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Letterfromthe
Editor
“Sustainability isn’tatrend;it’s awayof embracingevery season findingbeauty inwhatnature offers, honouringits rhythms,and leavingthe lightestfootprint aswego.”
As the first crisp mornings arrive and the trees begin to turn, we step into autumn’s embrace a season that reminds us to slow down, savour, and reconnect These next two months are nature’s gentle nudge to live more in tune with the earth, taking pleasure in simple rituals: a walk through golden woodlands, the comfort of a homemade soup, or the scent of damp leaves after rain.
In this issue, we explore the richness of autumn through a sustainable lens.
From locally-sourced recipes that celebrate the harvest to mindful ways of refreshing your home with nature’s palette, we ’ ve curated stories to inspire and ground you You’ll find tips on foraging, ideas for cosy evenings that tread lightly on the planet, and conversations with makers who weave sustainability into everything they create September and October are months of transition the perfect moment to reflect on what we carry forward and what we let fall away.
Editor and Wildjac Founder
The power of
In today’s hyperconnected world, “doing nothing” almost feels scandalous. We equate rest with laziness, stillness with stagnation, and space with lack. But what if the very act of doing nothing is the missing ingredient to a richer, calmer, more creative life?
or women balancing careers, families, friendships, and personal ambitions, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of overfunctioning Society often tells us our value lies in our output how much we achieve, give, fix, manage But this constant “ go mode” is not only unsustainable it’s deeply depleting
Instead, science and ancient wisdom alike point us toward a quieter truth: rest is not a luxury It is essential And in a culture obsessed with hustle, rest becomes radical.
Rest Is Not Idle It’s Intelligent
Neurological studies have shown that periods of intentional rest and mindwandering stimulate the brain’s default mode network a system associated with memory consolidation, creativity, problem-solving, and selfreflection A 2022 article in Frontiers in Psychology concluded that structured breaks from goal-focused tasks can improve cognitive performance and emotional regulation
When you pause truly pause you give your mind and body a chance to process, recalibrate, and restore It’s not time wasted It’s energy invested
Why Women Especially Need the Pause
Women between 25 and 50 often sit at the crossroads of caring for young children, aging parents, demanding work, social lives, and the silent expectations placed upon them Amidst all this giving, rest often comes last on the list if it even makes the list at all.
But here’s the truth:
Your worth is not defined by how busy you are.
Burnout, anxiety, and decision fatigue are real consequences of a life lived at full throttle Pausing whether for five minutes or a full afternoon is a reclamation of self It’s a rebalancing act in a world that constantly asks more of you
Top Tips
How to embrace the Power of Pause
1. Schedule Stillness
Rest doesn’t just happen It needs space Add “ pause time” to your calendar like you would any other appointment Whether it’s 10 minutes between meetings or a tech-free hour on Sundays, protecting that space reinforces its value
2. Practice the Art of Staring.
Sit by a window and simply look At the trees The sky The way shadows shift across the room This visual rest allows your brain to slow down Research has shown that natural imagery lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and can improve mood in under five minutes
3. Resist the Urge to Fill
Let boredom in That moment when you reach for your phone out of habit? Let it pass Pauses that feel empty are often the doorways to inspiration, insight, and emotional release Give yourself permission not to fill every second
4. Try Micro-Moments of Pause
Not every pause needs to be an hour-long bath or a yoga retreat A deep breath with your eyes closed A warm cup of tea savoured slowly A moment to stretch and sigh These mini-pauses, done consistently, nourish your nervous system over time
5. Redefine Your Value
Let go of the belief that rest is earned You don’t need to burn out to deserve a break Your body, your creativity, your mental clarity all thrive when given room to breathe You are not a machine You are a living being, and living beings need rest.
Choosing rest is a deeply personal and often uncomfortable act. It goes against the grain. It asks you to sit with yourself. To tune in. To release the rush. But in doing so, you open the door to more presence, more clarity, and more life.
So the next time you feel the need to “catch up, ” “stay busy,” or “push through,” pause instead Breathe Let the silence in Doing nothing isn’t empty It’s spacious And in that space, you might just find everything you didn’t know you were missing
Capsule
Wardrobe
By Aster Sadler
Photography by Flora D Co.
