Spice and whisky have to be two of my favourite things in life; each has its own story, a romance, a unique individuality. And while they’re not intrinsically linked, they are both [...]
As the wind buffeted plane completed it’s journey across the Pentland Firth and touched down in Kirkwall it immediately became evident that Orkney was unique. A land of ancient [...]
In Britain horseradish is traditionally seen as the quintessential accompaniment to roast beef. However I recently discovered that in several parts of Europe it is viewed as the perfect partner [...]
If any vegetable seems destined to have a complex it’s beetroot. Familiar to most people covered in vinegar, favoured by hipster bakers to make their chocolate cakes sounds cool, rendering [...]
Gooseberries are really the poor relations of the summer berries, tart, slightly tough, and hidden behind thorns that are spiky enough to make you wonder why you bother. However what you do get [...]
Soft fruits have been omnipresent in my life it seems, with visits to East Yonderton to pick strawberries, raspberries, and blackcurrants an annual occurrence since before I could walk. It was [...]
Although originating in Auchmithie, a small fishing village a little further up the coast, the town of Arbroath has become synonymous with the ‘smokie’. Tied in pairs, salted, then [...]
Pork is one of those meats that seems to split opinion. The free range, full flavoured, rare breed meat I get from Harris Farm Meats is a world away from insipid factory farmed pork that so many [...]
It’s this time of year when I start to visit my parents allotment regularly for seasonal fruit and vegetables. The tomatoes aren’t anywhere near ready yet, but the sorrel is flourishing in the [...]
When winter arrives, I’m usually glad that I have no outdoor space which requires tending. The thought of the dank murk, of hibernating life brings me little joy as I look out my tenement window. [...]