Alumbre Coffee is a coffee unlike any other.
Building on nearly 50 years of expertise, we carefully select superior beans from the finest producing farms around the world. Our most prized item, Costa Rica La Minita Tarrazú, is grown and harvested on our flagship estate in the mountains of Costa Rica. Alumbre’s four single-origin coffees, as well as our artisanal blend, meet strict sustainability and quality standards. This ensures our coffee maintains the highest level of excellence at every step, from the moment we pick the beans until the moment you enjoy a cup.
As one of the very few coffee companies that actually owns an estate from which we source beans, we understand the delicate balance between nature, labor, and the finished product. That is why we are continuously investing in our people. They play an integral part in the production of our coffees, so we support them through special projects and initiatives to ensure their livelihood and well-being. This commitment to the environment and our people has paved the path for an industry-wide standard of sustainable coffee production.
We’ve taken our name from the Alumbre River, a serene body of water flowing peacefully through the pictureqsque hills of Costa Rica. The river itself begins in in the Tarrazú region of the country, and that’s where we first planted coffee in 1968. Alumbre has since become a symbol of our company’s practices and the continuity of the relationships we share with our coffee growing partners. The inspiration for creating the Alumbre Coffee™ brand came from the paths we have taken to ensure a product that’s unlike any other coffee, with superior quality and unparalleled taste. For us, Alumbre is more than a river. It’s the idea that our farmers, sorters, and roastmasters take great pride in caring for our coffee while leading it through a well-defined journey before making it to your cup.
www.cinchili.com
You’ll find some heat, from the Hell’s Passion Habanero Hot Sauce we use in the juice.
Not to worry…We’ve added just the right amount of sweet, to offset the satisfying heat.
Excellent with Tequila…Pickled Margaritas, Pickle Backs, Te-quic-kle shots.
Wonderful with Vodka…Dirty Martinis, Bloody Mary’s, Vodka shots.
Drink it as you will…You’re only limited by your imagination
HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT: Ryvita launches BRAND NEW Rye Cakes
Move over rice cakes and say hello to nutritious Rye Cakes, the latest healthy snack from Ryvita
Move over rice cakes – snack fans can enjoy NEW Ryvita Rye Cakes. Made from popped wholegrain rye and packed full of goodness1,2,3.
No longer does snacking need to be dull and bland – Rye Cakes are not only tasty but bursting with nutritional benefits1,2,3.
Unlike Rice Cakes, Ryvita Rye Cakes are significantly higher in fibre* and are a source of zinc and magnesium – making the snack an easy and delicious way to get essential nutrients in to your daily diet1,2,3.
Light and versatile, Brits can enjoy topping both sweet and savoury flavour combinations on either Lightly Salted or Multigrain Rye Cakes, meaning that you no longer have to compromise on taste when adopting a healthy balanced lifestyle. Rye cakes are also low in fat and 23 calories per cake.
Suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, the new product is expected to fly off supermarket shelves. The launch is being highly anticipated by snacking consumers who are looking for alternatives to rice cakes that deliver on taste and nutritional benefits.
“Ryvita Rye Cakes help to maintain normal bowel function as they are high in fibre and contribute to maintain healthy cholesterol levels due to their low saturated fat content. Rye Cakes are ahead of the trend as wholegrain carbs are starting to make a comeback to our every day diets.
Nutritionist Rob Hobson, says, “As far as I’m concerned, the main benefits to eating foods made with wholegrain Rye lie in the high fibre content of this grain.”
Kyrsten Halley, Head of Brand at Ryvita said: “The launch of Rye Cakes is the perfect showcase of how the Ryvita brand has evolved over the last few years, and provides consumers with a healthy option for any snacking occasion. Rye Cakes will reinforce our core brand purpose, ‘to empower everyone to discover and embrace the pleasure of positive health living’, by delivering on taste and versatility, as well as the health benefits that come from the goodness of Rye.”
Ryvita Rye Cakes are available at Tesco, Sainsbury’s and ASDA with a RRP of £1.39.
BEAUTIFUL ON THE OUTSIDE, ETHICAL ON THE INSIDE
Nibbling have unveiled an exclusive new range of teething jewellery this autumn. Catering for an ever- expanding market from stylish mothers, to care giving fathers, Nibbling have something for all your baby’s teething needs.
Brought to life by founder, ex-fashion designer and mum of 3 Emily Sunderland Sutter, Nibbling brings individually designed collections of necklaces, dummy clips and teething toys every season.
Beautifully stunning on the outside, the new collection is made from untreated natural wood, which is both ethical and environmentally friendly, making it just as sensational on the inside. Nibbling is the ultimate must-have range of teething accessories to provide that special bond between parent and child.
Within the new capsule collection for Autumn 2017, Nibbling introduce the natural wood and silicone Rattle Ring Teether. Perfect for the smallest of hands to hold, the distinct combination of textures is ideal for chewing while the noise from the rattle provides a much-needed distraction to entertain little one. Available in a selection of colours, including limited edition pearl (RRP £14).
Also new for late 2017 is the new range of Dummy Clips with star bead detailing. For teething babies who regularly lose their most prized possession, the dummy clips are a life-saver and a fun and practical way to attach your little one’s soother to anything from a car seat, pram or clothing. Available in 4 colour combinations. (RRP £14)
The new Pram Mobile, as the latest captivating accessory for your little one’s pushchair, allows your baby to travel in style, providing both entertainment and relief from those troublesome emerging teeth. Available in a range of colours including grey and mint, baby pink and soft blue (RRP £32)
As featured this summer in Vogue Bambini, Nibbling are recognised for their fresh new ideas and on-trend designs. Not afraid to stand out from the crowd, Nibbling are proud to take things that one step further.
