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Cooking with Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables – Fresh, Flavourful, and Budget-Friendly

Discover how cooking with seasonal fruits and vegetables brings flavour, freshness, and savings. Explore what’s in season in the UK and try easy recipes from That’s Food and Drink.

Intro: Taste the Seasons in Every Bite

Cooking with seasonal fruits and vegetables is one of the simplest ways to make your meals more flavourful, sustainable, and affordable. 

Whether you’re shopping at your local greengrocer, a farm shop, or even growing your own, seasonal produce captures the true taste of Britain’s natural rhythm, and it can make a huge difference to your health and your wallet.

Why Cooking Seasonally Makes Sense

1. Superior Flavour:

Seasonal produce is harvested at its peak ripeness. A June strawberry from a Shropshire farm tastes far sweeter than an imported one in December. Likewise, a locally grown carrot in winter bursts with earthy sweetness that storage-heavy imports can’t match.

2. Better for Your Budget:

When crops are in abundance, prices naturally drop. That means a basket full of British apples or cabbages will cost far less than exotic imports, perfect for family meals or batch cooking.

3. Good for the Planet:

Eating what’s in season helps cut food miles and reduce carbon emissions. Plus, less refrigeration and packaging means a smaller environmental footprint.

What’s in Season in the UK?

Spring:

Enjoy tender asparagus, radishes, new potatoes, spinach, rhubarb, and early strawberries. Fresh, bright, and full of life.

Summer:

A feast of courgettes, tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, soft berries, cherries, and stone fruits. Ideal for barbecues, salads, and desserts.

Autumn:

Cosy up with apples, pears, pumpkins, butternut squash, and root vegetables. Roast, bake, or stew for comforting warmth.

Winter:

Celebrate the sturdy greens, kale, cabbage, leeks, parsnips, and swedes. Perfect for soups, casseroles, and hearty Sunday roasts.

Easy Seasonal Recipes to Try at Home

Spring Green Risotto:

A creamy mix of peas, asparagus, and lemon zest for a light yet comforting dish.

Summer Berry Crumble:

Combine strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries under an oat crumble topping. Serve with clotted cream or vanilla custard.

Autumn Roast Tray Bake:

Toss chunks of carrot, parsnip, and squash with olive oil, rosemary, and a drizzle of honey.

Winter Vegetable Soup:

Simmer leeks, potatoes, and kale in vegetable stock, then blend smooth for a velvety winter warmer.

Smart Tips for Cooking Seasonally

Shop local: Support your community by buying from farm shops and markets.

Plan meals around availability: Use what’s freshest now, not what’s flown halfway round the world.

Preserve the harvest: Freeze berries, make chutneys, or pickle vegetables to enjoy all year round.

Mix & match: Combine seasonal veg with cupboard staples like grains, pasta, or pulses.

Learn about UK farm shops

https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/05/exploring-british-countryside-guide-to.html

Learn about preserving your own foods

https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/07/learning-from-our-grandparents-journey.html

Link “budget-friendly meals” to your one-pan meal series.

Budget friendly meals to ensure you use available produce wisely

https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2025/04/budget-one-pan-dinners-that-taste-like.html

Final Thoughts: Eat the Seasons, Live the Flavour

Cooking seasonally helps you reconnect with real food, fresh, local, and full of character. Every season brings something different to the table, so experiment, enjoy, and celebrate the best of British produce one meal at a time.

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UK Craft Distillers Unit in Call for Spirits Inclusion in Small Producer Relief Scheme in Advance of Autumn Budget

In a November blog post, Liam Hirt has explicitly asked the Chancellor to extend Small Producers Relief to alcohol over 8.5%. 

Currently, a lower rate of Alcohol Duty is only permitted on products with an ABV of less than 8.5%.

Hirt is arguing that the current framework unfairly excludes small producers of gin, whisky, rum, and other higher-strength drinks.

Liam Hirt told That's Food and Drink: “Duty relief for beer and cider has proven its value. It has helped small producers compete with global corporations, encouraged hundreds of new entrants, and driven diversity and innovation. 

"Extending the same support to spirits would deliver exactly the same benefits - and strengthen the UK's position as a world leader in craft distilling.”

The Small Producer Relief Scheme was introduced to correct structural disadvantages faced by small drinks producers. However, by restricting eligibility to products below 8.5% ABV, it excludes the vast majority of craft spirits, which typically sit at 37.5% ABV or higher.

“This limitation discriminates against distillers and contradicts the scheme's intended purpose. There's no public health basis for this exclusion,” he added. 

