Exploring the Regional Varieties of British and Irish Sausages

Sausages hold a cherished place in the culinary traditions of the British Isles, offering a delectable array of flavours that reflect the diverse regions from which they hail. From the classic Cumberland to the distinctively spiced Irish varieties, sausages across Britain and Ireland are a testament to local tastes and ingredients. Join us as we embark on a savoury journey through the regional varieties of British and Irish sausages.

Cumberland Sausage

Originating from the historic county of Cumberland in North West England, the Cumberland sausage is renowned for its coiled form and robust flavour. Traditionally, this sausage is made from coarsely chopped pork, seasoned with black pepper and a variety of herbs. Its unique blend of spices, which can include nutmeg, marjoram, and sage, gives it a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other British sausages. The Cumberland sausage is often served as a long, continuous coil, making it a visual as well as a culinary delight.

Lincolnshire Sausage

Hailing from the agricultural heartland of Lincolnshire, this sausage is celebrated for its simplicity and emphasis on fresh ingredients. The Lincolnshire sausage features a coarse texture, with pork meat mixed with breadcrumbs, and flavoured predominantly with sage. Unlike the heavily spiced Cumberland, the Lincolnshire sausage relies on the natural sweetness of the pork and the aromatic quality of sage to deliver its characteristic flavour. This sausage is a staple at breakfast tables across the region, often paired with eggs and tomatoes.

Newmarket Sausage

Newmarket, a market town famous for its horse racing heritage, also boasts a renowned sausage variety. The Newmarket sausage, typically made from premium cuts of pork, is known for its high meat content and minimal filler. The seasoning blends often include black and white pepper, nutmeg, and mace, creating a balanced and hearty flavour profile. The sausage has garnered such acclaim that it has been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, ensuring its quality and authenticity.

Scottish Lorne Sausage

Venture north to Scotland, and you'll encounter the Lorne sausage, also known as square sausage or slice sausage. Unlike its cylindrical counterparts, the Lorne sausage is shaped into a block and sliced into squares before cooking. It is typically made from a mix of pork and beef, combined with rusk and a seasoning blend that includes coriander and nutmeg. The Lorne sausage is a breakfast favourite, often served in a traditional Scottish breakfast alongside tattie scones and black pudding.

Irish Sausages

Across the Irish Sea, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland boast their own unique sausage traditions. Irish sausages are generally made with finely ground pork, resulting in a smoother texture compared to their British counterparts. They are often seasoned with a subtle mix of white pepper, mace, and nutmeg, giving them a delicate flavour that complements their juicy texture. A beloved component of the traditional Irish breakfast, these sausages are frequently enjoyed with soda bread and a hearty serving of baked beans.

Welsh Glamorgan Sausage

In Wales, the Glamorgan sausage offers a delightful vegetarian alternative. Named after the historic county of Glamorgan, this sausage is made from a mixture of cheese (typically Caerphilly), leeks, and breadcrumbs. The blend is seasoned with herbs such as parsley and thyme, then shaped into sausages and fried until golden. The Glamorgan sausage showcases the rich dairy heritage of Wales and provides a flavourful, meat-free option that is both satisfying and delicious.

The Diversity of British and Irish Sausages

The regional varieties of sausages across the British Isles are a testament to local traditions, ingredients, and culinary creativity. Each type, with its distinct flavour and preparation method, offers a unique taste of the region from which it comes. Whether you’re savouring the peppery punch of a Cumberland, the herbal notes of a Lincolnshire, or the creamy richness of a Glamorgan, these sausages provide a delicious connection to the heritage and culture of their respective areas.

Next time you tuck into a traditional breakfast or a hearty dinner, take a moment to appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind these beloved sausages. From Scotland to Cornwall, and across to Ireland, the sausages of the British Isles are more than just food—they are a celebration of regional identity and culinary tradition.

Sandford Orchards Triumphs With 'Lost Apple' Ciders at UK's Oldest Cider Competition

Sandford Orchards is celebrating a massive victory at the Devon County Show after winning a stunnig seven out of a potential nine medals, Reserve Champion and Supreme Champion with ciders created using ancient apple varieties  which were recently discovered as part of Sandford Orchards' innovative DNA mapping project.