Nibbling Teething Jewellery is currently stocked in Harrods, Selfridges, Yoox (part of Net-a-Porter), Blue Almonds and Pure Baby and make perfect Christmas gifts. For further information please visit www.nibbling.co.uk to find out more.
Arabica BAR & KITCHEN TO HOST COOKERY CLASSES IN SUPPORT OF #COOKFORSYRIA
On Saturday 13th January 2018, Arabica Bar & Kitchen, one of Borough Market’s most exciting venues, will be hosting not one, but two Syrian inspired cookery classes in support of #CookForSyria. Priced at £115 pounds per person, Arabica Bar & Kitchen will donate £10 per ticket sold to the global fundraising initiative curated by Clerkenwell Boy EC1 and SUITCASE Magazine in partnership with Unicef NEXTGeneration London in a bid to help support families impacted by the ongoing crisis.
EXPLORE BEYOND THE HUMBLE SANDWICH
Be adventurous with your lunchtime cuisine with Off The Eaten Path
All too often, we make do with a standard sandwich – when actually there are thousands of different and easy ways to enjoy lunch and be more adventurous with it. To help inspire people to try something new and spice up their lunchtimes, Off The Eaten Path has collaborated with renowned chef Deborah Thompson.
Off The Eaten Path is a range of new and delicious snacks made with real vegetables. Ideal as a tasty snack in your bag at work, they can also compliment your lunch; especially with the below recipes crafted in collaboration with Deborah.
Deborah Thompson and Off The Eaten Path are on a mission to help people eat exciting meals that are simple, quick and easy to make. Inspired by the different flavours in the new snacks range, they’ve created three unique recipes, which you can whip up in the week to take to work or have at home.
The new snacks which Deborah has included within each of her adventurous lunch ideas provide a source of fibre, contain no artificial colours or preservatives, and are made from ingredients such as rice, green peas, pinto beans and white beans. Every snack is then seasoned with either simple sea salt, sour cream and cracked black pepper, or caramelised onion and balsamic vinegar flavouring for a delicious snack.
Flavours include:
● Sea Salt Crispy Rice & Pea Chips
● Sour Cream and Cracked Black Pepper Flavour Crispy Rice & Pea Chips
● Sea Salt Crunchy Pea & Pinto Bean Sticks
● Caramelised Onion and Balsamic Vinegar Flavour Crunchy Pea & Pinto Bean Sticks
Each dish includes unusual ingredients that you might not have tried before, or thought were hard to incorporate into a meal – together they’ve also constructed 10 simple hacks to make ensure your food is fresh, fast and exciting.
THE FORD FARM CHRISTMAS CHEESEBOARD EDIT
Make your cheeseboard stand out from the crowd this Christmas with these recommendations from West Country Farmhouse cheddar specialists, Ford Farm in Dorset:
Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar
A traditional West Country Farmhouse cloth-bound PDO Cheddar, made by hand to a unique recipe at Ford Farm and then aged 200 feet underground in the Caves at Wookey Hole. This multi award winning cheddar takes on a unique earthy, nutty flavour which is a direct result of the cave’s naturally humid surroundings. You can now purchase a whole cloth-bound 1.8kg truckle which also makes a fabulous gift for cheese lovers.
Wookey Hole Cave Aged 1.8kg Cheddar truckles are available from www.fordfarm.com. Price: £18.
Serve with a full-bodied red wine with a strong flavour. Try a classic Claret from Bordeaux in France such as Chateau Noaillac AC Medoc or Cabernet Sauvignon from South Africa like The Visionnaire, Holden Manz from Franschhoek.
Cave Aged Goat’s Cheese
Voted best British Cheese at the World Cheese Awards, Cave Aged Goat’s cheese is made from full fat goat’s milk. The cheese is made by hand at the Dairy in Dorset and pressed into 27kg truckles which are cloth bound and then aged deep within the heart of the Caves. Cave Aged Goat’s Cheese has a similar texture to cheddar and a clean, mild, goat flavour. Note how the deep earthy, nutty flavours of the caves combine with delicious caramel top notes, too.
Cave Aged Goats Cheese is available from www.fordfarm.com and is priced at £2.80 for 190g wedge.
Serve with a young, fresh white wine with good acidity such as a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire in France like Sauvignon Blanc, Vigneron de Valencay or maybe a Gruner Veltliner from Austria such as Lois GV, Weingut Fred Loimer.
Dorset Crofter
Dorset Crofter marks Ford Farm’s first foray into cheese made with sheep’s milk
Inspired by Manchego, Spain’s most popular and famous cheese, Dorset Crofter was the recipient of a Gold Medal at the World Cheese Awards in 2016 – even before it was named!
Dorset Crofter is made from milk sourced from local herds. The making process performed almost entirely by hand and the cheese pressed into cylindrical moulds which are then bound in cheese cloth before being left to age for around six months.
Crofter has a deliciously sweet, lingering taste which is smooth and mild, a distinctive butterscotch colour and a slightly crumbly texture.
Dorset Crofter available in 200g portion from www.fordfarm.com. Price £2.80.
Best served with an Est! Est! Est! di Montefiascone made by Agricola Falseco from Lazio, Italy with its subtle stone fruit flavours or perhaps a ripe Viognier from Chile like that of Tabali Vineyards.
Celebrate with cheese
Here at Ford Farm, we can also provide you with a layered cheese cake to add the wow factor to the Christmas table. We’ll supply the cheese, and you decorate it according to your festive style, with frosted fruit, nuts and greenery. All of our celebration cakes come in a beautiful wooden presentation box. We offer a choice of three standard cakes or why not give let us create a bespoke cake to your specific requirements?
Celebration cakes are available at www.fordfarm.com. Prices start at £60.
