Easy and Affordable Ways to Promote Your Food Business

We understand that times are tough for food businesses. 

Whether you're running a café, restaurant, food van, or catering service, keeping customers engaged and attracting new ones can be challenging—especially when marketing budgets are tight. 

The good news is that there are plenty of easy, cheap, or even free ways to promote your food business effectively. 

Here are some strategies to help you boost visibility and sales without breaking the bank.

1. Leverage Social Media (Free)

Social media is one of the most powerful and cost-effective tools for promoting your food business.

Post high-quality photos of your dishes to entice customers.

Use Instagram Stories, Facebook Reels, and TikTok to showcase behind-the-scenes content, daily specials, or customer testimonials.

Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages promptly.

Run interactive polls, Q&A sessions, or giveaways to keep your followers engaged.

2. Encourage User-Generated Content (Free)

Your customers can be your best marketers. Encourage them to share their dining experiences on social media by:

Creating a unique hashtag for your business.

Running a contest where customers share their meals for a chance to win a free dish or discount.

Featuring user-generated content on your social media pages to build a sense of community.

3. Optimise Your Google Business Profile (Free)

Having an up-to-date Google Business Profile can increase your visibility in local searches. Ensure that:

Your address, contact details, and opening hours are correct.

You upload high-quality photos of your food and premises.

You encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews.

You respond to reviews to show engagement and appreciation.

4. Partner with Local Businesses (Free or Low Cost)

Collaboration is a great way to expand your reach. Consider:

Partnering with local coffee shops, bakeries, local breweries, or markets for cross-promotions.

Offering exclusive discounts to employees of nearby businesses.

Featuring local suppliers or artisans on your menu to create mutual support.

5. Offer Discounts and Loyalty Rewards (Low Cost)

Everyone loves a good deal! Implementing a simple loyalty programme can encourage repeat customers.

Provide a stamp card where customers earn a free item after a set number of purchases.

Offer a small discount for referrals or first-time visitors.

Run limited-time promotions to create a sense of urgency.

6. Engage with Local Media and Bloggers (Free or Low Cost)

Local food bloggers and journalists are always looking for new places to review.

Reach out to them with a friendly email introducing your business.

Invite them for a complimentary meal/drink in exchange for an honest review.

Offer to collaborate on a giveaway to increase exposure.

7. Host Small Events or Tasting Sessions (Low Cost)

Hosting an event doesn’t have to be expensive.

Organise a tasting session for new menu items.

Host a cooking demo or workshop.

Collaborate with local musicians or artists for a themed evening.

8. Make the Most of Email Marketing (Free or Low Cost)

Email marketing remains a powerful tool for customer retention.

Collect emails from customers through your website or in-store.

Send a monthly newsletter with updates, promotions, and special offers.

Personalise emails with customer names and tailored recommendations.

9. Get Listed on Food Delivery Apps and Directories (Varied Cost)

If you offer takeaway or delivery, make sure you're visible on food apps and directories like:

Just Eat, Deliveroo, or Uber Eats (if applicable to your area).

Local online food directories or community pages.

Your own website with an easy-to-use online ordering system.

10. Engage with Your Community (Free or Low Cost)

Building relationships with your local community can generate loyal customers.

Participate in local markets, fairs, food fairs, or charity events.

Sponsor a small community event or sports team.

Offer a “pay-it-forward” scheme where customers can donate a meal to someone in need.

Final Thoughts

Promoting your food business doesn’t have to be expensive. By using these simple and affordable strategies, you can increase visibility, attract new customers, and keep existing ones engaged. The key is consistency—stay active, be creative, and always provide great food and service.

Of course, That's Food and Drink will help promote your business for free. Please get in touch if we can help.

Which of these strategies will you try first? Let us know in the comments or share your own tips for food business success!

How to Prevent and Deal with Pantry Moth Infestations

Pantry moths, such as the Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella), the Mediterranean flour moth (Ephestia kuehniella), and the warehouse moth (Ephestia elutella), are a common household nuisance.

 These pests infiltrate kitchens and pantries, contaminating dry goods like flour, grains, nuts, dried fruit, and pet food. 

