The Christmas Chronicles by Nigel Slater: Read Along Thread

[Dillidilly]

Here we go people!

I thought we could start reading the Introduction from October 15th at a gentle pace to allow people to join the thread. Then all set for Chapter 1 on November 1st.

The Christmas Chronicles is currently just over £20 on Amazon. Maybe people could share all the options for those who are just joining us, who still want to get a copy.

I'm hoping this thread will be a lovely, gentle, uplifting transition into the Christmas period where we can share our thoughts, recipe attempts and inspiration from Nigel x

That was a good idea Glumy I like puy lentils too 👍

@ChildrenGrowingUpTooFast I’m going to adapt the recipe anyway using pork mince (because I don’t want to buy turkey mince on top of all the meat we already have) so although I could source Lardo I’m not going to and I’ll use some of the lard we already have for extra richness. I might mix it up with some rosemary and salt now, actually, and let it sit for a week or two.

I have had a go at the gnudi. They are chilling in the fridge. I have put the in Tupperware. I know Nigel says to leave them uncovered but if the DC open the fridge that would be the end of them.

It was harder to shape them than I thought because the ricotta was sticky so mine are not as beautiful as Nigel’s we will have to see what they taste like.

@ChildrenGrowingUpTooFast this gingerbread recipe works for me. It’s ok to roll but still has some chewiness when cooked

www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/gingerbread-bunting

I’ve been watching his Xmas recipes this afternoon on TV. I haven’t got the book but will get it and join if it isn’t too late!

@OnTheHillNotOverIt thank you

I see it’s no longer £9.99!

@PickupaPenguin8 never roo late!

7 NOVEMBER
A trip to the forest, and those gnudi

@PickupaPenguin8 I saw the book in WH Smith’s yesterday for £9, so that might be worth a look if you live near one.

Might have to try the Gnudi, DS would like them.

Read this mornings with a cuppa at the crack of dawn, lovely. I haven't seen the tree in Trafalgar Square for a few years, last time was when we went on a night time open top bus tour to see the lights of London which was perishingly cold but absolutely glorious.

It's a bank holiday here on Thursday and I'm tempted to try the gundog. I love the idea of making special food in the run up to Christmas rather than stuffing myself on the day and feeling sick after!

DYAC 😂

In a classic moment of pushing on when I should have quit I attempted the apricot brandy today. Problem 1, my apricotes turned out to be semi hydrated. Problem 2, it turns out I don't have any star anise. None the less dd has announced that it smells lovely and is quite disappointed that she can't have any, lol. Might keep it in the fridge, as I'm worried about the apricots going mouldy. Will try again later in the week to make proper gift versions...

[quote Whatliesbeneath707]@PickupaPenguin8 I saw the book in WH Smith’s yesterday for £9, so that might be worth a look if you live near one.[/quote]
Thanks. I looked online but maybe in the shops it is less.

@PickupaPenguin8 yes it’s listed at full price online but apparently there are some reduced copies in stores.

@GlumyGloomer the alcohol should protect from mould, but I’m sure there’s no harm in keeping it in the fridge. Star anise can be added later.

I've just reserved a copy in the shop. Thank you all.

@HollyandIvyandAllThingsYule
Thanks, I'm sure you're right. I have an absolute terror of food poisoning 😅

Maybe best to keep it in the fridge then! Just to be on the safe side...

I don’t have a big jar handy...need to buy 2 or 3.

Does anyone else love the china and natural table linens used in Nigel's photos?

Yes, I very much love the aesthetic.

I so hope they are his and what he uses every day

Oh I imagine they are.

His cupboards, crockery and utensils get me all dissatisfied with my cluttered slightly battered IKEA kitchen.