Simple Recipe: Braised Steaks on a Bed of Carrots

Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most comforting, and braised steaks on a bed of carrots is one of those timeless meals. 

It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and only requires a handful of ingredients – perfect for a family supper or a weekend dinner when you want something warming without too much fuss.

This recipe is based on my mother's recipe for braising steak. The flavour of the carrots, infused with the gravy and the juices of the steaks is one of my fondest culinary memories of my childhood.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 braising steaks (such as chuck or blade)

500g carrots, peeled and cut into chunky batons

1 large onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tbsp plain flour

500ml beef stock (or a mix of stock and a splash of red wine, if desired)

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 bay leaf

A few sprigs of thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Prepare the steaks

Pat the steaks dry with kitchen paper, season with salt and pepper, then lightly coat them with flour.

Brown the meat

Heat the oil in a large casserole dish or heavy pan. Fry the steaks for a couple of minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Soften the vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, and carrots to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften and take on a little colour.

Build the flavour

Return the steaks to the pan, tuck in the bay leaf and thyme, and pour over the stock (and wine if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.

Slow braise

Cover with a lid and cook on a low heat for 2–2½ hours, or until the meat is tender and the carrots are soft. You can also do this step in the oven at 160°C (140°C fan).

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving. Plate the steaks on top of the carrots with plenty of the rich cooking juices spooned over.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious simply served with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered new potatoes. A side of steamed greens like cabbage or tenderstem broccoli makes a fresh, vibrant addition

Why you’ll love this recipe:

It’s budget-friendly, hearty, and requires little effort once everything is in the pot. The carrots add a natural sweetness that balances the rich beef, and the slow braising ensures melt-in-the-mouth tenderness.

The Vicar and the Hotelier Accidentally Meet for Afternoon Tea at The Star Hotel, Alfriston

In a chance encounter that could only be described as highly erendipitous, renowned English Tea Room Guide expert, the Reverend Joe Ellis, crossed paths with illustrious hotelier Alex Polizzi, famously known as The Hotel Inspector, at The Star hotel in Alfriston, East Sussex.

During his visit to The Star hotel for a review of its afternoon tea service, Ellis was pleasantly surprised to find Alex Polizzi already on-site. 

The two industry experts found themselves face-to-face unexpectedly, and a momentous brief discussion ensued.

Reflecting on the encounter, Ellis told That's Food and Drink: "I knew Alex owned three hotels, but I didn't realise she was so hands-on. It was a delightful surprise to bump into each other at The Star. The scones were exceptional, as was the tea, and the hotel itself is one that I can highly recommend. 

"I frequent many upmarket hotels throughout England and stayed at the five star Waldorf Astoria in New York but, with hand on heart, you’ll find it hard to find a hotel to equal Alex’s. Staff are super engaging; I even had one of the chefs walk past me with a smile and a wave. The whole experience was so special.”

The brief yet impactful interaction between Ellis and Polizzi at The Star hotel brought together two pillars of the hospitality industry. With Ellis’s expertise in English tea rooms and Polizzi’s reputation as a discerning hotel owner and critic, their chance meeting added a layer of intrigue and camaraderie to the culinary scene in Alfriston.

Despite their divergent areas of expertise, Ellis and Polizzi found common ground in their shared passion for exceptional hospitality and culinary experiences. The impromptu photo taken during their encounter captured a moment of mutual respect and admiration between the two experts.

As news of their meeting spread, excitement rippled through the local hospitality community, with many eagerly anticipating any potential collaborations or insights that may arise from the encounter between the tea room expert and The Hotel Inspector.

The Star hotel in Alfriston emerged as the perfect backdrop for this unexpected convergence of industry titans, showcasing its commitment to excellence in both its accommodations and culinary offerings. The unexpected encounter between Ellis and Polizzi serves as a testament to the vibrant and interconnected world of hospitality.

Learn more about Joe Ellis’ Tea Room Guide at https://tea-room-guide.org.uk

Professionally, Joe Ellis is an 8th Dan Black Belt within karate of international repute, held in high esteem in the martial arts. He is the part time CEO to the National Governing Body for martial arts, NAKMAS https://nakmas.org.uk and has been practising and coaching karate for almost five decades

Joe was also ordained in May 2020 and is now legally known as the Reverend Joe Ellis https://revjoeellis.church

To learn more about The Star Hotel visit https://thepolizzicollection.com/the-star

Sweet Spreads Aren't Just For The Kids, Says Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman says that our love of sweet spreads is spreading nationwide, so says a new survey.  

