Christmas puddings

With Stir Up Sunday this weekend, country cooks are reaching for their wooden spoons to stir the pud and make a wish. But, as Hattie Ellis discovers, Christmas puddings have come a long way from their medieval origins. And the shop shelves are practically groaning with the array on offer…

Best alternatives to Christmas pudding

Christmas pudding isn’t everyone’s favourite offering at the festive feast, but don’t let the nay-sayers go hungry. So follow The Field’s recipes for the best alternatives to Christmas pudding. With boozy brownies, a fruitcake from the WI and biscotti for the smalls, there will be a Christmas pud for everyone.…

Potted spiced meat

Winter chutney is the perfect match for a feast of cold meats. Save it to enjoy with your Christmas day leftovers and you won’t tire of cold turkey and ham until well into the new year. Cling onto the festivities by enjoying it in turkey sandwiches packaged up for a…

Fried scallop canapés with sloe gin, nutmeg and speck

These fried scallop canapés with sloe gin, nutmeg and speck are so decadently rich they are perfect for Christmas day. They can be made in the morning and only need cooking for a couple of minutes before serving, meaning you can put on delicious canapés without missing any of the…

Fig, chocolate and cognac cake

This fig, chocolate and cognac cake is perfect for the festive season. It keeps well up to four days and it is suitable for freezing, making it a great offering for when an unexpected guest arrives for tea. For more festive sweet treats, try our Christmas brownies with hazelnuts and…

Damson jam

Damson jam is the best way to use up these tiny sour plums. Although too bitter to eat, they make great jam. With the British weather producing some of the best damsons in the world, don’t let the bumper crop go to waste. Damsons are high in pectin, so make…

Best boys' toys. Cobra

The best boys’ toys are a hot topic at this time of year. What deserves a spot on the Christmas wish list and, more importantly, what is wrapped underneath the tree? Roger Field creates his dream Christmas day haul with the best boys’ toys. For more boys toys this Christmas,…

Potted spiced meat

Potted spiced meat is a great starter to make ahead of time for Christmas day. Rather than missing the festivities slaving in the kitchen, entertain your guests and still enjoy a delicious starter. Potted spiced meat will keep in the fridge for up to three days. Or, make use of…

Biscotti with almonds and orange

Biscotti with almonds and orange are the perfect Christmas morsel. Simple to make in vast quantites, they will keep everyone happy over the festive season. Either keep them for yourself, or put them together in pretty packages to make a thoughtful gift. For more festive sweet treats, try The Field’s…