Not sure what dishes to cook this Valentine's Day? Be inspired by our classic menu and ensure a special Valentine's dinner from start to finish
Resist the temptation of a supermarket meal deal on 14 February and show your loved one you care by cooking a stylish supper that's sure to impress. We've put together a romantic menu to serve two people. Tuck into a salmon starter, succulent steak & chips main and a salted caramel & chocolate dessert. Make a pair of passion fruit martini cocktails, and enjoy! Follow this Valentine's Day menu for classic recipe ideas and for more inspiration, see our quick & easy Valentine’s menu and the 10 most popular Valentine’s Day dishes and our complete collection of Valentine's Day recipes. If your Valentine is meat-free try our veggie Valentine's recipes and to keep costs down this year why not try our budget-friendly Valentine's ideas? Classic Valentine’s Day recipes You can prepare the starter and dessert a day or two ahead, if you like. The main and cocktails are quick and easy to make on Valentine’s Day itself. Starter: Smoked salmon with prawns Start your Valentine’s night in with this five star-rated smoked salmon and prawn salad. You can make the horseradish cream and lime vinaigrette in advance, so it’s just a case of assembling and dressing the salad right before you serve it. Or rustle up this fig, burrata & prosciutto tartine for a vegetarian alternative – it's an impressive-looking starter that's deceptively easy to make. For more starters perfect for kicking off an evening of romance, check out our Valentine's Day starter recipes. Main: Steak diane Every year, steak is the most popular Valentine’s Day recipe of choice for Good Food users. Treat someone special to a classic steak diane, with a rich, creamy sauce and a touch of theatre from your flambé skills. For the ultimate indulgence, we’ve chosen tender fillet steak – a true showstopper for any romantic supper, and it only takes 25 minutes. Main: 'Marry me' gnocchi Alternatively, indulge in this rich, cheesy marry me gnocchi for a brilliant veggie option. It's easy to make and comes together in less than 40 minutes, perfect for impressing your loved one without any of the hassle. Serve with a fresh green salad, if you like. Whether you're looking for a romantic meal or midweek inspiration, we've got plenty of dinner recipes for two. Dessert: Salted caramel chocolate pots Round off your romantic dinner with these salted caramel choc pots. The combination of sweet and salty flavours works perfectly, and the pots can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead. Impress someone special with our Valentine's Day dessert recipes. Cocktail: Passion fruit martini This easy passion fruit martini is the perfect cocktail with which to begin or end your Valentine’s dinner. You can make your own sugar syrup by boiling equal quantities of sugar and water in a pan for about five minutes until a syrupy consistency. Explore more Valentine's Day cocktail recipes to add a touch of sparkle and keep the romance flowing all evening. More Valentine's dinner ideas: More classic starters Smoked salmon with horseradish crème fraîche & beetroot Crab & citrus salad with chardonnay dressing Mushroom & butter bean toasts with crispy chorizo Ultimate onion rings with bacon mayo Prawn bruschetta with lemony fennel salad Smoked salmon & avocado sushi More romantic mains Braised ox cheek wellingtons with peppercorn gravy Spiced lamb with lemon & herb quinoa Crispy pork massaman ramen Onglet steak with red wine shallots Duck legs braised with Seville oranges Butter-roasted supreme of chicken with wild mushroom & potato gratin More decadent desserts Baked raspberry & lemon cheesecake Little rose & almond cupcakes Dark chocolate orange creams Orange chocolate truffle cake Sticky toffee tarts See our Valentine's Day collection for our highest-rated recipes and our Valentine's Day menu ideas for further inspiration.
Enjoy these sweet pancake recipes as a dessert all year round, not just for Shrove Tuesday. From sugary crepes to fluffy American stacks, you'll find plenty of ideas here
Pancakes are an all-important part of any breakfast or brunch spread, but they can be much more. With Shrove Tuesday fast approaching, we’ve gathered our top 10 sweet pancake recipes for your appreciation as a dessert all year round. From stacks oozing with chocolate to plates vibrant with colourful fruit, pancakes are so versatile that you can eat them for every meal and not get bored! Whether you're looking for indulgent treats or creative pancake dessert ideas, discover more sweet pancake recipes and our full collection of Pancake Day recipes. For inspiration on lunches and dinners involving pancakes, check out our savoury pancake recipes and savoury crepe recipes. Try our kids’ pancake recipes, which are perfect for getting the kids involved in the kitchen. For the perfect tools and pans to help with your flipping and plating up, check out our best pancake and crepe pans, tried and tested, and the 15 best tools for Pancake Day. Our best dessert pancakes 1. Cinnamon roll pancakes Serve these cinnamon roll pancakes for breakfast or brunch with caramel yogurt and maple syrup. They also make an inspired dessert for Pancake Day. Achieve the perfect swirl effect by piping on a mixture of cinnamon, brown sugar, pancake batter and maple syrup into your already-frying pancake. Check out more tasty cinnamon recipes. 2. Chocolate-filled pancakes with caramelised banana Create perfect fluffy, American-style pancakes with an oozy chocolate centre by spooning a teaspoon of chocolate spread into the middle of the batter while frying and top with a little more pancake mix. Top with caramelised bananas and maple syrup. Check out more banana dessert recipes. 3. Mississippi mud pie pancake cake Turn your crêpes into a showstopper cake by layering them with chocolate custard then topping with whipped cream and chocolate and caramel sauces, nuts and broken biscuits. This pancake cake is sure to go down a treat with everyone at the table. Chocolate lovers will also enjoy these chocolate pancakes, topped with cream and berries. 4. Blueberry cheesecake pancakes Top thin crêpes with homemade blueberry syrup made from frozen or fresh blueberries, and whip up some cream cheese and icing sugar for the cheesecake topping. Check out more blueberry pancake recipes. 5. Easy carrot cake pancakes Combine a classic cake flavour with the simplicity of a pancake to create a special dessert. Serve the pancakes with spoonfuls of yogurt, a scattering of pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, if you like. Next, take a browse through our carrot cake recipes. 6. Chocolate, raspberry & pistachio pancake topping This indulgent chocolate, raspberry and pistachio pancake topping takes only 5 minutes to prepare! Mix your chocolate spread and pistachio butter (or any other nut butter you like) and thin it with milk if needed. Spread over your pancakes and top with fresh pistachios and raspberries. Discover more pistachio recipes. 7. Rhubarb & custard fluffy pancakes Rhubarb and custard fluffy pancakes offer a delightful twist on the classic dessert pairing. The tangy rhubarb complements the rich, creamy sweetness of the custard, creating a beautifully balanced flavour. Light and airy, these pancakes provide the perfect indulgence—decadent yet wonderfully light. Check out more rhubarb recipes. 8. Fluffy American pancakes with cherry-berry syrup These fluffy American pancakes served with our homemade cherry-berry syrup, maple syrup, and streaky bacon are the perfect mix of tangy, sweet and salty. Check out more cherry dessert recipes. 9. Chocolate chip pancakes Sometimes sweet and simple is all you crave. These chocolate chip-filled American pancakes make the perfect dessert served alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Why not impress your guests with our homemade ultimate vanilla ice cream? 10. Red velvet pancakes New York diner-style chocolate pancakes meet red velvet cake in this ingenious pancake dessert, stacked with a sweet maple cream cheese frosting, chocolate chips and fresh blueberries. Discover more red velvet recipes. Enjoyed this? Check out... 20 most popular pancake recipes Low-calorie pancake recipes Top 15 savoury pancake recipes Top 10 vegan pancake recipes Best boozy pancake recipes
Celebrate Pancake Day in style with our ultimate pancake party planning guide, packed with alternative recipes, tasty toppings and fun activities