Over 9 in every 10 adults in the UK eat sweet snacks or spreads on a weekly, and sometimes, daily basis,  with 4 out of 10 of us 'enjoying the taste', 1 in 3 'fancied something sweet' and 1 in 5 saying 'it's a reward'.

The brand's latest introductions, new Salted Butter Caramel Spread and Sweet & Crunchy Peanut Spread also hits the sweet spot; far from being just favourite flavours for children, over 70% choose chocolate, peanut or caramel spreads as adult treats. 

Some 50% of adults prefer chocolate, 1 in 4 choose the caramel spreads and 1 in 5 the nut-based flavours - peanut just edging hazelnut for popularity.… and not necessarily for sharing either! 

Over half those surveyed admitted they'd bought the sweet spread as a treat for just themselves. Whether to be eaten solo or with family and friends an eager 1 in 7 spoon straight from the jar (and if you do you're twice as likely to be female than male, 18% compared to 9%, just sayin'...). 

Around a quarter of uis Brits prefer sweet spreads on brioche or toast, a quarter prefer pancakes, waffles or crumpets and a further quarter would use a biscuit, muffin or slice of cake to 'carry' their chosen sweet spread.           

New Salted Butter Caramel Spread

An indulgent new choice for a 'just for me' moment is Salted Butter Caramel Spread - rich, buttery and creamy caramel made with salted butter, cream and absolutely no palm oil. Now available from Tesco stores at £2.90 rrp per 275g jar – with further national distribution available over the coming month.

The Best Meal Planning Apps to Make Cooking Easier

In today’s world, your smartphone or computer can be just as valuable a kitchen tool as your favourite frying pan. 

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning the ropes, there’s a whole range of apps designed to make cooking easier, more organised, and a lot more fun. 

From meal planning to cooking along with step-by-step instructions, these apps can transform your everyday cooking.

1. Meal Planning and Grocery Lists

One of the biggest challenges in home cooking isn’t actually cooking – it’s working out what to cook. Apps like Mealime, Yummly, and Paprika allow you to plan your meals for the week, save recipes, and even generate shopping lists based on your selections. Some will even link to local supermarkets so you can order your ingredients directly.

2. Recipe Discovery

Gone are the days of rifling through cookbooks (though they still have their charms). Apps like Tasty and BBC Good Food provide thousands of recipes with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Many include step-by-step videos, which are a lifesaver if you’re trying out a new technique for the first time.

3. Reducing Food Waste

If your fridge is full but you “have nothing to eat,” apps like SuperCook and Cookpad come to the rescue. Simply type in what ingredients you already have, and they’ll suggest recipes to use them up. It’s a brilliant way to save money, reduce food waste, and avoid the dreaded last-minute dash to the shop.

4. Special Diet Support

If you’re following a specific diet – whether that’s vegetarian, vegan, keto, or gluten-free – apps such as Forks Over Knives and Carb Manager can guide you with recipes that fit your lifestyle. They also often include nutritional information, which is handy if you’re tracking your intake.

5. Kitchen Organisation and Timing

Ever burned a roast because you forgot the timer? Apps like Kitchen Stories or even simple multi-timer apps help keep track of different cooking times when you’ve got several pans on the go. Some even let you record your own notes, so you remember that 15 minutes was perfect for that batch of brownies.

6. Cooking Along with Technology

For those who love a bit of smart tech, some apps connect directly with kitchen gadgets like air fryers, sous-vide machines, or smart ovens. Brands like Instant Pot and Ninja Kitchen have their own apps packed with recipes tailored to their products.

Cooking at home should be enjoyable, not stressful. With the right apps on your phone or computer, you can discover new recipes, cut down on waste, keep your kitchen organised, and even make healthier choices. So next time you reach for a pan, don’t forget to reach for your phone too – it might just make dinner prep that much easier.

Celebrate National Beach Day with a Party to Remember

Whilst on a trip to the city of Chester I came across a delightful scene. Families were playing in a beach area with real sand in a shopping centre. 

This started me thinking of beach parties, plus the fact that every year, 30th August gives us the perfect excuse to kick off our shoes, feel the sand between our toes, and celebrate National Beach Day. 

Whether you live by the sea, near a riverbank, or are planning a garden or indoor party with a coastal theme, it’s a wonderful chance to gather friends and family for sun, sand, and seaside fun.

Beach Party Ideas

1. Classic Beach Picnic

Pack hampers full of summer favourites—think fresh sandwiches, fruit salads, crisps, and homemade lemonade. Don’t forget a cool box with plenty of ice to keep drinks chilled. A simple picnic blanket spread out on the sand can set the scene for a relaxed and fuss-free celebration.