Peter’s Yard NEW Charcoal & Rye Crispbread & A Selection box to provide the perfect one-stop solution for Christmas Cheeseboards! www.petersyard.com
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It’s all happening in Doncaster, Yorkshire…… and why is ARMANI involved?! / The Tyram Lakes Resort and Hotel
Rothgen Capital UK are proud to announce the launch of the latest funding round for The Tyram Lakes Hotel, Spa and Resort in Hatfield, near Doncaster in Yorkshire UK. As a truly groundbreaking project, Tyram Lakes is utilising the latest cutting edge ecological and eco-friendly innovations as inherent parts of its designs and is the first of its kind, thus of particular interest to energy focussed investors.
The Tyram Lakes Hotel, Spa and Resort is set in the heart of the Humberside Peatlands, Hatfield Moor and the National Nature Reserve in South Yorkshire. Plans are already approved for 325 luxury eco-lodges set on and around 65 acres of lakes adjacent to 100 acres of natural woodlands, plus the hotel and spa.
Some of the lodges (125) will be floating structures, and the remaining 200 will be set amid the vast woodlands. Ranging from two and three bedrooms, as well as a number of larger four bedroom accommodations, all lodges will blend into the landscape providing a private gateway with natural spaces all around. Their attractions include rooftop gardens fitted with solar panels, decking areas with sunken spa bath and a choice of classic or contemporary interiors.
Sitting at the heart of the resort is a planned boutique hotel designed by Den Architecture in association with Baca Architects, specialists in eco-friendly and amphibious projects. This ambitious hotel will feature 104 rooms, conference and meeting facilities, a fine dining restaurant with lakeside views, and indoor pool, leisure club, spa, gymnasium, and a picturesque wedding and party venue.
What’s happening?
The application to build the green resort was approved by Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council in December 2016, commencing with the first phase of 50 eco-lodges constructed from timber and incorporating the latest environmentally-friendly technologies providing a tranquil escape in a beautiful natural habitat.
Speaking at the time, Daulton Byfield, managing director of Rothgen, the company behind the project, said: “The Tyram Lakes Hotel, Spa&Resort will be the first of its type in the UK. We are planning to invest £25m to create a first class eco holiday village where visitors can relax amongst nature and enjoy a quiet break from hectic modern life.”
The scheme comprises four phases of development:
Phase1 – 50 Lakeside and floating lodges
Phase2 – 104 Bedroom Hotel, Spa, and Leisure Centre
Phase3 – 75 Lakeside and floating lodges
Phase4 – 200 Woodland retreat lodges
…. and embraces the very latest science and technology to create a resort which is designed to function through environmentally accredited solutions that are energy efficient, all of which engage and sustain the local ecosystems.
“The scale and ambitious nature of the plans will ensure the resort is one the most luxurious, fun and relaxing holiday destinations in Europe. This green development will be as sustainable as it’s currently possible to build, and be exemplary case study for other developers,” says Baca Associate, Andrew Scrace.
Efficient and ecological solutions
Geyser Thermal Energy (GTE) was tasked with the design for the heating and hot water system for The Tyram Lakes Resort which focuses on energy efficiency and sustainability. At inception, the site had very limited electrical and water supplies (with no gas supply) and it was crucial that the system would not have a negative impact on the local ecology.
GTE devised an innovative approach of using the main lake as a heat source for the lodges, coupled with various (nonchemical) water filtration processes that further reduced energy consumption and the need for chemicals.
Such an innovative renewable heating system coupled with highly efficient and ecologically sound water solutions will mean minimal running costs and environmental impact for the development.
Physical attraction
It may then come as no surprise that the interest attracted by Tyram Lakes is not just from the Green and Eco sectors. Its existing design and sustainability has led to the world famous ARMANI brand becoming involved with the design of a selection of exclusive lodges on the site. This will make The Tyram Lakes Resort & Spa the first ever Armani development inside the UK.
Now partnering too with Natural England who have a sizeable park neighbouring Tyram Lakes, and who have agreed to complimentary access for Tyram Lakes guests, providing countless more acres for hiking, trails, exploration and more. And as though these factors aren’t enough to persuade investors, Hoseasons, the UK’s largest park operator, has recently agreed to guarantee the rental on the lodges at the resort, providing evidential balance sheet background for those wishing to invest.
Oh, and just down the road the Yorkshire Wildlife Park has recently announced its £50M expansion which will potentially make it a top UK destination.
So, it’s all happening in Doncaster, Yorkshire, and The Tyram Lakes Resort & Hotel is inviting investors to play along……
NEW Charcoal & Rye Crispbread from Peter’s Yard
Peter’s Yard has extended their acclaimed, award-winning range with the launch of a Charcoal & Rye sourdough crispbread.
The Charcoal & Rye Crispbread is made to Peter’s Yard authentic Swedish recipe with natural ingredients that include whole-wheat flours, fresh organic milk, honey and naturally fermenting sourdough that is allowed to ferment for 16 hours before each batch is made. A generous level of charcoal is added to the mix that produces an attractive colour and distinct flavour. As the natural choice for cheese, Peter’s Yard’s crispbreads don’t overpower or mask the flavours of the cheese. Charcoal & Rye works well with all types of cheese but is particularly recommended alongside a Brie or soft goats’ milk cheese.
Charcoal flavours are increasingly popular due to their reputation to aid digestion. 90g RRP £2.95. Available from specialist independent retailers like delicatessens and farm shops and online from www.petersyard.com
One-stop solution for Christmas Cheeseboards
Cheeseboards are for sharing: they’re a great way to round off a meal and the perfect way to carry on the conversation. For a cheeseboard, accompaniments should be relatively simple and nothing should overpower the star of the show – the cheese. Peter’s Yard has made things easy for home entertainers with their Mixed Selection Box: a one-pack savoury biscuit solution carefully designed to complement the diverse offering of a cheeseboard.