A single infestation can rapidly spread, making eradication challenging. This guide will help you prevent and eliminate pantry moth infestations effectively.

Identifying a Pantry Moth Infestation

The first sign of an infestation is often the presence of small, greyish-brown moths fluttering around your kitchen. However, the real problem lies in their larvae, which hatch from eggs laid in food packages. Look out for:

Webbing in food containers, on pantry shelves, or inside packaging. 

Tiny white or pinkish larvae crawling inside food products.

Small brown pupae in crevices or corners of cupboards.

Adult moths flying near food storage areas.

Preventing an Infestation

1. Store Food Properly

Keep all dry goods in airtight glass, metal, or heavy-duty plastic containers.

Avoid storing food in paper or thin plastic packaging, as larvae can chew through them.

Store bulk grains, flour, and nuts in the freezer for at least a week before placing them in the pantry to kill any eggs or larvae.

Check any flour, grain, parrot food, etc, that you purchase online.

2. Maintain a Clean Pantry

Regularly wipe down shelves with a vinegar and water solution.

Vacuum pantry shelves and corners to remove any eggs or larvae.

Dispose of expired or infested food immediately in a sealed plastic bag outside your home.

3. Monitor for Early Signs

Use pheromone traps designed for pantry moths to catch adult males and disrupt their breeding cycle.

Inspect food packages at the shop before purchasing, checking for holes or webbing.

Eliminating an Existing Infestation

If you already have an infestation, follow these steps to get rid of it:

1. Remove and Dispose of Infested Items

Inspect all food products carefully and discard anything that shows signs of contamination.

Do not simply move infested items to another location, as this can spread the problem.

2. Deep Clean the Pantry

Empty your pantry completely and vacuum all shelves, corners, and cracks.

Wash shelves, walls, and corners with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar.

Use a hairdryer or steam cleaner to target any hidden eggs in cracks and crevices.

3. Use Natural Repellents

Place bay leaves, cloves, or cedar blocks or dried chilli peppers in the pantry to deter moths.

Wipe down shelves with a diluted essential oil solution (such as lavender or peppermint) to repel future infestations.

4. Set Up Traps

Use pantry moth pheromone traps to capture remaining adult moths.

Replace traps regularly and monitor for further activity.

Long-Term Prevention

Rotate pantry items frequently and avoid stockpiling large quantities of dry goods.

Keep pet food in sealed containers and avoid leaving it exposed.

Maintain a cool, dry pantry environment, as moths thrive in warm, humid conditions.

By following these preventive measures and acting swiftly at the first sign of an infestation, you can keep your kitchen and pantry free from moths and protect your food from contamination. 

A little vigilance goes a long way in maintaining a pest-free home!

Food Supplements to Help Combat CFS, ME, and Long COVID

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), and Long COVID can be debilitating conditions, often characterised by persistent fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, and a host of other symptoms that significantly impact daily life. 

While there is no one-size-fits-all cure, many people find targeted food supplements can help support energy levels, immune function, and overall well-being. Below are some of the most promising supplements that may help manage symptoms of these conditions.

1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production. Many people with CFS, ME, and Long COVID report improvements in energy levels when supplementing with CoQ10. Studies suggest that it may help combat oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, which are often implicated in these conditions.

2. Magnesium

Magnesium is essential for muscle function, nerve health, and energy production. Many individuals with chronic fatigue conditions are found to be deficient in magnesium. Supplementing with magnesium (especially in well-absorbed forms like magnesium glycinate or magnesium malate) may help reduce muscle pain, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall energy levels.

3. Vitamin B12 and B-Complex Vitamins

B vitamins, particularly B12, play a vital role in energy metabolism and nervous system health. Some people with CFS, ME, and Long COVID experience significant benefits from supplementing with B12, especially in its methylcobalamin form. A full B-complex supplement can also support brain function and reduce feelings of fatigue.

4. D-Ribose

D-ribose is a naturally occurring sugar that plays a critical role in ATP (energy) production. Research suggests D-ribose supplementation can improve energy levels, reduce muscle pain, and enhance overall well-being in people with CFS and fibromyalgia.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s, found in fish oil or algae supplements, have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They can help support brain function, reduce joint and muscle pain, and improve cardiovascular health, all of which are relevant for people suffering from post-viral fatigue conditions.