2. Barbecue by the Shore

If your local beach allows it, a small barbecue can make your National Beach Day extra special. Burgers, veggie skewers, grilled fish, and sweetcorn are always crowd-pleasers. Add marshmallows or s’mores for a nostalgic treat as the sun sets. But always, always make sure that your barbecue is safely and properly extinguished before you leave the beach and is disposed of carefully. 

3. Themed Decorations

Even if you can’t make it to the coast, you can still bring the beach vibe home. Decorate your garden with seashell garlands, inflatable palm trees, and tiki torches. A paddling pool or sandpit can add a playful touch for children (and adults alike!).

4. Games and Activities

Keep everyone entertained with beach volleyball, frisbee, or a sandcastle-building contest. If your party’s indoors, swap to limbo competitions, seaside bingo, or a playlist filled with summer classics to keep the holiday spirit alive.

5. Signature Beach Drinks

Nothing says “party” quite like a themed drink menu. Serve tropical mocktails, piña coladas, or coconut water in fun glasses with little paper umbrellas. For a non-alcoholic crowd pleaser, try sparkling water with slices of fresh citrus and mint.

Why Celebrate?

National Beach Day isn’t just about sunbathing and seaside snacks—it’s also a reminder to appreciate and care for our coastlines. Consider adding a clean-up element to your celebration. Even half an hour of collecting litter makes a big difference and keeps the beach beautiful for everyone.

A Final Splash

Whether you’re on the sand, in your garden, or recreating the seaside indoors, National Beach Day is the perfect reason to throw a party. Gather your loved ones, mix up some beachy drinks, and enjoy the last golden days of summer.

Celebrate the August Bank Holiday with a BBQ or an Indoor Feast

The August Bank Holiday is the perfect excuse to slow down, gather with friends and family, and enjoy good food. 

Whether the sun graces us with its presence or the great British weather decides otherwise, you can celebrate in style with a sizzling BBQ or a cosy indoor feast.

Fire Up the BBQ

If the skies are clear, a Bank Holiday BBQ is a must. The smell of charcoal and the sound of food sizzling instantly puts everyone in a relaxed, festive mood.

Classic Favourites: Burgers, sausages, chicken skewers, and veggie kebabs never go out of fashion.

Something Special: Try marinated lamb chops, halloumi with honey, or salmon wrapped in foil with lemon and herbs.

Sides to Share: Potato salad, corn on the cob, crunchy slaws, and plenty of fresh bread rolls make the perfect accompaniments.

Drinks & Treats: Pimms, iced tea, or craft beer pair beautifully with BBQ flavours. For pudding, think fruity pavlovas or toasted marshmallows.

An Indoor Feast

Sometimes the weather doesn’t play ball, but that’s no reason to let the celebrations stop. Turn your kitchen and dining room into a banquet hall and cook up a feast.

Sharing Platters: A roast chicken or joint of beef carved at the table feels wonderfully communal. Pair with roast potatoes, seasonal veg, and Yorkshire puddings.

Cosy Comforts: Cottage pie, lasagne, or a hearty curry can feed a crowd and bring warmth to a rainy day.

Make it Interactive: Try a DIY taco bar or a build-your-own pizza station – guaranteed fun for all ages.

Finish in Style: Classic British desserts like apple crumble, sticky toffee pudding, or a trifle will end the meal on a sweet note.

Create the Atmosphere

Food is at the heart of the day, but don’t forget the atmosphere. String up some fairy lights in the garden, put on a cheerful playlist, or light candles indoors for a warm, welcoming glow. Games, quizzes, or even a singalong can keep everyone entertained long after the plates are cleared.

The Joy of Togetherness

However you choose to celebrate, the August Bank Holiday is about making memories with the people you love. Whether it’s the laughter around the BBQ or the cosiness of a shared meal indoors, good food has a way of bringing us together – rain or shine.

The Favourite Foods of Popular Music Stars

Favourite Foods of Music Stars | What Your Favourite Singers Love to Eat

Discover the favourite foods of music stars including Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Adele, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and more. From comfort food to sweet treats, find out what your favourite singers really love to eat.

Ever wondered what your favourite singers like to eat when they’re not on stage? From homely comfort food to sweet indulgences, the favourite foods of music stars reveal a lot about their personalities and roots. Here’s a look at what some of the world’s most famous musicians really crave.

