A pop star’s food journey: KT Tunstall on custard, keto and cooking on the road
KT Tunstall, Brit Award winner, shares memories of late-night cooking in tiny flats, life on the road while sober and why haggis remains her top comfort food
It's been two decades since KT Tunstall’s Suddenly I See lifted her to international fame. And as she marks the re-release of Eye to the Telescope, the Brit Award-winning singer-songwriter is as passionate about what she eats as she is about what she sings. On the Good Food podcast, Tunstall discussed life on the road, her commitment to the ketogenic diet, and why haggis, neeps and tatties is her ultimate comfort food. Listen to KT Tunstall's podcast episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups in our podcast hub. From pop stardom to the kitchenette Touring the globe might sound glamorous, but for Tunstall, the reality is often far from room service and fine restaurants. “I always try and get somewhere that has a kitchenette so I can cook for myself,” she says, describing a late-night dinner in her West London studio flat: chicken breast wrapped in smoked bacon, baked with salt and pepper, served with a fresh spinach salad with tomatoes, pine nuts and balsamic. “It was delicious,” she adds with clear satisfaction. Her approach is practical and shaped by the demands of a musician’s life. “You are travelling all the time, dealing with jetlag, and you have to be peaking with energy at nine o’clock at night,” she explains. Heavy carb-laden meals do not help. “If you ate a proper dinner full of carbs at six o’clock, you are just on the sofa at nine, digesting.” Keto on the road Tunstall has followed a ketogenic diet for nearly a decade, a choice driven by health rather than fashion. “I had a lot of kidney trouble when I was younger,” she says. “I kept getting kidney infections and ended up on antibiotics a lot. I tried different things but in the end I stopped drinking and changed my diet. It really sorted it out.” Her diet is now high in fat and low in carbohydrates, with about 75% of her calories coming from fat. “It really suited my lifestyle and levelled me out, stopped me having sugar cravings,” she says. “I was a sugar addict. My nickname when I was a kid was Katie Custard because I was so into desserts.” Now it's all about mixed nuts for protein, and what she calls 'poor man’s poke': a can of tuna, an avocado and a pot of watermelon, all mixed for a quick, healthy lunch. “It is a very easy... amazing, healthy lunch for me,” she says. “My crew are always desperately disappointed, they just want a bag of crisps and a sandwich.” Cooking on the tour bus Tunstall’s resourcefulness reaches the tour bus too, where she hosted “Katie’s Kitchen” on Instagram with her all-female band. Armed with a travel stove that resembles a microwave but is actually an oven with two hobs on top, she would cook in between sound checks and showtimes, always aiming for dishes she could prepare and eat within an hour. “It was really cool coming up with these recipes that were really easy, really healthy,” she says. The Instagram Lives became a hit, with fans tuning in as she cooked dinner before the gig. A love affair with food from Scotland to New Mexico Born in Scotland, Tunstall’s food journey has taken her from British pubs to the sun-drenched kitchens of Los Angeles and the chilli-laden dishes of New Mexico, where she now lives. “LA is where I discovered bulletproof coffee, which led me to the keto diet,” she says. In LA, healthy eating is the norm, but in New Mexico, the options are more limited; however, the local green chillies are a revelation. “There is a company called Hatch Chilli, which is a green chilli, and it is delicious. I have really got into having green chilli on eggs, omelettes and scrambles.” She does miss the variety of coastal cooking, especially sushi. Instead, she enjoys the local specialities, and on cheat days a sopapilla – a puffed-up pastry typically eaten with butter and honey. Though, she adds, “I cannot have the pastry and honey on keto, but there are great alternatives now”. Bulletproof mornings and keto creativity Her day always starts with bulletproof coffee, a blend of black coffee, unsalted grass-fed butter, MCT oil and collagen powder. “It might sound a bit disgusting, but it tastes like a really creamy cappuccino,” she says. “It gives you so much energy. What I learned is that 25% of your calories are used by your brain every day. If you are restricting calories, by the afternoon your brain is not really working properly and then you have a Snickers bar.” For Tunstall, keto is about choices rather than restriction. “There is no calorie counting, you are not having to go, ‘Oh, I cannot eat that’. It is just choices about what you are eating. With my lifestyle and getting older, it is really good for maintaining muscle, not ballooning up and keeping inflammation low.” From haggis to lasagne Despite her dietary discipline, Tunstall’s heart still belongs to the foods of her childhood. Her favourite dish is haggis, neeps and tatties. “I love the fact that haggis uses the whole animal; it is not snobby. A lot of the parts people do not usually eat, like the organs, are incredibly good for you.” She loves encouraging others to try it. “Just close your eyes and have a bite. It is incredibly tasty.” She also admits she makes a delicious lasagne, crediting homemade béchamel with a touch of nutmeg as the secret. Not every kitchen experiment has worked, though. She remembers a Thanksgiving turkey that tasted of washing-up liquid after an overenthusiastic brine. Food as love and fuel for the stage For Tunstall, food is more than just fuel. “Cooking for other people is a real love language for me," she says. "It is a gift to make something with passion and with love and share it with people.” Whether it is a celebratory tiramisu on her birthday or a spoonful of peanut butter straight from the jar, good food is about nourishment, joy and connection. As she continues to tour, record and inspire, KT Tunstall shows that you can be a global pop star and still find comfort in a bowl of custard, a slab of haggis or a homemade keto lunch on the go. For her, good food is simple. “Nutritious, made with love and just tasting great.” Like this? Check out more... What is a keto diet? The BBC Good Food podcast with Tracey Raye | The keto diet Keto meal plan Best carb replacements Keto dinner ideas
11 make-ahead Christmas recipes you can start this weekend
Take the stress out of Christmas with our top make-ahead recipes that keep your kitchen calm and the festive cheer flowing from the moment guests arrive
Christmas is all about the sparkle. Think carols, presents and long, lazy meals with the people you love. But we all know there’s another side to the season, too. Once the hosting and organising kick in, even the biggest Christmas fan can feel the pressure rising. That’s where we come in. Our aim is to help every Good Food user enjoy the celebrations with confidence, and the easiest way to do that is to take the stress out of Christmas dinner before it starts. The answer is simple: get ahead. As the old saying goes, fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Not this year. We have gathered 12 must-make recipes that will keep your kitchen calm and your festive spirit high. First up are our easy gingerbread mince pies. Christmas is never complete without a mince pie and this twist brings cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg right to the front. Make a batch a couple of days before the big day and set them out as a warm welcome for arriving guests. One bite and everyone will know Christmas has truly begun. 