6. L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative that helps transport fatty acids into cells to be used for energy. Some studies suggest that people with CFS and ME may have lower levels of carnitine, and supplementation may help improve energy levels and reduce muscle fatigue.

7. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for immune function and overall health. Many people with chronic illnesses, particularly those who spend a lot of time indoors due to fatigue, have low vitamin D levels. Supplementing with vitamin D3 can support immune resilience and improve mood.

8. Adaptogenic Herbs (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Ginseng)

Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and improve energy levels. Ashwagandha and Rhodiola have been shown to reduce fatigue, enhance mental clarity, and support adrenal function, which may be beneficial for those suffering from post-viral fatigue syndromes.

9. Probiotics and Gut Health Support

A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall well-being, immune function, and energy production. Many people with CFS, ME, and Long COVID experience digestive issues, which can be improved with high-quality probiotics, prebiotics, and gut-supporting nutrients like L-glutamine and zinc.

10. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Glutathione

NAC is a precursor to glutathione, the body's most potent antioxidant. It can help reduce oxidative stress, support detoxification, and improve respiratory health—an important consideration for those dealing with Long COVID.

While supplements can be a helpful tool in managing symptoms of CFS, ME, and Long COVID, they should be used as part of a broader approach that includes proper nutrition, pacing strategies, and medical guidance. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness for your specific needs.

Have you tried any of these supplements? Please share your experiences in the comments below!

Nick Butter backs Super Broccoli Company

Marathon man Nick Butter has joined a government-backed British science company called SmarterNaturally to give more men access to a unique super broccoli soup.

Nick, who famously ran a marathon in every country in the world and raised millions for prostate cancer charities, is working to shine a light on the benefits of this wonderful super broccoli.

He joined forces with the company because of their uniquely powerful super-broccoli which offers athletes a cutting edge, sport-legal, all-natural performance boost that simultaneously safeguards their long-term health – particularly for men.

While best known for his mammoth running feats and eleven world record successes, Nick’s greatest achievements are arguably raising millions for the fight against prostate cancer. 

Initially inspired by his personal experience of close friends being affected by the disease, his ‘running the world’ campaign - the only person to run a marathon in every country in the world - raised millions for prostate cancer charities. 

Since then, he has raised millions more to further the fight against prostate cancer - and is now working directly with SmarterNaturally to give more men access to science-backed, all-natural and athlete-friendly products which can support their long-term prostate health.

“Broccoli has long been favoured by both prostate cancer clinicians and athletes the world over.  Having a super-broccoli that can support health as well as provide a potential edge for athletes is a win, win.” Said Nick.  

“I am very keen to raise awareness about Prostate Cancer and continue to raise money for Prostate charities, through sport and the work I do, and so working with a company like SmarterNaturally which shares this goal and can simultaneously support my running career is a dream come true.”

SmarterNaturally has spent decades developing its unique super strain of super-broccoli (called ‘GRextra’), which delivers five times the amount of powerful natural active ingredients which helps to repair and maintain a healthy metabolism.

Our metabolism is the process by which our cells produce energy, clear toxins and repair themselves – all of which are essential processes for athletes, and so optimising our metabolism allows us to train harder, perform better and recover faster. 

But there is a large and growing body of scientific evidence to indicate that the key, naturally occurring compound, Sulforaphane, delivered at higher levels by SmarterNaturally’s super-broccoli than by any other source, is also beneficial for early-stage Prostate Cancer and could help to reduce Prostate Cancer risk - alongside a range of other age-related health conditions - through supporting improved metabolic health.

As a world-leading endurance athlete, Nick Butter began using SmarterNaturally’s super-broccoli products to support his training and health as he begins to prepare for his next, almost unimaginable feat - which is still shrouded in secrecy. 

After learning about the potential for these products to also safeguard his long-term prostate health, he’s teamed up with the SmarterNaturally team to help spread the word about the two-pronged benefit of their super-broccoli for men like him and all those interested in athletic performance and long-term health.  

