White Chocolate and Lavender Biscuits Recipe

I can't help reflecting on Mugg & Bean's super-sized muffins. A large berry-and-white-chocolate muffin is the perfect example. The muffin's outer, almost gooey, crispness contrasts so well with the light, inner texture. It's a tea-time taste sensation. Another option is an oversized chocolate-chip-and-lavender biscuit or cookie. A favourite of mine!

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Bloody Mary Recipe

Experience a classic cocktail with a sinister twist - the Bloody Mary. Combining the zesty kick of tomato cocktail with a dash of vodka, a hint of Tabasco, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, this concoction is perfect for those craving a bold flavor profile.

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Fresh Scones Recipe

A week in the English countryside sipping wine in the most distinguished luxury country houses is my kind of getaway. Father Time has placed a gentle hand on England’s grand old castles, ancient ruins and the many magnificent manors which stand as proudly as they did the day they were built. All are set in shrub-filled gardens surrounded by peaceful parklands dating back to as early as the 1600's.

And as I sit with a cup of tea and the creamiest of cream scones, I reflect on the fact that English food is not thought of as fondly as, let’s say, French and/or Italian cuisine. This seems crazy when you consider everything the English have brought to the table.

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Crispy Hot Pizza topped with Smoked Salmon Recipe

I hope you enjoy some of my latest ideas starting with a crispy, hot pizza topped with room-temperature smoked salmon, creamy cream cheese, freshly-picked, slightly-peppery rocket and a drizzle of lemon olive oil. A perfect light lunch option filled with exciting textures.

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Pan-seared Beef Fillet Recipe

On my last evening in Switzerland Carla Ferrari cooked rare beef fillet. Never have I enjoyed such quality meat abroad. And, the sauce with the beef is without doubt the best and easiest home-cooked accompaniment I know. Try it!

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Mince Meat Bobotie Recipe

The South African food and wine events tested our skills to the limit because produce, equipment and kitchen space were extremely limited. It's amazing what a chef can pull out of the hat when needs be. Our traditional samp and beans, pap 'n vleis, Bobotie and Durban bunny chow featured on the menu we had created. They went down well, and we were proudly South African.

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Three Potato Salad Recipe

Now, in a highly creative mood I experiment with a three-potato salad - amadumbe, potatoes and sweet potatoes with homemade mayonnaise, boiled eggs and grated onion. A slight variation to the original combination, which works well and adds interest to every mouthful.

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