Look no further if you’re wondering how to celebrate Pancake Day this year. Shrove Tuesday (4 March) is a day for feasting on your leftover storecupboard ingredients before the start of Lent. What better way to enjoy gorging yourself on tasty treats than surrounded by friends and family? We’ve gathered all the best tips and tricks for throwing a Pancake Day bonanza, from pancakes for alternative diets, sweet and savoury toppings, and crafts and activities to keep the kids entertained. Discover all the pancake recipes you need to enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even dessert, without ever getting bored. Dive into our pancakes for dinner recipes and top pancakes to eat for dessert for inspiration. If you’re looking to impress your guests with your fantastic flipping skills, check out our best pancake and crêpe pans tried and tested to avoid embarrassing mishaps. For useful tools, such as a pancake warmer to keep your crêpes toasty, check out our 15 best tools for pancake day. Finally, using wonderfully sourced ingredients makes all the difference in creating these simple staples, so check out our best shop-bought Pancake Day toppings. The base There’s no point covering your pancake with delicious toppings if you haven’t first perfected the batter. Our foolproof crêpe recipe is the best place to start to ensure a perfect pancake every time. The batter is also freezable, so you can whip up a batch and save the leftovers to avoid waste. If you prefer thicker American-style pancakes, these buttermilk pancakes are super fluffy. Best made fresh, serve for brunch or dessert with an apple and pecan topping. If any of your guests are celiac or gluten-intolerant, serve them these delicious gluten-free pancakes. They’re equally as simple, but the use of gluten-free flour means no one will have to miss out. For vegan friends and family, we also have many options. If they prefer a fluffy American-style pancake, our easy vegan pancakes are a hands-down winner. Try our vegan strawberry pancakes for a healthier vegan alternative that’s similar to a traditional crêpe in thickness. Made with soya milk, soya yogurt and spelt flour, you won’t feel any guilt about indulging in these! Toppings Sweet 1. Chocolate-filled pancakes with caramelised banana Create perfect fluffy, American-style pancakes with an oozy chocolate centre by spooning a teaspoon of chocolate spread into the middle of the batter while frying and top with a little more pancake mixture. Top with caramelised bananas and maple syrup. Discover more caramel recipes. 2. Mississippi mud pie pancake cake Turn your crêpes into a showstopper cake by layering them with chocolate custard then topping with whipped cream, chocolate and caramel sauces, nuts and broken biscuits. This stunning stacked crêpe cake is perfect for a Pancake Day party showstopper. We love the combination of sweet pancakes and a rich chocolate custard filling. Discover more of our most indulgent pancake recipes. 3. Baby pancakes Make a batch of mini pancakes to serve as a fun sharing platter. You can even add fruit, if you like. Add 3 blueberries to each dollop of pancake batter when in the pan, and flip over to cook, or coarsely grate ½ an apple to the mixture when combining the batter in step 2. Discover our 10 pancake ideas for kids for more easy recipes. 4. Crêpes Suzette Caramelise simple pancakes and transform them into a decadent pudding. Heat up sugar in a pan until brown before adding orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, Grand Marnier and butter. Put your folded pancakes in the pan to coat and warm through. Voilà! Discover more French recipes. 5. Pumpkin pancakes with salted pecan butterscotch Pumpkin purée makes a delicious addition to a stack of fat, fluffy pancakes. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and coat in your homemade butterscotch sauce. If you really feel like spoiling your guests, serve with a spoon of our ultimate vanilla ice cream. Discover more pumpkin dessert recipes. 6. Matcha mille crêpe cake This indulgent crêpe cake layers sweet white chocolate with earthy matcha for a showstopping treat. Surprisingly easy to make and serving up to eight, just remember to allow time for overnight chilling. Explore even more ways to enjoy this vibrant ingredient with our collection of matcha recipes. Savoury 7. Eggs Benedict pancakes Try an indulgent twist on a classic breakfast dish with our eggs Benedict pancakes. Why not watch our video of Tom Kerridge to learn how to poach the perfect egg. 8. Spinach pancakes with harissa yogurt & poached eggs Make these spiced green pancakes with poached eggs – they not only taste great, but boast the added benefits of iron and vitamin K. Discover more spinach recipes. 9. Brie-stuffed pancakes with crispy bacon Achieve the most fantastically cheesy stack with our oozing cheese-filled American pancakes. Topped with crispy bacon, they make a great savoury brunch. Discover more brie recipes. 10. Chicken & mushroom pancake topping If you’re looking for a low-calorie, savoury pancake topper, these creamy chicken and mushroom pancakes are for you. Using ready-cooked chicken breasts means it can be on the table in 20 minutes. Discover more chicken breast recipes. 11. Okonomiyaki Try this Japanese savoury pancake made with cabbage and chunks of pork belly. It’s a great way to use up leftovers. Top with mayonnaise, nori and spring onions for added sauce and crunch. Discover more Japanese-style recipes. 12. Smash burger pancakes Burgers and pancakes—a match made in foodie heaven! Try our savoury pancake burgers, stacked with gherkins, burger sauce and melted cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re guaranteed to be a family favourite. Pancake Day activities & crafts Pancake race Why not try this fun pancake race as a competitive way to burn off some of those calories you’ve been guzzling? One idea is to hand the kids some (cooled) pans containing a pancake and get them to race around the garden, flipping them at the start and end. If you’re short on space, you could have a timed competition to see who can get the most successful pancake flips in a minute. Pancake treasure hunt Create a treasure hunt around the house using cut-out pancakes. Give the children a map with clues about where the paper pancakes can be found and watch their imaginations run wild. Egg box crafts After whipping up your pancake feast, you’ll probably have a couple of empty egg cartons. Creating fun egg carton crafts is an excellent way to recycle these. From caterpillars to flowers, we have lots of inspiration and tips in our top 10 egg carton crafts for kids guide. Enjoy this? Check out... How to flip a pancake Best banana pancake recipes Top 10 vegan pancake recipes How to make the perfect crêpes
Looking for a fuss-free midweek family meal? Look no further. We've gathered our top meat, veggie and healthy fillings for the mighty jacket potato
A jacket potato is a wonderful low-effort and low-cost family meal. Simply bosh a potato in the oven then fill it with your favourite toppings. These recipes include many storecupboard ingredients, so they won’t break the bank. Another way to save money is to microwave your jacket potatoes, which uses less energy than an oven. Learn how to how to microwave a baked potato then find more tips in our helpful guide to energy-efficient cooking. Looking for recipes that put storecupboard staples to good use? See our budget storecupboard meals, top kids' storecupboard recipes and storecupboard pasta recipes for our favourite thrifty recipes. Check out our healthy jacket potato recipes, healthy potato recipes and cheesy potato recipes for more inspiration. This guide was brought to you by Cook Smart, a campaign designed by Good Food experts to help you save money and reduce food waste. Dive into more Cook Smart content in our budget hub. Best jacket potato toppings and fillings 1. Jacket potato board This jacket potato board is a fun and interactive way to serve your spuds, perfect for a gathering or a crowd-pleasing family meal. Potatoes are cooked until their skins are crisp and the insides fluffy, then arranged on a platter with a variety of flavour combinations, from coronation chicken and cheese & onion to tuna crunch. This allows everyone to customise their own potato, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. It's easily scalable for any number of portions, too. Find more crowd-pleasing ideas in our party food recipes. 2. Soy-baked potatoes with tuna sriracha mayo Potatoes are brushed with soy sauce before roasting, infusing the skin with a savoury, umami richness. Once cooked, the potatoes are split and filled with a mixture of tuna, mayonnaise and spicy sriracha sauce, finished with sliced spring onions and spinach. The result is a moreish combination of creamy, spicy and salty flavours, with a satisfying contrast between the crisp, soy-glazed skin and the soft, fluffy interior. See more of our low-calorie dinners. 