Nick Butter added: “I’ve always loved broccoli, but I never realised it contains active ingredients that help our cells to grow and repair themselves. When you’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, every choice matters, so a super-strength broccoli supplement that supports not only my long-term health, could reduce my prostate cancer risk as well as my training is a no-brainer.”

Following the latest research in sports performance, Nick and many other athletes already focus their training on optimising their metabolism. For example, long-distance runners, cyclists and rowers often focus on so-called “zone 2” training, which helps to improve their endurance. Meanwhile, sprinters and weightlifters prioritise “zone 4” training which helps improve muscle power during short, intense efforts.

SmarterNaturally’s super-broccoli ties directly into this approach by delivering a concentrated hit of natural bioactive ingredients like sulforaphane, which work to repair and maintain our metabolism and drive our cells to become more powerful and more efficient at producing energy. Their GRextra super-broccoli delivers five times more sulforaphane than traditional varieties, making it a uniquely powerful choice for athletes looking for a metabolic boost that supports their performance, endurance, recovery and long-term health.

And while the science is strongest for prostate health, there is also a wealth of research indicating this super-broccoli could support improved health in many other areas, including brain health, heart health,  joint health and even other common forms of cancer - meaning it’s not just men who can reap the benefits of this scientific breakthrough.

“I get approached by lots of brands, but SmarterNaturally immediately caught my eye. Their work is grounded in science, which is so important in the world of supplements and functional food where it’s hard to know who or what to trust. Their products are green and vibrant and bold, which is a refreshing change from the constant pills and bars you normally see. And they’re affordable too – we’re talking just five pounds a week to supercharge your health and training regime,” added Nick.

SmarterNaturally currently has two products, an instant supersoup and BrocAffex, a pouch containing 250g of its unique broccoli powder that can be added to protein shakes or other food and drinks at the point of consumption. 

Both are easy to use and lightweight, making them perfect for travelling or carrying with you during longer activities or trips – and their high strength means eating just one portion a week is enough to see a positive effect, making them more convenient to add to a training plan than a daily supplement tablet. 

These products offer a new way for you to support your health and supercharge your metabolism - and one that’s fully natural, healthy and sport-legal. 

Nick said: “They are such simple products to use, it's affordable and slots into my health and fitness programme really easily.  The science behind the product and its effect on metabolic health is also interesting, with the potential not only to improve my performance, but also to support my recovery and help to protect my joints and long-term health, providing a range of benefits all in one.” 

Broccoli has long been a favourite vegetable of athletes, and for good reason due its natural source of sulforaphane, which boosts our metabolism and supports improved muscle power, endurance and recovery. But standard broccoli delivers very little sulforaphane and this can be destroyed by cooking.  

SmarterNaturally’s super-broccoli delivers five times more sulforaphane, making it far easier and more practical for athletes to add to their diet and training regimes to gain a natural edge. 

Their super-broccoli was developed by scientists at the Quadrum Institute, a centre for food and health research that combines the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals’ endoscopy centre and the University of East Anglia’s Norwich Medical School.

Lead scientist for SmarterNaturally, Professor Richard Mithen, said: “The aim is to help optimise our metabolism. Research suggests that eating a few portions a week could deliver enough sulforaphane and other healthy nutrients to help athletes optimise their metabolism, which is associated with improved muscle function, faster recovery and better long-term general health.” 

The special broccoli was discovered growing wild in Sicily by Professor Richard Mithen. After more than 2 decades of research, it’s now finally available to athletes looking to gain a natural edge.

One portion of BrocAffex super-broccoli powder delivers the same amount of sulforaphane as eating 5+ heads of raw broccoli, and at a similar cost (£5). Cooking broccoli often inactivates the enzyme needed to see health benefits, hence the stipulation of it being raw. 

