American

This get-ahead recipe tastes even better a day after cooking. If you have a pressure cooker, you can skip the bean soaking process so they’re ready to cook in under an hour

The ultimate in barbecue food, sticky ribs always go down well at a party. Serve with some griddled corn and plenty of napkins! Any leftover barbecue sauce is also great with burgers and chicken.

Red beans are traditionally served on Monday nights, after the beans were set to soak overnight on Sunday, and they could bubble away while chores and laundry were being done during the day. Combining two Southern classics works perfectly here, where pork ribs also benefit from the low-and-slow approach. If you’re a baker, a loaf of buttery cornbread would be a great accompaniment.

'Veggie traybakes are one of my staples at this time of year,' says our Food Director Sarah. 'Super-easy to throw together and packed full of winter-busting nutrition. This clever version boasts all five portions of your 5-a-day and is the perfect way to ward off those January blues. The queso sauce is a cheeky little extra I add on days when I want something a bit more indulgent.’

This healthier version of American-style creamed corn is paired with chicken, sweet potato wedges and roasted cherry tomatoes, for an easy dinner for two

A classic Cajun spice mix blends smoky paprika with a hint of chilli, the ideal combination for a meaty fish like salmon

Sloppy Joes are an American classic – lip-smacking minced beef served in a burger bun. Here, we've turned the idea into something heartier that you can eat in a bowl using nachos to scoop. If you prefer, you can serve this with rice; in the traditional burger buns, or in wraps

Cooking for the festive period can be stressful – but you’ve got a secret weapon in your kitchen (and no, it’s not wine...) Dig out that slow cooker, and easily create this delicious beef brisket with a fruity twist