Said Barny Butterfield, founder of Sandford Orchards: “ We were able to press long-forgotten apple varieties which were discovered whilst we were working with the University of Bristol to uncover and preserve lost cider apple cultivars. 

"We entered the resulting ciders into The Westcountry Cider Championships: And they swept the board! We're really thrilled with earning these medals which are a celebration of our efforts to find and rescue the very best apples that produce the most delicious cider.”

Sandford Orchards is leading a DEFRA funded Innovate UK project with Keith Edwards, Emeritus Professor of Crop Genetics at Bristol University, to identify and map apple varieties in their ancient orchards and beyond. 

By punching a tiny hole in leaves from individual trees, they are obtaining samples for DNA fingerprinting from thousands of apple trees with the aim of locating, preserving and propagating unique and threatened varieties. The results of their research will assist them in efforts to save lost apple trees and plan for diversity and climate-resilience in their orchards.

Barny adds: "This is beyond exciting, we were hoping we'd uncover something special, but we never imagined that the results would be so strong. 

"There's been tragic, generational loss of orchards in the West of England, with glorious varieties quietly disappearing from our landscape, and, of course, with them recipes of centuries of cider makers. This stops right now!

"To my mind this is an utterly remarkable result, a rebuke from the old orchards. I feel we've been neglecting our role as custodians, we've simply forgotten to listen and to look and to taste, and here is the most fabulous evidence of what can be done if we make the effort to understand the huge diversity of fruit we have at our fingertips."

James Crowden, cider maker and author of 'Cider Country' was one of the cider judges at the show. He says: “This cider is rich, complex, fruity with depth and subtlety reminiscent of cider from 50 years back. It celebrates the rich harvest from old Devon cider apple trees whose names we've forgotten.  It's a blast from the past and a stepping stone into the future!'

For further information on Sandford Orchards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk, follow Sandford Orchards on X, Facebook and Instagram.  

New Lemon Crème from Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman Lemon Crème is made in a simple and traditional way. Just like in a home kitchen! 

The ingredients are just  milk, cream  and lemons. So Bonne Maman Lemon Crème is a delicious and utterly divine new dessert offering bursts of fresh citrus flavours. 

It's velvet smooth and luscious and each and every spoonful of this classic dessert contains tiny pieces of heavenly lemon zest to tantalise your taste buds.

This new flavour sits proudly at the side of the Bonne Mamanb dessert range, which offers you lovely desserts for every day from Bonne Maman, including s delicious Salted Caramel Crème plus seven other alight fruit and chocolate mousses. And because they're from Bonne Maman you can be confidant that they are all carefully made to traditional and uncomplicated recipes.

You'll find them in packs of 2 x 90g. New Bonne Maman Lemon Crème is available now from Waitrose Stores and Morrisons stores at rrp £2.20. Further retailers will be announced by September.

Perfecting Your Sourdough Starter: A Comprehensive Guide

Several days ago we covered a recently established and award-winning artisan baker  Dave de la Riviere who runs runs Your Davey Bread, which uses sourdough in its bread baking   (https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/05/weekend-baker-wins-britains-best-loaf.html) so we decided to run a feature on perfecting your sourdough starter.

Sourdough bread, with its delightful tang and rustic appeal, has become a favourite for many home bakers. 

At the heart of every great sourdough loaf lies a well-maintained starter—a living culture of flour and water teeming with wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. Mastering the art of the sourdough starter can elevate your baking from good to extraordinary. Here's how to perfect your sourdough starter.

Understanding the Basics

What is a Sourdough Starter?

A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that has been fermented by wild yeast and bacteria. This culture serves as a natural leavening agent, giving sourdough bread its characteristic flavour and texture. Unlike commercial yeast, which is a single strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a sourdough starter contains a diverse community of microorganisms, each contributing to the complex profile of the bread.

Getting Started: Creating Your Starter

Ingredients:

Whole grain flour (such as whole wheat or rye)

Water (preferably filtered or non-chlorinated)

Day 1: Mixing

In a clean jar or bowl, combine 50g of whole grain flour with 50g of water. Stir until you have a thick, smooth paste.

