Over the summer months I stockpile fruit and freeze it ready for this season. This year's crop consists of blackcurrants from my garden, apples from my in-laws, blueberries from Trehane's (www.trehane.co.uk), blackberries from local hedgerows and rhubarb from some friends. So far I've done a green tomato chutney and last week I did a batch of blackcurrant and rhubarb jam. My next step will be the classic apple and blackberry. I'm sure people think jam is complicated, but all you need is some good equipment, the fruit, sugar and water. The only difficulty I always have is checking the setting point – hopefully my new jam thermometer will help me with that! #cookinggeek!
Anyway, my point is that jams, chutneys and the like make lovely Christmas presents – and there's nothing like giving a homemade gift to show someone you care.
Recently I've done some writing for the Salisbury and Bournemouth editions of Raring2go! and one of the features was on gift ideas. I won't rehash them all here, as obviously those of you who are local will be avidly reading the magazine, but I will direct you to some of my recipes, which have made their way online. Take a look at www.raring2go.co.uk/eat/recipes/christmas-recipes.
And just in case you're still not inspired, here's a few pictures from my own handmade Christmas a couple of years ago…
Cupcakes in a jar
Gift boxes containing a mini Christmas pudding, jams, chutneys, coconut ice,
cookies and giant chocolate buttons
Have I inspired you? If so, I'd love to know what you'll be making this Christmas. And if you need a taste tester…
No comments:
Post a Comment