... and meanwhile, ...

… things go on pretty much as before. The recent cold spell has brought plenty excuses for warming meals: we have enjoyed a beefy stew whose only liquid addition was a glass of montepulciano: by the time the meat had cooked down, there was plenty of liquid, so no need for a reservoir-ful of beef stock. Indeed, on reheat 24 hours later, we added a tin of borlotti beans, whose starch release gave a real silkiness to the soup-gravy. Actually, on day 2, I did add some liquid: a tablespoon(ish) of Geo Watkins' Mushroom Ketchup and about the same amount of brandy.

But we have also enjoyed lighter fare, and can heartily recommend a recent piscatorial throw-together. I cubed some salmon at about the 8mm level, matchsticked half a fennel bulb and a few mushrooms, and shredded a couple of leaves of cavolo nero. Sautéed the lot with a slug of pastis added at dry-pan time, and whacked in a tin of borlotti beans (they really are life-savers when time is short). Lemon, salt and pepper added at the plate. Quick, easy, and remarkably good.

... and meanwhile, ...

Don't miss David's recent musings on wine finds.