A capsule wardrobe focuses on quality over quantity –a curated selection of versatile, timeless pieces that mix and match effortlessly For autumn, the goal is to choose layers and textures that keep you warm while looking chic, all from sustainable brands that care about the planet
Why a Capsule Wardrobe?
By investing in fewer, better-quality items, you reduce waste, save money in the long run, and avoid fast fashion’s environmental impact A capsule wardrobe also simplifies daily dressing –everything works together, so you spend less time deciding what to wear
Wool Coat
A classic tailored wool coat in camel, navy, or charcoal will last for years and elevate any outfit
Chunky Knit Sweater
Choose natural fibres like organic cotton or merino wool for warmth and breathability
High-Quality Jeans
Opt for organic cotton denim in a classic straight or slim fit
Versatile Midi Dress
Layer with tights and boots for autumn, or wear alone in warmer months
Ankle Boots
A sustainable leather or vegan boot in black or brown will pair with everything.
Layering Poloneck
Perfect under dresses, blazers, or knits, and best in organic cotton or bamboo.
Tailored Blazer
A blazer instantly smartens up jeans or dresses; choose a neutral tone for versatility
Tips for Building Your Capsule
Choose a cohesive colour palette to make mixing and matching easier
Prioritise natural, organic, and recycled fabrics for sustainability
Invest in timeless shapes rather than trend-led pieces. Care for your clothes properly to extend their lifespan.
Donate or recycle old items responsibly when you bring in something new.
By investing in well-made, versatile pieces from ethical brands, you create a closet that not only looks good but also does good for the planet Fewer, better pieces mean more outfit possibilities and less environmental impact
Capsule Wardrobe - Top picks
An autumn capsule wardrobe combines style, practicality, and sustainability. Check out our top picks for sustainable fashion to keep you cosy this season...
4 5 6
1
2.Hat and Scarf Giftset - Nomads
3.Weekender Bag | Abstract Caramel - Kindbag
4.Women's Retro Pile Fleece Marsupial Pullover - Patagonia
5.Wool Herringbone Belted Coat - Toast
6 Cove Organic Cotton Knitted Hoodie - Passenger
7 Vanity Blazer - Baukjen
Women's Straight Leg Jeans - Rapanui
September’s equinox marks the moment of perfect balance—light and dark, growth and rest. As the golden haze of summer fades into the russet embrace of early autumn, it’s the perfect time to honour nature’s rhythm and reflect on our own. This isn’t about ritual in the formal sense, but a gentle pause a way to reconnect.
AUTUMN ESCAPES
Nestled among ancient oak and beech, these off grid yurts offer tranquil, low-impact stays heated by wood burning stoves and lit by solar lanterns. Think hammock naps at sundown and local porridge for breakfast. A standout choice is Goytree Glamping Yurts, where yurts come with copper baths, private hot tubs, and compost toilets all fully off grid comfort in stunning countryside seclusion
For a truly unplugged experience, head north to a remote bothy rustic, simple, and deeply peaceful. With no distractions but the wind in the pines and mist over the lochs, this type of shelter invites true mindfulness: carry in what you need, and leave nothing behind.
Sea air, reclaimed wood, and sheep-wool insulation make these cabins both eco-chic and cosy Picture wood-fired hot tubs overlooking dramatic Autumn tides. For example, The Cable Hut, nestled between Abermawr and Aberbach, is a luxury cabin built to blend into the rocky shoreline, offering solitude and a hot tub with sea views. Alternatively, the Eco Barn & Courtyard Cottages are tucked into a wooded valley just minutes from wild Northern beaches and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Herefordshire
Scottish Highlands
Pembrokeshire
Goytree Glamping Yurts
Mountain Bothies
The Cable Hut Eco Barn
Woodland Yurts – Herefordshire
Stay: Goytree Glamping Yurts
Eco-score: ����������
Travel time: ~3 hrs from London, 1.5 hrs from Birmingham
Best for: Cosy forest seclusion & copper bath luxury
Secluded Bothies – Scottish Highlands
Stay: Mountain Bothies Association
Eco-score: ��������
Travel time: Varies by location – often remote & hikein
Best for: Wild solitude & stargazing nights
Coastal Eco Cabins – Pembrokeshire
Imagine shepherd’s huts dotting a wildflower meadow beside apple orchards, where organic harvests invite participation and perhaps even a homemade juice pressing These huts, powered by renewables and woven into the local crafts scene, offer hands on, heart felt autumn hospitality
Forest Lodges in Northumberland
Deep within Kielder
Forest, lodges powered by renewable energy and built from locally sourced timber offer peace, dark skies, and forest trails It’s a place to truly switch off and gaze at constellations unhindered by city glow
Forest Lodges Northumberland
Why Choose Sustainable Escapes?