1. Easy gingerbread mince pies These gingerbread mince pies are destined to become a Christmas favourite. They bring together two much-loved festive treats in one bake, giving you all the warm spice of gingerbread with the fruitiness of a classic mince pie. It’s a brilliant way to fill the house with those unmistakable Christmas aromas while only switching the oven on once. A win all round. It’s never too early for your first mince pie. Explore our mince pie recipes with clever twists to keep this festive favourite feeling fresh all season long. 2. Sticky sage & onion sausage roll wreath with baked camembert Create this glorious wreath, full of Christmas colour, in under an hour. It turns a simple baked camembert into a brilliant tear-and-share centrepiece that fits perfectly into any festive spread. Ideal if you are hosting a little soirée. Once assembled, the sausage roll wreath can be chilled for a day or frozen for up to a month without the cheese. When it is time to entertain, take it out, place it around your camembert and bake until the centre is melted and oozy. It makes a standout starter or a crowd-pleasing addition to any buffet. Check out more Christmas buffet recipes to complete your spread. 3. Sloe gin cranberry sauce No festive meal feels complete without cranberry sauce, and let’s be honest, every roast is better for it, whatever the time of year. Make a big batch of our sloe gin cranberry sauce and freeze it so you can enjoy that sharp fruity hit whenever the craving strikes. It keeps for up to two months, giving you a ready supply for Christmas and for any roast that follows. Top off your Christmas dinner with more festive cranberry sauce recipes. 4. Traditional mincemeat Make your mincemeat well ahead of Christmas to give the flavours plenty of time to develop. Our traditional recipe yields up to 2kg, which works out at about four jars. They make a lovely gift to take along to any pre-Christmas gathering, and the mixture is far more versatile than you might think. Along with mince pies, try stirring it into flapjacks, banana bread or even our mince pie rum for a fun seasonal twist. Find more delicious ways to use up your mincemeat with our collection of mincemeat recipes. 5. Freeze-ahead roasties With just four simple ingredients, it’s hard to believe you can make these fluffy, crispy roast potatoes ahead of time. If you need convincing, take a look at the five-star ratings from fellow Good Food users. Par-boil your potatoes, give them a good shake in the colander to rough up the edges, then toss with flour and your chosen seasonings. Spoon over the fat and spread it out on a parchment-lined tray to freeze. When you are ready to cook, roast for 25 minutes, turn up the heat and flip the potatoes. Let them crisp for a further 40 minutes until they are perfectly golden. It’s an easy way to get the roasties everyone reaches for without any last-minute stress. Our super roast potato recipes will help you make the perfect tatties every time. 6. Gingerbread house If you are after a holiday project that will keep little ones happily entertained, our gingerbread house is just the thing. One Good Food user put it best: “Love this recipe and now on my 4th year of making it with my grandchildren. Their decoration is not as smart as yours, but our memories are priceless.” Follow our step-by-step video, get everyone involved and let us know in the comments how your creation turns out. Discover more gingerbread recipes, from classic gingerbread men to showstopping houses and more. 7. Triple pigs in blankets This little piggy didn’t go to market, another didn’t stay home and a third definitely didn’t have roast beef because all three have been tucked into our triple pigs in blankets and wrapped in bacon. It’s a fun twist on a classic and guaranteed to raise a smile at the table. Make up to two days in advance and keep chilled in the fridge, ready for when you need them. Explore more pigs in blankets recipes for Christmas dinner, a Sunday roast, or to serve as a crowd-pleasing party canapé. 8. Cheesy sprout gratin If you have a sprout hater at the table this Christmas, we think we know how to win them over. The answer is simple: add cheese. Our cheesy sprout gratin is rich and creamy with a hint of thyme and a hazelnut topping for extra crunch. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Just remember to let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. No one wants to spoil Christmas dinner by burning the roof of their mouth. Try more foolproof Brussels sprouts recipes that could convert even the biggest sprout hater. 9. Wild mushroom, port & thyme turkey wellington If you are after a Christmas main that is guaranteed to impress, our wild mushroom, port & thyme turkey wellington is the one to choose. It takes a little more effort, but the results are well worth it. Even better, you can prepare it up to two days in advance, which means far less pressure on the day itself. Give yourself time to assemble it at a relaxed pace and you’ll avoid any last-minute mishaps, leaving you with a showstopping centrepiece ready for the oven. Explore more of our Wellington recipes, from classic beef to creative twists for every occasion. 10. Festive rum & ginger punch If you want to be the hostess with the mostess at your Christmas party without spending the whole night topping up glasses, this rum and ginger punch is your secret weapon. Mix up a batch before anyone arrives and you’ll have six servings ready to go before you even think about a refill. Six might sound generous, but things always get a little lively at Christmas, so we predict a necessary top-up. It’s the ideal festive tipple to keep the party flowing while you enjoy the fun too. For more drinks that make hosting feel effortless, take a look at our Christmas punch recipes. 11. Herb-buttered baby carrots These herb buttered baby carrots are a brilliant vegetarian side that frees up precious oven space. Simply mash together butter, tarragon, parsley and mustard, then chill the mix for up to three days before the big meal. On the day, toss it through your carrots and pop them in the microwave. For more time-saving dishes that free up precious oven space, explore our microwave Christmas recipes. Like this? Check out more... Make-ahead Christmas desserts Suzanne Mulholland aka The Batch Lady on time-saving family meals and stress-free batch cooking Cook once, eat all week - the freezable winter meals worth making ahead
Make hosting effortless with our top Christmas party food recipes, featuring sweet and savoury bites plus vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options
Christmas should be all about celebration and cheer, so leave any stress at the door. We’ve gathered our top Christmas party food recipes to make hosting easy, with something for everyone. All that’s left is to turn up the Christmas tunes, cue the Mariah, keep the drinks flowing and set out a spread that’s guaranteed to get the party started. For ideas on festive cocktails to serve alongside your spread, explore our Christmas drinks and cocktail recipes and Christmas punch recipes. If you are looking to add even more to the table, our Christmas buffet recipes, finger food recipes and party food recipes offer plenty of delicious picky bits to mix and match. Easy Christmas party food ideas 1. Next-level profiteroles Build a tower of these next-level profiteroles to create a showstopping centrepiece for your Christmas party spread. They’re a step up from the classic version, finished with a crisp craquelin top and filled with light, airy cream. Once your tower is assembled, pour over the warm hot fudge sauce and get ready to dive in. Just be sure to have plenty of napkins to hand – this one can get wonderfully messy. Check out more of our best-ever profiterole recipes. 2. Easy sausage rolls Is it even a party if there isn’t a sausage roll on the table? There’s no better place to begin your sausage-roll-making journey than with our easy sausage rolls recipe, which boasts more than 60 five-star ratings. It has just three steps, so there’s little chance of anything going wrong. You can even make them ahead and freeze them unbaked, ready to pop in the oven so they’re warm and irresistible as guests arrive. Try more of our sausage roll recipes, perfect for a picnic, buffet or simply as a tasty snack. 