Cover loosely with a lid or a cloth to allow airflow while preventing contamination.

Leave the mixture at room temperature (20-24°C) for 24 hours.

Day 2-5: Feeding

Discard half of the starter mixture.

Add 50g of whole grain flour and 50g of water to the remaining mixture. Stir well.

Repeat this process every 24 hours. You should start to notice bubbles and a slight rise in the mixture, indicating that fermentation is occurring.

Transitioning to Maintenance: A Healthy Routine

By day 5-7, your starter should be active, bubbly, and have a pleasant, tangy aroma. Now, it's time to switch to a maintenance routine to keep your starter healthy and ready for baking.

Feeding Schedule:

Discard half of your starter (or use it in a recipe).

Feed the remaining starter with 50g of flour and 50g of water. Stir well.

Continue this feeding routine every 24 hours if kept at room temperature, or every 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator.

Flour Choice:

While whole grain flour kickstarts the fermentation process, you can switch to all-purpose or bread flour for maintenance. However, periodically feeding with whole grain flour can boost microbial diversity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Lack of Activity:

Ensure your starter is kept in a warm environment (around 24°C).

Use non-chlorinated water, as chlorine can inhibit yeast growth.

Give it time. Some starters take longer to become fully active.

Hooch Formation:

Hooch is a layer of liquid that forms on top of the starter, indicating that it's hungry. Stir it back in and feed your starter more frequently.

Unpleasant Odour:

An off smell can indicate an imbalance in your starter. Discard more starter and feed with whole grain flour to restore balance.

Using Your Sourdough Starter

When your starter is bubbly and doubles in size within 4-6 hours of feeding, it's ready to use. Incorporate it into your favourite sourdough recipes for a delicious, tangy loaf with a perfect crumb and crust.

Storing Your Starter

If you bake infrequently, store your starter in the refrigerator. Feed it once a week to keep it healthy. For long-term storage, you can dry your starter into a powder and rehydrate it when needed.

Perfecting your sourdough starter requires patience and attention to detail, but the rewards are well worth the effort. With a bit of practice, you'll develop a robust, reliable starter that produces exceptional sourdough bread every time. Happy baking!

Cheese Gifts for Father's Day: A Savoury Celebration

Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the fathers and father figures in our lives. 

While traditional gifts like ties and gadgets are always appreciated, why not surprise dad with something a bit more unique and indulgent this year?

Cheese gifts offer a delectable and sophisticated way to celebrate Father’s Day, catering to dads who appreciate the finer things in life.

The Perfect Cheese Board

Creating a customised cheese board is a thoughtful and delicious gift that can be tailored to your dad’s tastes. Here’s how to assemble the perfect cheese board:

Selection of Cheeses: Choose a variety of cheeses to provide a range of flavours and textures. Consider including:

Aged Cheddar: A robust and sharp cheese that’s a classic favourite.

Brie: A creamy, soft cheese with a mild, buttery flavour.

Blue Cheese: For dads who enjoy bold, tangy flavours.

Goat Cheese: A soft, tangy option that pairs well with fruits and honey.

Manchego: A firm, Spanish cheese with a nutty flavour.

Accompaniments: Enhance the cheese board with a selection of accompaniments such as:

Crackers and Bread: Offer a variety of textures, from crispy crackers to rustic baguette slices.

Fruits: Fresh and dried fruits like grapes, figs, and apples complement the cheeses beautifully.

Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and pecans add a crunchy contrast.

Condiments: Include a selection of jams, honey, and chutneys for added sweetness and complexity.

Presentation: Arrange the cheeses and accompaniments on a wooden board or slate platter. Add some decorative touches with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a visually appealing presentation.

Cheese Subscription Boxes

For a gift that keeps on giving, consider a cheese subscription box. These services deliver a curated selection of artisanal cheeses to your dad’s doorstep each month. It’s a fantastic way for him to discover new and exciting cheeses from around the world. Many subscription services also include tasting notes and pairing suggestions, enhancing the overall experience.

