Velvety Roasted Pumpkin Comfort Soup

Velvety Roasted Pumpkin Comfort Soup

Smooth, creamy roasted pumpkin soup with warm spices. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal.
Couverts6
Preparation 20 minutes
Preparation time:45 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Baking sheet, Large pot, Blender or immersion blender, Knife, Cutting board

Ingredients

  • 1 medium pumpkin about 1.5 kg, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 200 ml heavy cream or plant-based milk for vegan
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pumpkin seeds roasted (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  • Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
  • In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
  • Add roasted pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the pot.
  • Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
  • Simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Use a blender or immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
  • Stir in heavy cream (or plant-based milk).
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Ladle into bowls and garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve warm with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream.

Wine Advice:

A dry Riesling or a light Pinot Grigio.

Nutrition values

Calories: 250 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 12 g | Sugar: 10 g
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Christmas Chocolate Swirl Yule Log

Christmas Chocolate Swirl Yule Log

A classic Christmas dessert: a chocolate sponge cake rolled with creamy chocolate filling and decorated to resemble a Yule log.
Couverts8
Preparation 45 minutes
Preparation time:20 minutes
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Equipment

  • Baking sheet, Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Spatula, Piping bag (optional)

Ingredients

For the sponge cake:

  • 4 eggs separated
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 50 g all-purpose flour
  • 25 g cocoa powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the filling:

  • 200 g dark chocolate chopped
  • 200 ml heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the decoration:

  • Chocolate shavings for garnish
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, beat egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  • Whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  • Fold flour mixture into egg yolk mixture.
  • Gently fold in egg whites.
  • Pour batter onto baking sheet and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, until cake springs back when touched.
  • While cake cools, prepare the filling.
  • Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering.
  • Pour over chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stir well.
  • Let filling cool and thicken slightly.
  • Turn cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar.
  • Peel off parchment paper.
  • Spread chocolate filling evenly over the cake.
  • Roll up cake tightly from short end.
  • Chill for at least 1 hour.
  • Trim ends of the log.
  • Spread remaining filling over the log.
  • Create bark-like texture with a fork.
  • Garnish with chocolate shavings, powdered sugar, and rosemary sprigs.
  • Chill before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Wine Advice:

A sweet dessert wine like a Banyuls or a rich Port.

Nutrition values

Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 22 g | Sugar: 30 g
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Cuisine; French
Diets; Vegetarian

Tangy Sea Buckthorn Mini Tarts

Sea Buckthorn Tarts

Tangy sea buckthorn tarts with a sweet, buttery crust. A bright and festive winter dessert.
Couverts12
Preparation 30 minutes
Preparation time:20 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Muffin tin (12 cups), Mixing bowls, Rolling pin, Small saucepan

Ingredients

For the crust:

  • 200 g all-purpose flour
  • 100 g cold butter cubed
  • 50 g powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tbsp cold water

For the filling:

  • 200 g sea buckthorn berries
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 lemon juice and zest
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

For the crust:

  • In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar.
  • Rub in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add egg yolk and water, mix until dough forms.
  • Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Roll out dough and cut into circles to fit muffin tin cups.
  • Press dough into cups and prick with a fork.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, until lightly golden.

For the filling:

  • In a saucepan, combine sea buckthorn berries, sugar, and cornstarch.
  • Cook over medium heat until berries soften and mixture thickens.
  • Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and zest.
  • In a bowl, whisk egg and melted butter.
  • Add sea buckthorn mixture to egg mixture, stir well.
  • Pour filling into pre-baked tart crusts.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, until filling is set.
  • Cool completely before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream.

Wine Advice:

A sweet dessert wine like ice wine or a late-harvest Riesling.

Nutrition values

Calories: 220 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Sugar: 18 g
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Cuisine; Baltic States
Diets; Vegetarian

Sweet & Tangy Balsamic Sprouts

Sticky Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized Brussels sprouts with a sticky balsamic glaze. Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly delicious.
Couverts4
Preparation 10 minutes
Preparation time:25 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Baking sheet, Large bowl, Whisk, Knife

Ingredients

  • 500 g Brussels sprouts halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
  • In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut-side down.
  • Roast for 15 minutes, or until tender and browned.
  • While sprouts are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
  • Remove sprouts from oven and drizzle with the balsamic glaze.
  • Return to oven and roast for another 5-10 minutes, or until glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve as a flavorful side dish with roasted meats or poultry.

Wine Advice:

A light Pinot Noir or a dry Riesling.

Nutrition values

Calories: 180 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 8 g | Sugar: 15 g
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Festive Chocolate Velvet Pots

Easy Christmas Chocolate Pots

Rich and creamy chocolate pots, perfect for a decadent Christmas treat. Easy to make and beautifully festive.
Couverts6
Preparation 20 minutes
Preparation time:10 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Saucepan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Small serving glasses or ramekins

Ingredients

  • 200 g dark chocolate chopped
  • 300 ml heavy cream
  • 100 ml milk
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Christmas sprinkles for garnish (optional)
  • Raspberries or other red berries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  • Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  • Pour the chocolate mixture into serving glasses or ramekins.
  • Chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.
  • Garnish with Christmas sprinkles and/or raspberries before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Wine Advice:

A sweet dessert wine like Banyuls or a rich Port.