Beyoncé – Soul Food Comforts

When it comes to Beyoncé’s favourite food, Southern classics top the list. She loves fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread – all deeply connected to her Houston upbringing. While she follows a healthy diet most of the time, Queen Bey admits her weakness lies in the comfort foods she grew up with.

Ed Sheeran – Heinz Ketchup & Fast Food Favourites

Ed Sheeran’s favourite food is simple and relatable: he’s a huge fan of Heinz Tomato Ketchup (so much so, he has the logo tattooed on his arm!). The “Shape of You” singer also loves Nando’s chicken and classic fast food – proving that even global superstars crave a cheeky takeaway.

Adele – A Proper British Curry

Adele’s favourite food is a curry, with chicken tikka masala at the top of her list. She’s often joked about how much she loves a good British takeaway, and no matter where her world tours take her, a proper curry always reminds her of home.

Taylor Swift – Sweet Treats and Baking

Taylor Swift’s favourite foods include cheesecake, cinnamon rolls, and pumpkin spice drinks. Known for her sweet tooth, she also enjoys baking cookies and cakes for her friends. For Swifties, it’s no surprise that sugar and spice play such a big role in her downtime.

Elton John – Traditional Roast Dinners

Sir Elton John prefers hearty, traditional meals. His favourite dish is a classic Sunday roast with all the trimmings. For him, nothing beats roast beef, Yorkshire puddings, and crispy roast potatoes – a true taste of British comfort food.

Harry Styles – Tacos, Burritos & Fresh Guacamole

Harry Styles’ favourite food is Mexican cuisine. He loves tacos, burritos, and guacamole – meals that fit his laid-back personality. Alongside this, he often opts for fresh and healthy foods to keep his energy up while touring.

Rihanna – Caribbean Flavours from Home

Rihanna’s favourite foods are rooted in her Barbadian heritage. She loves Caribbean dishes such as saltfish, callaloo, and island curries. These bold flavours remind her of home and showcase the rich food culture of Barbados.

Lady Gaga – Pasta and Italian Classics

Lady Gaga’s favourite food reflects her Italian-American background. She has a strong love for pasta, pizza, and homemade Italian sauces. Spaghetti and meatballs is a dish she never tires of, especially when it’s shared with loved ones.

Justin Bieber- Lasagna

Justin just loves a plate of hot steamy goodness in the form of a dish of lasagna.

Why Fans Love Knowing Celebrity Favourite Foods

Learning what music stars eat shows us their down-to-earth side. From Adele’s curry nights to Ed Sheeran’s ketchup obsession, these favourite foods prove that even global icons crave comfort food just like the rest of us.

Raising Church Funds with a Vicar’s Tea Party

If there’s one thing we Brits do brilliantly, it’s putting the kettle on. And when the church roof needs patching, the Sunday school needs new crayons, or the flower rota could do with a little boost, what better excuse for a proper knees-up in the form of a vicar’s tea party?

What’s It All About?

Picture the scene: the vicar in their best clerical collar, cheerfully pouring tea into mismatched cups while balancing a plate of Victoria sponge. 

Parishioners swap gossip about the weather, children hover hopefully near the cake stand, and someone’s Aunt Mabel insists her scones are “better than Mary Berry’s”. It’s simple, it’s sociable, and it’s guaranteed to raise both smiles and funds.

Why It Works a Treat

Cake + Tea = Happiness. No complex fundraising maths needed.

A Little Bit of Friendly Rivalry. Who will win the “biggest slice of cake” challenge or the “fastest teapot pourer” prize?

Community Spirit. There’s nothing quite like a whole parish armed with teapots and sponge tins.

Affordably Splendid. No tuxedos or gala tickets required – just a few coins in the donations bowl and an appetite for cake.

Making It Extra Fun

Theme It Silly: A “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” or “Royal Garden Tea” can liven things up.

The Vicar’s Apron Challenge: Get the vicar to don a frilly apron and serve tea with a flourish – it always goes down a storm.

Add a Raffle: Because who doesn’t secretly hope to win a jar of homemade chutney or a knitted tea cosy?

Musical Interlude: A sing-along hymn or a ukulele solo from the church warden can’t hurt.

The Secret Ingredient

It’s not really about the sandwiches, or even the cakes (though those are rather nice). It’s about gathering together, laughing over spilled teapots, and feeling that warm glow of community. And if, in the process, you raise enough for new hymn books or a fresh lick of paint for the vestry, all the better!

So dust off the cake stand, iron the vicar’s apron, and pop the kettle on – a vicar’s tea party is the most delicious way to fundraise, and you might just discover that jam really does bring people together.