Cheese and Wine Pairing Kit

Create a luxurious experience with a cheese and wine pairing kit. Select a variety of cheeses and pair them with carefully chosen wines. Here’s a guide to some classic pairings:

Camembert and Champagne: The creamy texture of Camembert pairs wonderfully with the crisp bubbles of Champagne.

Gouda and Merlot: The nutty sweetness of Gouda complements the fruity, velvety notes of Merlot.

Roquefort and Sauternes: The intense, tangy flavour of Roquefort is balanced by the rich sweetness of Sauternes.

Include detailed tasting notes and pairing suggestions to guide your dad through the experience, making it an educational as well as indulgent gift.

Cheese-Making Kit

For the adventurous dad who enjoys hands-on activities, a cheese-making kit can be a delightful and engaging gift. These kits typically include all the necessary ingredients and equipment, along with step-by-step instructions. Whether it’s crafting mozzarella, ricotta, or even a simple farmhouse cheese, this gift provides a fun and rewarding culinary adventure.

Personalised Cheese Tools

Complement your cheese gift with a set of personalised cheese tools. Engraved cheese knives, boards, and markers add a special touch and make the gift even more memorable. Look for high-quality materials like stainless steel and bamboo for a durable and stylish presentation.

Don't forget some suitable ales and/or wines to accompany the cheeses.

This Father’s Day, step away from the usual gift options and surprise your dad with a thoughtful cheese gift. Whether it’s a meticulously curated cheese board, a cheese subscription box, a cheese and wine pairing kit, a cheese-making kit, or personalised cheese tools, these gifts celebrate his love for fine food and offer a delightful experience. After all, a deliciously savoury gift is a perfect way to say “thank you” to the dads who bring so much joy to our lives.

A Guide to Pairing Chocolates and Wines

Indulging in the luxurious combination of chocolates and wines can elevate any occasion, whether it's a cosy night in or a sophisticated gathering. 

The intricate flavours of fine chocolates, when paired with the right wines, create a symphony of taste that delights the senses. Here’s a guide to help you master the art of pairing chocolates and wines.

Understanding the Basics

The key to a successful pairing lies in balancing the flavours and intensities of both the chocolate and the wine. Generally, the wine should be at least as sweet as the chocolate to avoid any bitterness. Additionally, matching the intensity of the chocolate with the wine ensures neither overpowers the other.

Dark Chocolate

Wine Pairing: Red Wines

Dark chocolate, with its rich, robust flavour, pairs beautifully with red wines. The higher the cocoa content, the more intense the chocolate, requiring an equally bold wine. Here are some ideal pairings:

Cabernet Sauvignon: The deep, fruity notes and firm tannins of a Cabernet Sauvignon complement the bittersweet richness of dark chocolate.

Zinfandel: Known for its bold fruit flavours and spicy undertones, Zinfandel pairs well with the complexity of dark chocolate, enhancing its depth.

Shiraz: With its peppery finish and rich berry flavours, Shiraz offers a striking contrast to the intense bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a harmonious balance.

Milk Chocolate

Wine Pairing: Dessert Wines and Light Reds

Milk chocolate’s creamy, sweet profile pairs well with lighter wines that offer a balance of acidity and sweetness. Consider these options:

Pinot Noir: The subtlety and light body of Pinot Noir, with its red fruit flavours, complement the smoothness of milk chocolate without overwhelming it.

Merlot: Merlot’s soft tannins and plum-like sweetness enhance the caramel and vanilla notes in milk chocolate.

Port: The rich, sweet character of Port, particularly Ruby Port, pairs seamlessly with milk chocolate, creating a luscious, indulgent experience.

White Chocolate

Wine Pairing: Sweet and Sparkling Wines

White chocolate, with its creamy texture and buttery sweetness, pairs best with wines that are light, fruity, and slightly acidic. Here are some delightful pairings:

Moscato d'Asti: This light, bubbly wine with its sweet, peachy notes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of white chocolate.

Riesling: A sweet Riesling, with its high acidity and fruity undertones, balances the creamy, buttery flavours of white chocolate.

Prosecco: The crisp, fruity bubbles of Prosecco cut through the richness of white chocolate, creating a delightful and refreshing pairing.