Eco-conscious travel doesn’t mean compromising on comfort, it elevates the experience.
Staying in places that run on solar power, compost toilets, local food, and minimal impact means your stay helps preserve the landscapes that host it. This autumn, step off the beaten path: the UK's hidden corners await with a slower, gentler kind of travel
Stay: The Cable Hut or Eco Barn & Courtyard Cottages
Eco-score: ��������
Travel time: ~4.5 hrs from London, 2 hrs from Cardiff
Best for: Sea views & wood-fired hot tubs
Orchard Retreat – Devon
Stay: The Orchard Retreat
Eco-score: ��������
Travel time: ~3 5 hrs from London, 1 hr from Exeter
Best for: Harvest season experiences & cosy shepherd’s huts
Forest Lodges – Northumberland
Stay: Calvert Kielder Lodges
Eco-score: ��������
Travel time: ~5 hrs from London, 1.5 hrs from Newcastle
Best for: Stargazing & autumn woodland walks
Book midweek for quieter stays and better rates
Bring reusable water bottles, a keep-cup for your road trip coffee, and leave no trace nature will thank you
Orchard Retreat in Devon
Orchard retreat Devon
"Noticethatautumnis moretheseasonofthesoul thanofnature."
Garden inspired recipes from nature...
ELDERBERRY SYRUP
INGREDIENTS
1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh, stems removed)
4 cups water
2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, sliced
1–2 cinnamon sticks
4–5 whole cloves
1 cup raw honey (add after cooking)
You can experiment with other spices depending on your personal preferences Try Star Anise or even chilli!
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have been traditionally used to support the immune system Making your own elderberry syrup at home is simple, cost-effective, and allows you to avoid unnecessary additives This syrup is perfect for autumn and winter when coughs and colds are more common
DIRECTIONS
1 Combine elderberries, water, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a medium saucepan
2 Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 40–45 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by almost half
3 Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly
4 Strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing the berries to release all the liquid Discard the solids
5 When the liquid is just warm (not hot), stir in the raw honey until fully dissolved
6 Pour the syrup into sterilised glass bottles or jars and store in the fridge
Vibrant colour
Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis)
These elegant perennials bloom from late summer into autumn with delicate pink or white flowers They thrive in partial shade, are pollinator-friendly, and require little care t bli h d (i b l )
flowers that deepen to rich copper tones as the season progresses. Drought-tolerant and loved by bees and butterflies.
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis mollis)
A deciduous shrub that offers striking yellow or orange flowers in late autumn and early winter Its fragrant blooms appear on bare branches, providing colour when little else is flowering (article cover image)
Hardy Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica)
This resilient shrub produces graceful, pendulous flowers in shades of pink and purple until the first frosts It’s a reliable
g p ( q q )
A fast-growing climber with lush green foliage that turns brilliant crimson in autumn. Excellent for covering walls or fences and creating dramatic seasonal impact. (image above)
Even in Autumn, there’s still plenty of opportunity to create a colourful and sustainable garden.
By planting these sustainable shrubs and perennials in autumn, you’ll set the stage for a garden that glows with colour year after year Not only will you enjoy a stunning seasonal display, but you’ll also provide valuable food and shelter for wildlife as the colder months approach
By Aster Sadler
Bulb Planting Guide
Autumn is the perfect time to plant springflowering bulbs, giving them a chance to establish roots before winter and rewarding you with a burst of colour when the weather warms. From cheerful daffodils to elegant tulips, choosing and planting the right bulbs now ensures a stunning display next year.
