autumn gold: pumpkin risotto

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The best Italian pumpkin is to be found in the Mantova in the North of the country, about halfway between Milan and Venice and just above the super food cities of Parma and Modena.  This is where the Alps tumble down onto the wide Padana…

nostalgic baking: candied peel and walnuts

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Much as I don't want to to admit it, my mum Alison is getting older.  She is in fabulous shape for an 82 year old, but going down a gear as each year passes.  The proof is in her kitchen, and in the gradual slowing of festive production.…

Autumn recipes from Milan

This time 5 years ago I was in Milan with my wonderfully talented friend Robyn Lea, researching the food element for her stunning book Milan: Discovering Food, Fashion and Family in a Private City.  It was an unforgettable experience; being…

boot Sales for beginners: passionfruit sponge

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Photos Marie Sjoberg Charity shops make such good sense, people clean out their attics, volunteers feel good and gain experience in the stores, buyers find bargains or just pass time sifting through what is one man's trash but another…