• At the moment we’re right in between seasons for forced and outdoor rhubarb in the UK. As you can see from the incredible pink in the picture, I have used forced rhubarb, but don’t let that put you off using outdoor. It is just as delicious – it just needs to be cooked a little longer. Feel free to vary the flavours you add to the rhubarb – ginger, orange, a swig of white wine or champagne, a couple of star anise and, especially, vanilla pods will give your rhubarb the edge on that of your mates. Beautifully cooked rhubarb…

    Baked Alaska is the ultimate retro dessert and deserves a comeback. Perhaps you’ve been reluctant to make it because it seems so complicated, but it isn’t that difficult!…