3. Baked sweet potatoes with whipped feta, spiced chickpeas & green tahini This vibrant dish sees sweet potatoes baked until tender then topped with whipped feta, spiced chickpeas and a drizzle of herby green tahini sauce. The whipped feta is creamy and tangy, while the chickpeas add a crunchy, spicy element. The green tahini, made with fresh herbs and sesame paste, brings a nutty, aromatic finish. Discover more nutritious vegetarian meals with our healthy vegetarian dinner collection. 4. Veggie chilli in jacket potatoes Bake potatoes until crisp and fluffy then fill with a smoky vegetarian chilli. The chilli features a mix of beans, tomatoes, peppers and spices, offset by a cooling yogurt with a sprinkle of chives or coriander for a comforting balance of cream and spice. This filling option serves four, but can be easily doubled or halved, plus any leftover chilli can be frozen. Check out more freezable vegetarian meals. 5. Crispy sweet potatoes with chickpeas & tahini yogurt Sweet potatoes are roasted until their skins are crisp and their flesh soft, then topped with zesty chickpea mixture and creamy tahini yogurt sauce. Seasoned chickpeas are gently mashed for subtle crunch, while the tahini yogurt is tangy and nutty for a cooling contrast. The mix of sweet, nutty and creamy elements makes this ideal for a flavourful lunch or light dinner – to make this recipe vegan rather than veggie, simply swap the yogurt for a dairy-free alternative. Discover more easy dishes with our baked sweet potato recipe collection. 6. Air fryer baked sweet potatoes Put your air fryer to good use with this easy recipe for air-fried sweet potatoes, achieving a crisp skin and fluffy interior in less time. Once cooked, the potatoes are topped with a creamy, garlic-flavoured tahini yogurt, crisp curry leaves, chopped coriander and chilli flakes for added kick. Try it for a low-effort weeknight meal. Check out more vegetarian air fryer recipes. 7. Pizza baked potato Combine the comfort of a baked potato with the flavours of pizza in this budget-friendly supper. Baking potatoes are cooked until soft, then topped with a tomato sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella and fresh basil, resulting in a gooey, savoury topping with classic Italian flavours. With a crisp potato skin and a cheesy, herby filling, it's both fun and satisfying and great for children and adults alike. Check out more easy budget-friendly dinners. 8. Soured cream & chive jacket potatoes Try out a classic flavour combination with this soured cream and fresh chives topping. The potatoes are baked until the skin is golden and crisp, then split open and topped with a generous dollop of cool, tangy soured cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives. The creamy topping balances the warming potato, while the chives add a subtle onion flavour and freshness. We have plenty more soured cream recipes for using up leftovers. 9. Baked ginger & spinach sweet potato This baked ginger & spinach sweet potato is a great budget lunch or dinner for one. Replacing your regular potato with a sweet potato means you gain an extra one of your five-a-day. This recipe is low-calorie, packed with vitamin C and full of flavour. You can learn more about the health benefits of sweet potatoes and spinach. 10. Vegan chickpea curry jacket potatoes These vegan chickpea curry jacket potatoes are full of protein while low in fat, saturates and salt. It’s a great budget dinner that uses common storecupboard ingredients such as canned chickpeas and chopped tomatoes. Discover more chickpea recipes. 11. Jacket potato with whipped feta & sumac This jacket potato with whipped feta & sumac is the perfect budget-friendly supper for one. The fragrant, zesty flavour of sumac is a refreshing contrast to the creamy whipped feta, plus it’s gluten-free! Discover more feta recipes. Banish dinner fatigue Download the Good Food app and you’ll never run out of ideas – we serve up brand-new recipes and curated meal plans every week. Get 3 months for 99p 12. Chilli con carne jackets Load your spuds with a simple pork and chipotle chilli filling for a satisfying midweek meal for the whole family. Once your potatoes are cooked, halve them and pile on the chilli, a dollop of soured cream and a sprinkling of chives. You could also serve with a side of mixed leaves. Discover more chilli recipes. 13. Broccoli baked potatoes This five-ingredient recipe sees baked potatoes cut in half and piled with a broccoli, cheddar and mustard mixture. The potato flesh is scooped out and mashed together with the broccoli filling, then returned to the skins and baked until crisp, golden and bubbling. The result is a creamy, cheesy bite with pops of green broccoli and a hint of mustard. Serve with a simple salad and a tangy tomato relish for added zing. See our collection of 5-ingredient recipes for more easy wins. 14. Baked potatoes with spicy dhal This veggie dish sees baked potatoes filled with spiced lentil dhal for a fun cuisine mash-up. The potatoes are roasted until tender, then packed with a warming dhal made from red lentils, chickpeas and a blend of spices. The dhal is thick and comforting, with a gentle heat that pairs perfectly with the fluffy potato. Serve with chutney or lime pickle for a nourishing meat-free dinner. Take a look through our collection of dhal recipes for more ideas. 15. Sweet jacket potato with piri-piri prawns Treat yourself to a special solo supper with this jacket potato piled with piri-piri prawns and sweet red peppers. Finish with a dollop of paprika mayonnaise and a scattering of parsley and you're good to go. Try more of our prawn recipes. 16. Spicy tuna & cottage cheese jacket Turn your hand to our spicy tuna and cottage cheese jacket for a low-fat, carb-heavy lunch that packs a flavour punch. With its light and nutritious filling, this jacket will become an instant lunchtime favourite. See more low-fat recipes. 17. Sweet potato jackets with pomegranate & celeriac slaw Line up three of your 5-a-day at lunchtime with this vibrant sweet potato jacket, topped with yogurt, pomegranates and a simple slaw. It's low-calorie too, and provides beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help to keep skin healthy. Try more low-calorie lunch recipes. 18. Pesto, cannellini bean & tuna jackets Pile pesto, cannellini beans and tuna onto baked sweet potatoes for a simple supper for two. They take just two minutes to prep, with the oven doing most of the work, and they also deliver two of your 5-a-day. See more cannellini bean recipes. 19. Tuna sweet potato jackets Level up your tuna-filled potatoes by swapping them for sweet potatoes. The sweetness from the sweet potato contrasts well with the zest from the lime, raw red onion, and the kick of chilli. Discover more tinned tuna recipes. 20. Mushroom jacket potatoes Take just a few ingredients and rustle up these tasty mushroom jacket potatoes. They're healthy, low-calorie, gluten-free and ideal for a filling lunch or supper. Discover more mushroom recipes. 21. Turkey chilli jacket potatoes Try these Mexican-inspired turkey chilli jacket potatoes; they’re flavoured with cumin and paprika to give a smoky flavour. Using turkey mince also saves money as it is very cheap and lean. This recipe is freezable, so there is no need to waste anything. Discover more Mexican recipes. 22. Jacket potatoes with home-baked beans These jacket potatoes with home-baked beans are a great, healthy, comforting supper idea. They can be whipped up in three simple steps and use cheap vegetables such as carrots, celery, and common storecupboard ingredients like haricot beans. Discover more healthy bean recipes. 23. Vegan three-bean chilli with potato jackets This healthy baked potato filling provides four of your 5-a-day in each serving, plus iron, vitamin C and fibre, and plenty of flavour from storecupboard spices. Not only that, but it is also vegan and gluten-free! Discover more vegan chilli recipes. 24. Sweet potato jacket with pulled pesto chicken These sweet potato jackets with pulled pesto chicken are a fantastic low-effort dinner great for using up leftover chicken. Shred leftover cooked chicken with a fork and mix with pesto and soft cheese before filling potatoes and topping with pine nuts and fresh basil. Discover more leftover chicken recipes. 25. Sweet potato jacket with Coronation chickpeas Transform a baked sweet potato with this tasty Coronation chickpeas topper. It's simple to prep as it uses ready-made curry powder and mango chutney and delivers two of your 5-a-day. 26. Microwave jacket potatoes with Swedish prawn salad These microwave jacket potatoes with a Swedish prawn salad save both time and money as using the microwave is cheaper than the oven and takes a quarter of the time. Flavour prawns with lemon, mayonnaise and dill and cover the potatoes. Discover more microwave recipes. 