Embracing Red Wine in Summer: A Growing Trend and Top Picks for Warm Weather

As the summer months unfold with their promise of long, balmy evenings and sun-soaked days, an intriguing trend has been gaining momentum: more and more people are reaching for a glass of red wine to accompany their summer festivities. 

Traditionally, summer has been synonymous with chilled white wines and refreshing rosés, but red wine is now carving out a place for itself in our warm-weather repertoire. 

Here’s why this shift is happening and which red wines are best suited to the season.

Why Red Wine in Summer?

1. Versatility with Food Pairings

Summer is a time for barbecues, grilled vegetables, and hearty salads, and red wine pairs beautifully with these robust flavours. The right red can enhance the taste of grilled meats, complement the smokiness of a barbecue, and even hold its own against spicy marinades and sauces.

2. Increasing Popularity of Chilled Reds

A significant factor driving the trend is the rising popularity of serving red wines slightly chilled. Light to medium-bodied reds like Beaujolais or Pinot Noir, when served at around 12-14°C, can be incredibly refreshing, offering a vibrant, fruit-forward palate that’s perfect for summer.

3. Exploring Lighter Reds

Summer's warmth often calls for lighter, less tannic red wines. These wines offer a refreshing change from the heavy, full-bodied reds more commonly enjoyed in winter. Varieties like Gamay, Barbera, and Grenache provide bright acidity and fruity notes that are particularly appealing in warmer weather.

4. Cultural Shifts and Experimentation

As wine culture evolves, there is a growing curiosity and willingness to experiment among wine enthusiasts. People are breaking away from traditional wine norms and exploring new ways to enjoy their favourite beverages. This includes discovering how red wine can fit into summer drinking habits.

Best Red Wines for Summer

Here are some of the best red wines to enjoy during the warmer months, selected for their lighter body, bright acidity, and suitability to being served slightly chilled.

1. Beaujolais (Gamay)

Originating from the Beaujolais region in France, wines made from the Gamay grape are light, fruity, and often enjoyed young. Beaujolais Nouveau, released just weeks after harvest, is especially fresh and vibrant, making it an ideal summer red. Serve it slightly chilled to bring out its berry notes and subtle spice.

2. Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a classic choice for summer due to its elegant structure and light body. With flavours ranging from red cherry to earthy undertones, it pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon, chicken, and even vegetable dishes. Try serving a well-chilled Pinot Noir from Burgundy or Oregon.

3. Barbera

Hailing from Italy’s Piedmont region, Barbera wines are known for their high acidity and low tannins, making them refreshing and food-friendly. With notes of red cherry, plum, and sometimes hints of spice, Barbera is versatile and can be enjoyed slightly chilled, enhancing its vibrant fruitiness.

4. Grenache (Garnacha)

Grenache, or Garnacha as it's known in Spain, offers juicy red fruit flavours with a hint of white pepper and herbs. This variety thrives in warm climates, producing wines that are full of flavour yet not too heavy. A chilled Grenache can be a delightful partner to tapas and grilled meats.

5. Zweigelt

An Austrian red, Zweigelt is increasingly popular for summer drinking due to its bright acidity and fresh berry flavours. Light in tannins and often produced in a lighter style, Zweigelt is perfect for serving chilled, pairing well with cold cuts and lighter meat dishes.

Tips for Enjoying Red Wine in Summer

Chill Smartly: While red wine is traditionally served at room temperature, light reds can be chilled to around 12-14°C. Pop the bottle in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

Choose the Right Glassware: Opt for larger, tulip-shaped glasses that allow the wine to breathe, even when chilled.

Pair with Seasonal Foods: Think about what’s on your summer menu and choose red wines that will complement those flavours. Grilled foods, fresh salads, and light cheeses often pair well with lighter reds.

Store Appropriately: Keep your red wines in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality during the hotter months.

As summer continues to shine, there's no reason to sideline red wine. With a plethora of lighter, refreshing options available, you can savour the depth and complexity of red wine even as the temperatures rise. So next time you’re planning a summer gathering, consider adding a chilled red to your wine list—it just might become your new seasonal favourite. Cheers!