3. Pork belly bites Make these sweet and sticky pork belly bites, flavoured with clementines and chilli jam, using just six ingredients. Prep takes only 15 minutes and the bites can be chilled for up to three days, ready to pop in the oven and serve as piping hot canapés. Finish with a bit of cucumber for a fresh contrast to the rich pork. Discover more sophisticated bites to serve at your festive party with our Christmas canapé recipes. 4. Brie & cranberry filo parcels These five-ingredient brie & cranberry filo parcels are the perfect handheld vegetarian snack. Using shop-bought filo keeps prep to under 30 minutes. Make them ahead to keep things stress-free on the day: they will keep in the fridge for up to a day or in the freezer for up to three months. Get your fill of our fabulous filo pastry recipes. 5. Onion bhaji board Make our onion bhaji sharing board for an easy gluten-free platter that serves up to 10. With onion bhajis, green chutney, cucumber raita, pomegranate salad and mini poppadoms, there’s plenty for everyone to mix and match so each guest can build their plate just the way they like it. Discover more Indian-inspired recipes that are big on flavour. 6. Potato cakes with smoked salmon & cream cheese Irish potato cakes, or farls, make a delicious base for these smoked salmon, cream cheese and caperberry canapés. The recipe is straightforward, though it does take a little time, at just over two hours. You can get ahead by baking the potatoes up to two days in advance and keeping them in the fridge. You can even prepare the potato bases the night before, then add the fresh toppings on the day for a stress-free, simple and elegant canapé. Make the most of smoked salmon with our smoked salmon recipes, from pastas and salads to canapés and more. 7. Roasted pear, walnut & honey crostini For a bite packed with festive flavour, try our roasted pear, walnut and honey crostini. Toast baguette slices, then top with ricotta, seasonal roasted pears, walnuts and thyme-infused honey. Cooking the pears in an air fryer is a handy way to save oven space if you’re preparing other canapés. Check out more air fryer recipes to help you make the most of your kitchen kit. 8. Cupcake Christmas tree Get kids involved in the Christmas fun by helping you make these mini cupcakes that come together to form an edible Christmas tree. We’ve piped the icing to create the textured effect, but if you’re working with little hands, spoon it on and fluff it up with a fork. It’s far less fiddly and just as enjoyable. Finish by decorating the cupcakes with your favourite sweets as baubles. Find more festive sponges that kids will love to decorate with our Christmas cupcake recipes. 9. Sharing-style bloody mary prawns If you want an eye-catching savoury centrepiece for your Christmas party spread, try our sharing style bloody mary prawns. You’ll need a large serving bowl to hang the prawns from, so take a look at our guide to the best trifle bowls for plenty of great options. Serve them with our moreish bloody mary dipping sauce, celery sticks and a squeeze of lemon to finish. Try our prawn starter recipes for more small plates and finger foods starring this versatile seafood. 10. Festive filled brioche centrepiece with baked camembert If you fancy yourself a bit of a star baker, try our festive-filled brioche centrepiece created by Great British Bake Off contestant Kimberley Wilson. Make the brioche from scratch, then fill each ball with seasonal flavours such as garlic, membrillo, chestnuts, chopped cranberries and mushroom pâté. If any of the fillings aren’t quite your thing, swap them for one of our chutney recipes or pâté recipes to make it your own. Arrange the brioche around a wheel of Camembert and serve warm and oozy for a true showstopper. 11. Air fryer clementine & chilli halloumi skewers Get ahead with your Christmas party prep by making these air fryer clementine and chilli halloumi skewers. They freeze for up to three months and can be cooked straight from frozen, making them perfect for last-minute soirées when you need something tasty in a hurry. Using the air fryer keeps things far less messy than frying, and it’s quicker than the oven too. Celebrate this squeaky Cypriot cheese with more of our halloumi recipes. 12. Sweet chilli-glazed pigs in blankets You don’t have to keep pigs in blankets just as a side for your roast, they can be so much more. Our chilli-glazed version proves it, turning this classic into a sweet and spicy canapé that disappears fast. For more twists on this classic side, check out more pigs in blankets recipes. 13. Pick & dip filo straws with feta, dates & sesame seeds Elevate the classic cheese straw with these impressive pull-apart filo bites. They’re filled with feta, dates and sesame seeds, then drizzled with honey for the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Serve with a spicy harissa yogurt dip. Sharing is caring, so why not explore more of our tear & share recipes to add to your Christmas spread? 14. Christmas tree cheeseboard Put together this easy sharing platter of cheese, crackers, cucumber and grapes, then decorate with rosemary and pomegranate seeds to create a festive tree. It’s an imaginative centrepiece that needs no cooking and can be on the table in just 20 minutes. Discover more effortless dishes for hosting with our easy entertaining recipes. 15. Carrot & caraway crackers These easy vegan canapés are a guaranteed crowdpleaser. Whizz up the carrot purée the day before to keep things fuss-free, and freeze any leftovers so you’re party-ready next time too. Finish each cracker with a sprig of dill and a vegetable crisp for an impressive final touch. A vegan diet shouldn’t mean missing out on great party food. Keep everyone happy with our vegan canapé recipes. 16. Gyoza sharing board Food can sometimes be on the heavy side over the festive period, so keep things light and lively with our gyoza sharing board. Mix and match veggie and meat gyozas with pickled carrot slaw, sriracha mayo and a soy dipping sauce for a fresh, flavour-packed spread. Discover more Japanese-inspired recipes and let your tastebuds travel across the globe. 17. Smoked cheese in blankets These moreish, gluten-free bites need just three ingredients. Wrap smoked cheese in pancetta, set it on a bed of rosemary and bake for 15 minutes to create salty, smoky, melty bites infused with fragrant rosemary. Perfect for passing around the party. Ward off hunger pangs with more of our gluten-free snack recipes. 18. Beetroot & blackberry cured salmon Curing your own salmon is well worth it for both flavour and wow factor. Serve this beetroot and berry version as a starter or pile it onto crackers for a vibrant canapé. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare, but you’ll need to plan ahead, as the fish needs three days to cure. A little patience delivers big rewards. 19. Hot doughnuts with spiced sugared nut coating Enjoy fantastically fluffy doughnuts without any yeast or proving. Pulse the nuts to a fine crumb for a coating that clings to every bite. The recipe makes 24 to 26 doughnuts, which sounds like a lot, but trust us, they disappear in a flash. Whether you are after a stocking filler, a homemade gift or a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea over the festive period, our Christmas sweets recipes are the perfect place to start. 20. Pecan-stuffed dates If you're worried that the festive season might undo all your hard work on your health goals, try putting together a lighter party spread. Our pecan-stuffed dates are a great place to begin, then explore our healthy party food recipes for more inspiration. If you liked this, check out more... 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Samin Nosrat on cooking, grief and the joy of being “good enough”
Samin Nosrat returns with a new cookbook on how food, memory and care shape cooking, reflecting on life since her debut and why roast chicken still comforts