Laura Knight, Co-Founder and CEO, SmarterNaturally said: “There’s a growing body of research suggesting that getting high levels of sulforaphane from your diet could offer a range of benefits to athletes through optimising their metabolism - including improved muscle power and endurance, faster lactate clearance, quicker recovery, and the long-term protection of joints, muscles and organs from the intense stresses of high-performance sports, reducing both the risk of injury and of health complications later in life.”

https://smarternaturally.com​

New study reveals predicted consumer spending patterns for 2025 as over 1 in 3 expect to increase their spend on food

A new study released by the UK's top Out of Home media and infrastructure company, Clear Channel UK, shows over one in three people expect to increase their spending on food (36%) in 2025 compared to 2024, despite having money saving as their top New Year’s resolution.

Other product categories consumers are expecting to increase spending on include travel (31%), household items (23%), clothing (19%), entertainment (14%), drinks (10%), toiletries/cosmetics (9%), shoes (8%) and bags (6%) while one in five of us (20%) are determined to not increase their spending on any products/services at all.

The study of 2,000 respondents, conducted via OnePoll, also showed Gen Z (41%) and younger Millennials (27%) expect to increase their spending on clothing more than older age groups, while the latter expect to spend more money on food.

Interestingly, 47% of us Brits purchase products specifically to aid them in achieving their New Year’s resolutions, with 44% admitting to ultimately regretting these purchases.

Below is the list of top 10 most popular New Year’s resolutions for 2025:

1. Save more money - 42%

2. Exercise more - 40%

3. Eating healthier - 37%

4. Weight loss - 28%

5.Travel more - 23%

6. Emotional wellbeing - 22%

7. Trying new things/being more adventurous - 16%

8. Being more sustainable - 13%

9. Cutting down on drinking - 11%

10. Spending less money on eating out - 8%

There are also generational disparities when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. A high number of 18-24-year-olds (60%) and 25-34-year-olds (54%) cited money saving as their key goal for 2025. As the ages climb, saving money becomes less common among resolution-makers, with only 44% of 35-44-year-olds, 40% of 45-54-year-olds, 32% of 55-64-year-olds and 26% of 65 and over seeking to adopt frugal living.

Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to focus on emotional well-being as a New Year’s resolution than older generations. Nearly one in three 25-34-year-olds (29%) and 18-24-year-olds (28%) chose emotional wellbeing as their focus for 2025. People aged 44 and over are 10% less likely to focus on emotional wellbeing.

When asked about openness to new brands, Gen Z shopping habits suggest they are more likely to step out of their comfort zone and experiment with new brands than older generations. One in five (21%) of 18-24-year-olds and nearly a quarter of 25-34-year-olds (24%) claim to want to try new brands. That figure is almost three times higher than those aged 45 and over.

Food (47%), clothing (35%), household items (31%), toiletries/cosmetics (28%) and drinks (24%) were revealed as the top product categories people are looking to try from a different brand.

When it comes to main motivators for trying new products, the most popular responses were: when recommended by a friend (52%), when being exposed to advertising (23%), around specific occasions of the year (22%), the beginning of the year (20%) and when the product goes viral (18%).

Other key findings from the study:

- Men (10%) are more likely to consistently stick to their New Year’s resolutions than women (6%).

- Millennials and younger; those aged 18-24 (27%), 25-34 (31%), and 35-44 (25%) are more inclined to try a new brand after being repeatedly exposed to advertising.

- Top reasons for trying new products are affordability, better product reviews, superior quality, brand reputation and dissatisfaction with a current product.

- Men (19%) are more likely to try new brands than women (10%).

- 1 in 5 (19%) of 18-24-year-olds are planning to increase their spending on toiletries and cosmetics - almost double what older generations are planning to spend on the same category.

Ben Hope, who is Marketing Director at Clear Channel, said: ‘’Our study shows while younger generations are prioritising money saving for 2025, they are also more open to trying new brands after becoming aware through advertising - particularly Gen Z and Millennials. 

"This suggests they are a perfect target for marketers who plan to expand their reach. Of course, retailers can effectively leverage Out of Home advertising to influence these audiences. Our study will help brands to better understand key opportunities this year and give them a better idea of how their customers plan to spend their money in 2025.”