Flavoured Chocolates

When pairing wines with flavoured chocolates, it’s essential to consider the dominant flavour in the chocolate. Here are some common flavours and their ideal wine pairings:

Mint Chocolate: Pairs well with a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Shiraz, where the bold flavours of the wine can stand up to the strong minty notes.

Orange Chocolate: The citrus notes in orange chocolate complement the fruity characteristics of a Zinfandel or a Grenache.

Nutty Chocolate: Chocolates with nuts, such as hazelnut or almond, pair wonderfully with a creamy Chardonnay or an oaked Viognier.

Practical Tips for Pairing

Start Light: Begin with lighter chocolates and wines and gradually move to darker, more intense options.

Match Sweetness: Ensure the wine is as sweet, if not sweeter, than the chocolate to avoid any bitterness.

Experiment: Personal preferences play a significant role in pairing. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect match.

Cleanse the Palate: Have a palate cleanser, such as water or plain crackers, handy to refresh your taste buds between different pairings.

Pairing chocolates and wines is an exquisite way to explore and enjoy the complex flavours of both. Whether you prefer the boldness of dark chocolate with a robust red or the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with a sparkling wine, there’s a perfect pairing for every palate. So, next time you’re looking to indulge, consider these pairings and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey. Cheers to the perfect pairing!

Celebrate Father's Day With St Michel Choco Cakes

Father's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your appreciation than with a delightful treat? This year, make the day extra special with St Michel Choco Cakes. These delectable cakes are perfect for celebrating the dads in our lives who deserve nothing but the best.

A Sweet Tradition

Father's Day is a time-honoured tradition, giving us the chance to express our gratitude for the love, guidance, and support our fathers provide. Whether your dad has a sweet tooth or simply enjoys a well-made treat, St Michel Choco Cakes are sure to bring a smile to his face.

The Perfect Gift

St Michel Choco Cakes are crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients to ensure a rich, indulgent flavour. These cakes are a perfect blend of chocolatey goodness, offering a melt-in-the-mouth experience that is hard to beat. They come in a variety of forms, making it easy to find the perfect treat for your dad.

Why Choose St Michel?

Quality Ingredients: St Michel prides itself on using only the finest ingredients. Each cake is made with love, ensuring a delicious taste that stands out from the rest.

Authentic Flavour: With a commitment to tradition, St Michel has been perfecting their recipes for years. Their choco cakes are a testament to their dedication to quality and authenticity.

Convenience: St Michel Choco Cakes are readily available at your local supermarket or online, making it easy to grab a box or two in time for Father's Day.

Ideas to Celebrate

Here are some fun and thoughtful ways to incorporate St Michel Choco Cakes into your Father's Day celebrations:

Breakfast in Bed: Start the day off right by surprising your dad with a breakfast tray filled with his favourite morning beverages and a selection of St Michel Choco Cakes. Pair the cakes with fresh fruit and perhaps a side of yoghurt for a balanced yet indulgent breakfast.

Picnic in the Park: If the weather is nice, why not plan a picnic? Pack a basket with sandwiches, snacks, and a box of St Michel Choco Cakes. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon outdoors, celebrating your dad amidst nature.

Movie Marathon: Set up a cosy movie marathon at home with a line-up of your dad's favourite films. Make it even more special by preparing a snack platter featuring St Michel Choco Cakes. They’re perfect for nibbling on during a movie.

Tea Time Treat: If your dad enjoys a good cup of tea, arrange an afternoon tea session with an assortment of teas and St Michel Choco Cakes. The rich, chocolatey flavour of the cakes pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea.

Making Memories

Father's Day is about more than just gifts; it's about creating lasting memories. Spending time together, enjoying delicious treats, and celebrating the special bond you share is what makes the day truly meaningful.

So this Father’s Day, let St Michel Choco Cakes be a part of your celebration. Whether you're sharing a quiet moment over a cup of tea or enjoying a fun-filled picnic, these delightful cakes are sure to make the day unforgettable. Here’s to all the amazing dads out there – thank you for everything you do!

https://www.stmichel.com/uk/en/choco-cakes

Celebrating Spring Bank Holiday: Delightful Foods and Drinks for Picnics and Home Feasts

Spring Bank Holiday, a cherished time here in the UK, marks the perfect occasion to enjoy the blossoming season with friends and family. 

