The Friday 5 #82 Christmas special
Last minute wine buys, clever Christmas hacks, how to care for your cheese and TWO Christmas playlists
Yesterday was one of my favourite days of the year. How come, you might ask?
Still 4 hectic days to Christmas, didn’t get light until past 8am, dark again at 4pm (other than for those of you lucky enough to live in the southern hemisphere).
That’s precisely my point. It was the shortest day. The nights get progressively lighter from now on. I can’t say I like January and February but we are steadily inching towards spring now which is a cheering thought.
In the meantime a reminder of how to survive the darker nights.
(Short answer loads of candles. I’ve had my daily advent calendar candle burning next to my computer while I’ve been working these past few days. Do buy one for next year. Although I don’t like all of the aromas (rhubarb was WEIRD) it’s been a joy.
3 extra recs because it’s Christmas
If you’ve never brined a turkey before (me neither) there’s some really useful advice on chef Ben Lippett’s Substack How I Cook which I’ve just come across. Or here’s my step by step guide for complete newbies: How to cook turkey without having a breakdown.
Since I learnt the Japanese eat fried chicken on Christmas Eve I’ve been in love with the idea and would definitely do it if I was spending Christmas on my own or with just one of my kids. In fact we may do that during Twixtmas, though probably not from KFC. I’m liking the look of this recipe. Sure you can cook it in an air-fryer.
If you’re looking to see who does the best party food Good Housekeeping has a round-up here and Observer Food Monthly here. Seems fish rostis are the way to go …
And just a gentle nudge . . .
If you’ve suddenly remembered someone for whom you’ve forgotten to buy a present you could always give them a subscription to Eat This Drink That. Which will give them pleasure and save them money over the coming year.
Or even treat yourself 😉
My festive Friday 5