With the temperatures dropping, the time is right for warming winter dishes. At this time of the year I am cooking Beef Bourguignon, Osso Bucco, slow-cooked lamb shanks, Coq au Vin and similar comfort foods.  Many winter dishes involve braising liquids, so it’s nice to serve an accompaniment that can soak up all those lovely juices. Mashed potato is a popular choice, but for something a little different try polenta. [Read more →]

With the weather warming up and the days becoming longer, it’s time to fire up the barbeque. Rather than serve bottled sauces and relishes alongside your grilled meat or fish, try this Italian dish of sautéed capsicums. It’s simple, delicious and can be made ahead of time, scoring all the ticks for successful entertaining. Peperonata is also a a lovely addition to an antipasto platter. You can serve this either hot or cold. [Read more →]

Make the most of the late autumn vegetables with this classic French dish that is made even more delicious through the roasting process. Ratatouille is a wonderful accompaniment to grilled chicken, meat or fish and is also superb served on its own. To partially prepare this dish in advance, omit the salt at step 2, cover and refrigerate and add the salt just prior to cooking. [Read more →]

This simple but tasty accompaniment goes with just about anything. Frozen peas are one of the few exceptions to “fresh is best” and are a great staple to have on hand. Whilst podding peas I’m sure is very therapeutic, this blog is about making entertaining easy and shortcuts like this are the way to go for the hectic host, particularly when there is little or no difference in the end product. [Read more →]

My cherry tomatoes plants are bearing an abundance of fruit currently, and I am always looking for different and interesting ways to use them when the crop yield is at its peak. This recipe was created about this time last year and it is really great way to use an excess of cherry or grape tomatoes. [Read more →]

Instant cous cous is a quick and easy accompaniment to many dishes, and is a useful staple to keep in the pantry. Here is how to ensure your cous cous is light and fluffy every time:  [Read more →]

As asparagus is in the height of its season, I thought it only fitting to include this easy recipe that makes an elegant accompaniment to any meal: [Read more →]

New season mangoes have arrived in abundance, so I thought it only fitting to provide my recipe for Mango Salsa. This simple but delicious accompaniment goes wonderfully with chicken, pork, duck, prawns and all seafood. [Read more →]