niall mckenna

First-time entertainers at Christmas should be thinking about all of the sides that will make your Christmas meal sing, and trying to perfect them – like the roast potatoes, the Brussels sprouts and the stuffing.

As a chef, the month of December is all about preparation, and by mid-November we normally try and get some jobs done and out of the way, as many Christmas dishes and condiments taste better the longer they have to rest.

I love this time of year, when the temperature drops, simply for the warm bowls of soup at lunch and teatime.

It is always a bonus when you can replicate an impressive dish at home, giving your guests that wow factor.

With November bringing nippier air and longer, darker nights, it's the time of year for moreish, slow-cooked and homely meals.

This week we have two great dishes.

WITH Halloween just around the corner, it is the perfect time to invite all the gang around for a seasonal supper at yours, giving the kids a chance to knock on doors and get plenty of sweet treats.

OUR renowned and entertaining cookery classes have been running for over 12 years now, and with the bigger and better premises at Waterman House, we are receiving more requests for chef-inspired cooking at home.

THIS week’s recipes are perfect for when your cupboards are looking a little bare and you didn’t have time to do the groceries.

WE didn't get the weather we hoped for this summer, but as the saying goes, 'Every cloud has a silver lining'.