27. Stuffed jacket potatoes Our stuffed jacket potatoes recipe is a great beginner dish to get kids started in the kitchen. Written for them to follow, it only needs you there for guidance and to be sous chef when needed. Check out our Kids' Kitchen series for more recipes suitable for children. 28. Sweet potato jackets with guacamole & kidney beans These sweet potato jackets with guacamole and kidney beans are a fantastic low-effort supper. Other than popping the sweet potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes, there is no cooking involved for the filling. Mash avocados and mix them with the other filling ingredients. Discover more guacamole recipes. 29. Stir-fry chilli beef with sweet potato jackets These stir-fry chilli beef sweet potato jackets are a tremendously energising supper for a post-exercise pick-me-up. The recipe boasts a high supply of iron, vitamin C and fibre, plus an impressive five of your 5-a-day. Discover more beef stir-fry recipes. 30. Butter bean & tomato stew This butter bean & tomato stew is packed full of iron. It is freezable to save you time on cooking during the week when you’re tired after a long day’s work. Enjoy this? Check out more... How to freeze potatoes Top health benefits of potatoes How to microwave a baked potato Easy baked potato filling ideas Vegan jacket potato filling ideas
Rick Stein unwraps Christmas: traditions, turbot and the secrets to a perfect festive feast
Rick Stein reveals his favourite Christmas rituals, from German candles to Cornish pubs, plus his top gravy tips and why he loves a cold British December
Christmas with Rick Stein is firmly rooted in tradition. He shares the family rituals that shaped his Cotswolds childhood, talks about the ideas behind his new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rick-Steins-Christmas-Recipes-Memories/dp/1785949403/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2NYNP08M82SF1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ta7os_rvym8yHbcYZHTgs2ny-xTsxMm13oKVpocFKtvZYMEWLIIEL295OCsblBiz4NKRU44yJ1RcRxwBZafguSkFkioUQvcy15cEtzkG1qj3Ls6NLXz0i8cpuO2uyeRTFAVxzQwNpIQb10PI34mFb7HqQvzEF0meWdlXDzN_xIYlvpB3dm4Y0CmTjSXhdgLjGZvb_2snX35xwAYclvLk9Fa4u71FuYs2rbI5uFFtRqs.9e0hchDTkMsqWa0KSGAJGd_q3Jq0SF4f8ha3AnAxLOc&dib_tag=se&keywords=rick+stein%27s+christmas&qid=1765797009&s=books&sprefix=rick+stein%27s+christmas%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1&tag=bbc00-21&ascsubtag=bbcgoodfood-989471" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Rick Stein’s Christmas, and gives a glimpse of his own festive table with roast goose, Christmas Eve fish and his tips for perfect gravy. Listen to Rick Stein's full podcast episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups, in our podcast hub. The Christmas tree reveal Rick Stein’s Christmases are shaped by memory and ritual. Growing up in the Cotswolds, he experienced early festive seasons with British and German influences. He recalls the smell of Christmas more than anything else, with candles and a smoky wood fire filling the house. Real candles flickered on the tree and a yule log burned in the hearth. The tree was always a moment of anticipation. Stein and his youngest sister weren’t allowed to see it decorated until the candles were lit. They were kept upstairs, then brought into the hall on Christmas morning for the reveal. For him, it’s these sensory details, the candlelight and the scent of woodsmoke that capture the festive spirit. Fish on Christmas Eve, Goose on the day Many associate Rick Stein with seafood, but his Christmas table brings together both land and sea. “We always cook turbot on Christmas Eve,” he says, recalling the old copper turbot kettle he found at a car boot sale, which could accommodate a fish large enough to feed a dozen. When serving a whole fish, he adds, you only need modest portions of around 100-150g. Christmas Day is more traditional, although Stein has recently favoured goose. “I have been in a goose phase for the last three or four years," he says. "But while working on the recipes for the Christmas book, I cooked a turkey and remembered I quite like turkey too.” His top tips for the perfect bird are simple: don't go too big and don't overcook it. “A digital thermometer is essential,” he adds. The local pub and family feasts For Stein, Christmas is not just about the meal, it's about the rhythm of the whole day. “We never sit down to dinner before about half past three in the afternoon. I like to go to the pub in St Merryn for an hour, just two pints. The pub on Christmas morning is the best. All the local families come in and you meet people you do not see all year round.” Back at home, around a dozen friends and family gather for lunch. The spread is classic with roast potatoes in duck fat, plain boiled sprouts, a purée of swede with potato and sometimes rocket, and a mix of peas, broad beans and carrots with tarragon. “If it is turkey, I always make bread sauce as boring as possible. The great thing about bread sauce is that it needs to be bland. If you add too much flavour to everything it all clashes.” A British Christmas rules all Having an Australian wife, Stein has also experienced a very different Christmas, with beaches, sunshine and even turkey. “There is nothing in Australia that feels similar to Christmas here. It is early summer and everyone is on the beach in shorts, but they still have turkey. The carols do not mean as much because they are all about deep midwinter, which does not quite fit.” For all the novelty, Stein’s heart stays with a cold and crisp British Christmas. “Once you have experienced a Northern Hemisphere Christmas there is nothing like it.” Leftovers, parties and culinary confessions Boxing Day in the Stein household is all about turning leftovers into something worth gathering for. “We always had a party in the Cotswolds on Boxing Day as a way of using up leftover turkey and ham. I always cook a ham over Christmas too. Boxing Day is turkey, ham, a winter salad such as coleslaw, baked potatoes and plenty of condiments. All the chutneys come out of the cupboard for their annual appearance.” He also enjoys a bit of kitchen creativity. “I make the odd turkey curry, bubble and squeak cakes and in the book there are recipes for things like turkey tacos.” As for shortcuts, he is open to them. “I am quite happy to use bought-in things such as puff pastry. If it is simple, why do it yourself unless you can make it better?” The secret to a good Christmas When asked what makes a good Christmas, Stein is direct and warm. “For me, because I am selfish, it means everything went well with the cooking. But it is also that the family rows are resolved before the end of Christmas. The whole point of Christmas is working through them. You remember how much you love them and sometimes hate them.” His festive guilty pleasure is simple. “I hoover up After Eights, but it is not guilty. It is Christmas.” Enjoyed this? Check out more... Jack and Charlie Stein on the Rick Stein empire, growing up around food and what makes a successful business Rick Stein on the evolution of food culture and his favourite dish Rick Stein on his new book, 'Food Stories', and inspiration from his travels Rick Stein's top tips for Christmas dinner Jack and Charlie Stein on hospitality as a way of life, authenticity and their love for Cornwall
Skye McAlpine's Christmas: Venetian magic, festive feasts and the fun of imperfect gatherings
Skye McAlpine shares why Christmas is a season not just a day, with tips for calm hosting, tasty leftovers and the joy of food as a love language