Samin Nosrat arrives with the easy confidence of someone who has spent years helping home cooks trust themselves. Many readers know her from Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat and the Netflix series it inspired, but her new book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Things-Recipes-People-Bestselling/dp/1529106710/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2I18Q7XYD1ER9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5vkHxG8QgLw2-7_7ZBDDWOFYI6015lj2M4bxKSjomooehAqo6TaPcffbdtATd06KgZvvQI9U1zkXPuWP6GB0GYx6szAs7v6IrqvDDj_Kaw_VhLXfaTBjiMH_MiO-dC4L.CZVXMHUEDTleVZlm3lbV3Elohz3VYf9CWttav-FqOQ4&dib_tag=se&keywords=good+things+samin&qid=1763463021&s=books&sprefix=good+things+samin%2Cstripbooks%2C68&sr=1-1&tag=bbc00-21&ascsubtag=bbcgoodfood-985810" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Good Things marks a shift. After eight years shaped by personal loss, the pandemic and the weight of expectation, she wanted to write something more reflective. “If Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat is a book for the head, Good Things is a book for the heart,” she says – a way of reconnecting with cooking after a period of feeling “quite lost”. Listen to Samin Nosrat's podcast episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups in our podcast hub. Finding her way back to the kitchen Eight years have passed since her debut, years shaped by global upheaval, personal loss and the dizzying aftermath of sudden fame. She speaks openly about how hard it felt to create something “big” again. “I had the idea for Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat when I was 19 and it came out when I was 37. That’s a very long time… In the wake of all this success I realised I didn’t actually know where I was headed.” The pandemic, grief and the pressure to perform left her adrift. But writing Good Things became a way back to herself and back to the kitchen. Why simple food still matters If there is a thread that runs through Samin’s work, it is the belief that food is about more than sustenance. It is about connection to others, to memory, to place. Her stories brim with sensory detail: the tang of rice seasoned with vinegar, the comfort of roast chicken, the creamy richness of clotted cream at a London hotel breakfast. She recalls a recent dinner at Hoppers, a Sri Lankan spot in London, where the hot butter squid left her swooning. “It was so delicious… like a calamari salad, basically. And then my girlfriend got a mini cocktail, a literal child-sized martini glass. It was so cute.” For someone who has eaten everywhere, it is the simple pleasures, a perfectly salted vegetable, a well-made salad, a friend’s home-cooked meal that stay with her. Learning to cook without perfection Samin’s food memories are rooted in her Iranian heritage and her mother’s tireless quest to recreate the flavours of home. “My mum would drive all over Southern California, sometimes 150 kilometres, just to go to whatever grocery store had the fresh Persian bread. There was always this seeking out of some taste that I didn’t know… but to me it tastes exactly right.” Her own approach to cooking is shaped as much by her years in world-class kitchens as by the realities of everyday life at home. She laughs about the pressure of perfectionism, of trying to recreate restaurant-level dishes at home, and the relief of letting that go. “I’ve been deprogramming myself. Sometimes I can’t make everything at home at a five-star restaurant level… I’m learning to be a little bit less harsh on myself.” How teaching shapes the way she cooks Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat changed the way millions think about cooking. But Samin is quick to say she is still learning, too. Her teaching style is rooted in empathy for slow learners and a desire to offer different entry points, from visual guides to narrative recipes to the tactile rhythm of cooking itself. One of her proudest achievements is helping people trust their senses in the kitchen and not be afraid of mistakes. “I can spend my whole life hoping that I can free you from recipes… but at the end of the day, I have to help you, hold your hand, push you along gently, let you learn to trust yourself.” When asked for her favourite dish, Samin does not hesitate. It is buttermilk roast chicken. “It’s such a hokey answer, but it’s actually true for me… It’s so comforting. For someone to make that for me is such an amazing gesture.” Choosing to be good enough Perhaps the most moving part of Samin’s story is her journey toward accepting that good enough really is good enough. After years of trying to be two kids’ worth of good following the loss of her sister in early childhood, she has learned through therapy, grief and the support of friends and family to let go of perfection. “I started to say, just make a thing. Everything doesn’t have to be the capital best, ultimate everything… The whole time writing this book, I told myself, just finish something. And now, I’m so proud of it. It’s so different than the other one and also they share a DNA, which is me.” What good food really means Asked what good food means to her, Samin’s answer is simple. It is food made and enjoyed with care. Whether it is a bright vegetable salad, a childhood stew or the humble comfort of roast chicken, her message is clear. Cooking is an act of love, for others and for ourselves. And in a world that often demands more, faster and better, Samin Nosrat offers a honest reminder. Sometimes just good is enough. Like this? Check out more... Good Food Podcast - budget cooking expert Mitch Lane talks cooking tips and why he loves a Sunday roast Roast chicken recipes Sabrina Ghayour on Persian cooking and how a Twitter joke led to her success Winter stew recipes Clever cooking hacks to save you time and money from TV chef Shivi Ramoutar
This cosy winter dinner recipe is trending in the UK
From bubbling lasagne to hearty stews and soups, discover the top 10 dishes the UK is craving to stay cosy and well-fed through the winter chill
Don’t roll your eyes just yet! We know it’s technically still autumn, but our site traffic indicates that most of you are already in full winter mode, searching for warming bowls of soup, hearty stews, and comforting roasts. And we don’t blame you. There’s one recipe that’s stealing hearts (and stomachs) across the UK right now: our classic lasagne. Go on, humour us with the “winter” label! Picture it: rain hammering on the windows, a chill in the air, and that unmistakable smell of rich tomato sauce and savoury beef mince filling the kitchen. Then comes the moment of truth, pulling it from the oven, cheese bubbling and golden on top. It’s pure comfort in a dish. Read on to discover the top 10 dishes the UK is craving to stay cosy this season. Then, take a look through our collection of winter recipes for more inspiration, from winter soup recipes to wrap your hands around to quick winter dinner ideas that deliver big flavour without sapping your energy in the kitchen. 1. Classic lasagne Our classic lasagne is the ultimate winter comfort food. With more than 300 five-star reviews, our Good Food community can’t get enough, returning to it time and time again. It’s freezable too, making it a brilliant make-ahead dinner for busy weeks when you want something comforting without the fuss. Check out more of our comfort food recipes to curl up with this winter. 2. Versatile veg soup If you’re after a comforting bowl of soup that’s ready in under 30 minutes, our vegetable soup is the one to try. It’s healthy, freezer-friendly, and easy to adapt to whatever’s in your fridge, making it a great way to reduce waste. Discover more freezable soup recipes that you can batch cook for when you need them. 3. Honey-glazed ham Add sticky honey and mustard-glazed gammon to your weekly line-up and you’ll soon see why it’s a favourite. It’s simple to make, though it does take a little longer to prepare. The bonus? You’ll have plenty of leftovers to enjoy through the week. Start by serving it with our golden ultimate roast potatoes or our perfect mashed potatoes, then move on to a classic ham, egg and chips for a cosy midweek meal. You can even use the cold slices for lunch sandwiches. 