Chunky Chips on the BBQ

These are some of the easiest potatoes to cook, and so fantastic they border on addictive. At the time of writing I’ve eaten these, freshly made, three days running. First with sausage and vegetable kebabs, next with whole barbequed sardines and salad, and finally with a glorious T-bone steak. (It was the weekend, after all.)Continue reading “Chunky Chips on the BBQ”

Leek and Potato Soup with Bacon, Whiskey and Cream

A hearty, earthy soup that will warm you up on a stubbornly cold day. The whiskey adds a subtle complexity that seems to bring out all the other flavours. Feeds 4 – 6 Ingredients 2 – 3 slices of smoked streaky bacon, thinly sliced1 tsp olive oil½ tbsp butter2 – 3 leeks (depending on size),Continue reading “Leek and Potato Soup with Bacon, Whiskey and Cream”

Cheesy Potato, Leek and Bacon Gratin

A cosy, warming dish that would be a perfect side with a baked ham or some white fish. It also makes a very satisfying main meal just in itself, though you won’t win many points toward your 5-a-day. (Not that this would stop me.) Slice the potatoes either by hand or using a processor withContinue reading “Cheesy Potato, Leek and Bacon Gratin”

Chorizo, Onion & Cavolo Nero Hash

This is a gorgeous brunch dish that’s quick enough to prepare even if you’re a little the worse for wear, but sophisticated enough to serve for a brunch party. With a sparkling glass of cava, some thickly sliced avocado with lemon and salt, and some really good crusty bread, you’ve got a spectacular late-morning feast.Continue reading “Chorizo, Onion & Cavolo Nero Hash”

Salmon, Fennel & Pepper Traybake

Fennel and peppers are the real stars here, making appearances in their various forms. The end result is subtle, sweet and fresh. You can eat the roasted lemon, too. Feeds 2 Ingredients 1 bulb of fennel, halved, core removed, then sliced 2 red peppers, de-seeded and cut into thick slices Two fist-sized potatoes, peeled andContinue reading “Salmon, Fennel & Pepper Traybake”

Thanksgiving Round-Up

I love Thanksgiving. No matter how long I live in the UK, I will celebrate it every year. Surrounded by lots of incredible food and the people you love, and taking a moment to be thankful for something in your life – what could possibly be better?! I’m very lucky to have friends who areContinue reading “Thanksgiving Round-Up”

Baked Camembert with Oven-Crisped Fries

A classic appetizer with cubes of bread, but add some crispy fries and you’ve got a fabulous and unexpected dinner party menu. Serve with some really good cold ham, piles of good-quality mini gherkins, a crisp bitter salad and lots of cold Champagne. Quantity-wise, one 4″ wheel will do for six as an appetizer. AsContinue reading “Baked Camembert with Oven-Crisped Fries”

Beer Braised Shepherd’s Pie

Mushrooms and ale give this pie a really deep flavour. The ale lends a slightly bitter edge, mellowed by cooking and the sharp cheddar cheese. The end result is deeply comforting and about as British as it gets. Serves 6 Ingredients Olive oil Salt and pepper 1 ½ cups finely diced onion 1 cup finelyContinue reading “Beer Braised Shepherd’s Pie”

Crispy Potato Wedges

Perfect with some crispy fish or a homemade burger. If you’re cooking for more than 4 people, use two baking sheets and swap them around halfway through cooking. Crowding the trays will result in less-than-crispy wedges. Serves 4 Ingredients 4 fist-sized potatoes Olive oil Salt Method: Preheat the oven to 210C / 425F. Peel theContinue reading “Crispy Potato Wedges”