Bish bash bosh squash

It's cooler weather and time to hunker down with some comfort food. This is where the seasonal pumpkin or squash comes into its own as variety really is the spice of life. There are many to choose from and they can be used in a myriad of ways.

The first recipe I'm going to share is for a savoury dish.

Squash and Spinach Orzo

1 Butternut squash
250g Cherry or baby plum tomatoes
Large pinch of dried thyme
200ml Vegetable stock
360g Orzo
Splash of white wine vinegar
Large pinch of chilli flakes
Bag of baby spinach leaves
150g Creme fraiche
Parmesan (or vegetarian hard cheese)
Chives

Put the chopped squash and tomatoes in a shallow tin and roast in the oven with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, dried thyme and oil and roast for 20 mins.
Cook the orzo in the stock as per the packet instructions. Drain, reserving the cooking water.
Heat the white wine vinegar, chilli flakes and drained orzo gently for a minute then add the reserved stock and spinach until wilted.
Stir in the creme fraiche and keep stirring for 2-3 mins and gently heat through.
Either fold in the roasted vegetables, snipped chives and grated cheese or serve separately. Season to taste.
Serve in warmed bowls and garnish with more chives, cheese and chilli flakes if desired.

Awesome Autumn

Autumn, or Fall, is meant to symbolise the end, the decline, the decay. It is a time to gather in the harvest of summer and preserve and store edibles for the winter ahead.

For me it is a time of beginnings too. It's that "back to school" feeling we all remember. The mornings are cooler with a low golden light breaking through the fine mist. Spider webs can be seen in all their intricate glory as their creators search for food and begin to invade our homes. The leaves are turning and detaching themselves from the trees as conkers come crashing down to the delight of children (and squirrels.)

The hedgerows are jewel studded with rose hips, blackberries, elderberries and sloes. Go nuts collecting walnuts, sweet chestnuts, hazelnuts and beech nuts. Autumn is a great time for foraging if you know what you're looking for. It is time to be the Hunter Gatherer.

Whilst sad to bid farewell to summer, the Autumn months offer celebrations to anticipate. Harvest Festival is a time to reap the rewards of your hard work and draw in your bounty of produce. Halloween is a great excuse to host an All Hallows' Feast followed by Bonfire Night and Thanksgiving. 

These months offer the chance to eat warm, comforting foods. Think earthy mushroom gnocchi and risotto, hearty pumpkin soup, fiery vegetable curries and chillis and indulgent Sunday dinners. For extra comfort go for steamed sponges and fruity crumbles and pies served with creamy custard.