4. Easy butter chicken Want to save a few pennies on a Friday night but still fancy a treat after a long, chilly week? Our easy butter chicken is a lighter fakeaway that gives you all the flavour and comfort of a takeaway, without the extra spend or the guilt. Check out more of our fakeaway recipes to save you money each week. 5. Classic roast chicken & gravy A classic roast chicken deserves a spot in everyone’s repertoire. It’s the perfect way to round off a winter week, gathered around the table with family and friends. Plus, it sets you up nicely for the days ahead. Use the leftover meat in our warming chicken soup, creamy chicken and mushroom risotto or explore more ways to cut down on waste with our leftover chicken recipes. 6. Slow-cooker beef stew If you’re considering buying a slow cooker this winter, we highly recommend it. Pop your ingredients in before you head out, then come home to the rich aroma of a hearty stew ready and waiting. Using a slow cooker for this beef stew gives you unbelievably tender meat with a lovely smoky kick from the paprika. Tempted? Explore our guide to the best slow cookers to find the perfect one for your kitchen. We think you’ll be glad you did. 7. Butternut squash soup Make the most of seasonal squash in this cosy soup, flavoured with chilli and crème fraîche for a warming kick and creamy finish. With fewer than ten ingredients, it’s a brilliant, budget-friendly option that makes use of staples you’re likely to already have in your cupboard. Read our guide on our top budget storecupboard meals for ways to transform a few ingredients into delicious dinners. 8. Marry me chicken Marry me chicken gets its name from the idea that it’s so delicious it could inspire a proposal on the spot. It’s easy to see why. Imagine coming home on a cold winter’s day to a bowl of this creamy, comforting dish. It’s the food equivalent of a warm hug from someone you love. Whether you're cooking for the family or entertaining, check out these crowd-pleasing chicken recipes with 5-star ratings that are sure to impress. 9. Toad-in-the-hole You can’t beat a classic. Our comments say it all: “This easy-to-follow recipe with video is excellent” and “Thanks for making it easy, comes out great.” Our toad-in-the-hole uses a simple batter and chipolatas for a fail-safe dinner that everyone will love, even the fussiest of little eaters. Try more of our family sausage recipes for wholesome dishes to add oomph to your repertoire. 10. Cottage pie Make our classic meat and potato pie for a comforting family dinner. This great-value favourite freezes beautifully and never fails to please a crowd. Still not convinced? There are more than 1,000 five-star reviews to prove it. Save the recipe, give it a go and see if you’re one of the cottage pie superfans. Liked this? Discover more... Top winter one-pot meals Healthy winter recipes Dishes celebrating winter vegetables Winter pasta recipes Protein-packed winter dishes to fuel your body and keep you going
Cold season is here, bringing sniffles and chills. Keep everyone well with these immune-supporting, easy recipes for when you’re feeling under the weather
With cold season in full swing, we’ve put together a healthy week-long meal plan and shopping list to take the effort out of eating well. Each dish is designed to help you stay nourished and fight off seasonal bugs, with plenty of feel-good flavours along the way. Expect tender white and oily fish for lean protein and key nutrients, such as omega-3; beans and chickpeas for fibre, plant protein and prebiotic goodness; and leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, bringing a hit of vitamin C and phytonutrients. Warming spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic and chilli add an anti-inflammatory boost, while soothing broths and soupy bases keep you hydrated and comforted when you need it most.
Find inspiration to sit down to a hearty winter meal with our ideas for warming starters, comforting mains, indulgent desserts and soothing drinks
When the weather outside is cold and icy, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a hearty home-cooked meal. We’ve got everything you need for a magnificent spread, from soup starters, filling ragu and stews, and winter cakes and compotes. Finish your meal by warming your hands around a delicious hot chocolate or feel the burn of a little nightcap. Check out our winter warmer recipes for more inspiration on keeping your spirits high and your stomach full this winter. There are plenty more delectable desserts to try with our winter dessert recipes, and why not check out our guide to the best-mulled wine to buy? If alcohol doesn’t take your fancy, we have plenty of non-alcoholic drink recipes and mocktail recipes to try. Add more recipes to your rotation with our top dinners for when you don’t know what to cook. Starters 1. Leek & potato soup Of the winter soups, leek and potato is one of the most comforting and familiar. This recipe can be on the table in under an hour and is freezable, so if you batch cook it, you can reheat it later for a fuss-free lunch or dinner. You can also follow along with our helpful video tutorial. Discover more winter soup recipes. 2. Winter panzanella This winter panzanella is made using winter produce, such as cauliflower and radish. Toast cubes of leftover bread for an extra-crunchy panzanella – an Italian salad packed with flavour. Discover more panzanella recipes. 3. Parsnip & miso soup with sesame croutons Make the most of seasonal parsnips in this sweet, savoury miso soup. Naturally low in calories and high in fibre, it makes a nourishing starter or light lunch. It also freezes beautifully so that you can stash away extra portions for an easy meal on busy days. Discover more parsnip recipes. 4. Winter salad Salads don’t have to be enjoyed only in the summer. Make this salad where wonderful seasonal produce, such as cauliflower, is mixed with wintery flavours like dill and walnuts. Not only is it high in fibre, but it's also vegan-friendly and gluten free. Discover more winter salad recipes. 5. Mushroom soup Make the most of mushrooms with this comforting soup recipe using cream, onions and garlic. It’s super simple – taking only three steps to make – and freezable, so you can save the leftovers for another day. It goes perfectly with crusty bread, so why not impress your guests by making your own with our easy white bread recipe? 6. Charred leeks with anchovy dressing We’ve made leeks the star of our elegant, simple starter. Hazelnuts add a creative crunch and the anchovy dressing gives the dish an umami depth of flavour. Discover more leek recipes. Mains 1. Chicken pot pie Rustle up this chicken pot pie for an easy dinner. A family favourite, it can be made ahead and frozen for another day to make mealtimes easy. It’s high in protein and low in sugar and will warm you from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Discover more chicken pie recipes. 2. Beef stew A traditional braised beef casserole with thick, rich gravy and chunky veg – it’s an ideal recipe for cheap cuts, as slow-cooking guarantees a tender dish. It’s a beautiful mid-week meal that only takes 15 minutes to prepare. Discover more winter stew recipes. 3. Sausage & mash pie Enjoy this ingenious take on a family favourite – sausage and mash. It combines two storecupboard ingredients into one hearty pie that can be easily frozen. It’s also high in fibre! Discover more sausage pie recipes. 4. Sausage, lentil & leek casserole This hearty sausage, lentil and leek casserole comes together in just 40 minutes in your air fryer. It’s comforting, full of flavour and ideal for a chilly winter’s day. Serve with crusty bread for mopping up the sauce or a spoonful of creamy mash for a cosy, satisfying meal. Discover more air fryer recipes. 5. Porchetta ragu Be inspired by porchetta, the Italian rolled-pork dish. This ragu is ideal for guests as you can leave it simmering while you’re entertaining. This recipe serves 6-8 people but is also freezable, so if you have leftovers, you can reheat them quickly for a fuss-free supper. Discover more dinner party main recipes. 