ChoosingtheRightBulbs
Select firm, healthy bulbs free from mould or soft spots
Some popular choices for UK gardens include:
·Daffodils (Narcissus) – Bright, cheerful, and reliable
Tulips – Available in a wide range of colours and heights
Crocuses – Early bloomers that add splashes of purple, white, or yellow.
Alliums – Striking, architectural blooms that attract pollinators.
Hyacinths – Fragrant flowers perfect for borders and pots.
Aftercare
Water bulbs well after planting and add a layer of mulch to insulate them over winter. Once flowers have finished in spring, allow foliage to die back naturally, feeding the bulb for the following year.
Where to Buy Bulbs in the UK
Sarah Raven – https://www sarahraven com
Thompson & Morgan – https://www thompsonmorgan com
Crocus – https://www crocus co uk
Peter Nyssen – https://www peternyssen com
J Parker’s – https://www jparkers co uk
PlantingTechniques
Traditional Planting
Plant bulbs at a depth roughly three times their height, with the pointed end facing upwards Space them according to the variety, ensuring good drainage to prevent rot
Naturalising
Scatter bulbs across lawns or under trees for a natural, meadow-like effect This works well with crocuses, daffodils, and snowdrops, creating drifts of colour each year
Lasagne Technique
This layering method is ideal for pots and small spaces. Place late-blooming bulbs such as tulips at the bottom, cover with compost, then add a layer of mid-season bloomers like daffodils, and finish with early bloomers such as crocuses on top. This creates a continuous display of flowers from early spring to late May.
Planting bulbs in autumn is an investment in next year ’ s garden Whether you opt for neat rows, natural drifts, or the clever lasagne technique, you’ll be rewarded with a succession of blooms that bring colour and joy after the dark winter months With the right bulbs and a little preparation, spring will arrive in a blaze of beauty
Seasonal Skincare
Transitioningyour beautyroutine for cooler,drier weather.
‘’Hydrationiskeyincooler weather. Choosenourishing, protectivehighquality productsandbe consistent.’’
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, our skin faces new seasonal challenges. Autumn and winter weather can bring lower humidity, cold winds, and indoor heating all of which can strip moisture from the skin and leave it feeling dry, tight, or sensitive. Transitioning your beauty routine now can help maintain a healthy, radiant complexion throughout the cooler months. Here’s how to adapt your skincare for the season.
1. Switch to a Creamier Cleanser
Foaming and gel cleansers can leave skin feeling tight in colder weather Switch to a cream or balm cleanser that removes impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural barrier Look for gentle formulas with nourishing oils or butters
2. Layer in Hydrating Serums
Hydration is key in cooler weather Add a serum rich in hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or polyglutamic acid to help bind moisture to the skin Apply to damp skin before your moisturiser to maximise absorption
3. Upgrade Your Moisturiser
Light lotions might not be enough for autumn and winter Opt for a richer cream with ceramides, squalane, or shea butter to lock in hydration and protect against environmental stressors
4. Don’t Skip SPF
Even in cooler months, UV rays can cause skin damage and premature ageing Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and make it part of your daily routine.
5. Nourish Lips and Hands
Lips and hands often suffer first in colder weather Keep a nourishing balm in your bag and apply hand cream after washing to prevent dryness and cracking
6. Consider a Weekly Mask
A hydrating mask once or twice a week can help replenish moisture and soothe skin after exposure to the elements Look for masks with aloe vera, oat extract, or honey
By making small seasonal adjustments to your skincare routine, you can help protect your skin from the harsh effects of autumn and winter Choose nourishing, protective products and be consistent your skin will thank you with a healthy, glowing complexion all season long
Autumn Skincare Shopping Guide
Transitioning your beauty routine for cooler, drier weather is easier with the right products. Here’s a curated selection of 7 must-have skincare essentials to keep your skin nourished, protected, and glowing through autumn and winter. 29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter-Gentle, nourishing balm cleanser
2.Eve Lom Cleanser-Cult favourite cream cleanser with botanical oils, great for autumn skin.
