courtship rituals on the isle of Hiort in St Kilda, the cocktail is an ode to the young men on the isle, some 45 miles off the Harris coast, who turned to more than poetry to prove their worth. The Lover’s Stone is a finger of rock projecting from the clifftop, 880 feet above the sea. On this fearful spot it was said a lover had to demonstrate his nerve before being allowed to marry by standing on the edge of the precipice on just his left foot, draw his right leg upwards and touch his right foot in a deep bow. This balancing act proved a suitor worthy of the finest women on the island. 

Ingredients:

50ml Isle of Harris Gin

25ml fresh lime juice

25ml strawberry syrup

1 egg white

Prep: Fresh Strawberry syrup

Ingredients:

250g strawberries

250g granulated sugar

A couple of hours in advance, or the night before, wash and chop a punnet of fresh strawberries and put them in a big jar or saucepan. Cover with the same weight of sugar and leave for at least two hours, preferably overnight. 

The sugar will pull the oil and juice from the strawberries and form a thick red syrup that can be strained through a sieve and decanted into an empty bottle. Kept refrigerated, this syrup can last several weeks if care has been taken to sterilise containers and bottles.

Method:

Separate the egg white into shaker then add all other ingredients, shake hard without ice to emulsify egg white, then fill shaker to the top with ice and shake hard for 15 seconds, then double strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice on the rim.

To learn more you can check out their website, here https://harrisdistillery.com.

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The ABCs of Composting: Turning Kitchen Waste into Garden Gold

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and reducing waste, composting stands out as a simple yet powerful practice that anyone can adopt. 

Composting not only diverts kitchen scraps from landfills but also produces nutrient-rich soil that can enhance your garden's health and productivity. If you're new to composting or looking to brush up on the basics, read on as we explore the ABCs of turning kitchen waste into garden gold.

A is for Aerobic Decomposition:

Composting is essentially the aerobic decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and other organisms. These tiny decomposers break down kitchen waste into simpler compounds, releasing valuable nutrients in the process. To support aerobic decomposition, ensure proper aeration within your compost pile or bin by turning or mixing the materials regularly.

B is for Brown and Green Materials:

Composting requires a balance of brown and green materials. Brown materials, such as dried leaves, straw, or newspaper, provide carbon, while green materials, like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings, supply nitrogen. Aim for a ratio of roughly 3 parts brown to 1 part green to maintain a healthy compost pile.

C is for Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio:

Understanding the carbon to nitrogen (C:N) ratio is crucial for successful composting. Microorganisms require the right balance of these elements to thrive. Brown materials have a higher carbon content, while green materials are richer in nitrogen. A C:N ratio of around 30:1 is ideal for efficient decomposition.

D is for Decomposition Process:

Composting is a natural process that occurs in stages. Initially, microorganisms break down easily decomposable materials, generating heat as they work. Over time, the compost pile cools down, and larger organisms like earthworms and insects aid in further decomposition. Patience is key, as the process can take several months to a year to yield finished compost.

E is for Environmental Benefits:

Composting offers numerous environmental benefits. By diverting organic waste from landfills, composting reduces methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, compost-amended soil improves moisture retention, reduces erosion, and promotes biodiversity, making it a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture and landscaping practices.

F is for Finished Compost:

When your compost is dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling, it's ready to use. This finished compost is a nutrient-rich soil amendment that can be incorporated into garden beds, used as mulch, or mixed with potting soil for container gardening. Avoid adding unfinished compost to your garden, as it may rob plants of nitrogen as it continues to decompose.

G is for Gardening Tips:

Compost can benefit all types of gardens, from vegetable plots to flower beds. When using compost in your garden, mix it thoroughly into the soil to ensure even distribution of nutrients. Avoid placing compost directly against plant stems to prevent rot and disease. Regularly amending your soil with compost will improve its structure, fertility, and overall health.

H is for Home Composting Methods:

There are various methods for composting at home, ranging from traditional outdoor piles to enclosed bins and tumblers. Choose a method that suits your space, time, and preferences. Outdoor piles offer simplicity and space for large volumes of material, while enclosed bins are neater and may deter pests. Tumblers provide easy turning and faster decomposition but have limited capacity.

I is for Inclusivity:

Composting is an inclusive practice that can involve people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to sustainability, there's a role for everyone in the composting process. Engage your family, friends, and community to spread awareness and build a culture of composting together.

J is for Journey Towards Sustainability:

Composting is just one step on the journey towards a more sustainable lifestyle. By embracing composting in your daily routine, you contribute to reducing waste, conserving resources, and nurturing the planet. As you witness the transformation of kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil, you'll be inspired to explore other eco-friendly practices and make a positive impact on the world around you.

In conclusion, composting is a simple yet impactful way to turn kitchen waste into garden gold. By following the ABCs of composting, you can harness the power of nature to create nutrient-rich soil for healthier plants and a healthier planet. 