Clear Channel UK is one of the UK’s largest Out of Home media and infrastructure companies, operating more than 33,000 advertising sites nationwide and employing 600+ people in 14 locations.

https://www.clearchannel.co.uk/latest/refresh-your-brand-strategy-through-new-years-resolutions

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Half Term Pancake Fun With Bonne Maman

Our friends at Bonne Maman have come up with a great Pancake Day activity. 

This February half term, why not turn your family kitchen into the heart of family fun with creative pancake-making activities?

The Bonne Maman range of fruity Conserves and indulgent Spreads are perfect for creating delicious and delightful pancake masterpieces. 

From cheerful faces made with fresh fruits and spoonfuls of conserve to adorable animal designs, let the kids layer on colour and flavour to make each bite as imaginative as it is delicious. 

Will it be a picture of Dad, a bear covered in Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, a beautiful flower with a jammy centre or a rocket ship coated in Caramelised Apple?

Half term is the perfect time to throw a Pancake Party! Set out a selection of colourful jars of Bonne Maman, some fresh fruits, sprinkles and biscuits to inspire mix-and-match toppings for the whole family to enjoy. Add laughter, creativity, and a little bit of pancake flipping flair, and you've got a recipe for memorable half-term fun!

For more inspiration, Bonne Maman has a fun booklet packed with tips, tricks, jokes and games to keep the pancake fun going all season long. Available to download free from their website: bonnemaman.co.uk/pancakes. Pancake creations shared on Bonne Maman's social media might even win a Bonne Maman Pancake Party Hamper.

Flip, flip, Hurray! 

Pizza Perfection with Matthews Cotswold Flour's Special Pizza Flour

How to create pizza perfection with the dough experts at Matthews Cotswold Flour.

With in excess of 200 years of expertly milling flour in the Cotswolds, Matthews Cotswold Flour understands the right flour is absolutely vital if you want to create the ultimate pizza at home. 

It’s what makes Neapolitan crust bubble and char to perfection, Roman base crackle irresistibly thin, and deep-dish crust rise with enough structure to hold an abundance of delicious toppings.

When choosing the perfect pizza flour, Matthews Cotswold Flour believes there are four main points to look for: 

Protein content

Protein creates gluten, giving the dough its elasticity and structure. Higher protein (12-13%) is ideal for chewy, strong crusts like New York or deep-dish. Lower protein (around 11.5%) works best for thin and crispy Roman-style pizzas.

On the pack, protein will be listed in the nutritional information. Check for flours specifically labelled bread flour or pizza flour.

Finely milled texture

Fine milling means smoother dough that’s easier to stretch and shape. It also gives a better, crispier texture for thinner bases.

Look for keywords like Tipo 00 (Italian for extra-fine) or stoneground for artisan textures.

Matthews Cotswold Tipo 00 Flour is finely milled from durum wheat, creating a delightfully silky dough that’s easy to work with for Roman or Neapolitan-style pizzas.

Ash 

Ash content indicates mineral levels from the wheat grain. Lower ash (around 0.5%) makes for light, refined pizza bases, while higher ash (closer to 0.8%) adds richness and flavour. This is usually noted in artisan or Italian-style flours but is not always listed. Generally, Tipo 00 flours will have a lower ash content.

Matthews Cotswold Pizza Flour balances a moderate ash level for flavour and lightness - ideal for a crispy yet airy crust.

Water absorption

Flour with higher protein (such as 12-13%) absorbs more water, which makes a wetter dough. Wet doughs result in lighter, more airy crusts. Look for flours that can handle higher hydration, listed as strong or bread flours.

Matthews Cotswold Churchill Flour is great for high-hydration doughs like focaccia or sourdough pizza crusts, thanks to its strong gluten network.

Matthews Cotswold Flour’s Bakery Development Manager, Sophie Carey offers her top tips for creating different styles of pizza.

Neapolitan Pizza

What is it? Light, airy, with a crispy charred crust. 

Best flour to use: Cotswold Pizza Flour (12% protein)

Sophie’s top tips:

High heat is key. Bake at 250°C+ for those signature blistered edges.

Hydration is your friend. Aim for 65-70% water in your dough for an airy crumb. This flour’s balance of strength and elasticity makes stretching dough a breeze.

