When it comes to Christmas cooking, it’s not just the food you need to think about – especially if you’re entertaining. There’s nothing worse than getting to Christmas Eve and realising that you’re missing a vital piece of kitchen or dining table kit that’s going to make hosting a struggle. We spoke to Jon Dart of Dorset-based cookware specialists Harts of Stur for his top tips…
I’ll confess I’m a bit of an ostrich when it comes to Christmas. At the start of November I bury my head in the metaphoric sand and pretend Christmas isn’t happening, only to open a wary eye come mid-December with a sickly feeling in the pit of my stomach that I’ve left things too late. Again. Thankfully, an extremely organised (and understanding) wife takes present buying, food shopping, card writing, present wrapping, school nativities, tree decorating and carol concerts in her stride, with barely a feather ruffled.
There are countless websites and blogs out there to help you get organised for the festive season, but working for a kitchen shop as I do, I have come up with ten tips and ideas for the kitchen and dining room that will help make for a hassle-free Christmas.
Roasting pans – Make sure your pan is big enough for the bird (and that it will fit in the oven!)
Carving – Add the juices that collect on your board or tray to your gravy for extra flavour.
Serving boards – A great way to serve party food and nibbles.
Stir Up Sunday – Takes place on Sunday 20th November this year – make sure you have a big enough bowl!
Cutlery – Expecting family and friends? Make sure you have enough cutlery. Add individual pieces to existing cutlery or buy an extra set – you can get them in varying place settings – from four people up to 12.
Christmas cookie cutters – Use these to make your own edible tree decorations.
Placemats/Tableware – Have you got a colour scheme for your Christmas decorations? Co-ordinate your placemats and tableware to tie in with the theme.
Glasses – Make sure you have spare glasses (wine, tumblers etc.) for impromptu parties/guests.
Candles – A relatively cheap and easy way to create a festive atmosphere, and a must at the table for Christmas dinner.
Buffet servers – A great way of keeping food warm at the table.