Menu of the Month December 2025

Menu of the Month

December

As we head into one of the busiest shopping months of the year, it’s the perfect time to rely on a well-stocked freezer and a few reliable store-cupboard essentials.

This month's menu is designed to help you create delicious, winter-warming dishes while saving time, reducing stress, and making the most of ingredients you may already have on hand.

The starter can be made with pork and bacon from the freezer along with brandy and spices tucked away in the store cupboard, or the recipe can be made in advance and frozen. The accompanying marmalade can be made ahead and kept refrigerated for a week or so or - alternatively serve it with some homemade or shop bought preserve or chutney. Luxury Fish Pie is made on the day or a day ahead, but all the fish and the pastry can be frozen ready for when you need it, along with just a few fresh ingredients. This goes well with Sautéed Caramelised Fennel or some wilted spinach with leeks.

Fallen Chocolate Soufflé is made using mostly store cupboard ingredients but can also be made in advance and kept in the freezer for a few months. Serve it with the crème fraȋche sauce or some good quality vanilla ice cream doused in the Armagnac prunes.

Potted Pork with Juniper and Thyme

Luxury Seafood Pie

Fallen Chocolate Souffle