Most people who live in the country, and are interested in growing their own food, are likely to cook in a produce-driven way. When I first moved to the Valley, I devoured the writings of Elizabeth David. She had abundant ideas and suggestions that spoke to me, as I've never had the patience to follow recipes, and I would absolutely recommend her books to anyone wanting to know more about seasonal cooking. -MB Read the rest...
For those connected to their food on a far more authentic level, whether through Farmer’s Markets or growing their own produce at home, there is very little waste because the true value goes well beyond what you have paid for something. You are invested in the very nature of what sustains you, but the further away any of us get from that connection, the easier it is to forget just how precious food is. That lack of understanding can have a ripple effect that not only harbours excess waste, but also unethical farming practices in general. In my mind there is no such thing as ‘cheap’ food, the price is always paid somewhere along the line, whether we choose to see it or not. -MB Read the rest...
Summer is summed up for me in the simplest way; truly vine ripened tomato, just-picked and still fragrant with the warmth of the sun, with basil from the garden too, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, vino cotto, salt and pepper. I can add anything to this, or simply eat is as a meal on its own - the flavours are so simple but when the produce is at its peak, nothing else is needed. -MB Read the rest...
Maggie's Sparkling Chardonnay is a truly food friendly option for anyone wanting to avoid alcohol at this time of year, and we know all too well that the aftermath of Christmas celebrations can have us vehemently declaring our new year’s resolution to steer clear of the hard stuff. Plus, We think it's just as pretty as its counterpart when it's poured into a champagne flute! Just add a ripe cheese, some good quality sourdough bread, dukkah, and fruit paste and voila, that's New Year's Eve nibbles sorted!-MB Read the rest...
From my earliest memories, Christmas has always been a real time of celebration for my family. When I was really little it was all about the presents, even so, going back as far as when I was five or six years old, the really special memories are of food. The first Christmas feast I clearly recall centred on the icebox on our back verandah working overtime in its attempt to keep the drinks cold, let alone the food. From then on Christmas meant a groaning table topped with the ham and goose, plus chooks from our backyard. Gathered around the table would be our family, as well as friends without families of their own, who were warmly welcomed. And that tradition has continued for me, with our daughters and grandchildren; it always comes back to a shared table of good food. I truly hope your Festive Season brings every reason to celebrate, and that you can do so surrounded by loved ones over a special meal. Merry Christmas to you and yours! -MB Read the rest...