“A unit of alcohol in a gin is no more harmful than a unit in a beer. In fact, many spirits consumed with low or zero-sugar mixers have fewer calories than most beers or ciders. According to recent HMRC data, spirits duty receipts have fallen by up to £700 million over the past two years, despite duty increases. 

"A reformed, inclusive SPR could reverse this decline by encouraging investment, compliance, and sectoral growth - boosting long-term revenues for the Treasury.”

Spirits sales now represent 38% of pub alcohol profits according to The Scotch Whisky Association, despite a smaller share of total serves, and over half of consumers report a preference for spirits when drinking out.

Hirt went on to say: “Premium and locally made spirits are key to pub profitability and consumer engagement. Giving small distilleries access to duty relief would allow more collaboration between pubs and local producers, keeping value in local communities.”

With the UK craft spirits sector continuing to grow in global reputation but facing mounting tax pressures, small producers say reform is long overdue.

“The UK's duty framework should reward innovation, not penalise it. Including spirits in Small Producer Relief would deliver fairness, drive exports, and strengthen the entire drinks ecosystem - from distilleries to pubs to the Treasury.”

The full list of co-signees include:

Liam Hirt - Circumstance Distillery

Richard Foster - Exploring Whisky

Shaun Watts - Ludlow Distillery

Paul Abbott - Grasmere Distillery

Jordan Lunn - West Midlands Distillery

Anthony  - Spirit of Birmingham

Stephen Russel - Copper Rivet

Jordan Morris - Abingdon Distillery

Jared Cave - Integrity Malts

Ben Mordue - Elsham Wold Distillery

Laurence Coinsbee - Wharf Distillery

Matt Kay - London Distilling Co

Karl Bond - Forrest Distillery

Phil McLaughlin - Weetwood

Dan Humphries - Summerton Whisky Club

Amy Seton - Grain and Glass

Tim Ethrington-Judge - Avallen

https://circumstancedistillery.com/content.php?content_id=40

Festive Flavours & Foodie Gifts 2025. What’s Trending on Every Table

Food and drink gifts have become the heart of Christmas giving, a way to share comfort, craftsmanship, and delicious nostalgia. 

The 2025 festive season brings a mix of luxury hampers, artisan teas, and sustainable indulgence.

The Return of the Luxury Hamper

The classic Christmas hamper has gone gourmet again. Think British cheeses, local chutneys, and craft spirits presented in wicker baskets or reusable wooden crates. Small producers are thriving – look for Shropshire cheese selections, Ludlow gin, and Yorkshire preserves.

(Read our feature on The Ultimate Christmas Hamper Ideas 2025.)

Tea & Calm – The Wellness Gift Trend

Calming teas and mindful brews are perfect gifts for the stressed or sleep-deprived. Whittard’s Calm Collection, Fredsted’s Spiced Christmas Tea, and Yorkshire Tea’s Winter Warmer blends are firm favourites. Bundle them with a pretty mug and a scented candle for a simple but heartfelt set.

(Explore more in our National Tea Day Series.)

Retro Kitchen & Home Bar Gadgets

Vintage-inspired kitchenware and home bar tools are a hit – air-pop popcorn makers, milkshake blenders, and mini beer dispensers give a nostalgic twist to entertaining. These gifts appeal to food lovers who love both form and function, and many are available via Amazon UK’s Kitchen Retro Range.

Sustainably Sourced Treats

Eco-friendly foodie gifts, such as refillable jars, recycled-glass bottles, and zero-waste hampers, are an easy win. Farm shops and refill stores across the UK are now offering “low-impact Christmas bundles”, an excellent way to shop local while keeping sustainability top of mind.

Sweet Nostalgia Gifts

From handmade fudge to Victorian-style puddings, traditional flavours are back in fashion. Offer readers recipes and recommendations for heritage British sweets and puddings.

(Try our recipe for Traditional Shropshire Christmas Pudding.)

Conclusion

Whether it’s a box of locally made fudge or a hamper filled with fine wines, foodie gifting in 2025 is about indulgence with intention, quality, story, and sustainability matter more than quantity.

Traditional Bonfire Night Party Foods: Warming Classics for 5th November

As the nights draw in and the scent of smoke and fireworks fills the air, Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night, is the perfect excuse to gather around the fire with comforting, hearty foods that warm you from the inside out. 

From sticky toffee treats to savoury favourites, here’s how to serve up a proper Bonfire Night feast that celebrates one of Britain’s cosiest traditions.

1. Hot Dogs and Sausages in Buns

Simple, smoky, and endlessly popular sausages are a Bonfire Night staple.