Nutrition values

Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 25 g | Sugar: 20 g
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Vibrant Beet & Orange Pistachio Salad

Roasted Beetroot and Orange Salad with Pistachios

Sweet roasted beets and juicy oranges with crunchy pistachios. A colorful and flavorful salad.
Couverts4
Preparation 20 minutes
Preparation time:40 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Baking sheet, Large bowl, Knife, Small bowl

Ingredients

  • 4 medium beetroots peeled and quartered
  • 2 oranges peeled and segmented
  • 100 g pistachios shelled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for vegan
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Toss beetroots with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  • Roast for 40 minutes, or until tender.
  • Let beets cool slightly, then cut into smaller pieces if desired.
  • In a large bowl, combine roasted beets, orange segments, and pistachios.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and remaining olive oil.
  • Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
  • Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve as a side dish or a light lunch.

Wine Advice:

A dry rosé or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

Nutrition values

Calories: 280 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 16 g | Sugar: 20 g
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Lemon Zest Crispy Roasted Kale

Crispy Roasted Kale with Lemon

Crispy roasted kale with a bright lemon zest. A simple, healthy, and flavorful side dish or snack.
Couverts4
Preparation 10 minutes
Preparation time:15 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Baking sheet, Large bowl, Knife, Lemon zester

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale washed and torn into pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  • Wash and tear kale into bite-sized pieces, discarding tough stems.
  • In a large bowl, toss kale with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Spread kale in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Roast for 10-15 minutes, or until kale is crispy and edges are browned.
  • Remove from oven and immediately zest the lemon over the kale.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve as a side dish or a healthy snack.

Wine Advice:

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio.

Nutrition values

Calories: 90 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Sugar: 1 g
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Classic Scottish Haggis Supper

Traditional Scottish Haggis Supper

A traditional Scottish meal featuring haggis, neeps, and tatties. Hearty and warming, perfect for a winter supper.
Couverts4
Preparation 15 minutes
Preparation time:45 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Large pot, Medium pot, Potato masher, Frying pan (optional)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg haggis traditional or vegetarian
  • 4 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 4 medium turnips neeps, peeled and cubed
  • 50 g butter
  • 100 ml milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whisky optional, for drizzling

Instructions

  • Cook the haggis according to package instructions (usually simmered or baked).
  • Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Boil the cubed turnips in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Drain the potatoes and mash with butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper.
  • Drain the turnips and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
  • If haggis is simmered, you may wish to fry slices in a pan to crisp it slightly.
  • Serve the haggis with the mashed potatoes (tatties) and turnips (neeps).
  • Drizzle with whisky (optional) before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve hot, traditionally with a dram of whisky.

Wine Advice:

A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a full-bodied Merlot.

Notes:

(Note: Nutritional values will vary greatly depending on the type of haggis used.)
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Golden Apple Plum Nut Crumble

A golden Apple and Plum Nut Crumble

Warm, golden apple and plum crumble with a crunchy nut topping. A comforting autumn dessert.
Couverts6
Preparation 20 minutes
Preparation time:45 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Baking dish, Mixing bowls, Knife, Cutting board

Ingredients

  • 6 apples peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 4 plums pitted and sliced
  • 100 g all-purpose flour
  • 75 g rolled oats
  • 75 g brown sugar
  • 75 g butter cold and cubed
  • 50 g mixed nuts chopped (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Toss apple and plum slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a baking dish.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cubed butter.
  • Rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in the chopped nuts.
  • Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or custard.

Wine Advice:

A sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling.

Nutrition values

Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 15 g | Sugar: 30 g
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Cuisine; England
Diets; Vegetarian

Succulent Pork Belly with Plum Infused Sauce

Succulent Pork Belly with Plum Infused Sauce

Crispy pork belly with a sweet and tangy plum sauce. A decadent and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions.
Couverts4
Preparation 20 minutes
Preparation time:2 hours
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

  • Roasting pan, Knife, Cutting board, Small saucepan, Basting brush

Ingredients

  • 1 kg pork belly skin scored
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 tsp ginger grated
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 400 g plums pitted and chopped
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
  • Rub pork belly with soy sauce, five-spice powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
  • Place pork belly in a roasting pan, skin-side up.
  • Roast for 1.
  • 5 hours.
  • While pork is roasting, combine plums, honey, rice vinegar, star anise, cinnamon stick, and chicken broth in a saucepan.
  • Simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until plums are soft and sauce has thickened.
  • Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
  • Increase oven temperature to crisp the skin, roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until skin is crispy and golden.
  • Remove pork belly from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
  • Slice pork belly and serve with plum sauce.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:

Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Wine Advice:

A Gewürztraminer or a light Pinot Noir.

Nutrition values

Calories: 550 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 40 g | Sugar: 20 g
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