Whether you're planning a picturesque picnic in the countryside or a cosy home feast, we've curated a selection of delectable foods and refreshing drinks to elevate your celebrations.

Picnics: Embrace the Outdoors with Tasty Treats

1. Sandwiches and Wraps

A picnic isn't complete without a variety of sandwiches and wraps. Opt for classic fillings like:

Cucumber and Cream Cheese: Refreshing and light, perfect for a spring day.

Coronation Chicken: A flavourful blend of cooked chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, and mango chutney.

Egg and Cress: Simple yet delicious, combining boiled eggs with fresh cress and a touch of mayonnaise.

2. Savoury Pies and Quiches

Prepare bite-sized pies and quiches for an easy-to-eat treat. Some popular choices include:

Mini Pork Pies: A traditional British favourite, ideal for picnics.

Vegetable Quiche: Packed with seasonal vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.

3. Fresh Salads

Bring a burst of colour and flavour with vibrant salads:

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then sprinkle with fresh basil.

Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a tangy lemon dressing.

4. Sweet Treats

End your picnic on a sweet note with these delightful desserts:

Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam: A quintessential British treat that everyone loves.

Strawberries and Cream: Simple yet indulgent, capturing the essence of spring.

5. Refreshing Drinks

Stay hydrated and refreshed with these drinks:

Homemade Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and water create a thirst-quenching beverage.

Pimm's No. 1 Cup: A classic British cocktail made with Pimm's, lemonade, and a medley of fresh fruits and mint.

Home Feasts: Indulge in Comfort and Flavour

1. Roast Lamb

A Spring Bank Holiday feast isn't complete without a succulent roast. Roast lamb, seasoned with rosemary and garlic, pairs perfectly with:

Roast Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.

Mint Sauce: Adds a fresh and tangy flavour to the lamb.

2. Seasonal Vegetables

Celebrate spring's bounty with an array of seasonal vegetables:

Asparagus: Simply grilled with a touch of olive oil and sea salt.

New Potatoes: Boiled and tossed with butter and fresh herbs.

3. Fish and Seafood

For a lighter main course, consider fresh fish or seafood:

Grilled Salmon: Served with a dill and mustard sauce.

Prawn Cocktail: A retro classic that never goes out of style, featuring prawns in a Marie Rose sauce.

4. Vegetarian Options

Cater to all dietary preferences with these vegetarian dishes:

Stuffed Peppers: Filled with couscous, feta cheese, and Mediterranean vegetables.

Mushroom Wellington: A hearty and satisfying alternative to meat.

5. Decadent Desserts

End your feast with a show-stopping dessert:

Eton Mess: Crushed meringue, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream create a heavenly combination.

Rhubarb Crumble: Tart rhubarb topped with a buttery crumble, served with custard or ice cream.

6. Celebratory Drinks

Toast to the holiday with these drinks:

Elderflower Fizz: A sparkling concoction of elderflower cordial, prosecco, and fresh mint.

Gin and Tonic: A classic British cocktail, best served with a slice of cucumber or lime.

Whether you're basking in the sunshine with a picnic or enjoying a leisurely home feast, the Spring Bank Holiday is the perfect time to savour seasonal foods and refreshing drinks. Embrace the flavours of spring, gather your loved ones, and celebrate this delightful holiday with joy and culinary delight. Cheers to a wonderful Spring Bank Holiday!

My quick and easy Spag Bol recipe

I love spaghetti bolognese and today I cooked my special recipe for my wife and myself.

Ingredients 

Pack of minced meat. Beef, lamb, turkey or a vegan alternative.

Italian Seasoning

Rosemary

Smoked paprika

One or two tins of chopped tomatoes 

A table spoon of tomato puree (optional)

Spaghetti 45g per person)

Stock Cube

Cornflour mixed with water, just enough to thicken

Fry the meat in a large, deep pan with some oil (Borderfields is best www.borderfields.co.uk) for about 12 minutes.

Then add the tomato puree and the chopped tomatoes, stir well and add stock cube and the herbs. Cook for 20 minutes, then add the cornflour mixture and mix very well. Simmer on a low heat.

