Quack

We've eaten relatively little over Christmas - turkey and the trimmings, Christmas pud on the day itself; but other than that it's been quiet and uninspired.

I woke up this morning with a burning desire for duck. I have these moments which C. finds totally alien. In terms of food he's changed beyond recognition over ten years but if you're hungry he thinks you can eat anything. I disagree.

We're thankful we were able to purchase a duck this morning. (He had visions of starting the New Year with me in an awful strop).

We have just scoffed roast duck, pancetta and potatoes (with thanks to Nigel Slater). Absolutely scrumptious. With enough potato left over to fry up in the morning. As C. himself said "That'll do nicely with an egg." (He's learning).

Store cupboard Standby

It takes a truly terrible day for me to not want to cook. It happens about once every three or four months. When I have slightly terrible days I look to the cupboard and freezer for something easy. Thai prawn curry.

I buy very little prepared food but there are some exceptions: Mae Ploy sauces. I always have one on standby in the fridge. I found them at Hoo Hing which we're fortunate enough to have quite nearby.

A dessert spoon of paste (not the quantity stated on the tub; you'll die choking) with a tin of coconut milk, a sliced onion, a handful of green beans and a bag of raw tiger prawns from the freezer combine for a quick and tasty dinner.

Braised steak au poivre in red wine

One of the joys of a meat box is discovering 'new' cuts. These are often pieces of meat your gran will know about but which our wonderful supermarkets, full of choice, do not stock.

Chuck steak. The shoulder in one big lump. Good for casseroles and stews. Looking for a little inspiration I ended up with Delia. Braised steak au poivre in red wine. Served with mash and cabbage. Beautiful.

One of the many occasions when we expect to have leftovers. But don't.

The Week That Was

Celeriac and parsnip gratin. Winter vegetable soup. Roast squash and lamb chops. Smoked bacon and lentil soup. Amongst other things.