Mushroom & Cheese Pies Thanks to chef Simon Sandall who rattled off this suggestion on the spur of the moment when we were making beef Wellington together and wondering what to do with leftover mushroom duxelles and pastry off-cuts. You could always make the duxelles specifically for these pies and whip up a larger batch […]
Potato, Smoked Eel & Fontina Tart This deliciously versatile potato & fontina tart can be vegetarian, but potatoes and smoked fish are such natural partners that I sometimes add smoked eel. Hot-smoked rainbow trout also works; either way use about 300g flesh if using seafood. If Fontina’s not available, use any mild washed rind cheese, […]
When I was a kid, Mum often had homemade sausage rolls waiting for us as an afterschool snack. She’d pop them in the oven when she left to pick us up from school – and they’d be hot and golden brown ready for us to devour when we arrived home. This is my tribute to […]
These simple apple and almond pies looks impressive because of the plaited pastry (a trick I learnt years ago from an Australian Women’s Weekly cookbook), but are quick and easy and can be assembled up to a day ahead. Butter puff pastry makes a big difference to the flavour and mouth-feel; Carême brand is a […]
Palmiers with Strawberries & Crème Fraîche These little French pastries are easy, versatile and delicious. The secret to palmiers is to use good butter puff pastry, not one made with margarine or other commercial fats; Carême brand is available in many delis and specialty stores and it’s handy to keep a roll or two in […]
Chicken & Vegetable Pot Pie There’s something very comforting about a homemade pie. This one, which I’ve been making for over 30 years, is one of my favourites. If you’re short on time you can use a barbecued chicken and frozen vegetables; but if you have the time, make it from scratch with a free-range […]