6. Chicken pasta bake Curl up with a bowl of piping hot pasta on a chilly winter's night. This gooey cheese and chicken bake is a winning weekday dinner for the whole family, served straight from the dish with a dressed green salad. Discover more pasta bake recipes. Desserts 1. Marmalade & whisky bread & butter pudding Upgrade the ultimate comfort dessert, bread and butter pudding. This one has citrus flavours from Seville orange marmalade and a woody kick from the whisky. Discover more bread & butter pudding recipes. 2. Squidgy chocolate pear pudding This hot, gooey chocolate pud, with dark chocolate and canned pears, can be made ahead and frozen – a perfect no-fuss dinner party dessert. Discover more chocolate dessert recipes. 3. Self-saucing sticky toffee chocolate pudding Combine sticky toffee pudding sponge with a generous helping of chocolate chunks and chocolate sauce for the ultimate indulgent dessert. It pairs perfectly with our ultimate vanilla ice cream or homemade custard. 4. Dark & stormy fruit cake Enjoy this classic winter cake as a gorgeous centrepiece for your winter meal. Make this Christmas cake a couple of months in advance, if you can, and feed it with rum to give it time to mature and develop deep flavour and texture. Discover more inspiration for Christmas cake decoration. 5. Winter compote These winter compote tumblers make for a great breakfast or healthier dessert. They need 20 minutes of cooling time, so they’re a great make-ahead dessert to pop in the fridge the night before. Discover more compote recipes. Drinks 1. Classic mulled wine Hosting a dinner party over the festive period? Impress your party guests with our easy recipe for mulled wine, flavoured with warming spices. Discover more mulled wine recipes. 2. Cinnamon butter rum Warm up in winter with a glass of fabulously decadent cinnamon butter rum. Gently heat all the ingredients until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved and then serve. Discover more rum recipes. 3. Triple choc hot chocolate Take a humble hot mug of cocoa to the heights of luxury with this super decadent recipe that combines double cream and whole milk with three types of chocolate. Discover more hot chocolate recipes. 4. Winter whisky sour This classic bourbon cocktail takes a festive turn with a splash of orange juice and edible gold glitter. Discover more bourbon cocktail recipes. 5. Mulled apple juice This drink is perfect for getting you in the spirit of winter without the dreaded hangover. With flavours of orange, cinnamon and cloves, it’s the ideal mulled alternative for drivers or children. Discover more mulled drinks recipes. Enjoy this? Check out... Winter superfoods to try Best ever winter one-pot meals Family winter traybake ideas Top winter soup recipes Top winter drinks recipes Top easy winter family meals
Cook once, eat all week - the freezeable winter meals worth making ahead
Batch-cook classics like shepherd's pie or a warming curry, so when life feels hectic, you’ve got comforting winter meals ready to go from the freezer
Sometimes, after a cold and dreary winter's day, there’s nothing better than coming home to the comforting thought of a homemade frozen meal waiting for you. No fuss, no effort—just preheat the oven and let the magic happen. While cooking can be a lovely escape—glass of wine in hand, your favourite playlist on—it’s not always the answer when all you really want is to curl up on the sofa with loved ones and let the day melt away. That’s where these winter dinner ideas come in. Perfect for batch cooking, they’re designed to be stashed in the freezer for those days when life feels a bit much. Best of all, they’re packed with flavour and don’t compromise on taste, even after being reheated. Looking for more ways to beat the chill? Explore our top comfort foods, discover one of our winter dinner ideas or browse through our best winter one-pot meals for hearty, warming inspiration. And if you’re after the joy of a home-cooked feast without the constant kitchen watch, our slow cooker recipes are just the ticket—simply set them up in the morning and come home to something deliciously stewed to perfection. For those who love to entertain without the last-minute stress, take a peek at our make-ahead dinner party main courses—ideal for effortless hosting with a professional finish. 1. No-fuss shepherd's pie A true comfort food classic, this shepherd's pie features tender lamb mince simmered with hearty vegetables, all crowned with a cloud-like layer of creamy mashed potato. Perfect for batch cooking, simply assemble, freeze, and bake when needed – an effortless solution for those busy or low-energy days when a homemade meal hits the spot. Discover a range of shepherd’s pie recipes, from the classic comforting version to creative twists on this beloved favourite. 2. Meatballs & garlic bread & butter pudding Transform classic comfort food with this crowd-pleasing twist. Juicy homemade meatballs are baked in a rich tomato sauce, layered with indulgent cheesy garlic bread for the ultimate cosy dinner. With just 15 minutes of prep, it’s low effort but delivers big on flavour. Plus, it’s packed with protein and naturally low in sugar. Explore a variety of meatball recipes, from hearty sub sandwiches packed with flavour to irresistible pasta toppers. 3. Sausage & sweet potato traybake Serve up this delicious sausage and sweet potato traybake for a hassle-free family meal. Waste not, want not – simply cool any leftovers completely, then pop them in the freezer for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, ready to enjoy within a month. Discover more winter traybake recipes, perfect for saving on washing up. 4. Spaghetti & meatballs Spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless family favourite, perfect for a cosy dinner. This recipe is ideal for batch cooking, yielding up to 10 servings so you can stock the freezer with extra portions for those busy nights. Pair it with homemade garlic bread for mopping up every drop of the rich sauce, or add a fresh twist with a green salad, perfect for a vibrant burst of green on the side. 5. Cheeseboard mac ’n’ cheese with cracker breadcrumbs Turn your leftover Christmas cheeseboard into a showstopping dish with this elevated take on mac and cheese. Use any odds and ends of cheese you have – blue cheese, gruyère, camembert, or a mix – to create a rich, indulgent sauce. Not only is this a brilliant way to reduce food waste, but it also transforms a comforting classic into a dinner-party-worthy centrepiece. Check out our leftover cheese recipes for more inspiration on using up your leftover cheese. 6. Feel-good pasta soup Warm up this winter with our take on pasta e ceci, a hearty dish that combines the comfort of soup and pasta. Seasoning is essential – finish with a drizzle of quality olive oil and a generous scattering of sharp, hard cheese to elevate the flavours. Discover more winter pasta recipes for cosy bowls of comfort you can’t wait to slurp up. 7. Vegan miso mushroom & spinach pithiviers Serve up these impressive vegan pithiviers as the star of your Sunday roast – a stunning centrepiece guaranteed to delight your vegan guests. Perfect for planning ahead, they can be assembled in advance and chilled, or frozen for up to a month, ready to bake fresh on the day. Explore more vegan Christmas mains, ideal for the festive season or to delight everyone at your next Sunday roast. 8. Kol böreği (potato, red pepper, spinach & cheese filo pie) This meat-free pie is a showstopping dinner that's sure to impress guests. Make it ahead to take the stress out of entertaining – it will keep frozen for up to three months until needed. 9. Make-ahead hearty hotpot Pack in the veg with this vibrant centrepiece. Serve with crunchy bread for dunking into the umami-rich sauce. Those who are more meat-inclined will enjoy the addition of sausages. 10. Tom kha gai This creamy soup is a bowl of comfort on a chilly winter's day. Coconut milk, fresh lemongrass, galangal paste and dried lime leaves provide plenty of soothing flavour, while bird's-eye chillies bring heat – add as much as you can handle. 