The selection box presents variety bringing together three quality, distinctive crispbreads with differing colours, shapes, textures and flavours. Charcoal is recommended alongside a Brie or soft goats’ milk cheese; Spelt & Poppy Seed should be paired with a Single Gloucester, Camembert, Wensleydale or Caerphilly whilst the neutral base of the Original crispbread is a perfect match to any cheese.
The perfect gift for Christmas, for foodie friends, thank-you gifts for teachers or cheese aficionados. Available from quality independent retail stores, Waitrose and Ocado and priced at £6.00 for the 265g box.
Peter’s Yard launches Charcoal & Rye Crispbread as single variant pack
Peter’s Yard is further extending their acclaimed, award-winning range with the launch of a Charcoal & Rye sourdough crispbread. The Charcoal & Rye variant made a debut last year as part of a Mixed Selection Box, but due to demand, Peter’s Yard will introduce a 90g single flavour pack in early July.
The Charcoal & Rye Crispbread is made to Peter’s Yard authentic Swedish recipe with natural ingredients that include whole-wheat flours, fresh organic milk, honey and naturally fermenting sourdough that is allowed to ferment for 16 hours before each batch is made. A generous level of charcoal is added to the mix that produces an attractive colour and distinct flavour. The Peter’s Yard range is the natural choice for cheese as it doesn’t overpower or mask the flavours of the cheese and the Charcoal & Rye variety works well with all types of cheese but is particularly recommended alongside a Brie or soft goats’ milk cheese. Charcoal flavours are increasingly popular due to their reputation to aid digestion.
The new 90g Charcoal & Rye Crispbread will retail at £2.95 and will complement the existing range of Original Crispbread, Spelt & Fig Crispbread, Seeded Wholegrain Crispbread, Pink Peppercorn Crispbread and Caraway Crispbread. It will be available from a variety of speciality stores such as farm shops and delicatessens and can be purchased online at www.petersyard.com
Selection box to provide the perfect one-stop solution for Christmas Cheeseboards
Cheeseboards are for sharing: they’re a great way to round off a meal and the perfect way to carry on the conversation. For a cheeseboard, accompaniments should be relatively simple and nothing should overpower the star of the show – the cheese. This year, award-winning producer of high quality sourdough crispbreads Peter’s Yard, has made things easy for home entertainers with their Mixed Selection Box: a one-pack savoury biscuit solution carefully designed to complement the diverse offering of a cheeseboard.
Peter’s Yard’s selection box presents variety as it brings together three quality, distinctive crispbreads with differing colours, shapes, textures and flavours. The Selection Box includes Charcoal, Spelt & Poppy Seed alongside the classic, award-winning Original recipe. Charcoal is recommended alongside a Brie or soft goats’ milk cheese; Spelt & Poppy Seed should be paired with a Single Gloucester, Camembert, Wensleydale or Caerphilly whilst the neutral base of the Original crispbread is a perfect match to any cheese.
These crispbreads are the perfect host for cheese, as they don’t mask or overpower the flavours of the cheese. They are made to an authentic Swedish-inspired recipe that uses all-natural ingredients and a precious, naturally fermenting sourdough starter which develops over 16 hours. Each batch of dough is rolled in flour, cut to shape and hand-baked until golden, taking care to preserve the characteristic bubbles and curves that come from using a natural sourdough starter. The result is a light, crisp texture that makes them the perfect host for cheese and the natural choice for many Michelin starred chefs.
The perfect gift for Christmas, for foodie friends, thank-you gifts for teachers or cheese aficionados. Available from quality independent retail stores, Waitrose and Ocado and priced at £6.00 for the 265g box.
As well as cheese, Peter’s Yard’s crispbreads work equally well with fish or pâté.
Fed up with a frozen gateau? Christmas Trifle become tedious? This Christmas, Opies provides a one-step solution to revamp the repertoire of festive puddings – fruits with alcohol. Opies for Christmas, www.opiesfoods.com
New for 2017 – The ‘spirit’ of Christmas in a wide selection of fruits
Fed up with a frozen gateau? Christmas Trifle become tedious? This Christmas, Opies provides a one-step solution to revamp the repertoire of festive puddings – fruits with alcohol.
New for 2017 – two new varieties that will tempt the foodie trendsetters: Blackberries with Gin and Pears with Port.
Christmas Gift ideas: Gifts for foodies, hamper gifts, stocking fillers, dinner party gifts and even an alternative gift for teachers!
Available from Waitrose & Ocado £8.99
Serving Suggestions:
Blackberries with Gin: Christmas cocktails such as Blackberry Bramble or Blackberry Basil Mojito. Serve with a stack of pancakes and fresh cream (or eat them straight from the jar!).
Baby Pears with Port: easy take on classic poached pears. Spend less time in the kitchen and simply open a jar instead – you won’t be disappointed.
Also in the range & widely available: Christmas Fruits with Courvoisier, Stem Ginger with Famous Grouse, Peaches with Courvoisier, Apricots with Grand Marnier, Baby Pears with Amaretto, Black Cherries with Kirsch and Ginger with Teachers Whisky.
Pickled Walnuts enjoying a food renaissance
According to Opies who are the only commercial producer of Pickled Walnuts in the UK, for many people, having a jar in the cupboard makes their Christmas. It’s a prerequisite. This Victorian delicacy is fast becoming a foodie must-have; especially at Christmas.
New to the Pickled Walnut revival? Their soft texture may be something of a surprise. Please get in touch to try a sample.
Available from: Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons, Waitrose, Ocado and speciality independent stores 390g from £2.49.
