Festive Gifts for Foodies

Victorinox Chef’s Knives

I find these indispensable in the kitchen and use them every day. I first came across these knives when I worked at the River Cafe in London, the head chef had one knife only, a small chopping knife in this range. They come in a large range for different purposes in a variety of sizes and an array of lovely bright colours. And the good news is they won’t break the bank!

Linwoods Milled Organic Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are loaded with nutrients and are a particularly good source of Omega 3, an essential fatty acid. I sprinkle these on porridge, bircher muesli, and add a spoonful to a smoothie on days when I need an energy boost. On occasion I also add a spoonful to the wholewheat flour when I’m making wheaten bread. For the smoothie I use KoKo coconut milk or Rude Health Almond milk, one glass plus one banana, a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries – ideally only when they are in season – and a spoonful of protein powder along with the flaxseed. Whizz together and enjoy!

You can have a go at making your own wheaten bread in our Traditional Irish baking classes.

River Cafe Cook Books

I have and love all of the River Cafe cook books and it was seeing their first book over twenty years ago that made me want to go and work there.

Jamie Oliver was working here when he was ‘discovered’ and was still there when I first went. The books are not the most practical for home cooking but are an inspiration. When I worked there we did use the books all the time as guides for the recipes which are truly wonderful. Luckily for me, my good friend Sian is one of the head chefs for many years now and I still go there when I can.

In the River Cafe the menu changes daily and is always strictly seasonal so it’s great to visit at different times throughout the year.

To learn more about cooking with the seasons why not join us at one of our seasonally inspired cooking classes.

Hederman’s Wild Smoked Salmon

Wild Irish salmon is a wonderful thing and a rare treat these days. I first heard of Frank Hederman when I went to Ballymaloe Cookery School in East Cork. He is based in Co.Cork and can be found there in numerous markets including the  English Market in Cork city centre. Hederman smoked salmon is smoked in an authentic timber smokehouse, one of only a handful worldwide. I hope to be serving this as a starter on Christmas day, very simply with a drizzle of really good olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Natural Umber

Apple Cider vinegar with the mother ( the beneficial bacteria ) is renowned for its myriad health-giving benefits. Natural Umber is made by Mackle Apples, my uncle Micheal’s company which is based in Co. Armagh was started by my grandfather and has been in the apple business for over 50 years. I’m not biased, it is by far the best one I have ever tried. It is naturally fresh and sweet tasting and I add it to a glass of water at any and all times of the day. Apparently, French women swear by apple cider vinegar for keeping one’s stomach flat. I’m all for that!

Wee Buns Gift Voucher

Our Wee Buns gift vouchers are ideal for the foodies in your life.

They are available in any value and can be used as full or part payment towards any class.

The gift vouchers are available to download instantly and if you would like one of our lovely cards to put under the tree we would be delighted to post one out.

Available to Buy Here

Wee Buns E-Books

Or why not try a Wee Buns E Book.

The Wee Buns Ebooks contain a selection of Mary Anne’s favourite tried and tested recipes along with pictures and lots of handy tips and tricks to take your baking to the next level.

Choose from Traditional Irish Baking which has a baker’s dozen (13) of my favourite Traditional Irish baking recipes.

From the classic Soda farls that my granny made every day to Potato Apple bread, a County Armagh speciality, these are the Traditional Irish recipes passed down through the generations of women in my family.

You can find a dozen of my favourite Cake recipes in the Cakes Ebook. From a classic Victoria Sponge to a decadent Chocolate Layer Cake there’s something here for all cake-making enthusiasts.

In the Family Baking Ebook, you will find lots of fun and delicious recipes suitable for all ages to make.

Best Banana Bread, fudgy chocolate brownies, fairy cakes and more. This is a collection of my favourite family baking recipes

If you have any ideas you would like to suggest, do get in touch, we would love to hear from you.