First Steps in Cooking with Lavender: A Beginner’s Guide

As my wife and I are eagerly awaiting a 1kg bag of culinary lavender sourced from a small business called Mimea via their Amazon shop, we decided to take a look at writing a blogpost on the culinary uses for lavender and here are the results:

Lavender, with its distinctive aroma and subtle floral notes, is a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. 

Though often merely associated with fragrances and potpourri, lavender’s culinary potential is vast, especially when used in moderation. Here’s how you can begin your culinary journey with this delightful herb.

Understanding Lavender Varieties

Before you start cooking with lavender, it's essential to choose the right variety. Culinary lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia or English lavender, is the best option for cooking. Avoid ornamental lavenders, as they can have a strong, camphor-like flavour that’s unsuitable for culinary use.

Preparing Lavender for Cooking

Lavender can be used both fresh and dried, but dried lavender is more commonly used in cooking. Here’s how to prepare it:

Drying Lavender: If you have fresh lavender, hang it upside down in a cool, dark place for about two weeks until it's completely dry. Once dried, remove the flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container.

Grinding Lavender: For most recipes, you’ll need ground lavender. Use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to achieve a fine texture. This helps to evenly distribute the flavour throughout your dish.

Using Lavender in Cooking

Lavender’s strong flavour means a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and gradually adjust to taste. Here are some tips and simple recipes to get you started:

1. Lavender Sugar

Lavender sugar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in baking and beverages.

Ingredients:

200 grams of granulated sugar

1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

Method:

Combine the sugar and lavender flowers in a food processor.

Pulse until the lavender is finely ground and mixed well with the sugar.

Store in an airtight container and use it to sweeten tea, sprinkle on biscuits, or add to cake batters.

2. Lavender-Infused Honey

This fragrant honey can elevate your morning toast or be used in various desserts.

Ingredients:

250 grams of honey

2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers

Method:

In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey until it’s warm but not boiling.

Stir in the lavender flowers and remove from heat.

Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to infuse, then strain out the lavender.

Store the infused honey in a jar and use as desired.

3. Lavender Shortbread Biscuits

These buttery biscuits are perfect for an afternoon tea.

Ingredients:

225 grams of unsalted butter, softened

100 grams of caster sugar

300 grams of plain flour

1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

Method:

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or Gas Mark 3.

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Gradually add the flour and lavender, mixing until a dough forms.

Roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick and cut into shapes.

Place the biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.honey,sugar,

4) Lavender Scones Recipe (My wife's lavender scones are absolutely delicious!)

Ingredients:

225g self-raising flour

55g butter (cold, diced)

25g caster sugar

150ml milk

2 tsp dried culinary lavender

A pinch of salt

1 egg (beaten, for glazing)

Method:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or Gas Mark 7.

Prepare the Baking Tray:

Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and dried culinary lavender. Mix well.

Add the Butter:

Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Add the Sugar:

Stir in the caster sugar.

Add the Milk:

Make a well in the centre of the mixture and gradually add the milk, mixing with a knife until you have a soft dough. You may not need all the milk.

Knead the Dough:

Lightly flour a surface and gently knead the dough until it is smooth. Do not over-knead.

Shape the Scones:

Roll out the dough to about 2.5cm thick. Using a 5cm round cutter, cut out the scones and place them on the prepared baking tray. Re-roll any remaining dough and repeat.

Glaze the Scones:

Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scones are well-risen and golden brown.

Cool:

Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve warm with butter, clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam. Enjoy your lavender scones with a cup of tea!

Scone Hints:

Ensure your butter is cold before rubbing it into the flour to achieve the best texture.

Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.

If you don't have a round cutter, you can shape the scones with your hands.

Enjoy your delightful lavender scones!

Tips for Cooking with Lavender

Pairing Flavours: Lavender pairs well with other herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and mint. It also complements citrus fruits, berries, and honey.

Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with lavender in savoury dishes. It can add a unique twist to roasted meats, soups, stews, sauces, and salads.

Moderation: Always use lavender sparingly. Its potent flavour can easily overpower a dish if too much is used.

