The Halfway Bistro and Piano Bar at Newbury

If you are driving along the A4, the A34 or the M4 you must make sure you get off, break the driving stupor you've gotten yourself into and treat yourself to a truly wonderful experience.

It's not just the food and the fact they always have specials on, it's the service and the atmosphere that's impeccable.

Get this.

Sage and Onion Stuffing with Pigs in Blankets

This is a classic stuffing and I got the recipe from my Granny. She copied it out for me a few years ago, so when I was down at the Farmers' Market and I saw some sausage meat I knew it was that time again.
This is such a simple recipe with great results. I have recently become a little more friendly with my blender. Some might say too friendly. I just can't believe how much easier it makes things. When you have poor circulation in the extremities, the thought of chopping an onion into a billion pieces is not enticing.

Using up jars in the cupboard - Rich Shortcrust Pastry Tarts

Where a few months ago a slice of lemon drizzle cake or a blueberry muffin would have cheered up my lunchbox I needed something more substantial, more buttery and more comforting. All this snow has meant I've been raiding the cupboards and I found jars and bottles full of stuff that really I'm never going to use. I also figured if any of my nearest and dearest know me, I'll be getting many more jars of treats on the 25th.