by MJF | Dec 24, 2025 | Basic Preparations, Christmas, Holidays, Mixed Spice (Baking), Spice Blends & Seasonings, Spices & Herbs
Mixed Baking Spice Blend A useful mixture to keep on hand for cookies and various uses to add background flavours Small Mixing Bowl 2 Tbsps. Ground Cinnamon2 tsps. Ground Allspice2 tsps. Ground Nutmeg1 tsp Ground Cloves1 tsp Ground Ginger1 tsp Ground Coriander1...
by MJF | Dec 24, 2025 | Baking, Christmas, Cookies, German, Holidays, Spices & Herbs, World Cuisines
Pfeffernüsse Spice Cookies Classic German Pfeffernüsse are small, aromatic spice cookies traditionally enjoyed during Advent and Christmas. Fragrant with warm spices, honey, and a gentle heat from white pepper, these cookies mature beautifully over time and develop a...
by MJF | Jul 3, 2025 | American, Holidays, Iuly 4th Independence Day, Vanilla
By Mark J French | www.chefsnotebooks.com A British chef’s irreverent, delicious take on US Independence Day — with historically inspired recipes from the Revolutionary era and a little poetic flair. And in that spirit……. “Why did the American...
by MJF | Jul 3, 2025 | American, Cold Desserts, Desserts, English, Holidays, Iuly 4th Independence Day, World Cuisines
Red White & Blue Trifle A layered, indulgent trifle blending Strawberries, Raspberries, and Blueberries with White Chocolate Custard, Sherry-Soaked Sponge, and Whipped Cream. This tongue-in-cheek British dessert flies the American colours for Independence Day— a...
by MJF | Apr 23, 2025 | St George's Day
St George’s Day: A Culinary Salute with Heritage Pork By Mark J French | www.chefsnotebooks.com While it may not rival Bastille Day or Burns Night in pageantry, St George’s Day (23rd April) still offers a rich canvas for culinary creativity and storytelling. For those...
by MJF | Apr 19, 2025 | Holidays, Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As crowds laid palm branches before Him, they symbolised victory and peace—traditions that continue today in Christian communities worldwide. Many churches bless...