Conclusion

Cooking with lavender can be a delightful way to add a touch of elegance and a unique flavour to your dishes. By starting with simple recipes and gradually incorporating it into your cooking repertoire, you’ll soon discover the many ways this aromatic herb can enhance your culinary creations. Happy cooking!

Celebrating English Wine Week: A Journey Through Vineyards and Vintages

As the summer sun (in theory!) casts its warm glow across the verdant countryside, there is no better time to celebrate English Wine Week. 

This annual event, typically held in late June, showcases the burgeoning wine industry in England, highlighting its growing reputation for producing world-class wines. 

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, English Wine Week offers an array of activities and experiences to deepen your appreciation for this blossoming sector.

The Rise of English Wine

Once considered an underdog in the global wine market, English wine has come a long way in recent decades. The combination of climate change, which has extended the growing season, and advancements in viticulture and winemaking techniques have contributed to the success of English wines. Today, English sparkling wines are particularly celebrated, often rivalling the best Champagnes in international competitions.

Exploring the Vineyards

English Wine Week is the perfect opportunity to visit some of the country's picturesque vineyards. Spread across regions such as Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, and Cornwall, these vineyards offer guided tours, tastings, and the chance to meet the passionate winemakers behind the labels. Whether you prefer the crisp acidity of a classic Bacchus or the elegant bubbles of a traditional method sparkling wine, there is something to suit every palate.

Must-Visit Vineyards:

Nyetimber - Located in the heart of West Sussex, Nyetimber is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. Their vineyard tours provide a comprehensive look at their meticulous production process.

Chapel Down - Situated in Kent, Chapel Down offers a range of wines, from aromatic whites to rich reds. Their guided tours include tastings and the opportunity to explore their beautiful grounds.

Camel Valley - Nestled in the rolling hills of Cornwall, Camel Valley is famous for its award-winning sparkling wines. Their relaxed tours and tastings are a great way to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Events and Activities

Throughout English Wine Week, various events and activities take place across the country, designed to celebrate and promote English wines. From wine-pairing dinners and masterclasses to open vineyard days and pop-up tastings, there is no shortage of ways to get involved.

Highlighted Events:

Wine Masterclasses - Learn from the experts with in-depth sessions on wine tasting, food pairings, and the unique characteristics of English wines.

Pop-Up Tastings - Discover new favourites at pop-up events in cities and towns, often featuring multiple wineries in one location.

Vineyard Picnics - Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a picnic among the vines, complete with a bottle of local wine and a selection of regional delicacies.

Supporting Local Producers

By participating in English Wine Week, you are not only indulging in delightful wines but also supporting local producers and the rural economy. Many English wineries are family-owned businesses that play a vital role in their communities. Your patronage helps sustain these enterprises and encourages the continued growth and innovation of the English wine industry.

Conclusion

English Wine Week is a celebration of the remarkable progress and achievements of English winemakers. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the vineyards, taste a diverse range of wines, and learn about the fascinating journey from grape to glass. So, raise a glass to English Wine Week and toast to the vibrant future of English viticulture. Cheers!

Discovering the Traditional Foods of Bermuda

Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is a small island with a rich culinary heritage influenced by its history and geography. 

While often mistaken for being part of the Caribbean, Bermuda’s cuisine has unique characteristics that set it apart. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey to explore some traditional Bermudian dishes that encapsulate the island’s culture and charm.

1. Bermuda Fish Chowder

A quintessential Bermudian dish, Bermuda Fish Chowder is a hearty, flavourful soup that embodies the island’s maritime heritage. Made with a base of fish stock, this chowder includes a variety of local fish, often rockfish or snapper, along with vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. The distinctive flavour comes from the addition of a dash of sherry pepper sauce and a splash of black rum. This dish is typically enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of parsley, offering a taste of the sea in every spoonful.

2. Hoppin’ John

Hoppin’ John is a traditional dish with roots in African and Caribbean cuisine, reflecting Bermuda’s diverse cultural influences. This dish consists of black-eyed peas cooked with rice, seasoned with onions, garlic, and bacon or salt pork. It’s a staple in Bermudian households, particularly on New Year’s Day, as it’s believed to bring good luck for the coming year. The combination of flavours and textures makes Hoppin’ John a comforting and satisfying meal.

