British & Irish Cuisine

Simple, comforting tomato soup flavored with fresh basil. Ingredients (Serves 4) 1 kg ripe tomatoes, chopped (or canned tomatoes) 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tbsp olive oil or butter 750 ml vegetable stock Handful of fresh basil leaves 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 50–100 ml cream (optional, for serving) Preparation Cook the base: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté o

Classic baked dessert made with buttered bread, raisins, and custard. Ingredients (Serves 6–8) For the Sponge: 200 g unsalted butter, softened 200 g caster sugar 4 large eggs 200 g self-raising flour 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp milk For the Filling: 4–5 tbsp strawberry jam 150 ml double cream, whipped For Finishing: Icing sugar, for dusting Preparation Prepare the batter: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two 20 cm (8-inch) round cake tins. Cream butter and suga

Slow-cooked beef with vegetables in a rich ale gravy. Ingredients (Serves 4–6) For the Stew: 600 g stewing beef, cut into cubes 2 tbsp plain flour 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 large onion, chopped 2 carrots, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 300 ml dark ale (such as bitter or stout) 400 ml beef stock 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried) 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Preparation Brown t

Grilled lamb chops served with traditional mint sauce. Ingredients (Serves 2–4) For the Lamb Chops: 8 lamb chops (rib or loin) 2 tbsp olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1–2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional) For the Mint Sauce: 3 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped 1–2 tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tsp sugar Pinch of salt 1–2 tbsp boiling water Preparation Prepare the mint sauce: Place chopped mint in a small bowl. Add sugar, salt, and vinegar. Stir in boiling water