As the days shorten, the anticipation grows. Gifts are chosen and cards to faraway friends are written. Festive aromas from mince pies and mulled wine fill the kitchen as ‘Hark the Herald’ rings out from the radio. Now’s the time to dig out the decorations for the traditional untangling of the lights. There’s a flurry of last-minute shopping until finally the big day arrives – bringing with it friends, family and the sumptuous feast. Then, happy and relaxed, you can see out the rest of the year on the leftovers – maybe the best moments of the Christmas break.
RECIPE AND FOOD STYLING: JEN BEDLOE. PHOTOGRAPH: TOBY SCOTT. STYLING: VICTORIA ELDRIDGE
The 5-minute recipe