3. Codfish and Potatoes

A beloved Sunday breakfast tradition in Bermuda, codfish and potatoes is a simple yet delectable dish. Salted codfish is soaked overnight to remove excess salt, then boiled with potatoes until tender. The dish is typically served with hard-boiled eggs, sliced bananas, and avocado, creating a delightful contrast of flavours and textures. The final touch is a generous dollop of butter or olive oil and a sprinkle of finely chopped onions or parsley.

4. Spiny Lobster

Bermuda’s spiny lobster season runs from September to March, and during this time, locals and visitors alike savour this delicacy. Unlike the clawed lobsters of the North Atlantic, spiny lobsters have long antennae and a firm, sweet meat. They are often grilled or broiled and served with melted butter, lemon wedges, and a side of peas and rice. The simplicity of preparation allows the natural flavours of the lobster to shine through.

5. Pawpaw Casserole

Pawpaw, or papaya, is a tropical fruit that grows abundantly in Bermuda. Pawpaw casserole is a unique dish that combines ripe pawpaw with ingredients like onions, cheese, and sometimes ground meat, all baked together until golden and bubbly. The result is a sweet and savoury casserole that pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or roasted meats, offering a delightful taste of the tropics.

6. Johnny Bread

Johnny bread, also known as journey bread, is a traditional Bermudian bread made with simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, salt, and water. It is typically fried or baked and served warm, often accompanying fish chowder or enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. Its dense texture and slightly sweet flavour make it a versatile addition to any meal.

7. Rum Swizzle

No exploration of Bermudian cuisine would be complete without mentioning the island’s signature cocktail, the Rum Swizzle. Often referred to as Bermuda’s national drink, this potent punch is made with dark rum, gold rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine, and a dash of Angostura bitters. Traditionally served in a pitcher and stirred (or swizzled) with a wooden swizzle stick, this refreshing beverage is a must-try for anyone visiting the island.

Conclusion

Bermuda’s traditional foods offer a tantalising glimpse into the island’s rich cultural tapestry. From the hearty fish chowder to the sweet and savoury pawpaw casserole, each dish tells a story of the island’s history and the influences that have shaped its cuisine. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, indulging in these culinary delights is a wonderful way to experience the true essence of Bermuda.

French cheeses more popular than ever. Have a French Love Affair with Delicious French Cheese

British consumers are, apparently, a nation of cheese eaters. A WDS report from The Grocer magazine in 2022 revealed that we Brits consume 11.38kg of cheese per person per year. With a total consumption of 758,000kg per year.

And Ocado revealed that demand for French cheeses in Britain rose by a very impressive 46% between January to May in 2021.

There's a chart (from TDM) of top cheese exporters to Britain. They are:

1) Ireland 25.41%

2) France 15.6%

3) Italy 8.6%

96% of Brits are confidant that they can name at least one type of French cheese, Brie hits the top spot closely followed by Camembert.

25% of we Brits eat French cheese several times during the average week whilst 43% eat French cheese at least once a week. 69% of us eat French cheese at least once a month.

In Britain French cheeses and dairy products are considered to be high-quality with historical, well-established culinary traditions and heritage.

Let's take a look at three of the 1,000 different cheeses that are made in France. 

First we'll look at Brie De Meaux.

This is a cow's milk cheese from Northern France. 

How to keep it? Refrigerated at temperatures under 8C.

The recommendations for usage are if you have a piece 500g or larger it must be eaten within 14 days of you receiving it.

If you have smaller pieces then they must be eaten within ten days of you receiving it. However, being totally honest here, the average lifespan of Brie De Meaux in our house is to be counted in minutes rather than days as both my wife and myself do love Brie De Meaux!

It was a perfect example of Brie De Meaux, the white rind was perfect, the centre was gooey and had a rich aroma. The taste was heaven on a cracker. 