It is a crisp November afternoon and Skye McAlpine is already thinking about Christmas cakes – not just one, but as many as thirty, all soaked in brandy and destined for friends and family. “The moment I get the dried fruits out with the brandy and start soaking them, that’s when I’m kicking off into the season,” she says, eyes bright with anticipation. For McAlpine, author of A Table in Venice and <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Table-Full-Love-Celebrate-Everything/dp/1526657368/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12BOLDDWOOF1P&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.D9Yk1l9yH75NqMES7YO3oBBrWbenrjmOZOSKTubUZrEefMng7QpNC2uKxnQy-6qN.TsDMBcXvob43fNct3lYlyzGxHcigQTrHhcfwS3lQmfQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=A+Table+Full+of+Love&qid=1765542812&s=books&sprefix=a+table+full+of+love%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1&tag=bbc00-21&ascsubtag=bbcgoodfood-989136" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">A Table Full of Love, Christmas is more than a date on the calendar. It is a mood, a run of shared rituals and, above all, a celebration of connection. Listen to Skye Alpine's full podcast episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups in our podcast hub. The magic of a Venetian Christmas McAlpine’s Christmas is a story shaped by two worlds. Raised in Venice from the age of six, she now divides her time between Italy and England, creating a festive season rich with blended traditions. “We usually spend Christmas in Venice,” she says. “We’ll have lots of celebrations in London with friends in the build-up, then just before Christmas, we go out and have Christmas with my mum.” Venice, she insists, is at its most magical in winter: “At Christmas it’s lovely and empty. It’s magic, the tourists are gone and it feels like the city belongs to you.” Christmas Eve in the McAlpine household nods to Italian custom, with seafood or truffle pasta, followed by midnight mass. “On Christmas Day, my mother always cooks a full English, and turkey with all the trimmings,” she laughs. “It’s a hybrid Christmas. The fun thing about being from one place and growing up in another is you get to pick and choose your traditions.” Christmas stretched and savoured McAlpine believes the idea of Christmas as a single day misses the point. “It isn’t one day, it’s a whole moment, a whole season, a feeling,” she says. “Stretching it out makes it less stressful. It’s a source of joy at a time of year that can be quite bleak and miserable.” Her new book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Christmas-Companion-Recipes-inspiration-magical/dp/1526681579/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VHJTNWOAHAYX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.cwX8qs6_V1Ik5kp2lu4rMk5meCXFgZ-ejA4gra0WRJEDV7guaeNiG4JxZp8aP1XLGKh8aq3_zq8OxVum3xe6Ho8UiFbhOiPHI0FRYTDck9o9ac5oTgxqEhRHd9xkhmX67i2HwCVJEV8VHvg_6F2A6IJikIyTBweCx7pcHVWffQGpLivonD1t1YhXSNaOAkbm-uWdiCgKnpNr7J41WNNoiBe9e4A8INJqWqe7jaTk0RU.MmPfpyeAl_kzzQrQMAaHqkoHTrZRjA6phGztm2BqPpU&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+Christmas+Companion&qid=1765542849&s=books&sprefix=the+christmas+companion%2Cstripbooks%2C100&sr=1-1&tag=bbc00-21&ascsubtag=bbcgoodfood-989136" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">The Christmas Companion reflects this spirit, filled with recipes, crafts and simple planning tips. “For a long time, the book’s working title was ‘A Manual for a Happy Christmas’. It’s not about the perfect Christmas, just one that feels right and joyful for you.” She begins her preparations in mid to late November, armed with lists and diary dates for festive gatherings. “I like to start early, partly because it eases the stress, but mostly because it’s fun to get started,” she says. Recipes with heart... and a little rebellion “I’m not a trained chef, not a food scientist. I’m not someone who’s going to reinvent the wheel, I just want to cook what I want to eat,” she says. Her recipes are shaped by story and emotion as much as technique. “What captures me with food is the stories in it, the emotions. Cooking is a love language, a way of articulating feelings we often don’t have words for.” One of her most loved festive dishes is baked gnocchi with pumpkin, sage and melted cheddar, a “highly controversial” English-Italian mash-up. “It’s almost like a mac and cheese vibe,” she says, “with crumbled panettone on top instead of breadcrumbs. It’s comforting, celebratory and you can make it ahead. It’s a crowd pleaser, but also perfect for a cosy night in.” The joy of leftovers and embracing imperfection For McAlpine, the best part of Christmas might be the leftovers. “I genuinely almost think the leftovers are better,” she says. “There’s something about the magic of leftovers; the Christmas sandwich is the best thing in the world, with roast potatoes and cranberry sauce all in one bite.” Her tip? “Don’t reheat, don’t serve fridge-cold, let things come to room temperature. Most things are completely delicious that way.” She is refreshingly open about shortcuts and shop-bought treats. “I always serve ready-made stuff, I take all the shortcuts I can. If something’s really good, like panettone, I would never make my own. But brandy butter, that I always make myself, nothing shop-bought compares.” A season of abundance not perfection What does good food mean to Skye McAlpine? “It’s all about the people, really, isn’t it? It’s the people you eat with, the memories and the feeling of abundance. I always like the feeling that there’s plenty, not just two roast potatoes on your plate and that’s all you’re getting.” For her, food should be comforting, not challenging or formal. “It’s not pretentious, just delicious.” She has had her share of mishaps, including the time she accidentally served a friend with a nut allergy a bowl of chilled almond soup. “He had his EpiPen, he was fine, but it’s quite hard to pedal back from actually poisoning one of your friends!” she says, laughing. McAlpine’s Christmas is a reminder that the heart of the season is not perfection but warmth, generosity and the stories shared at the table. As she puts it, “Christmas is about making a happy one, not the best one. One that feels right for you.” Like this? Check out more... Celebrate like an Italian with these traditional Christmas dinner ideas "If you see something on the menu that you don't know, that's what you should order" - Sophie Grigson on Italian food, family secrets and the joy of trying something new Pasta cooking rules that are worth breaking Easy family recipes for the Christmas holidays
Alison Roman on why simplicity is the secret ingredient in modern home cooking
Alison Roman shows how simple, flavour-packed cooking shines. In this candid chat she shares why less is more and how a boiled potato can surprise you
Step into Alison Roman’s kitchen and you won't find obscure ingredients or a search for the next big flavour. Instead, you'll find garlic gently sizzling in olive oil, the soft steam of a perfectly boiled potato and the calm assurance of someone who has spent years refining food to its essentials. At a time when cooking can feel like a spectacle, Roman stands out for championing what is simple, straightforward and satisfying. Listen to Alison Roman's full podcast episode, then explore more chats with chefs and food creators for their best kitchen tips, stories and slip-ups in our podcast hub. A pantry revolution Roman’s latest book Something from Nothing is her love letter to the pantry, a celebration of making do, making it work and making it taste great. Speaking to Good Food’s Samuel Goldsmith, she explains how time spent outside the city, in snow-dusted countryside with early-closing shops, pushed her to focus on what she already had at home. “At my core my recipes are pretty pantry-focused,” she says. “It’s always funny to think 'okay, what is this book going to be?' But I do need parameters. I need to colour in the lines a little bit.” This assignment to cook with what is on hand showed how creativity thrives under constraint and how much joy there is in rediscovering humble ingredients. “I like the challenge of making do with less," she says. "I think it makes you a better, stronger and more creative cook.” The joy in restraint Roman’s approach is not about going without but about cooking with attention and appreciation. She describes the quiet magic of a simple meal: “A really nice potato, boiled perfectly with a little butter and crunchy salt, is a really good snack. Eat that and think, wow, that tastes really good. As soon as you lose sight of that being a really delicious food, you’ve lost the plot.” It is a thread that runs through her career, from early days in professional kitchens, where she admits she once overcomplicated dishes to prove herself, to her current role as a champion of home cooks. “I have so much less to prove because I know I’m creative and I know I’m good at what I do. There’s a quiet confidence in telling you that a boiled potato is really good.” From restaurant rigour to home comfort Having trained in restaurants from the age of 19, Roman knows the pressures of performance, or “dinner theatre” as she calls it, yet she finds reward in what is stripped back, everyday and accessible. Her recipes, whether for a viral cookie or a roast chicken, are written to encourage rather than intimidate. “I would rather have more people cook than have more people think I’m the best,” she says. “If there is such a thing as a legacy, I want people to say, ‘This person taught me how to cook, or encouraged me to cook.’ That can only happen if the recipes work, if they’re encouraging, if they’re simple enough, if they make the person feel good while cooking.” Cooking for everyday life Roman’s food is rooted in real life as much as real flavour. She laughs about cooking in rental kitchens or on holiday, where resources are limited, and improvisation becomes essential. “Most people can do anything great if you have all the resources, money, time and equipment in the world. But what if you don’t? What if you have a bag of lentils and a head of garlic, one skillet and some chilli?” For her, the answer lies in technique and care rather than complexity. “A lot of it is technique-based, and that doesn’t mean fancy or intricate or complicated, but it does mean attentive, and it does mean appreciative.” A new look marks a new era Roman’s books have always had a clear visual identity, but her new release signals a shift. “It felt like the first three books belonged together in a set and completed this trifecta of an era. This felt like the beginning of a different era.” The photography, much of it shot on film, reflects the book’s mood: cosy, intimate and rooted in home life. “We’re home, we’re cosy, we’re wearing a sweater, we’re making a soup.” The true taste of good food So what does “good food” mean to Alison Roman? It is not about showmanship or chasing trends but something deeper, a feeling that is hard to pin down. “When you eat something really good, or you make something really good, you know it in your body, and you know it everywhere, and you think, 'that is so good'. It satisfies a part of you, and it cannot be defined equally for everyone. That’s what makes food and cooking so interesting to me.” In a world hungry for the next big thing, Roman offers a gentle reminder to pause and enjoy the small moments, to recognise the beauty in a boiled potato. For her and for a new generation of home cooks, that is more than enough. Like this? Check out more... "It’s my job to inspire and value people.” Paul Ainsworth on building a successful team and the simple love of food Quick kitchen hacks everyone needs to know 5-ingredient freezable dinners Top potato recipes
We asked 8 men their biggest health fear – then got an expert to answer them
Many men stay silent about their health, but speaking up can save lives. We explore key concerns, from heart health to stress, plus get expert tips from nutritionist Kerry Torrens and GP Dr Chintal Patel
When it comes to health, men have a bit of a reputation for adopting a 'head in the sand' approach, hoping that if a problem is ignored long enough, it will simply disappear. But, silence can be dangerous. In the UK, around 15 men die prematurely every hour, often from conditions that could have been prevented or treated earlier. From worries about ageing and fitness, to disease and mental wellbeing, these concerns are real – yet too often they go unspoken. In this article, we’re opening up the conversation around men’s health. We’ll explore the real worries men often think about but rarely discuss, from heart health and degenerative diseases to stress and nutrition. The aim? To show that these concerns are both valid and common – and that with the right support and small lifestyle shifts, men can take charge of their wellbeing with confidence. "Heart disease runs in my family" Frank, 27, Cork Heart disease is my biggest health concern because it runs in my family. My grandfather had severe heart problems throughout his life, including a triple bypass and several heart attacks, and I’ve been told I have a slightly irregular heartbeat. I usually feel fine, but sometimes my heart skips a beat or doubles up, which feels strange, almost like a reset. It doesn’t affect my daily life, but it does make me more conscious about looking after myself. I gave up smoking recently and I’m cutting back on alcohol and processed foods. I exercise regularly too, which I’m sure helps. One common misconception is that heart disease only affects older people. In reality, it can be hereditary and often develops over time, so taking care of your heart when you’re young really matters. When it comes to advice, I follow a mix of nutritional websites and Instagram accounts. The same themes often recur – olive oil, ginger, vegetables, fruit and eating earlier in the evening, as well as avoiding heavy carbs and refined sugars. I chat to my parents about heart health now and then, but not really with friends. It’s hardly pub talk, after all. Dr Chintal's advice Family history is a significant factor in heart health and it is sensible to think preventively at this age. Anyone with similar concerns should start with their GP, who can assess their cardiovascular risk. They will check your weight, blood pressure, smoking status, alcohol intake, and family history. They may also request blood tests, such as cholesterol or diabetes checks. If you are experiencing irregular heartbeats or palpitations, a GP will arrange an ECG or short-term heart monitor to determine the heart rhythm. Occasional ‘skipped beats ‘ in young healthy adults can be normal, but NHS guidance highlights red flags that need urgent review, such as chest pain, fainting, dizziness or palpitations lasting more than a few minutes. Lifestyle choices are central to prevention. NICE guidance emphasises regular exercise, a diet rich in vegetables, wholegrains and unsaturated fats, reducing salt intake and avoiding smoking. Your shift towards these habits is exactly what most clinicians recommend for long-term heart protection. Small, consistent steps taken early can meaningfully reduce future risk. For reliable information, the NHS website, the British Heart Foundation and GP practices are the most helpful starting points. If someone has a strong family history of early heart disease, a GP may also discuss further tests or referrals as needed. If you're keen to build healthier habits but aren't sure where to begin, take a look at our guide on how to start exercising. If you're finding it difficult to quit smoking, our advice on smoking and how it affects diet and nutrition can offer a helpful nudge. You can also turn to our guide to the healthiest vegetables for fresh ideas on how to work more of them into your meals. "I worried about losing my hair" Connor, 26, Brackley It’s a concern I’m slowly getting over with age – some might call it wisdom, but I think it’s more about perspective. Seeing my friends lose their hair has made me realise it’s not as big a deal as I felt it was when I was 18. The fear probably came from watching other people’s hairlines recede and worrying mine would be next. It’s definitely one of the main things men that I know feel self-conscious about, with colleagues and friends often styling their hair to disguise it. I’ll admit I still have a small habit of ruffling my hair to make sure my fringe sits right, checking it doesn’t look like it’s receding. I haven’t really come across any misconceptions about hair loss and I’ve never sought health advice on it, mainly because I’ve no idea if there are genuine ways to prevent it. The only person I talk to about it is my partner, and even then, it’s usually in jest. Kerry's advice Connor’s not alone; over 80% of men and almost half of all women share his concerns, with thinning hair or balding often starting before middle age. What we typically think of as male pattern baldness is largely genetic and often inherited from our mother’s family. So, Connor could check out his maternal grandfather or his mum’s brothers – if they’ve experienced hair loss, the chances are he has inherited the same balding pattern. Other types of hair loss, including a common kind called telogen effluvium, are often influenced by what we eat. It’s essential to understand the cause of your hair loss first, as this will determine whether a diet can help. Sadly, there is no magic bullet, but here are some steps to get you started: Eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet Try caffeine-based shampoo Apply rosemary oil to your scalp – one study that compared rosemary oil to minoxidil (an over-the-counter treatment for hair loss) found both products led to similar results Consider trialling a red-light hair regrowth mask Get a full lowdown with our baldness guide. "A pain in my groin led to me seeing numerous specialists" Simon, 32, London I have had a dull pain in my groin that occurs sporadically and has been present since I was a teenager. The only thing I noticed that might have caused it was the need to urinate or standing up for a long time. When I was 24 and queueing for a toilet at a gig in some discomfort, I mentioned this to a friend and he said he thought I might have a hernia. This triggered a diagnostic journey that continues to this day. I have, at times, worried about what the underlying cause might be, and this has occasionally had an impact on