My week: Gatsby cocktails, Jamie Oliver and Chocolat

Wednesday, 22 May 2013

Cardamom buns in Hoxton

If I'm feeling lazy, I'll take a trip to my new go-to bakery for my sweet fix. Ever since my trip to Copenhagen last year I have a passion for cardamom buns and have found the closest match at Fabrique in Hoxton. Made to a Swedish recipe, the buns (and bread) are so good it's impossible to make it home without eating at least one on the journey.

Chelsea Flower Show-inspired cocktails

Monday, 20 May 2013

Flower-inspired cocktails: Jasmine Collins (L), Mandarin Rose and Lotus Martini (R)

The Chelsea Flower Show is celebrating its centenary this year, so we thought we'd make some flower-inspired cocktails to celebrate the occasion – any excuse!


160,000 people will visit the prestigious show over the next five days, picking up gardening advice and admiring impressive flower displays from around the world.

Watercress, bacon and chive gnocchi

Friday, 17 May 2013

Watercress, bacon and chive gnocchi

Watercress is in season now, so we thought it was time to celebrate this Great British leaf. Its peppery flavour works really well in a chilled, summery soup, but the stubborn weather is refusing to warm up, so we've opted for a more hearty gnocchi recipe instead. It only takes 15 minutes to make and packs a real flavour punch.

The Great Gatsby party menu

Thursday, 16 May 2013

Crab rolls

Finally, the wait is over! After what feels like months (years, even) of anticipation, The Great Gatsby hits our cinema screens today, and it seems as though the whole country has been getting in the 1920s spirit. Any excuse for a party!


We've created this decadent, yet easy, party menu so you can throw an impromptu knees-up this weekend – just like the legendary Gatsby himself.

The Meringue Girls' pistachio and rosewater pavlova

Tuesday, 14 May 2013 1 Comment

Pistachio and rosewater pavlova with Greek yogurt, honey and figs

I met the gorgeous Meringue Girls on board the fabulous Silver Sturgeon boat moored at the Savoy Pier on the River Thames last week. You can hire the boat for all kinds of dos, from weddings to posh corporate functions, and I for one can't imagine anything better than cruising down the river, Sipsmith gin cocktail in hand, tucking into food provided by Jamie Oliver's Fabulous Feasts, the on-board catering company.

Alex and Stacey combine their creative cooking and marketing flair to supply the prettiest meringues for parties and celebrity events – see the evidence below. Here are their top tips on creating perfect meringue treats, and a rather special pavlova recipe.