Comté cheese originated in the Jura mountains of France (on the French-Swiss border) and is an unpasturised cheese. It's another cheese made with cows' milk. It's a hard cheese and as with Brie De Meaux, should be kept in a refrigerator and eaten within 14 days. Or 14 minutes, as this cheese was very much to our liking. It has a smooth texture and the flavour was nutty and mellow.

And then, last but by no means least, we find a third equally delicious French cheese, Tomme De Savoie Fermier.

Again it is a cheese made with cows' milk. The milk used is raw and salt is added along with specially chosen lactic ferements and animal rennet. So, as with the other cheeses we have written about, this is not suitable for strict vegetarians.

This cheese is a very special cheese. It's described as being "fudgy" and when I opened the cheese removing it from its waxed paper I noticed that it really was "fudgy."

It's a very rich cheese with earthy aromas and the taste is delightfully earthy, gorgeous and pretty unique.

Where can these cheeses be purchased? https://mons-cheese.co.uk and https://lafromagerie.co.uk.

Why not celebrate National Picnic Day and National Picnic Week (June 17-26) with some of the above cheeses? 

If you do, we would suggest purchasing a handy cool bag to make sure your cheese is kept nice and tasty for your picnic munching. Maybe take some celery along, with some salt plus some French butter for your crackers?

We would like to thank our friends in the sector who offered us such wonderful assistance in creating this blogpost. 

If you would like to learn more about the vibrant French dairy sector may we suggest you check out CNIEL at the following link? https://www.filiere-laitiere.fr/en/organizations/cniel

Recipes of Old Shropshire Part 2: The Sweet History of Gingerbread Men and Market Drayton's Claim to Fame

Gingerbread men are a beloved staple of British baking, particularly around the festive season. 

These charming, spicy biscuits have been a favourite treat for centuries, their history intertwined with tradition, legend, and a small market town in Shropshire, Market Drayton, which proudly claims to be the birthplace of gingerbread men.

The Origins of Gingerbread

The story of gingerbread itself is a rich tapestry that stretches back to ancient times. Ginger, the key ingredient, was first cultivated in China around 5,000 years ago and made its way to Europe via the Silk Road. By the 11th century, it had become a prized commodity, often used to mask the taste of preserved meats.

Gingerbread, as we all know it today, began to take shape in Medieval Europe. The earliest forms were more like a spiced bread, often dense and dark, sweetened with honey and flavoured with a variety of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and, of course, ginger. It was a luxurious treat reserved for special occasions, particularly Christmas and other religious festivals.

The Advent of Gingerbread Men

The concept of shaping gingerbread into human figures is attributed to the court of Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century. It is said that the Queen had gingerbread figures made to resemble visiting dignitaries and presented them as gifts. These early gingerbread men were intricate and elaborately decorated, a far cry from the simpler designs we see today.

Market Drayton: The Gingerbread Capital

Market Drayton, a quaint market town in Shropshire, lays claim to being the home of gingerbread men in Britain. The town’s association with gingerbread dates back to the 17th century. It is believed that the recipe was brought to Market Drayton by local baker William Clode, who had connections to the spice trade. Clode’s gingerbread quickly gained popularity, becoming a cherished local delicacy.

The town's unique recipe, characterised by its rich, spicy flavour and the addition of local ingredients, set it apart. Market Drayton gingerbread was traditionally baked as a hard biscuit, ideal for long storage and transportation, which helped its reputation spread far and wide.

Gingerbread Men Today

Today, gingerbread men are an iconic part of British culture, particularly around Christmas time. They adorn holiday tables, are hung as decorations on Christmas trees, and are enjoyed by children and adults alike. The tradition of decorating gingerbread men with icing, sweets, and other adornments continues to bring joy and creativity to kitchens across the UK.

Market Drayton continues to celebrate its gingerbread heritage with pride. The town hosts events and activities that honour this sweet tradition, keeping the legacy of William Clode and his famed gingerbread alive.

Conclusion

From the spiced courts of Queen Elizabeth I to the charming streets of Market Drayton, the history of gingerbread men is a delightful journey through time. This humble biscuit, with its warm, spicy flavour and whimsical shape, has captivated hearts for centuries and remains a beloved symbol of the festive season.