Opies Stem Ginger brings the ginger craze to the kitchen
Ginger is cool. Just ask Ed Sheeran and Rupert Grint. But ginger is causing a stir in other areas too: the kitchen.
This Christmas use Opies Stem Ginger in Syrup and turn the customary Christmas Cake on its head with warmth and richness. Add a smidgen to shop-bought mincemeat, chop and add to stuffing mix for the perfect Roast Loin of Pork. Glaze a side of Roast Ham on Boxing. Don’t forget about the syrup! Splash into Christmas drinks for an indulgent spiced mulled wine or fiery mojito.
Available from: Tesco 350g RSP £2.50 and Asda 280g RSP £2.28.
Opies help to avoid a Christmas Cocktail Catastrophe
A Manhattan minus the cherry is a no-no. Gin Fizz sans a slice of lemon? A disaster. Avoid embarrassing cocktail catastrophes at Christmas with Opies’ Cocktail Cherries and Lemon Slices.
Find the cherries in the preserves or pickle aisles in most major supermarkets, priced from £1.48 for a 225g jar. The Lemon Slices should be there too £1.40 for a 350g jar.
Who are Opies – a British heritage brand
Opies is one of the oldest family owned food firms in the UK with a rich heritage and the fifth generation Mr Opie at the helm! A brief history of Opies is attached (detailing how it started by Mr Bennett Opie in 1880 who left Cornwall with five pounds in his pocket through to present day).
Avoid a Christmas Cocktail Catastrophe thanks to Opies
There’s nothing better than dusting off the cocktail shaker to create your favourite concoctions, especially at an impromptu party. But a Manhattan minus the cherry is a no-no. Gin Fizz sans a slice of lemon? A disaster. As more and more of us prefer casual get-togethers at home it’s important to avoid any embarrassing cocktail catastrophes this Christmas. It’s then that Opies’ Cocktail Cherries and Lemon Slices really come to the fore.
The vibrant colour of the cherries helps to create a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to homemade cocktails. Try in a Singapore Sling, Shirley Temple or retro Pina Colada (don’t forget the umbrella). Cheer up a glass of Prosecco on Christmas morning or, if you have a bottle of cheap fizz that you’re unsure of a maraschino cherry makes it marvellous! It’s all down to the best-grade fruits infused in a delicious, almondy, flavoured syrup that really makes the difference. Find them in the preserves or pickle aisles in most major supermarkets, priced from £1.48 for a 225g jar.
Ensure guests have the best-dressed G&T without the hassle. Never forget the ‘slice’ again and keep a jar of Opies Lemons in the fridge. They’re more convenient and there’s less waste too. The lemons are already sliced so there’s never been an easier way to garnish the glass. Festive lurgy taken hold? Bring out the jar, pop a few slices in a mug and steep in hot water (dash of whisky optional). Be Christmas-ready and pop a jar in your trolley and it’ll be another thing ticked off the shopping list! RRP from £1.40 for a 350g jar.
Never again will you experience pre-party panic or have festive drinks failure.
Snowbomb: A twist on a Jager Bomb
Mistletoe Kiss: Made with Honey Vodka, Pineapple Juice, Creamed Coconut and Maraschino Cherry Liquor
Opies Stem Ginger brings the ginger craze to the kitchen
Ginger is cool. Just ask Ed Sheeran and Rupert Grint. But ginger is causing a stir in other areas too: the kitchen.
Stem Ginger in Syrup is fast becoming a store-cupboard staple. These little balls of golden goodness are being used by home cooks to create cuisine with a spicy twist, especially at Christmas. Turn the customary Christmas Cake on its head to add warmth, richness and just the right amount of stickiness to the cake. Add a smidgen to shop-bought mincemeat to get family and friends murmuring in appreciation of your home-baked mince pies.
But it’s not all about the sweet bakes. Many overlook its versatility in savoury dishes. Why not chop and add to stuffing mix for the perfect Roast Loin of Pork? There’s nothing more impressive than a delicious side of Roast Ham on Boxing Day but a sticky ginger glaze takes it to the next level. Leftover turkey dilemma? Use ginger to make the best base for a tasty sweet and sour stir fry.
But don’t forget about the syrup! Splash into Christmas drinks for an indulgent spiced mulled wine or fiery moreish mojito.
Opies Stem Ginger in Syrup is available from Tesco 350g RSP £2.50 and Asda 280g RSP £2.28.
Pickled Walnuts enjoying a food renaissance
Like Black Forest Gateau and Arctic Roll, another food on the crest of a renaissance are Pickled Walnuts. Thanks to their popularity amongst Chefs and guest appearances on the likes of MasterChef and Saturday Kitchen this Victorian delicacy is fast becoming a foodie must-have; especially at Christmas.
According to Opies who are the only commercial producer of Pickled Walnuts in the UK, for many people, having a jar in the cupboard makes their Christmas. It’s a prerequisite. A festive seasonal supper without their favourite pickle is like scones without jam and cream. Serve as an appetising accompaniment to cold meats, cheese, antipasto and charcuterie or as a central feature to a stunning smorgasbord of tasty cold cuts. After Christmas, if there are any left, use them in pasta dishes or in warming stews and casseroles, especially with seasonal winter meats like lamb, pork and venison. For the Christmas diet detoxers, why not chop into salads or blitz with olive oil to make a flavoursome dressing?
New to the Pickled Walnut revival? Their soft texture may be something of a surprise. The nuts are picked from the trees at their absolute prime, whilst they are still green and before any shell has formed or the squirrels have invaded! Then it’s onto the delicate, time-consuming preserving method. Cooked gently by hand, hand-prepared and then left to mature in a closely-guarded secret spiced malt vinegar recipe. The outcome of this lengthy labour-of-love is a jarred jewel of unique deliciousness, that so many can’t live without.
