Well it definitely has skipped it’s way into autumn, mostly though it’s still crisp and dry and I’m wrapping up warm and enjoying sunny early morning dog walks. In our house we love a big breakfast on a chilly Sunday morning after a nice long dog walk; we’ll have some sausages from Bradshaw's Farm Shop & Cafe, so far I like every variety but then I’m a bit of a sausage fan, along with some fresh farm eggs and a large slice of home made bread, for breakfast it just has to be a simple crusty white loaf from Hunnypot Cottage. My treat on a Monday, if there is any of the loaf left, is eggy bread for lunch!

I’ve finally been able to light my fire, and quite frankly I don’t know how I managed without one before. We had a fabulous log burner fitted towards the end of the summer by Fireplace and Stove Co at the Heart of the Country in Swinfen, they were very patient with me and offered some great advice; the fire and chimney breast looks so in character in our home that some of my friends haven’t even noticed we’ve had it fitted! And the advantage of having to pop in every now and then to get wood means that I can partake in a bit of retail therapy at the same time. My dog has been thoroughly spoiled as I can’t resist a quick shop in the Hounds at Heart shop, and even my hubby wants to come along now he has discovered Doctors Orders.

My kitchen has been filled with some fabulous smells over the last few weeks, I’ve really enjoyed getting back in the kitchen and trying some new recipes, after a summer filled with barbecues. My halloumi addiction is still strong, so I’ll be back into The Cheese, Gin & Ale Barn so I can try out a couple of new recipes I’ve found for some interesting winter salads, including one using roasted autumn squash and kale which is deliciously in season this month. I was pleasantly surprised by the range of vegan cheese available, and I’m going to add one to the cheese board this weekend and see if our friends notice, I certainly wouldn’t.

I know the humble onion seems like it is available all year round, and in theory it is, but they are actually harvested and dried at this time of year, and what better way to enjoy them than a deliciously slow cooked onion soup, perfect for a chilly autumnal lunch.  . You can also make some great chutneys, pickled and fermented foods are having a big resurgence as their effects on our gut health are becoming more understood, this year I’m going to have a go at making piccalilli and maybe some pickled red cabbage, mostly it’s a good excuse to splurge on some new kitchen gear from The Kitchen Shop, if I’m honest I get more joy from buying kitchen paraphernalia than I do shoes, but that’s just how I roll. 

For all the adventurous meat eaters the game season is now in full swing, if you have never tried it then pop into your favourite butchers and see what they have available. There is so much variety that you are bound to find something you like. My favourite is pheasant breast stuffed with chorizo and wrapped with ham, served with roasted veggies.

I have a passion for local food, and am a trained nutritional advisor. I work with clients on a 1-2-1 basis helping them create a bespoke diet plan that fits in with their likes and lifestyle. If you would like to find out how you can feel better and have more energy, without having to follow a restrictive diet then please get in touch for a free, no obligation, discovery call www.hillstart.me.uk