11. Chicken & chickpea curry Our spicy chicken and chickpea curry perfectly balances bold flavours and effortless cooking. With just 15 minutes of prep, it’s ideal for busy evenings when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without the hassle. Serve with fluffy rice, or use homemade naan or parathas to soak up every drop of sauce. 12. Tamil Sri Lankan curry fish pie with devilled peas Combine the comforting appeal of fish pie with the bold flavours of a Sri Lankan curry in this irresistible dish. Topped with spiced masala mash and served alongside vibrant devilled peas, it’s a fantastic sharing option that’s also entirely gluten-free – perfect for impressing guests or treating the family to something special. Explore more fish pie recipes, perfect for a family-friendly evening meal. 13. Red lentil, chickpea & chilli soup After a chilly winter’s day, there’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a cosy bowl of our red lentil, chickpea and chilli soup. This hearty, low-fat vegetarian option is packed with flavour and sure to warm you through. Enjoy with a hunk of homemade crusty bread for dunking, or for an extra touch of indulgence, pair it with a gooey cheese toastie. 14. Smoky aubergine, mozzarella & harissa lasagne Who needs meat when you’ve got this flavour-packed aubergine and harissa lasagne? Lightly spiced and oozing with plenty of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing vegetarian dish that’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas Eve. Ideal as a single main course to satisfy everyone at the table, it’s as practical as it is delicious. Whip up a classic Italian pasta bake for the whole family with our lasagne recipes. Whether you're after a traditional dish or a vegetarian or vegan twist, we've got something for everyone. 15. Easy chicken casserole This hearty, low-fat chicken casserole is packed with flavour and simple to prepare. It’s perfect for batch cooking – whip up a double portion and freeze the extra for quick and convenient midweek dinners. Discover more chicken casserole recipes, a hearty dinner with minimal washing up. 16. Cajun sausage stew Cosy up with this hearty Cajun-spiced sausage and bean stew, perfect for warming you up on chilly winter evenings. Serve with fluffy jacket potatoes, creamy mash or a chunk of crusty bread to soak up the rich, smoky flavours. Check out more winter stew recipes to warm your cockles. 17. Pesto chicken stew with cheesy dumplings Try this Italian-inspired chicken casserole for a comforting dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with Italian flavour from the parmesan and pesto and cooked in just one pot, it’s a fuss-free dish that delivers big on taste without leaving you with a mountain of washing up. 18. Beef bourguignon The secret to this rich beef casserole lies in using wine instead of stock for a depth of flavour that makes our ultimate beef bourguignon an instant classic. Packed with satisfying flavours, it’s high in fibre and protein while low in sugar – a hearty, crowd-pleasing option for up to six guests. If you’re not catering for a full house, simply freeze the leftovers for an effortless yet impressive meal when entertaining later. Discover more of our French-inspired recipes, from delicate soufflés to rich, savoury onion soup. 19. Slow cooker lamb curry Let your slow cooker do the work with this simple, nutritious lamb curry that delivers melt-in-the-mouth tenderness and deep, rich flavours. With just 10 minutes of prep in the morning, you’ll return home to a succulent, full-bodied curry that’s ready to enjoy. This recipe serves two but is easily scaled up if you’d like to batch-cook and freeze extra portions for later. Rustle up a spiced-filled supper with more of our curry recipes. 20. Beef shin pie Nothing beats a classic meat pie when you’re in the mood for a comforting supper. This version uses a slow-cooked beef casserole for a beautifully tender, flavour-packed filling. Serve with vibrant sides like our zesty spring greens with lemon dressing and a generous helping of creamy mash to soak up every drop of that sauce. Enjoy this? Check out more... Freezable recipes Winter salad recipes Freezable vegetarian family meals Easy dinner recipes Quick winter dinner ideas Healthy weeknight dinners
The easy chocolate chip cookie recipe the UK is baking right now
Brighten grey autumn days with our irresistible chocolate chip cookies, then explore more comforting bakes from gooey brownies to classic teatime treats
Now that the sunshine has faded and the chill has set in, there’s nothing better than turning your home into a cosy haven. One of our favourite ways to embrace the colder months is by firing up the oven and filling the kitchen with the scent of freshly baked cookies, brownies and comforting treats. Not only will your home smell wonderful, but a sweet bake is the perfect pick-me-up for grey winter days. Our easy chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate comfort bake. Golden at the edges, soft and chewy in the middle, and generously studded with chunks of melting chocolate. They strike that perfect balance between crisp and gooey, making them impossible to stop at just one. It seems we’re not alone in this mindset. With The Great British Bake Off back on our screens, home baking is once again having a moment - inspiring many of us to try our hand at new recipes. If you’re looking for ideas, explore our guide to classic British bakes you need to try, and make sure your creations go smoothly with our top baking hacks. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, our essential baking equipment checklist will help you stay organised and avoid any mishaps along the way. 1. Easy chocolate chip cookies If you’re after a sweet treat that’s low effort but delivers big on flavour, these chocolate chip cookies are just the thing. They’re ready in just over half an hour – ideal for dunking in a cuppa or enjoying warm from the oven while still soft and oozy. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible hot and cold dessert. They also freeze beautifully, allowing you to bake them to order and reduce waste. If you're looking to add a little flair to your classic bake, check out our guide to the top twists on chocolate chip cookies. 2. Carrot cake Carrot cake is a classic autumn baking treat. This recipe makes the most of seasonal root veg, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and lifted with a hint of orange for a wonderfully warming flavour. With over 1,000 five-star reviews, it’s a tried-and-tested favourite you can count on to deliver every time. If you can’t get enough of that classic carrot cake flavour, take a look at our guide to the top ways with carrot cake for delicious ideas to use it in all your bakes. 3. Blueberry muffin It’s hard to top reviews like “the best ever blueberry muffins” and “I’ve been using this recipe for years and always get great results!”. Follow our step-by-step video to bake along, then let us know if you agree – we love hearing how our Good Food community gets on. Explore our collection of muffin recipes for both sweet and savoury bakes. 4. Easy millionaire's shortbread Combine a buttery shortbread base with a gooey caramel centre and a rich chocolate topping, and you’ve got millionaire’s shortbread. This recipe makes 24 squares, perfect for sharing at a coffee morning (though we wouldn’t blame you if they disappear a little sooner – they’re that moreish). Browse our shortbread recipes to perfect the art of baking this classic buttery, crumbly biscuit. 5. Cinnamon rolls These cinnamon rolls take a little extra effort, but they’re absolutely worth it. Soft, spiced and topped with rich cream cheese icing, they’re the definition of breakfast perfection. Prepare them the day before for an effortless morning treat, or try our air fryer cinnamon rolls for a beginner-friendly option – they still need proving time but bake in just 20 minutes. 