Tag: James martin

BAKING TIPS: All things Yorkshire – James Martin and Hendersons.

by granebakes

I’ve mentioned before how James Martin is one of my favourite TV cooks. I’ve been watching his recent series on Islands and Highlands, particularly Jersey, Derbyshire and the Peak District, and the Lake District. And occasionally I have found myself shouting at the TV! 

As he is fond of telling us he is a Yorkshire Lad and what his Sheffield born and bred Granny thinks. So for goodness sake don’t refer to Worcester Sauce as an addition to stews – HENDERSONS is the only relish to use James! 

As for double peeling of broad beans, well don’t get me started! I have mixed tinned broad beans with other vegetables or added to soups and stews and they work well. Also he can get rather carried away, being too “arty-farty” as his Granny might say! What with his finished plates as in suet (meat) pudding surrounded by my pet hate – blobs of sauce and purees. I can forgive his use of butter (in large blobs) as I am also guilty of this, especially on vegetables. Otherwise the programmes were interesting and enjoyable. 

Well, as it’s now a warm and sunny afternoon it must be time for another stroll so …… stay positive and look after yourselves and those around you. 

Love Gran E XXX 

BAKING TIPS: My trusty cookery books

by granebakes

Whilst in lecture mode (apologies!) – appreciating a lot of this stuff is now found on your phone and the internet – a word on cookery books (I have lots and lots of them) and their authors.

Try not to be influenced by glossy pictures of perfect looking meals. You’d be shocked by the devious methods used on food to obtain those shiny, pristine results, definitely not to be eaten! 

Trust cooks who have a more relaxed attitude and are not overly fussy or “cheffy”. Dishes need to be welcoming and say “eat me”, not “see how beautiful this looks on a plate. My personal favourites are: 

Delia Smith 

The first TV cook I really watched from her first appearances on Family Fare which ran between 1973 and 1975. She is always very calm and practical, clearly explaining the basics, telling you not to worry when things go wrong. I have all her books from through the years and refer to them constantly. 

Jamie Oliver 

From first appearing on TV in the late 1990’s I have followed his career and admired his positive attitude. Right up to date I recommended his books to my Grandson when he left home to begin his University stint. 

James Martin 

A down to earth Yorkshire lad whose books give a constant reminder of his roots (and his Gran!); great on British cooking.  

Nigel Slater 

His books are a constant joy to read, providing endless ideas on how to use fresh produce. 

But the little book which is most used is the Be-Ro Recipe Book.

A tiny, free paperback booklet containing the ultimate in method and advice. First printed in 1923 and now into it’s 41st edition (available to download here), versions from previous years are available from Amazon – at a price! Ask your Granny if she still has her old copy; my last one was the 40th edition. This little gem tells you everything you ever need to know about baking.  

Do you have a favourite cookery book? Let me know – I’m @gran.e.bakes on Instagram.