my mental health. I have consulted with massage therapists, hip specialists, oncologists and urologists. No one has been able to find the cause of the problem, which I'm told is likely not psychosomatic, but rather simply undiagnosable. A year ago, I found out that I had issues with sperm motility and saw a second urologist, and he also thinks it's not linked. The problem is sometimes compounded by constipation, so when it's bad, I go through phases of making dietary improvements that do not last. I also try to stand for shorter periods of time to avoid aggravating it. I did worry it might be something so serious it would be life-threatening. But, at the start of the year, ahead of an MRI and colonoscopy that a specialist assured me I did not need, he said that if the pain had not killed me since the first symptoms occurred in my teenage years, it won't do so now. I tend to seek health advice from the NHS website, a variety of doctors, my mother, ChatGPT, my wife, friends and friends' parents, in that order. Dr Chintal's advice Longstanding discomfort of any sort can be frustrating to live with, especially when it has been present for many years and no clear diagnosis has been found. Groin pain has many possible causes, ranging from muscular strain and tendon irritation to nerve sensitivity, urology issues or bowel-related triggers, and some cases can remain difficult to label precisely, even after thorough assessment. For anyone with similar symptoms, the first port of call should be your GP, who can rule out conditions that need urgent treatment. They may examine the abdomen, groin and testicles, check for a hernia and review bowel habits. If required, they may arrange an ultrasound, MRI or blood tests, or refer to other specialists, depending on the pattern of symptoms. Red flags such as sudden severe pain, a new lump, testicular swelling, fever or difficulty passing urine should prompt urgent medical review. Constipation can aggravate groin and pelvic pain, so maintaining hydration, fibre intake and regular exercise may help reduce flare-ups. It's sensible to reference the NHS website and maintain continuity with a regular GP rather than seeking multiple opinions, as consistent care helps to build a clearer picture over time and prevents conflicting information. In addition, your GP has your full medical record to enable them to make an informed decision. Read our helpful guide on why gut health is so important, then explore what dehydration does to your body, and symptoms to look out for plus learn what is fibre? and simple, cheap ways to get enough fibre in your daily diet. "HIV is a constant worry" Gianni, 27, Bologna I have a long list of health worries; some might call me a hypochondriac, but it’s hard not to when you’ve seen how certain conditions affect people close to you. My biggest concerns are HIV and arthritis. I watched my grandfather struggle with arthritis and saw how much it affected his daily life. As for HIV, my worries focus on both the risk of transmission and the fear of contracting it myself. Neither concern affects my daily routine much, but the thought of HIV has made me more cautious in casual relationships. I always take the necessary precautions, yet it lingers in the back of my mind, one of those quiet and persistent worries you learn to live with. When I’m looking for advice, I usually consult doctors, check reliable online sources and talk with a few friends who work in healthcare. I also try to be open about it, especially when it comes to HIV. I think starting conversations helps raise awareness and break down the stigma that still surrounds the topic. It’s not something people should feel embarrassed or afraid to discuss. Dr Chintal's advice For anyone concerned about HIV, NHS guidance recommends regular sexual health screening, particularly if you have new or casual partners. Local NHS sexual health clinics offer confidential HIV tests, STI screening, and clear information on transmission and prevention, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is available through the NHS for people at higher risk. Using condoms and testing regularly remain the most protective steps. Your instinct to seek information from trusted health professionals and reliable websites is great. Talking openly about HIV is incredibly helpful too, as awareness and removing the stigma are vital. For anyone with similar concerns, starting with speaking to your GP or attending a sexual health clinic would be advisable. Kerry's advice Witnessing a family member’s struggles with a chronic illness is both upsetting and heightens our awareness of how debilitating certain conditions can be. Arthritis is a common condition affecting approximately 10 million people in the UK. There are many types of arthritis, although they are all characterised by joint pain and stiffness. Focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet – think Med-style – can be useful because it naturally encourages the inclusion of so-called anti-inflammatory foods. These include oily fish, nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables and healthy fats like olive oil, while minimising the consumption of processed foods, which are typically high in sugar and fat. Eating this way will support Gianni’s immune system and may help maintain his health and protect him from infections. Gianni is adopting the right approach to his concerns over HIV, and by eating well and practising the necessary preventative measures, he can continue to minimise his risk. Learn more about the Med-style diet. "My poor diet has led to worrying health problems" Brian, 27, London It might sound dramatic, but my biggest health concern is losing my toes – and no, it's not like I’m trekking through the Antarctic, I’m just an office worker who spends most of the day at a desk. The worry comes from something my doctor told me: I have irreversible nerve damage linked to my (admittedly subpar) diet. It’s a frightening thought. Whenever I reach for a jaffa cake instead of fruit or veg, I can almost see the doctor’s concerned face in my mind, though I’ll admit that doesn’t always stop me finishing the packet. Lately, I’ve made a real effort to turn things around. I’ve added more fruit and vegetables to my meals, started swimming regularly to boost my fitness and I’m now three weeks smoke-free – go me! I like to think that these changes are helping not just my toes, but also my health as I get older. One misconception people have is that I don’t take it seriously. I do, even if I tend to make jokes about it when talking to friends. They’ll often ask why I don’t just eat healthier, but for me, food has always been tricky, as new or unfamiliar things can feel stressful to try. I’m working on it, and while it’s not an overnight fix, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. Dr Chintal's response Nerve-related symptoms can feel understandably frightening, especially when linked to lifestyle factors. For anyone with similar concerns, the first step is always a GP review. They may check blood tests for vitamin deficiencies, thyroid conditions, diabetes, or alcohol-related causes, as these are common contributors to nerve damage. If symptoms are progressing or unclear, your GP may consider a referral to a neurologist for review and possible nerve conduction studies. NICE guidance emphasises that lifestyle changes can significantly affect nerve health. Stopping smoking, moderating alcohol intake, increasing exercise and gradually improving diet can all help to prevent progression and support overall wellbeing. Importantly, dietary change doesn’t need to happen overnight. Adding one or two new fruits or vegetables to a weekly shop or swapping snacks for healthier options occasionally can be a realistic starting point. Small, sustained changes genuinely do make a difference. People who find adding food variety difficult may benefit from support from a dietitian or by following specific programmes aimed at building confidence with unfamiliar foods. It’s important to note that nerve damage does not always mean inevitable severe complications, especially when modifiable risks are addressed early. Regular follow-up with a GP ensures that symptoms are monitored and any new concerns are picked up promptly. If you think reducing your alcohol intake could support a healthier lifestyle, take a look at our ways to cut down alcohol and explore our best non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks taste tested for smart swaps. You can also read our guide on what is a balanced diet for men? for a clear starting point to help improve what you eat and when. "I have high cholesterol" Greg, 45, London God bless the NHS – if I hadn’t taken part in one of their