Meanwhile add some Borderfields spray lemon infused oil into a pan of boiling water with some salt. (I'm thinking Maldon's fantastic Merchant Range https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2023/07/new-from-maldon-salt-their-innovative.html) 

Then add the spaghetti and cook until it's done to your taste 10 to 15 minutes.

About half way through cooking the spaghetti turn the heat off under the sauce and put a lid on it.

Then serve, topped with Parmesan or some nice extra mature cheese.

Perhaps serve it with a nice Italian red wine, though my wife and I did go very British and had a pot of tea with our meal!

Please do enjoy your meal.

Discovering the Delights of Cooking with Truffles

Cooking with truffles is an adventure into the world of luxurious and aromatic cuisine. These rare and fragrant fungi, often referred to as the "diamonds of the kitchen," bring a unique and earthy flavour that can elevate even the simplest of dishes. 

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, incorporating truffles into your cooking repertoire can be both a thrilling and rewarding experience. 

Here, we’ll explore the basics of truffles, how to source them, and some delightful ways to use them in your cooking.

What Are Truffles?

Truffles are a type of fungus that grow underground, typically in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees like oaks, hazelnuts, and beeches. 

There are several varieties, but the most sought-after are the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) and the white truffle (Tuber magnatum). These fungi are highly prized for their distinctive aroma and flavour, which can range from musky and earthy to garlicky and nutty.

Sourcing Truffles

Finding truffles can be a challenge, as they are not commonly found in local supermarkets. Here are some tips for sourcing truffles:

Specialty Shops and Markets: Many gourmet food shops and high-end supermarkets carry truffles, especially during the truffle season, which typically runs from late autumn to winter.

Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialise in truffles and truffle products, offering fresh truffles, truffle oils, truffle salts, and more. Ensure you choose a reputable seller to guarantee quality.

Truffle Festivals and Markets: If you have the chance, visiting a truffle festival or market can be a fantastic way to purchase fresh truffles directly from producers.

Storing Truffles

Fresh truffles are best consumed soon after purchase, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap them in a paper towel, place them in an airtight container, and change the paper towel daily to absorb any moisture. To preserve truffles for a longer period, consider freezing them or infusing them into oils or butters.

Cooking with Truffles

Cooking with truffles doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some simple yet elegant ways to incorporate truffles into your dishes:

Truffle Butter: One of the easiest ways to enjoy truffles is to make truffle butter. Simply mix finely grated truffle into softened butter, and season with a pinch of salt. Use it to enhance the flavour of pasta, steak, or even a slice of warm bread.

Truffle Oil: Drizzle truffle oil over dishes just before serving to add an instant burst of truffle flavour. It's perfect for finishing pasta, risotto, or pizza.

Truffle Pasta: For a decadent meal, toss freshly cooked pasta with truffle butter, a splash of cream, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Top with thin shavings of fresh truffle.

Truffle Eggs: Elevate your breakfast by adding a touch of truffle. Whisk a few eggs with a bit of cream, cook them into a soft scramble, and finish with a drizzle of truffle oil or shavings of fresh truffle.

Truffle Risotto: Prepare a classic risotto and, just before serving, stir in a knob of truffle butter and a handful of finely grated Parmesan. Garnish with thin truffle slices for an exquisite touch.

Tips for Maximising Truffle Flavour

Use Sparingly: Truffles have a potent flavour, so a little does go a long way. Use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your dishes.

Pair Wisely: Truffles pair well with simple, rich ingredients that allow their flavour to shine, such as eggs, butter, cheese, and cream.

Add at the End: To preserve their delicate aroma, add fresh truffles to your dish just before you serve,, as cooking them too long can diminish their flavour.

Final Thoughts

Cooking with truffles can transform everyday meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. With their unique aroma and flavour, truffles bring a touch of luxury to your kitchen. Whether you’re creating a sumptuous truffle pasta or a simple truffle-infused scramble, these delightful fungi are sure to impress. So, embark on your truffle journey and discover the magic these 'diamonds of the kitchen' can bring to your cooking.

Happy truffle cooking!