Whether you're composting in a backyard bin or a small apartment balcony, every effort counts towards building a more sustainable future. So, grab your kitchen scraps, start composting, and watch your garden thrive!

And you will be able to use the compost to grow more vegetables, thus creating a virtuous circle. 

(Image courtesy of Ben Kerckx from Pixabay)

Sessions, dubbed the record label for food, gets busy with the Sauce Shop to create magical collaborations

UK tech food company Sessions has exclusively launched a delicious range of food with a mouth-watering partnership with Sauce Shop. 

Sessions, the UK’s fast-growth brand platform for original food, has announced the partnership with the award-winning craft sauce producer and will be available across fifty delivery locations in the UK as well as on site in Brighton.

Sessions, dubbed the ‘Record Label for Food,’ is an ingenious, innovative company disrupting the UK food market with new food developments, innovations and collaborations to bring the most original new food to delivery customers.

The collaboration with Sauce Shop is the first of its kind and will see the popular artisanal sauces paired up with several of Sessions’ best-seller dishes featuring wings, tenders, burgers and fries, to give consumers a new original take on the fried chicken category.

The exciting new partnership will also be available at Shelter Hall, the popular Brighton food market hall owned and operated by Sessions, to Brightonians the chance to order any pairing and experience the collaboration.

Dan Warne, Founder and CEO of Sessions, said: "We've always believed in partnering with fresh talent, brands and creators to scale original food concepts, and our latest collaboration with Sauce Shop® is a real testament to that. 

"We’re not only matching sauces with our menus, we’re powering the iconic Sauce Shop® brand with our growing network and tech to reach thousands of taste-loving consumers, and we have our eyes firmly set on pushing the boundaries even further with the team beyond this first run.”

Pam Digva, Founder and Brand Director at Sauce Shop said: "We are obviously incredibly excited for the first Sauce Shop food delivery menu to go live in partnership with Sessions. 

"After supplying the hospitality industry with sauces and seasonings for nearly 10 years, it is amazing to launch a menu that has Sauce Shop at its heart! We know fans of the brand love a bit of fried chicken, and Tenders & Wings by Sauce Shop will not disappoint.”

For more information about Sessions and Sauce Shop®, please visit https://sessions.co.uk.

The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook by Morgan McGlynn Carr

Find your inner fromager and pair like a pro with this ultimate guide to creating delectable cheese pairings!

The main concept behind cheese pairings is how certain elements in a cheese and any chosen accompaniment react differently to each other.  

The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook demonstrates that by matching a mouthwatering cheese with the perfect cracker, a stunning chutney, the right fruit or charcuterie, an exceptional wine, or any other beverage, the results can be extremely rewarding. 

This sumptuous and detailed 'cheese bible' written by 'The Queen of Cheese' includes fascinating insights and flavours from around the world, seasonal pairing guides, carefully curated pairing boards with both classic and unique combinations, and a range of delicious cheese-based recipes suitable for all occasions.

Morgan says: “If you're anything like me, being presented with a plate of delicious cheeses is simply an invitation to dive in, no questions asked. However, it's time to hold back: learning how to taste cheese properly, so that you can decipher all the layers that make it taste so good, will help you make great choices when it comes to pairing. Mastering the art of tasting cheese in a structured way gives you a deeper appreciation of the cheese and a confident understanding of what other morsel of deliciousness might best go with it.”

The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook is a must-have for any cheese lover looking to expand their repertoire and elevate an entire dining experience and is the only cheese guide you'll ever need for entertaining friends, family, guests, colleagues, and yourself!

Morgan McGlynn Carr is the UK's leading cheese expert and owner of Cheeses of Muswell Hill, an award-winning independent cheese shop in North London. 

She is also the resident Cheese Expert on Channel 4's Sunday Brunch and a top judge at the World Cheese Awards. 

Having had the shop since age 21, she was Britain's youngest female cheesemonger and has spent the subsequent years traveling the UK and the world, working with celebrated mongers and makers and learning to make, mature and sell cheese professionally. She is also a cheese consultant for leading retailers and the author of two other highly acclaimed books, The Modern Cheesemaker and The Modern Cheeseboard.

The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook is released 6th June 2024 (White Lion Publishing, rrp £26)

Photography by Jamie Orlando Smith

PRESS EVENT: Morgan will be hosting a series of 'cheese shop lates' at Cheeses of Muswell Hill to showcase some of the pairings from the book ahead of publication. These will be intimate evenings for up to 6 people w/c 15th April 2024. If you would like to register your interest, please get in touch.

Praise for The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook

'All hail the Queen of Cheese.' -- Simon Rimmer

'From the undisputed Queen of Cheese comes a book that's not only informative, but full of modernist recipes and ground-breaking ideas..' -- Gizzi Erskine