Go for locally sourced pork sausages or try something a bit different like Cumberland rings or spicy chorizo for a modern twist. Pile them into soft rolls, add fried onions, mustard, or ketchup, and wrap them in foil to keep them warm by the fire.

2. Jacket Potatoes

Few things beat the joy of a baked potato on a cold evening.

You can cook them in the oven, slow cooker, or even in the embers of the bonfire itself (wrapped in foil). Serve with butter, cheese, baked beans, or chilli con carne. For a twist, try sweet potatoes topped with crème fraîche and chives.

3. Chilli Con Carne and Hearty Stews

A big pot of chilli or stew is ideal for feeding a crowd.

It’s warming, easy to ladle out, and can be made well in advance. Beef chilli, vegetable stew, or even a curried lentil hotpot are all great options. Serve with crusty bread or rice, and keep it bubbling on a low heat for guests to help themselves.

4. Parkin Cake

A true Yorkshire classic that has become synonymous with Bonfire Night.

This dark, sticky ginger cake made with oats, treacle, and syrup gets even better after a day or two in a tin. The gingery warmth pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or a tot of whisky as the fireworks light up the sky.

5. Toffee Apples

No Bonfire Night would be complete without them!

The glossy red coating, the crunch of the apple — it’s pure nostalgia. You can make your own with caster sugar, golden syrup, and a dash of vinegar, or buy them ready-made for a low-fuss option. For adults, try dipping apples in dark chocolate and crushed nuts.

6. Bonfire Toffee

Also known as “claggum” or “treacle toffee”, this traditional sweet is a must for November 5th.

It’s dark, brittle, and packed with molasses flavour. Wrap small pieces in wax paper for guests to take home — or nibble on while watching the fireworks.

7. Soup and Crusty Bread

Keep things simple with big flasks of soup, tomato, leek and potato, or butternut squash are all excellent seasonal choices.

Serve with thick slices of buttered bread or cheese-topped croutons. It’s a great way to warm up chilly fingers after a sparkler session.

8. Mulled Drinks

Whether it’s mulled wine, spiced cider, or even hot chocolate with marshmallows, warm drinks are essential.

Add cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, and a touch of honey for that unmistakable Bonfire Night aroma. For little ones, warm apple juice spiced with a cinnamon stick is just as comforting. Though if there is a bonfire and fireworks perhaps non-alcoholic options are advisable?

9. Marshmallows for Toasting

Don’t forget the simplest (and most fun) treat of all, marshmallows on sticks toasted over the fire.

Perfect for kids and adults alike, and you can even make s’mores by sandwiching them between digestive biscuits and squares of chocolate.

A traditional Bonfire Night party isn’t about fine dining, it’s all about warmth, comfort, and togetherness.

Stick to hearty, fuss-free dishes that can be prepared ahead and served outdoors with ease. Wrap up warm, light the sparklers, and enjoy a night of good food, good company, and a bit of fiery spectacle.

The Benefits of (Still) Having Your Milk Delivered to Your Home

For many people, the gentle clink of glass bottles on the doorstep used to be the soundtrack to early mornings. 

Though supermarket aisles have long since taken over the milk run for most, a growing number of households are returning to traditional doorstep deliveries, and for good reason. 

Here’s why keeping your milkman (or milkwoman) on the round is one of the best choices you can make for your home, your community, and the planet.

Freshness You Can Taste

Locally delivered milk often comes from nearby dairies, reaching your doorstep within hours of bottling. That means it’s fresher, creamier, and has a noticeably better flavour compared to milk that’s travelled hundreds of miles and sat in a supermarket fridge for days.

A Greener Choice

One of the greatest advantages of doorstep delivery is the return of the reusable glass bottle. Instead of single-use plastic, your bottles are collected, sterilised, and reused up to 25 times before being recycled. 

With plastic pollution and packaging waste becoming ever more pressing issues, this simple switch can make a real difference.

Many milk delivery services now also use electric vehicles for their rounds, cutting down on emissions even further.

Supporting Local Farmers and Businesses

Every pint you buy through local delivery helps sustain British dairy farmers and small independent dairies who’ve been hit hard by supermarket price wars. By sticking with doorstep milk, you’re helping ensure fairer pay for producers and keeping local food networks alive.

Convenience and Reliability

You don’t need to dash to the shop when you run out of milk for your tea or cereal, it’s waiting for you first thing in the morning. Most modern milk delivery services let you manage orders online, add extras like eggs, bread, or orange juice, and adjust your schedule around holidays or changes in routine.

