How to use This Book

This book is not about fuss and bother. It’s not about making everything from scratch. In fact, you will find in some of the recipes we have included ready-made pastry and stock.

On the other hand, some recipes are more in-depth and you may have to spend a little more time to get that something really special (like our rhubarb butterscotch cake). Just get a friend round, pour another glass of wine and enjoy the process!

You will see from the design of the book that it is broken up into seasonal sections. This is intended as a guideline only, as many products can extend into other months. However, if you do follow the book you will be cooking most things in season, meaning they will taste their best and be at their cheapest and you'll also have a nice well-stocked cupboard of preserves at the end of the year. Who wouldn’t be proud of that!