Traditional British Mincemeat for Christmas Mince Pies!

A subtle blend of sweet and savoury with just a hint of alcohol which echoes the ancient practice of adding spice and fruit to meat dishes. I also have a “Boozy Fat Free” mincemeat recipe posted,Recipe #184762, but if you wish to make a mincemeat recipe with little or no alcohol, this is a wonderful traditional recipe for long lasting mincemeat. Mincemeat was always made at home before the advent of commercial brands, and although this is based on an old recipe, this was obviously made after the introduction of sugar into England. In earlier times mincemeat was a mixture of real meat, spices and fruit. The only remaining and symbolic ingredient of this ancient culinary practice is the inclusion of the suet – which can be beef or vegetable suet for vegetarians. Excellent in mince pies and all manner of steamed and sticky puddings! PS. If you cannot obtain suet locally, you can use grated butter instead; place the butter in the freezer until nearly frozen and very firm and then grate into the bowl straight away.

Christmas Turkey Stuffed With Mushroom-Flavored Forcemeat

From Ruth Van Waerebeek’s “Everybody Eats Well in Belgium Cookbook.” This has become my standard Thanksgiving turkey recipe. I follow it precisely, alternately basting with drippings and butter every 15 minutes. The result is a spectacular presentation—a beautiful, dark golden brown turkey that everyone ooh’s and ahh’s over. It’s not that hard, just takes a little extra work. And the extras—making the forcemeat stuffing beforehand and the gravy at the end—are worth the trouble. Ruth says that the Christmas Turkey is traditionally served with Deep-Fried Potatoe Croquettes, Celery Root and Potato Purée, an assortment of green vegetables, and Baked Apples Filed with Berries, or Pears Poached in Spiced Red Wine.

Beef Stew With Beer

This is my mother’s recipe. Simple but delicious! It tastes great with French fries or mashed potatoes and is great for the cold winter days!

Your Kitchen Concierge chef avatar

Your Kitchen Concierge

Recipe finder and budget meal ideas
Hi, I am Your Kitchen Concierge. I am here to help with all things food. I can find recipes, explain cooking methods and ingredients, and help you plan meals on a budget. Try asking me a question.