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Chomp into winter
This season, travel back in time with some old school cookery. Forget Nouvelle cuisine and its tiny portions – we’re talking winter warmers like grandma used to make. Think hearty stews, chunky hotpots, and thick, meaty casseroles. It may not be fashionable food, but it’s just the ticket on a chilly October night.
Halloween treats
Halloween’s the perfect time to cook with the famous orange fruit. While the inside of a large pumpkin can be watery, it’s particularly good for making soup, bread or pie. But smaller, sweeter varieties can be used any which way you like. And don’t throw away the seeds, either – they’re delicious roasted.
Classic British dish
When it’s cold outside, diets go out the window as we tuck into giant plates of comfort food. And top of the list has to be bangers and mash. Go for the traditional British style, covered in onions and thick gravy, or try something different. Go for a spicy, Spanish sausage, with a generous dollop of mustard in the potato for the ultimate winter warmer.
Seasonal salad
Salads aren’t strictly for summer. Much like the weather, they seem to change with the season. So for October, the healthy dish is heading towards a warm, winter style. The main ingredients are cheese, nuts, roasted vegetables and chargrilled meat, while dressings are simply a drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon juice.
Beat the blues
With dark evenings and a torrent of bitter rain, it’s easy to feel down during winter. However, there’s a simple solution to raising your spirits – eggs. They contain omega-3 fatty acids and phospholipids, which can knock out depression and keep your functions sharp. And best of all, they’re delicious.
Comfort without calories
Rather than pile on the pounds this winter, tuck into something hearty, healthy and totally tasty. Smooth, creamy beans are a great way to fill up, especially when stirred into fresh mussels and clams, which are currently in season. Or mix with chunky strips of beef and spices for a fiery chili.
Tasty tipples
As our Pimm’s jugs go into hibernation for another year, it’s time to delve into some comforting seasonal tipples. October's a great time for wine, especially if you're a fan of thick, spicy reds. But the true seasonal champion has to be warm cider. Take some traditional English scrumpy, add mulling spices, then heat gently for a hot winter brew.
Ugly fish, tasty dish
This season, there’s a new fish on the block – the gurnard. Until recently, trawlers threw this ugly looking creature back into the sea, but it’s recently become a firm favourite with top chefs. The seafood treat's delicious with sweet onions, ginger and garlic, or cooked whole with winter vegetables.
Slow cooked to perfection
These days, not everyone's got time to prepare a lengthy evening meal. Rather than spend hours cooking, it's easier to reach for the convenience food. But with a slow cooker, you can enjoy hearty meals without the effort. Simply add the ingredients to the pot and set the timer before leaving for work. Come home time, you'll have a piping hot meal ready to serve.