3.The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5-Affordable hydration boost for all skin types.
4.Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum-Strengthens skin barrier while hydrating.
5.Antipodes Lime Caviar Cream-Collagen rich firming cream for face.
6 Weleda Skin Food-Ultra-rich, natural moisturiser for dry patches
7 Upcircle SPF25-Lightweight sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin
Sustainable
Tablescapes
By Aster Sadler
Photography by Amar Preciado
Start with the Foundation
Begin with your base
Choose vintage or repurposed linens perhaps naturally dyed with tea or turmeric Look for warm, grounding colours: ochres, mossy greens, and burnt umber These set the tone without overpowering the food or company
Foraged & Natural Centrepieces
Head outside for decor. Fallen leaves, conkers, pinecones, seed heads, and dried grasses make perfect rustic adornments. Arrange them in a bowl or scatter them along the centre of your table A beeswax candle or two brings a soft glow look for natural options in glass jars or repurposed containers
DIY Place Settings
Personalise each setting with handwritten name tags on brown paper or pressed leaves Wrap cutlery in upcycled fabric napkins and tie with garden string and a sprig of rosemary or dried orange Mismatched crockery adds charm and a sense of nostalgia
Seasonal Touches That Tell a Story
A bowl of orchard apples or wild pears can double as both decoration and dessert Decorate with herbs, dried flowers, or a few autumnal blooms in bud vases. Use handmade or local ceramic pieces to elevate the look while supporting artisan craftsmanship.
Reuse & Rethink
The most sustainable styling uses what you already have Think creatively an old jam jar becomes a tea light holder, a wooden crate can display napkins or dried arrangements. Style is about soul, not spending.
A seasonal table isn’t about perfection it’s about feeling rooted, warm, and connected. By using what the land gives freely and choosing pieces with heart and history, your table becomes a celebration of harvest, community, and thoughtful living
LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS
Transforming Leftovers into Creative Drinks
We’ve all been there. The guests have gone home, the music has faded, and you ’ re left surveying the aftermath of a great evening A few limes sit forgotten on the counter, a handful of mint wilts in a glass, and a bowl of lemons looks accusingly bright in the corner These stray ingredients are often destined for the compost heap but what if they could become the start of something delicious?
Our goal is to honour these traditions, but with a modern, fuss-free twist With a blender, some sugar, and a little imagination, you can create your own drinks that are sustainable, flavourpacked, and ready whenever inspiration strikes
The “Blender-onics” Method
At Wildjac, we believe in turning the “left behind” into something worth celebrating After running the VIP bar at the Back to the Beginning concert (RIP Ozzy!) and later hosting at the Real Ale and Cocktail Trail, we found ourselves with surplus citrus and herbs Abandon them? Not our style Adopt them? Absolutely This philosophy of reusing and repurposing is nothing new. Long before refrigeration, our ancestors had to be ingenious with preservation: salting, smoking, fermenting, pickling, and drying. The products of those traditions jams, chutneys, dried fruits, and pickles still line our cupboards today In the world of drinks, the preservation story is just as rich, giving us fermentation (beer, wine, kefir), distillation, shrubs (fruit and vinegar syrups), cordials, and sharbats
Over the years, I have perfected what I call the “Blender-onics” approach a simple blend, strain, and you ’ re done method No complex kit or lengthy processes required Nearly every kitchen has a blender, and that’s all you need
The results can be poured into ice cube trays and frozen into flavour cubes These handy little blocks are perfect to drop into cocktails, sodas, or even a beer for an instant flavour lift Quick, effective, and a brilliant way to ensure nothing goes to waste. What you’ll need: Scales
A blender or smoothie maker
A soft-skin peeler (or a sharp paring knife)
A fine strainer, nut milk bag, or jam bag
Straining removes pulp that can cause bitterness or cloudiness, ensuring your creations stay fresh and clean-tasting
‘’Tip:Alwayspeelyourfruit beforejuicing—you’llneed thosepeelsforyouroleo saccharum.’’