free health checks, I’d never have known my cholesterol was high. Now that I’m aware, I’m doing my best to manage it by avoiding foods that can raise cholesterol, though I’ll admit I still tend to pick the things I enjoy over what I know is good for me. That choice usually comes with a slight pang of guilt afterwards. I think there’s still a lot of confusion around fats, saturated fats and dairy. The advice has changed over the years and many people still go by outdated information, so it’s hard to know exactly what’s best. Luckily, I feel I’m in safe hands: my wife, a health editor, is the first person I turn to for up-to-date advice and reassurance. Kerry's advice With a reputation for being a dangerous blood fat, it may come as a surprise to learn that cholesterol is essential for health, but having high levels of the wrong type may be a cause for concern. Greg is correct, there’s a lot of confusion surrounding cholesterol. We previously thought certain foods like eggs were to blame. We now know this is incorrect – only 2% of the fat we eat will be in the form of cholesterol, so you’d need to eat a lot of these offending foods! In the UK, the prevalence of high cholesterol is common, with 56% of men and 61% of women reported as having high levels, often starting from the age of 45. The good news is, there’s a lot you can do, such as: Cut saturated and trans fats – that’s red meat, butter and tropical oils like coconut, as well as fast food and takeaways Eat less refined, processed foods, like pastry, bread and biscuits Increase fibre-rich foods, especially oats and flaxseeds Eat a variety of fruit and vegetables Be more active If you smoke or vape, stop! Stick to government alcohol guidelines Find more information in our understanding high cholesterol guide. "Getting older comes with health issues" Johnathan, 52, London My biggest fear is losing the ability to be as active as I am now. That comes from experience – I’ve already had illness stop me from doing things I love. I can’t run anymore, I tire more easily and my gut often hurts. I can’t eat as freely as I used to. The fear goes deeper, though: my mum died when she was 52 after six years of aggressive cancer. It felt old at the time, but now that I am that age, it feels too young. My attitude to illness and ageing has changed a lot: it used to frighten me, but now I see it differently. We can’t stop the ageing process, but we can certainly accelerate it through our lifestyle, so I try to avoid that. I don’t drink or smoke, but exercise and eat reasonably well and prioritise my mental health. It’s taken me a few years to get here, but I’m much happier for it. I’ve come to believe that moderation isn’t always the answer; some things are best avoided altogether. Drinking, for example, is carcinogenic, no matter how we justify it. I enjoy listening to holistic health podcasts such as Feel Better, Live More and strive to take a balanced approach. I don’t see traditional and alternative medicine as opposites; the two can work together. For me, that might mean taking antidepressants alongside making lifestyle changes, rather than relying solely on one or the other. I’m more open now than I used to be. For years, I bottled everything up, but I’ve learned that the more we talk, the better. Hypochondria isn’t helpful, but nor is silence; as we get older, it’s better to get things checked than to ignore them. Kerry's advice Johnathan has a positive and balanced approach to the privilege that is ageing. However, his concerns around losing the ability to be as active as he is today are shared by many. Key to this is maintaining his physical strength and flexibility. Exercise is the most important tool to adopt for improving longevity and, more importantly, health span. Over a lifetime, the shape of that exercise will change, so although River may find running no longer suits him, there are countless other options, such as cycling or hiking. Another crucial factor to support healthy ageing is maintaining muscle strength through practices like resistance training, combined with some form of flexibility and balance training, like yoga, Pilates or tai chi. Johnathan should be sure to support this physical activity with a balanced diet that includes adequate protein for his age, gender, size and activity levels. This will help support muscle strength and minimise the risk of age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia). Discover more about protein with our helpful guide. "I wish I knew what caused my migraines" Jim, 33, Northumberland I suffer from severe but infrequent migraines. I only get a handful each year, but when they strike, they’re completely incapacitating: pins and needles down one side, facial weakness, slurred speech, visual disturbances, pain, dizziness and nausea. When I’m tired, stressed or nutritionally run down – or even when the seasons change – I can feel one coming. I often feel embarrassed about how much they floor me. It’s hard to explain to non-sufferers just how debilitating they are, and I sometimes worry people think I’m exaggerating. But, the reality is that I can’t work when they hit: the vision loss and sickness make it impossible to function normally, and I often fear the symptoms could signal something more serious. After an eye test, my optician referred me to St Thomas’s Hospital, concerned about the blurred margins around my optic disc, which is a possible sign of a more severe condition. My blood pressure was slightly high for my age, which added to the alarm. Following an MRI, the doctor reassured me that the shape of my optic disc was unusual but harmless, and the migraines were simply migraines. Still, it’s unsettling to have two professionals see the same evidence and draw opposite conclusions, that you’re either fine or facing an emergency. I’m aware of my hypochondriac streak and sometimes overcompensate by keeping quiet, waiting for symptoms to pass instead of seeking advice. It means I often bottle things up rather than talk openly with friends or partners about my health. Dr Chintal's advice Migraine, especially with symptoms like weakness, visual disturbance, or speech difficulty, can be extremely frightening, and it's very common to worry about more serious causes. For others experiencing similar episodes, an initial GP appointment is essential. Depending on symptoms, a GP will check blood pressure, examine the nervous system and may consider an MRI or referral to neurology in line with the NICE guidance for ‘red flag’ headache symptoms. Once serious causes are ruled out, the focus shifts to symptom management. GPs can offer acute migraine treatments, review lifestyle triggers and consider preventative medication if migraines are severe or interfere with work. Keeping a migraine diary, noting sleep, stress, diet and weather changes can help to identify individual patterns and triggers. If visual symptoms or eye pain occur, an optician assessment is also recommended, as they can detect optic nerve changes or raised eye pressure. Your experience of conflicting opinions can understandably be alarming. However, after a reassuring normal MRI scan the opinion may have changed and I hope this reduces the fear of a missed diagnosis. Many people feel embarrassed by how debilitating migraines are and worry about being labelled as hypochondriacs. However, NHS guidance stresses that migraines are a recognised neurological condition. Speaking early with a GP, rather than waiting or bottling concerns, is the most effective way to manage symptoms and gain confidence. We are here to help. For more information on migraines, read our articles on does food affect migraines? and migraine vs headache: a neurologist explains the difference. Enjoyed this? Check out: What is a balanced diet for men? Ways to lower cholesterol What is high blood pressure? How much exercise shall I do each day? Do supplements work? Kerry Torrens BSc. (Hons) PgCert MBANT is a Registered Nutritionist with a postgraduate diploma in Personalised Nutrition & Nutritional Therapy. She is a member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and a member of the Guild of Food Writers. Over the last 15 years she has been a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications including Good Food. Dr Chintal Patel is a long-serving GP for the NHS as well as a food content creator, cookbook author and our newest regular contributor. She has a passion for nutrition and lifestyle medicine and aims to help people approach cooking and eating in a way that supports overall wellbeing. @drchintalskitchen All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. 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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