Crostoli, or “sweet knots”, are called by different names depending on the region of Italy: frappe, chiacchere and cenci are just a few. Although they’re eaten all over Italy, these pastry twists are especially popular in the north. They’re not too sweet and are delicious served with coffee after dinner.
Makes: about 15 TO DRINK: Nuts add a certain richness that asks for a wooded sauvignon; enjoy with Bellingham Maverick Wooded Sauvignon Blanc 2005
This was inspired by the suspiros (meringues) and bag of beautiful almonds we brought back from the Algarve. This has dates and figs served in layers with whipped…
Serve the fritters immediately – once they cool down they become chewy. You can also serve the fritters in a fresh tomato sauce, almost like gnocchi. TO DRINK: Go for Scali Blanc 2006, complex with a generous starfruit, persimmon and buttery palate and hints of orange
This recipe was adapted from a book called The French Kitchen, by Fran Ward and Joanne Harris. It’s not only one of the easiest I’ve tried, but also…
Cassia prefers to use sustainable fish such as hake on its menu.
This jam is not as sweet as jam you would normally make (which uses roughly equal parts fruit and sugar), but it’s packed with flavour. Try to use…
Steamed prawns wrapped in spring roll pastry, flash-fried until crisp, then served hot. If you buy ready-cooked and de-veined prawns, this is an easy way to make an elegant snack or dinner party starter in less than 30 minutes. Cook’s tips • Spring roll pastry is found in the freezer section of Chinese supermarkets or major supermarket chains. If you can’t find it, substitute with samoosa pastry. • If you’re using frozen products, remember to defrost the pastry and prawns well in advance.
This makes a lovely colourful starter. Serve it with fresh bread to mop up the juices. You can also use a combination of red and yellow peppers for extra…
To drink: Ice-cold Limoncello – keep in the freezer until serving.