So next time you bite into a gingerbread man, remember the rich history and the little Shropshire town that helped shape this sweet tradition. Enjoy the timeless blend of spice, sweetness, and nostalgia that gingerbread men bring, and perhaps, take a moment to appreciate the story baked into each bite.

Recipes of Old Shropshire Part 1

Shropshire, a historic county in the English Midlands, boasts a rich culinary heritage with several traditional recipes that have been enjoyed for generations. Here are a few classic Shropshire recipes:

Shropshire Fidget Pie

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, diced

2 large onions, sliced

2 large potatoes, thinly sliced

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

1 cup (240ml) cider

2 tbsp flour

2 tbsp butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Shortcrust pastry

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Melt the butter in a large pan and sauté the onions until soft.

Add the pork and cook until browned.

Stir in the flour and cook for a minute.

Add the cider, potatoes, apples, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Roll out the pastry and line a pie dish with half of it.

Pour the filling into the pastry-lined dish and cover with the remaining pastry. Seal and crimp the edges.

Make a small slit in the centre of the pie to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.

Shrewsbury Biscuits

Ingredients:

225g (8 oz) plain flour

150g (5 oz) butter

150g (5 oz) caster sugar

1 egg, beaten

1 lemon, zest only

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking tray.

Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg and lemon zest.

Gradually fold in the flour to form a dough.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.

Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter and place on the prepared tray.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Shropshire Soul Cakes

Ingredients:

225g (8 oz) plain flour

115g (4 oz) butter

115g (4 oz) caster sugar

1 egg

1 tsp mixed spice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

75g (3 oz) currants

2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking tray.

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg.

Sift the flour and spices together, then add to the butter mixture.

Stir in the currants and enough milk to form a soft dough.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds.

Place on the baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Shropshire Pudding

Ingredients:

100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs

100g (3.5 oz) suet

100g (3.5 oz) plain flour

75g (2.5 oz) caster sugar

1 tsp mixed spice

1 tsp baking powder

1 egg, beaten

150ml (5 fl oz) milk

2 tbsp golden syrup

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a pudding basin.

In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, suet, flour, sugar, mixed spice, and baking powder.

Add the beaten egg and milk, stirring until well combined.

Pour the mixture into the greased pudding basin.

Cover with a piece of buttered foil, securing it with string around the basin.

Place the basin in a large pot with enough boiling water to come halfway up the sides.

Cover the pot with a lid and steam the pudding for 1.5 hours, checking the water level occasionally.

Remove the pudding from the basin and serve with golden syrup drizzled on top.

These recipes capture the essence of Shropshire's traditional cuisine, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage and culinary traditions.

The Grandeur of French Cheeses: A Culinary Masterpiece

France, a nation celebrated for its exquisite cuisine and rich gastronomic heritage, stands proudly at the pinnacle of cheese production. 

French cheeses are not just a delight to the palate but also an embodiment of centuries-old traditions, meticulous craftsmanship, and diverse regional influences. 

Here's why French cheeses are amongst the best in the world.

A Rich Tapestry of History and Tradition

The history of French cheese dates back to ancient times, with evidence of cheese-making found in Roman texts. Over centuries, French cheese-making evolved into an art form, with each region developing its unique specialities. This deep-rooted tradition ensures that every piece of cheese carries a story, a heritage, and a commitment to preserving age-old methods.

Unparalleled Variety

France boasts over 1,000 distinct types of cheese, offering an unparalleled variety to cheese lovers. From the creamy, indulgent Brie de Meaux to the sharp and tangy Roquefort, there's a French cheese to suit every palate. This diversity is a testament to the country's varied climates, terrains, and the creativity of its cheese-makers. Whether it's a soft cheese, a hard cheese, a blue cheese, or a goat's cheese, French varieties set the standard for excellence.

Stringent Quality Control

The French take their cheese seriously, with many cheeses enjoying protected status under the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system. This certification guarantees that a cheese is produced in a specific region using traditional methods and ingredients. Such stringent quality control ensures that every bite of an AOC cheese like Camembert de Normandie or Comté is a genuine and superior product.

