Women's Weekly Food

Share the love!Here at theFOODmagazine, we eat, sleepand live FOOD – so anyfeedback is enjoyed!64My favouritesGiant Father ChristmasCookies, ChristmasPudding with Brandy& Ginger, and HazelnutYule Log..6796eing highly superstitious, I eagerly await themoment December 1st hits the calendar, soI can launch into “deck-the-halls” mode. Thetree gets dragged out from under the stairs,The Elf on the Shelf jumps out of his storagebox and Santa’s magical North Pole Express gets a batterycheck, before revving frantically around on its tracks. Mostimportantly, though, the Christmas wreath and sparklingfairy lights are taken out of storage to adorn our front door.I go into full swing and embrace the happiest time of theyear, a time when everything we do is with good intent...from buying and wrapping presents especially chosenfor those you love, to making and baking fruit cakes andChristmas delights delivered from the heart. It’s a busy time,but also a time well spent loving, living and laughing fromone Christmas party to the next.To get the celebrations underway, we have drinks toshare and nibbles to devour with them (page 24). Thenfor the big day, there’s an extravagant long lunch with atraditional twist (page 28) and inspiring Christmas bakes(page 48). Children really do make the season sing, so getthem to help create treats for Santa and his reindeer(page 58). If you’re feeling the magic, make a little magic ofyour own with our stunning European-inspired sweet breads(page 106). And, as usual, we try and cater for all, with ourvegetarian Christmas menu (page 86) and gluten-free treats(page 96). The midweek family meal hasn’t been overlookedeither, so check out our fast dinners that will keep you wellfed between celebrations (page 74).Christmas also reminds me of fond memories from yearsgone by, like my dear late dad carving the ham with joy.I wish you and yours all the love of this special time.Now it’s time to jump under the mistletoe for a little fun!Ho, ho, ho!``````FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM,FACEBOOK & PINTEREST@WOMENSWEEKLYFOODA Letter From Amanda