Summer is summed up for me in the simplest way; truly vine ripened tomato, just-picked and still fragrant with the warmth of the sun, with basil from the garden too, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, vino cotto, salt and pepper. I can add anything to this, or simply eat is as a meal on its own - the flavours are so simple but when the produce is at its peak, nothing else is needed. -MB Read the rest...
Maggie's Sparkling Chardonnay is a truly food friendly option for anyone wanting to avoid alcohol at this time of year, and we know all too well that the aftermath of Christmas celebrations can have us vehemently declaring our new year’s resolution to steer clear of the hard stuff. Plus, We think it's just as pretty as its counterpart when it's poured into a champagne flute! Just add a ripe cheese, some good quality sourdough bread, dukkah, and fruit paste and voila, that's New Year's Eve nibbles sorted!-MB Read the rest...
From my earliest memories, Christmas has always been a real time of celebration for my family. When I was really little it was all about the presents, even so, going back as far as when I was five or six years old, the really special memories are of food. The first Christmas feast I clearly recall centred on the icebox on our back verandah working overtime in its attempt to keep the drinks cold, let alone the food. From then on Christmas meant a groaning table topped with the ham and goose, plus chooks from our backyard. Gathered around the table would be our family, as well as friends without families of their own, who were warmly welcomed. And that tradition has continued for me, with our daughters and grandchildren; it always comes back to a shared table of good food. I truly hope your Festive Season brings every reason to celebrate, and that you can do so surrounded by loved ones over a special meal. Merry Christmas to you and yours! -MB Read the rest...
All the makings of a beautiful meal! I love to gather my favourite plates, glasses and linen ahead of tomorrow's cooking so there's one less thing to worry about when lunch is ready. And in my mind, a table setting is never complete without fresh flowers! -MB. Read the rest...
The very best apricots will always be the tree-ripened fruit you pick yourself, but buying from a specialist greengrocer or farmer’s market that doesn’t refrigerate their fruit is the next best thing. Never squeeze apricots to check for ripeness, colour and, above all, fragrance should be your indicators. And you will know what I’m talking about when it comes to the aroma of a ripe apricot, there’s no mistaking it. I often have bowls of apricots in my kitchen instead of Summer flowers, their perfume is so intense. -MB Read the rest...
Looking for delicious recipe inspiration? Sign up to the Food Club and receive weekly seasonal recipes delivered to your inbox