Oleo Saccharum: A Too-Cool-for-School Concept
Before diving into recipes, there’s one technique worth learning: oleo saccharum Latin for “oil sugar, ” this oldschool punch base is made by coating citrus peels in sugar to draw out their essential oils Traditionally, it required time and muddling, but with a blender, you can speed up the process and create a depth of flavour that elevates any drink
Bonus: Don’t Waste the Peels!
The peels still have more to give Dry them in a low oven or air fryer until crisp, and you’ll have a versatile garnish or flavour enhancer.
Ideas for dried peels:
Crush over ice cream, yogurt, or desserts
Infuse into teas or cocktails
Add to granola or trail mix
Fold into baking batters
Grind into seasoning blends
Simmer in sauces or syrups (remove before serving)
The
Joy of Playing with Food
Sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste it’s about creativity Leftovers can inspire something new, exciting, and delicious By repurposing ingredients, we connect with traditions of the past while creating fresh flavours for today
As Samuel Beckett famously said: “Ever tried Ever failed No matter Try again Fail again Fail better ”
So maybe your mother was wrong you should play with your food Just make sure you do it in a way that sparks joy, saves waste, and brings flavour to life
Apologies to your compost pile
By David Swain - Wildjac Mixologist
LEMON SHARBAT
Sharbat, a traditional Persian sweet drink made from fruit, sugar, and water, spread through Europe and evolved into sorbet and eventually sherbet. Our version is as simple as it is refreshing.
INGREDIENTS:
10 parts sugar
8 parts lemon juice
1 part lemon peel
HOW TO MEASURE:
Juice your peeled lemons, weigh the juice, multiply by 1 25 for the sugar, and divide by 10 for the peel
Example: 80g juice = 100g sugar + 8g peel Blend, strain, bottle, and refrigerate You can also add edible flower petals, or a drop of rose or orange blossom water, to honour its Persian roots
SERVING SUGGESTION:
Classic Lemonade: Pour 50ml lemon sharbat into a tall glass with ice, top with soda water, and garnish with a flower petal
Add Wildjac Natural Dry Gin for an adult twist Swap soda for prosecco or champagne for a sparkling celebration
LIME CORDIAL
The nickname “Limeys” once given to British sailors reflects how limes were used to combat scurvy. Ironically, many modern lime cordials contain little to no lime at all. Our version restores the fruit’s rightful place at the centre.
INGREDIENTS:
Equal parts lime juice and sugar
Lime peels to create an oleo saccharum
A pinch of salt
Example: 36g lime juice + 36g sugar + 16g lime peel + pinch of salt
METHOD:
Blend, strain, and bottle The cordial will be opaque due to the citrus oils a sign of intense flavour Adjust sweetness with sugar or add tartness with citric acid
VARIATIONS:
Add mint leaves for a ready-made mojito base
Use honey instead of sugar
Add lime leaves or spices for depth
SERVING SUGGESTIONS :
Gimlet: 2 parts Wildjac Natural Dry or Pink Grapefruit & Lime Gin to 1 part cordial, stirred over ice
Giniper Mojito: 50ml Wildjac Giniper, 20ml cordial, mint or basil leaves, topped with soda
Beer Twist: Drop a frozen lime cube into your pint for a citrus kick
CHERRY CHOCOLATE MARTINI
Smooth & comforting, this is the perfect autumn treat.
INGREDIENTS:
50ml cherry wood spiced rum
25ml crème de cacao (dark or white, depending on preference)
25ml fresh espresso
10ml simple syrup
Dash of chocolate bitters (optional but recommended)
Show us your creations!
Tag us in your seasonal cocktails on social @wildjacspirits
METHOD:
Chill a martini glass in the freezer or with ice water
Add the rum, crème de cacao, espresso/cold brew, and syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the shaker is frosty.
Double strain into the chilled martini glass
SERVE:
Martini glass
GARNISH:
Garnish with chocolate shavings or a chocolatedipped cherry
Comfort food and cosy suppers...