Opies Pickled Walnuts are available from Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons, Waitrose, Ocado and speciality independent stores 390g from £2.49.
The Spirit of Christmas found in a wide selection of fruits
Fed up with a frozen gateau? Has your Christmas Trifle become tedious? Are the family fed-up with the same old familiar desserts? This Christmas, Opies provides a one-step solution to revamp your repertoire of festive puddings – fruits with alcohol. This year the range includes two new varieties that will tempt the foodie trendsetters: Blackberries with Gin and Pears with Port.
The new blackberry variety takes the most traditional English fruits, which are gently infused with one of the on-trend British spirits, London Dry Gin. Opies recommend using them as an ingredient for Christmas cocktails such as Blackberry Bramble or Blackberry Basil Mojito. If you fancy an indulgent start to Christmas morning, serve with a stack of pancakes and fresh cream. Delicious! If the mood takes you, you can always eat them straight from the jar!
For a simple Christmas party crowd-pleaser Opies have created a quick and easy take on classic poached pears. Spend less time in the kitchen and simply open a jar instead – you won’t be disappointed. Marinated with a young ruby port which, thanks to the port’s strong fruit flavour complements the Pears perfectly, these are exquisite served with cream or vanilla ice cream. Who would have thought making a dessert could be so easy!
Opies’ extensive range of preserved fruits with alcohol will turn simple sweets into magnificent creations in minutes. As well as the Blackberries with Gin and Pears with Port the Opies’ range comprises Christmas Fruits with Courvoisier, Stem Ginger with Famous Grouse, Peaches with Courvoisier, Apricots with Grand Marnier, Baby Pears with Amaretto, Black Cherries with Kirsch and Ginger with Teachers Whisky. These store cupboard Christmas stalwarts provide a quick catering solution when served with meringue, cream or ice cream. Why not try making a boozy Boxing Day Trifle this year? There’s nothing better than trifle sponge soaked with Gin or Kirsch accompanied by fruit marinated in the same spirit. If you’re stuck for Christmas gift ideas for foodie friends, Opies fruits with alcohol make great stocking fillers or small hamper gifts too.
The new Blackberries with Gin and Pears with Port will be exclusively available at Waitrose and Ocado. RRP £11.99.
Bennett Opie Limited
In 1880, young Cornishman Bennett Opie set off to make his fortune in London with just a few pounds in his pocket. He started by selling eggs and bacon and gradually, with the help of his two brothers, successfully built the business even receiving a Royal Warrant for supplying the Royal Household. In 1912 Bennett Opie was joined by his son William and it was at this time that Bennett Opie Limited was founded.
William Opie had great foresight. When supplies of fresh eggs were limited during the First World War he recognised the opportunity to manufacture and supply liquid eggs to the bakery trade. It was following a trip to France that he spotted an opportunity to diversify into preserving cherries and was keen to provide a less expensive alternative to the popular but pricy French brands. In 1929, the company relocated to Sittingbourne, Kent – the heart of Kent’s cherry-growing region. The site, which is close to King Henry VIII’s cherry orchards, benefits from natural springs; the water from which is still used today. This move marked the start of a growing range of preserves and pickles.
Today, the Opies brand includes a wide selection of cocktail products which still includes Cocktail Cherries along with Sliced Lemons, Cocktail Onions and Cocktail Gherkins. The Opies retail range is particularly strong in the home-baking sector, packing ginger for the majority of the major supermarkets as well as Opies Stem Ginger in Syrup and Crystallised Ginger. In keeping with the heritage and provenance of the brand, Opies range extends to traditional chutneys, an extensive range of preserved fruits in alcohol and luxury fruit compotes.
The signature line, however, is Pickled Walnuts, with Opies remaining the only commercial producer of this classic Victorian delicacy. Working with farmers across the UK and Europe, walnuts are picked whilst still green and before any shell has formed. They are then immediately preserved before being transported back to the factory where they are cooked, hand prepared and then preserved in a secret-recipe spiced vinegar.
The Opies range is readily available from the major retailers across the UK and is also popular overseas, with the firm in receipt of the Queen’s Award for Export.
Today the business is in its fifth generation, still owned by the Opie family, making it one of the oldest private family-owned food companies in the UK.
Bennett Opie Limited is also the sole distributor for a selection of high-quality agency food brands that include Monin, Lingham’s Chilli Sauce, Barry Norman Pickled Onions, Ferns Curry Pastes, Delice du Provence and Clément Faugier chestnuts.
– Opies has a wealth of archive material: from an insurance policy against First World War bomb damage to a set of old accounts.
– Press Visits to the head office at Sittingbourne are welcome, where journalists can have a behind the scenes tour and immerse themselves in Opies’ history, view things like original cherry stoners, wooden clogs used by workers and bygone packaging.
An excellent Christmas cocktail would be Feeney’s Espresso Martini:
Using a cocktail shaker, shake 30ml Feeney’s, 25ml Expresso Coffee and 20ml Premium Vodka with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with three coffee beans.
1 litre bottles are available from: Tesco, Asda and 31Dover.com from £12.00 per bottle. ABV: 17%
https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/290315622
70cl bottles are available from: 31Dover.com, Master of Malt and Amazon. RRP: £12.50 ABV 17%
HAVE A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS
You may not be off the the Caribbean this Christmas, but let Aluna Coconut transport you there and warm you up with all-natural toasted coconut, vanilla pod and cocoa flavours…
Swap your standard Rum & Coke for something special, an ’Aluna Cola’.