Minimal toppings: Stick to quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil to let the crust shine through.

Roman-Style Pizza

What is it? Thin, crispy - usually rectangular or square.

Best flour to use: Tipo 00 Flour (11.5% protein)

Sophie’s top tips:

Roll it thin. Roman pizza is all about the paper-thin base. Tipo 00's fine texture makes achieving this easy.

Don’t overload it. A lighter crust needs lighter toppings. Think prosciutto, rocket, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Bake until crisp: Get your pizza stone searingly hot in the hottest oven (220-240°C) for that perfect crunch.

Deep-Dish Pizza

What is it? Thick, buttery, and indulgent. It’s baked in a pan and stands around 3 inches tall.

Best flour to use: Churchill Flour (13% protein)

Sophie’s top tips:

Be generous with oil. Mix olive oil or butter to enrich your dough for a rich, tender crust.

Time for toppings. Churchill’s high protein content gives your dough the strength to support layers of toppings - cheese, sauce, meat, and more!

Lower and slower. Bake at 200°C for a longer time to ensure even cooking without burning the crust.

Matthews Cotswold Flour Churchill (1.5kg) is available at Tesco RRP £2.60 

Matthews Cotswold Flour Pizza Flour (1.5kg) is available at Waitrose £2.00

The Perfect Pizza Combination (RRP £34.15 from www.cotswoldflour.com)

Matthews Cotswold Flour’s special Pizza Project Box contains everything you will require to create your perfect your pizza dough. The box contains three different types of premium pizza flour and a copy of Scott Deley’s The Ooni Pizza Project. The book contains over 40 recipes to help you create delicious dough and mouth-watering pizzas.

Contents: 3 x Cotswold Pizza Flour (1.5kg), 1 x Churchill Premium Strong White Flour (1.5kg), 1 X Canadian Great White Flour (1.5kg), The Ooni Pizza Project recipe book.

Matthews Cotswold Flour is committed to supporting regenerative food sources, developing an unparalleled range of top quality, award-winning, products and inspiring, educating and partnering with the nation’s artisan and home bakers. For more information visit www.cotswoldflour.com or follow @CotswoldFlour on Instagram or Facebook.

RECIPE: Chinese Spring Onion Pancakes from Matthews Cotswold Flour

Chinese Spring Onion Pancake Recipe

Ingredients: 

250g Matthews Regenerative All Purpose Flour (plus 2tbsp for the filling)

170g Water (hot, straight from a boiled kettle)

3tbsp Lard (or vegetable oil to make these vegan)

1tsp Salt 

½ tsp White Pepper

1tsp Chinese Five Spice

3-4 Spring Onions (finely sliced)

Vegetable Oil, for frying

A spokesman for Matthews Cotswold Flour told That's Food and Drink: "To help us celebrate Chinese New Year, our in-house pro baker (Sophie Carey) has shared this tasty Chinese style pancakes recipe! Brilliant with some crispy duck, filled with veg and/or meats and steamed or fried as dumplings, or just served with sauce for dipping!"  

Baker: Sophie Carey

Makes: 10-15 pancakes

Prep time: 25 minutes

Bake time: 6 minutes

Chinese Spring Onion Pancake Method:

In a bowl, mix together your flour and water with a pinch of salt until a dough forms. Wrap this in clingfilm and leave to rest on the counter for 15 minutes

Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to a rectangle of 30cm x 40cm, or until it is about 2mm thick

In a small bowl, mix together the melted lard and flour with the spices and salt until they form a paste

Spread this paste evenly across the rolled out dough and sprinkle them with the spring onions

Starting at the top, roll the pastry up like you would a Swiss roll

Trim the ends and cut the log into rounds measuring about 5 or 6cm 

Place the rounds cut side up (so you can see the swirl of the pastry) and use a rolling pin to flatten these to the thickness of 1cm

Place a frying pan on a medium heat and add a little vegetable oil. Once hot, fry the pancakes for a few minutes on either side until golden brown

Serve hot - make sure to rip them apart to see how flaky they are! Enjoy with your favourite Chinese dishes or with chilli oil for dipping!

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