6. Salted caramel brownies The salted caramel layer adds a touch of sophistication to these fudgy brownies, but they’re surprisingly easy to make. Ready in under an hour with fewer than 10 ingredients, this budget-friendly bake boasts a luxurious twist. If you’re a chocoholic, explore our best ever brownie recipes – the ultimate way to get your chocolate fix. 7. Chocolate chip banana bread If you’re after a bake that feels a little more virtuous, banana bread is the way to go. It’s the perfect use for overripe bananas — consider it doing your bit to cut food waste, one slice at a time. Our chocolate chip version could also help you use up leftover chocolate… though, as many followers on our social media channels have pointed out, “leftover chocolate” isn’t really a thing. For more simple, fun ideas to cut down on food waste, take a look at our handy guide on how to waste less food without trying. 8. Pear, pecan & caramel crumble Make the most of pears while they’re in season, from September to February, with this comforting crumble. The fruit is tossed in a silky caramel sauce and flavoured with vanilla bean paste, then topped with a nutty pecan crumble for extra crunch. Serve warm with custard or a scoop of ice cream - whichever team you’re on, it’s sure to hit the spot. Just starting on your crumble-making journey? Begin with our guide to how to make a crumble, then explore our most popular crumble recipes and best crumble toppings for plenty of inspiration. 9. Ginger biscuits Ginger is known for its numerous health benefits — it can help ease colds, reduce sickness and even possess anti-inflammatory properties. While fresh ginger is most potent, you’ll still get a little boost from these spiced ginger biscuits, which include both fresh and ginger powder. Who knew fighting off the winter sniffles could taste this good? 10. Apple hand pies Using shop-bought puff pastry means these hand pies can be ready in under an hour. They can also be frozen before baking, so you’ll always have a speedy, warming treat to hand on chilly autumn days. Explore more of our apple dessert recipes for cosy, comforting bakes. Enjoyed this? Check out more... 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"Food became a way of making them less homesick" Thomasina Miers on rediscovering Mexico, family feasts and the power of good ingredients
Thomasina Miers, founder of Wahaca, shares how six months in Mexico rekindled her love for home cooking, sustainable food and the simple joy of sharing meals
Thomasina Miers is not one to rest on her culinary laurels. Nearly two decades after winning MasterChef and launching a restaurant empire, she found herself yearning for the vibrant flavours and conviviality of Mexico. In her latest adventure, Miers packed up her family and spent six months living, shopping and cooking in Mexico, an experience that has inspired her newest book, Mexican Table, and left her with a fresh appreciation for the power of good ingredients and the magic of a shared table. Listen to Thomasina Miers' full episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups in our podcast hub. Food as a homesickness cure For Miers, this journey was not just a professional pilgrimage but a deeply personal homecoming. Her children, some of whom had never set foot in Mexico, were suddenly immersed in bustling markets, tropical fruit and the everyday rituals of Mexican life. “My kids do not know this country,” she recalls, “like my youngest two hadn’t even ever been. So I was like, they’ve got to know this.” Miers says, "Food became this way of making them less homesick because the produce was so, so incredible. Like the pineapples in Mexico - sweet, but also sherbety, acidic and sweet in the same way. It is like eating a sherbet dip dab, just crazy flavours.” Markets, mangoes and motherhood The reality of daily life in Mexico was a far cry from glossy restaurant kitchens. Miers found herself cooking three meals a day, packing school lunches and navigating the dazzling array of fresh produce on offer. “There are markets everywhere and that’s how you shop. There are supermarkets, too, but there are so many great proper markets and everything looks so fresh and tastes so good.” It was the mangoes, however, that marked a turning point for her children. On a sweltering walk through Mexico City’s Bosque de Chapultepec, tempers frayed and energy waned – until a mango seller appeared, deftly slicing ripe fruit into glistening crescents. Each child reached out reluctantly, but you could see their mood shift with every bite. From that moment, food became a bridge between the unfamiliar and the comforting – a way to root her family in their new surroundings. Salsa verde with tomatillos and serrano chillies at breakfast, sweet, tangy pineapples, and the daily rhythm of shopping and cooking together all helped transform homesickness into excitement. Everyday Mexican made simple One of the biggest surprises of Miers’ time in Mexico was how accessible authentic home cooking could be. Far from the labour-intensive, multi-ingredient moles of legend, she discovered a new wave of Mexican cuisine built on simplicity and bold flavour. “A lot of the cool new restaurants in Mexico City, they’re doing much simpler moles than the ones I first knew…" Her new book captures this spirit, centred around 12 core ingredients that define Mexican cooking, from tomatoes and pumpkins to chillies and cacao. It shows how, with a few well-chosen basics, even a British kitchen can channel the vibrant depth of Mexico. “Suddenly I feel like you can open up Mexican food to people in their kitchens and get quite sophisticated and unusual flavours into their home cooking in quite a simple way.” If you’re inspired to bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen, explore our collection of vibrant Mexican recipes. Sustainable food for lasting change Miers’ time in Mexico also deepened her commitment to sustainability, both in her restaurants and at home. She champions regenerative farming, grass-fed beef and small producers, believing that good food begins with good soil. “The wellness is in the ingredients you buy. Going to my local farmer’s market is like my gospel. It’s my Sunday ritual because I know that my money is going to the pockets of people who are looking after nature and the food is going to the bodies of my children and me and it’s doing us good.” She is outspoken about the need for systemic change, from zero business rates for greengrocers to better food education in schools, and believes real wellness comes from what we put on our plates, not what we pop in a pill. “Big food has got a massive incentive to keep feeding us ultra-processed because it’s cheap and they make massive profit on it. But if you did away with both sides and just had a bit better food then you’re kind of solving the problem without having to spend billions.” For more tips on reducing waste and eating sustainably, visit our sustainability hub. The joy of good food, great company and a well-stocked freezer Despite her travels and campaign work, Miers remains at heart a home cook who loves nothing more than feeding friends and family. She swears by batch cooking and a well-stocked freezer: “I tend to make massive batches of everything, so then I’ve always got one for the freezer.” She takes joy in simple pleasures like brown sugar meringues, homemade stock and, when the mood strikes, a shoulder of lamb rubbed with chilli and garlic. Asked what good food means to her, her answer is both simple and sincere: “Friends, great ingredients, time and music probably, with tequilas in there.” It’s a recipe for happiness that crosses borders and, thanks to her infectious enthusiasm, feels within everyone’s reach. Like this? Check out more... How to cook Mexican food The Good Food Podcast – Kathy Slack on the power of gardening, growing ingredients and her journey to wellbeing The grains trust Is organic food worth it? The Good Food Podcast – Snack Hacker George Egg and Lagom Chef Martyn Odell on food waste and their podcast, Stuffed!