A Bit of Nostalgia (and Community Spirit)

There’s something wonderfully comforting about the sight of a milk bottle on the doorstep. It evokes a sense of continuity, reliability, and community that’s easy to lose in today’s fast-paced world. Many milkmen and women know their customers personally, checking in on elderly residents or keeping an eye on local happenings, which makes them a subtle but important part of the neighbourhood.

More Than Just Milk

Many modern dairies now offer organic milk, non-dairy alternatives, yoghurts, butter, fruit juices, and even pantry staples alongside traditional milk bottles. It’s a simple way to stock up while still supporting local producers.

A Small Change with a Big Impact

Switching back to doorstep delivery may seem like a small, nostalgic gesture, but it supports British farming, reduces waste, and keeps your mornings running smoothly. Whether you prefer whole, semi-skimmed, or oat milk, the convenience, freshness, and environmental benefits make it well worth considering.

Where to Start:

If you’re tempted to bring the milkman back into your life, visit websites like Milk & More or check with your local dairy. 

Many villages and towns still have long-established milk rounds, and you might be surprised just how easy it is to set up a regular delivery.

In short: doorstep milk delivery isn’t a thing of the past, it’s a tradition perfectly suited to the future.

You can find milk delivery firms local to your area here:- https://findmeamilkman.net

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Could cheese help protect the brain? What new Japanese research suggests

New Japanese research suggests that eating cheese at least once a week might help lower the risk of dementia in older adults. 

Learn what the study found, how it works, and which cheeses could be best for brain health.

A surprising new study from Japan

A new Japanese study has found that older adults who ate cheese at least once a week were less likely to develop dementia than those who didn’t eat cheese at all.

Researchers from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES) followed nearly 8,000 adults aged 65 and over between 2019 and 2022.

 About half of them ate cheese weekly, and the rest rarely or never did. After three years, 3.4% of cheese eaters developed dementia, compared with 4.5% of non-cheese eaters.

When the scientists adjusted for lifestyle and health factors, the difference still held: cheese eaters had around a 24% lower risk of dementia. The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrients in October 2025.

How could cheese protect the brain?

Cheese isn’t just delicious, it’s rich in nutrients that may support brain health.

Vitamin K₂, found especially in hard and aged cheeses, supports vascular and bone health and may protect brain cells.

Amino acids and bioactive peptides produced during fermentation can reduce inflammation and support nerve function.

Probiotic bacteria in some cheeses may influence the gut-brain axis, which affects mood and cognition.

And since vascular health is closely linked to brain health, the calcium, protein and fats in cheese could all play indirect protective roles.

Interestingly, most of the participants in Japan were eating processed cheese, not traditional aged varieties, so the benefit might come from overall diet quality or other associated habits as well.

A few words of caution

Before you reach for the cheeseboard, it’s worth noting that this was an observational study. It shows a link, not proof of cause and effect.

Other points to consider:

Cheese intake was self-reported, and portion sizes weren’t tracked.

The dementia diagnoses were based on care records rather than clinical testing.

The risk reduction, while encouraging, was relatively small, about one fewer case per hundred people over three years.

So while the findings are promising, scientists say more research is needed before recommending cheese specifically as a preventive measure.

How this fits into a brain-healthy diet

For UK readers, the takeaway is balance. Cheese can be a valuable source of nutrients, but moderation remains key, too much saturated fat or salt can have the opposite effect on heart and brain health.

To include cheese as part of a smart brain diet:

Choose aged or fermented varieties like cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese for beneficial bacteria and vitamin K₂.

Pair with fruit, wholegrains, or nuts rather than processed meats or refined carbs.

Keep portions moderate, about 30 g (1 oz) several times a week is plenty.

Combine this with other protective habits: staying physically active, eating vegetables, oily fish and wholegrains, keeping socially connected, and challenging your brain daily.

The UK perspective

The average person in the UK eats around 9 kg of cheese per year, that’s roughly 170 g a week, far more than in Japan. This could mean British diets already include the protective range seen in the Japanese study.

But since lifestyle and ageing factors differ between countries, UK researchers may want to explore whether similar benefits appear here, especially among older adults at higher risk of cognitive decline.

Final cheesy thoughts

The idea that a weekly nibble of cheese might help safeguard the mind is both comforting and intriguing. 

While we shouldn’t treat it as a miracle cure, it adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that enjoying nutrient-rich, fermented foods in moderation supports long-term brain health.

So next time you’re planning a snack or supper, you might just consider a little mature cheddar or creamy blue on your plate, not just for flavour, but perhaps for your future self too?