Aluna Cola
1 part Aluna Coconut
3 parts Fever Tree Cola
Freshly squeezed lime juice
Stir with cubed ice
Garnish – lime twist
Something to wash down the Christmas turkey? A coconut rum naturally lower in sugar than others on the market means ‘Aluna Coconut Ice’ will go down a treat.
Aluna Coconut Ice
Pour 100ml Aluna Coconut over coconut water ice cubes.
With love…
A bottle of Aluna Coconut makes a wonderful Christmas gift – why not treat someone this Christmas?
35% ABV
RRP: £24.95
Available from amazon.co.uk, Master of malt.com, 31Dover.com and Harvey Nichols stores nationwide
TIM HORTONS® RESTAURANT LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION TIMBITS® TREE,
EXCLUSIVE TO THE UK
LONDON: Iconic Canadian coffee chain, Tim Hortons®, has launched their limited edition, festive showstopper centrepiece, in time for Christmas; a special offering exclusive to guests of Tim Hortons® restaurants in the UK only.
The Tim Hortons® Timbits® Tree is the perfect decoration to spruce up any Christmas party this year. Whether you are hosting a family gathering, or looking for the ultimate treat for your guests this festive period, the edible Tim Hortons® Timbits® Tree not only provides a unique table centrepiece, but is stacked high with 60 Christmas Timbits® ready for your guests to indulge in.
On average, people of Great Britain consume 300 million mince pies and 25 million Christmas puddings over the festive period. Spending almost £48 million on these sweet treats¹. These insights are testament to the fact that the UK population is partial to indulging in festive delicacies at this time of year, this combined with an overwhelming desire, as a nation, to host parties throughout the month of December, either for work colleagues, friends or family, makes the Tim Hortons® Timbits® Tree the perfect edible, holiday purchase this year.
The Tim Hortons® Timbits® Tree is available for purchase at Tim Hortons® restaurants nationwide and costs £14.99. The kit consists of a flat pack gold cone which is then assembled with various platforms. In addition to this, guests will receive a box of 60 Christmas Timbits® which are then layered onto the platforms to form the Tim Hortons® Timbits® Tree.
Tim Hortons® advises their guests to purchase their Timbits® Tree kit just before their party starts, to ensure the Timbits® Tree is fresh and tasty – Tim Hortons® is always brewing coffee and freshly preparing treats throughout the day.
For its first Christmas in the UK, Tim Hortons® has also launched its exclusive Christmas Timbits® (cake donut dipped in festive sprinkles) and the Snowball Timbits® (chocolate cake donut rolled in powdered sugar).
The Quintessential Christmas Hamper from Corrigan’s
Christmas is a time for friends, family and feasting and this year Corrigan’s Mayfair are taking the stress out of cooking the feast. Richard Corrigan, one of the world’s most notable chefs, Mayfair residence, has put together a delicious hamper for the holiday’s which showcases their renowned and award winning cooking with a selection of the finest festive goods. Choose from either the Gourmet Christmas Hamper or the Luxury Christmas Hamper which comes complete with a personal butler service. Treat friends and family with Corrigan’s magnificent hamper in the comfort of your home with a roaring fire and the aroma of fir filling the room.
Christmas Hamper – £120
Luxury Christmas Hamper with Butler – £1,000
To order the hampers please visit: www.corrigansmayfair.co.uk/product-category/hampers/
Thomas Dakin Gin winter cocktail suggestions to get everyone into the spirit
Christmas Eve – Dakin Gingroni
35ml Thomas Dakin Gin 35ml Aperol 35ml Ginger wine
Build in rocks glass over ice and stir a few times with an orange peel twist.
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Christmas Day – Tom & Tonic
50ml Thomas Dakin Gin
125ml Fever-Tree Mediterranean or Indian Tonic Water
Fill a tall glass with ice
Pour in Thomas Dakin Gin
Top with Fever-Tree Tonic Water Garnish with orange peel twist
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Boxing Day – Manchester Fizzy Bee
35ml Thomas Dakin Gin 2 tsp of honey 25 ml lemon juice Prosecco
In a shaker stir honey with the Thomas Dakin Gin until dissolved Add the rest of the ingredients Shake or stir with ice
Strain into a Martini glass
Top with Prosecco
Garnish with thin orange wheel float
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*The bee is the emblem of Manchester – a symbol of hard work
New Year’s Eve – Tom’s Manc-Hattan
50ml Thomas Dakin Gin
25ml Red Vermouth
5ml Vimto (teaspoon)
2 dashes of Liquorice or Angostura Bitters 2.5ml syrup from the cherry jar
New Year’s Day – Dakin’s Ramble (Raspberry Bramble)
40ml Thomas Dakin Gin 25ml raspberry puree 10ml honey syrup or agave Juice of half a lemon Top with a drizzle of Triple Sec or Cointreau
Pour raspberry puree into a rocks glass, add crushed ice
Shake lemon, Gin and syrup over ice and pour gently into the glass
Drizzle with Triple Sec and garnish with a fresh raspberry, a lemon twist Dust with icing sugar
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Gift Boxed Thomas Dakin Gin makes a very special Christmas gift
RRP £29.00 for 70cl
ABV: 42%
Gift box available in Waitrose and Selfridges from the end of November 2017.
Master baker and entrepreneur Eric Kayser is offering a number of festive French delicacies from Maison Kayser on Baker Street.
Four flavours of yule log are available – a lemon and black tea with hazlenut; roasted coffee; a chocolate and praline and a raspberry and almond milk log.
The flagship bakery and restaurant on Baker Street is a celebration of all things artisan – with bread baked on site all day. A new addition this month is Chestnut bread – the perfect accompaniment to the cheese platters, meat boards, chutneys and jams that are brought out at this time of year.