GARDEN VEGETABLE SOUP
INGREDIENTS
4 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion - peeled and chopped
2 cloves of garlic - peeled and chopped
1 leek - cleaned and finely sliced
225 g Swiss chard/spinach/cavolo nero/cabbage
- finely sliced
2 stalks of celery - finely sliced
100 g brown mushrooms - sliced thinly
2 carrots - sliced thinly
2 x 400 g tins chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato purée
A few shakes of Worcestershire sauce
1 5 litres veg stock
1 tin of beans (flageolet/butter beans or cannellini)
2 oz small pasta shells
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp oregano/marjoram
1 tsp thyme
DIRECTIONS
1 Heat the oil in a large soup pan
2 Add the onion, garlic, leek and celery and cook until the onion is soft but not coloured.
3. Add the green veg, green beans, carrot and tinned beans for about 5 minutes more.
4.Add the tinned tomatoes, purée, Worcester sauce, stock cubes and water and add the herbs (if dried).
5 Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and cook for 15 minutes
6 Ad the sliced mushrooms and pasta shapes and simmer gently for another 10 minutes
7 Taste, adjust the seasoning, sprinkle with fresh herbs and a blob of pesto in each bowl
8 Dust with Parmesan (or cheddar) and serve with a chunk of good bread of your choice
This hearty vegetable soup is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavours of your summer garden, making use of whatever fresh or leftover vegetables you have on hand The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so you can easily swap in your favourites or what is available to you Consider making a large batch to freeze, so when the chill of winter sets in you will have a nourishing bowl ready to enjoy, a comforting reminder of summer abundance
MOROCCAN LAMB
TAGINE
INGREDIENTS
500 g boneless lamb, cubed (or chicken or beef)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 cinnamon stick
1 bay leaf
100 mls red wine
3 tablespoons tomato paste
750 ml stock (to match the meat)
150 g pitted prunes
150 g pitted soft dried apricots (unsulphured)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
A large handful of parsley chopped, to serve
DIRECTIONS
1.Preheat the oven to 325F/160C/Gas Mark 3
2. Put 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan and brown the meat (don’t overcrowd the pan)
3. Remove from pan and put in an ovenproof casserole.
4 Add the extra oil to the frying pan and add the onion to soften it then add the herbs, spices bay leaf and tomato paste
5 Pour this into the casserole
6 Then add the red wine, water and stock cubes to the frying pan and bring to the boil to deglaze the pan
7 Add to the casserole along with the dried fruit, cover it with its lid or some foil and transfer to the oven Cook for 1 1/4 hrs or until the meat is tender
8 Remove the casserole from the oven and discard the bay leaf and cinnamon stick and adjust the seasoning
9 Use 2 teaspoons olive oil mixed with flour, or 2 teaspoons cornflour mixed with a little water, to a thin paste to thicken if you wish
10 Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with rice or couscous
Keep the accompanying vegetables simple - grated carrot and orange salad perhaps with a few black olives
GINGERBREAD LOAF
Sweet & spiced for an autumn tea-time treat or decadent dessert.
INGREDIENTS
225g/8 ozs butter.
225g/8 ozs dark muscovado sugar
225g/8 ozs treacle
325g/12 oz self raising flour
1 Tablespoon ground ginger
275 ml/1/2 pt full fat milk
2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda
2 large eggs, beaten.
6 balls of stem ginger in syrup, chopped
This cake freezes beautifully so why not make a couple and give as gifts?
DIRECTIONS
1 Grease and line 2 x 2lb loaf tins
2 Preheat oven to 160C (135C fan)/320F/ gas 3
3 Put sugar,butter and treacle in a pan and heat gently until smooth
4.Allow to cool and put in a bowl
5.Sieve flour and ginger powder and add to bowl
6 Warm milk and bicarbonate gently inthe microwave and add to bowl, don’t boil just to room temp
7.Add Beaten eggs and chopped stem ginger to bowl and stir gently to completely combine.
8 Divide between the loaf tins and bake for 1 hr or until a cocktail stick comes out clean
9 Cool on a rack And leave until completely cool before cutting
10. Serve with cream or ice cream as a pudding or enjoy with tea 1 hour 30 minutes
Disco in the Dahlias
Join Webbs, Wychbold for memorable evening of feel-good music and late summer magic at their unique silent disco, set in the heart of Flora Fields - their stunning pick-your-own dahlia field.
Saturday 13th September
7:00pm - 9:30pm
£10