Artisan Craftsmanship

French cheese-making is often a labour of love, carried out by skilled artisans dedicated to their craft. Many French cheeses are produced on small farms using traditional, labour-intensive methods. This artisanal approach results in cheeses with distinct character and superior quality. The care and attention to detail in every stage of production, from milking the cows to ageing the cheese, are evident in the final product.

Culinary Versatility

French cheeses are incredibly versatile, enhancing a wide range of dishes and culinary experiences. They can be enjoyed on their own, paired with a glass of fine wine, or incorporated into cooking to elevate the flavour of various recipes. The use of cheese in French cuisine, from the humble baguette with Brie to the sophisticated gratin dauphinois, demonstrates its integral role in French gastronomy.

Cultural Significance

In France, cheese is more than just food; it's a cultural symbol. The French tradition of the cheese course, typically enjoyed before dessert, underscores the importance of cheese in daily life. Sharing a cheese platter is a cherished social activity, reflecting the communal and convivial spirit of French culture.

Conclusion

French cheeses are a culinary treasure, revered for their history, variety, quality, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Their global reputation is well-deserved, as they consistently offer some of the finest and most flavourful cheeses in the world. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, exploring the world of French cheese is a journey that promises to delight and inspire.

Indulge in the rich, creamy, and diverse world of French cheeses, and experience for yourself why they are celebrated as the best in the world. Bon appétit!

To learn more please visit https://www.filiere-laitiere.fr/en/milk-products/cheeses

New Chocolate Cake from Bonne Maman

Leading specialist French treats brand Bonne Maman has caused ripples of excitement amongst their many UK fans, by announcing the launch of an utterly delicious new Chocolate Cake to its UK range of delectable goodies.

Simply made with in excess of 20% cocoa, and best quality butter, eggs and flour, these fantastically chocolatey new Chocolate Cakes are an absolutely gorgeous little treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, or a drink of chocolate, at any time of the day. 

And why not consider it to be the perfectly heavenly dessert, topping it off with cream, crème fraîche or ice cream and some fresh berries, too?

Individually wrapped to preserve the flavour and lovely softness, Bonne Maman Chocolate Cake comes in packs of seven, available at first at Waitrose stores or online from Ocado at a suggested price of £3.00.

Introducing the Sweet Sensation: Brussels Sprout Cake: AKA Ellie's Delight

We suggest that you don't use sprouts to decorate your sprout cake!

When we think of Brussels sprouts, many of us might recall childhood dinners where we were urged to finish our greens. 

However, these miniature cabbages have recently undergone a delightful transformation, finding their way into the world of baking. 

Yes, you read that right! Brussels sprout cake is here, and it's sweet, moist, and it's utterly irresistible.

A Surprising Ingredient

Brussels sprouts, often relegated to the savoury side of our meals, have a subtle sweetness that can be coaxed out when paired with the right ingredients. 

When finely grated, these little green gems meld seamlessly into cake batter, adding moisture and a delicate flavour that pairs beautifully with classic baking spices.

The Recipe

Here’s a simple yet delectable recipe for a Brussels sprout cake that will have your friends and family guessing the secret ingredient.

Ingredients:

200g Brussels sprouts, finely grated

200g plain flour

150g caster sugar

100g light brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

120ml vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

120ml buttermilk

For the frosting:

200g cream cheese, softened

100g unsalted butter, softened

200g icing sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

Method:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm round cake tins. Trim the Brussels sprouts, removing any tough outer leaves, and finely grate them. Set aside.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, caster sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Stir in the grated Brussels sprouts.

Create the Batter:

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cake:

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting:

While the cakes are cooling, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Assemble the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake on top and frost the top and sides. Decorate with a sprinkle of lemon zest or some finely grated Brussels sprouts for a bit of fun.

The Taste Test

The result is a beautifully moist cake with a unique twist. The Brussels sprouts add a subtle complexity, complemented by the warmth of the spices. The cream cheese frosting, with its hint of lemon, provides a tangy contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake.

Final Thoughts

Brussels sprout cake might sound unconventional, but it’s a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging your sweet tooth. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and surprise their taste buds with something new. Give it a try—you might just find a new favourite!