And for the post-Christmas slump, a French king cake is available – traditionally meant to ‘draw the kings’ to Epiphany (6th January). With a delicate puff pastry, the Kayser King cake is filled with a lemon frangipane that’s infused with Russian black tea.
Have a Divine Christmas with shareable gifts and festive Fairtrade treats
Divine Chocolate, the only Fairtrade chocolate company co-owned by cocoa farmers, is launching a delicious new range of festive chocolate gifts, bars and treats. With elegant new boxed chocolates, two new Advent calendars and mouth-watering limited edition flavours there’s something to suit everyone and every occasion this Christmas season.
Divine chocolate is made using the ‘best of the best’ Fairtrade certified cocoa, grown with pride in Ghana by Kuapa Kokoo, co-operative of 85,000 cocoa farmers who own 44% of the Divine company. Co-ownership ensures the farmers receive a share of the profits they help to create, and also enables them to gain greater insight into their industry.
Divine Chocolate only uses the highest quality, Fairtrade certified ingredients which are carefully sourced from growing communities around the world, including sugar grown by Fairtrade co-operatives in Malawi and vanilla from Madagascar.
So this season of goodwill, share the love and choose a chocolate gift to spoil family and friends (or yourself!) while also benefitting Fairtrade producers.
London’s one-stop-shop Greek deli is now online!
(Oh, and they deliver nationwide)
From the team behind The Greek Larder, the London-based restaurant serving modern twists on Mediterranean island classics, comes their new online shop – the new Holy Grail for thoughtfully sourced Greek ingredients.
Visitors to the website can explore the Larder’s bountiful pantry, from Olive Oils of South West Crete and delicious Wild Honeys of the mountains, to the more unusual and harder to find Santorini Caper Leaves (£4.50 / 200g) (which are fantastic on roast spuds by the way!) and naturally – an Acropolis sized cellar full of Greek wines.
Owner and Patron Chef Theodore Kiryakou and his team have carefully curated the items available to buy, opening the gateway to otherwise unavailable produce from the Eastern Mediterranean basin. Customers can choose to Click + Collect or have their bundles of Greek goodies posted to them.
Stars of the show include Trikalinos Fleur De Sel (£6.60 / 100g), a marine salt of exceptional quality from the azure blue waters of the Aitoliko Lagoon, as well as fresh and bright and always slightly moist organic Vine Leaves (£7.95 / 1kg), picked at their prime and preserved in jars to ensure maximum delicacy and minimal fuss for when you get down to stuffing them with fancy rice (£1.70 / 500g) for those oh-so-good Dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves).
Providing stardom by way of a Great Taste award is their Sweet Red Pepper + Aubergine Paste (£5.35 / 200g) – smothered inside a blushing pink Lamb Wellington, it gives a rich depth of flavour with the sweetness to cut through your buttery puff pastry.
Now, onto the wines – these aren’t just any wines. These wines are a handpicked selection carefully curated by the passionate team at The Greek Larder. With over 30 Greek wines available online, they’ll take you on an educational journey from the ‘dark’ and ‘rich’ red wines of the Xinomavro grape to the ever-popular Assyrtiko variety with its salty crystalline acidity. Seize this opportunity to sample their wine selection before heading to the London Greek Wine Festival on Oct 13-14th (and then purchase your favourites after!)
Delivery is charged at £6.50 with 3-5-day delivery nationwide. To discover the full product range, please visit www.thegreeklarder.co.uk
A taste of Christmas Present: Lurpak® Filo Mince Pies
The culinary experts at Lurpak have teamed up with a leading historian and futurologists to map the evolution of the most hotly anticipated meal of the year. The Lurpak ‘Christmas Past, Present and Future’ report explores the evolution of the Christmas dinner across more than 140 years, from 1901 when Lurpak first arrived in the UK, through to 2042.
These delicious festive treats use filo pastry for a modern twist on a historic classic. Perfect to whip up in advance and bring out when guests pop over, simply top with crème fraiche and clementine zest for a real taste of Christmas.
Lurpak ® Filo Mince Pies
Serves: 6 Prep time: 30 mins Cooking time: 12 mins
Ingredients:
2 ripe pears, peeled and grated 60g mixed peel 60g chopped apricots 80g dark glacé cherries 150g raisins 50g sultanas 100ml medium sherry 50ml brandy 1tbsp runny honey ½ tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra to sprinkle Juice and zest of 2 clementines 4 sheets filo pastry 25g Lurpak® Unsalted butter, melted 60g flaked almonds 4tbsp icing sugar Crème fraiche and clementine zest to serve
Method:
Start by preheating the oven to 180C / 160C fan / gas mark 4.
Combine the grated pear, mixed peel, apricot, glacé cherries, raisins, sultanas, sherry, brandy, honey, cinnamon, clementine juice and zest in a medium saucepan. Place over a medium heat and bring to the boil. Next, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated (be careful not to burn the mixture). Remove from the heat and give it time to cool.
Next, lay four sheets of filo pastry on top of each other and cut into 6 even-sized squares (they shuld be approximately 10cm x 10cm). Take 1 square of filo, lightly brush with the melted Lurpak® Unsalted butter, scatter with almonds and lightly dust with icing sugar. Then take another square of filo and place on top of the buttered square at an angle to form a star shape. Lightly brush the top square with Lurpak® Unsalted butter and carefully transfer into a muffin tin with a palette knife. Next, sprinkle a few more almonds around the edge of the filo and finish with a dust of cinnamon. Repeat this process until you have used all the filo squares (you’ll need to work quite quickly to make sure the filo doesn’t dry out).
Next, carefully place a tablespoon of the cooled mincemeat mixture into each filo case. Put into the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes until the pastry is golden and crisp. Serve with a generous dollop of crème fraîche mixed with clementine zest.