Ways to Make Plain Mashed Potatoes More Exciting

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food,  creamy, fluffy, and perfect alongside a Sunday roast or weeknight supper. But sometimes, a plain bowl can feel a little, well… plain. 

The good news? It doesn’t take much to elevate this classic side dish into something truly special. 

Here are some simple and delicious ways to make your mashed potatoes more exciting.

1. Stir in Cheese

A generous grating of cheese can turn mashed potatoes into a decadent treat. Try:

Cheddar for a sharp tang.

Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick.

Cream cheese for extra richness.

2. Add Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of herbs brings freshness and colour. Chives, parsley, mint or thyme are all excellent choices. For something different, try dill or rosemary.

3. Infuse the Butter or Cream

Instead of just pouring in milk or cream, infuse it first with garlic, bay leaves, or even a sprig of sage. This subtle step adds a layer of flavour without extra effort.

4. Go Garlic

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic for a reason. Roast whole cloves until soft and caramelised, then mash them in for a sweet, mellow garlic flavour.

5. Mix in Vegetables

Boost both taste and nutrition by stirring in:

Caramelised onions for sweetness.

Peas or sweetcorn for texture.

Roasted root veg like parsnips or carrots for earthy depth.

6. Try a Spice Kick

Plain mash loves bold seasoning. Add a pinch of nutmeg, smoked paprika, or curry powder. Even a dash of mustard can add warmth and zing.

7. Make it Crunchy

Top your mash with something crispy for contrast:

Toasted breadcrumbs.

Crispy onions.

Crumbled bacon.

8. Swap the Dairy

For a twist, replace traditional milk and butter with alternatives:

Olive oil for a Mediterranean flavour.

Coconut milk for a subtle sweetness.

Oat cream for a plant-based option.

9. Go Loaded

Turn mash into a main event by adding all the trimmings: grated cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon, and spring onions – just like a loaded baked potato.

10. Bake It

Spoon your mashed potatoes into a dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbling. You’ll get a crispy crust and a rich, comforting side.

11. Add mayo 

Add mayonnaise for a deliciously creamy, tangy experience. 

Mashed potatoes don’t need to be boring. With a few simple tweaks, you can transform them into something exciting that your family (or dinner guests) will love. 

Whether you’re going for cheesy indulgence, herby freshness, or a full-on loaded bake, there’s a mashed potato makeover to suit every taste.

Cooking Up a Treat for Be an Angel Day

Every year on 22nd August, people around the world take part in Be an Angel Day – a wonderful opportunity to show kindness, lend a hand, or simply brighten someone else’s day. 

While many choose to volunteer, donate, or spend time supporting loved ones, one of the simplest and most heartfelt ways to celebrate is by cooking up a treat. 

After all, food has always been a powerful way of saying, “I care about you.”

Why Food is the Perfect Angelic Gesture

Sharing food has a timeless quality. Whether it’s baking a cake for a neighbour, preparing a packed lunch for a colleague, or inviting a friend round for tea, homemade treats embody generosity. 

On Be an Angel Day, you don’t need grand gestures – a simple plate of biscuits or a homemade loaf of bread can be enough to make someone feel cherished.

Easy Angelic Treat Ideas

Here are some ideas to inspire you to spread kindness through the kitchen:

Heavenly Cupcakes – Bake a batch of light, fluffy cupcakes topped with cloud-like swirls of vanilla frosting. Decorate with edible glitter or small angel wing toppers for a thoughtful touch.

Angel Food Cake – A classic, airy cake made with whipped egg whites. It’s light, elegant, and perfect served with fresh berries.

Kindness Biscuits – Make a simple shortbread or ginger biscuit recipe, then package them in small bags tied with ribbon. Add a handwritten note saying, “Thinking of you.”

Homemade Jam or Chutney – Preserve seasonal fruits or vegetables and gift jars to friends, family, or neighbours.

Comforting Meals – If baking isn’t your thing, cooking up a warming soup or casserole to share is just as meaningful.

Spreading Angelic Acts

Once your treats are ready, think about who might need a lift. Perhaps a neighbour who lives alone, a friend going through a tough time, or even your local community group. Sharing food doesn’t just nourish the body – it nurtures the spirit.

Be an Angel Day is about making the world a little brighter. By cooking up something delicious, you’re not only creating a treat but also an act of kindness that can ripple far beyond the plate. This 22nd August, put on your apron, preheat the oven, and spread a little angelic cheer – one treat at a time.