As the days draw in and the cold settles, the kitchen becomes a place to linger. This is the moment for generous flavours, slow-cooked comfort and dishes that invite people to gather. Whether you’re craving something rich and bubbling from the oven or a bowl that brings instant warmth, these recipes lean into the pleasure of winter cooking – relaxed, rustic and made for sharing. Light the candles, pour a glass of something good and settle in.

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Looking for more cosy cooking inspiration? Try our comfort food recipes, hearty pasta recipes and traybake dinner recipes for further inspiration.


Cosy winter feasting recipes

Ham hock, spinach and cheeseboard lasagne

Turn your leftover festive cheese and ham into a lush, crowd-pleasing lasagne. Mix and match whatever you have in the fridge: grated cheddar, gruyère or any firm cheese; softer cheeses can be crumbled into the sauce. The ricotta provides a smooth, creamy base for the cooked ham, creating easy layers with plenty of flavour. Bring it to the table bubbling hot and serve with a crisp green salad for balance.

A whole ham hock, spinach and cheeseboard lasagne with one portion on the side

Slow roast rotisserie-style chicken with chicken fat potatoes

This uses a classic three-turn method in which the chicken is cooked first on either side, then on its back. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the flesh extra moist.

A whole roast chicken in a tray with potatoes around it

Soy butter and mushroom pappardelle

Meaty mushrooms and mouth-warming sichuan peppercorns make this a lovely bowl of comfort. Using pappardelle or tagliatelle as a substitute for flat noodles works well and gives you that essential slippery mouthfeel.

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A bowl of mushroom pasta with a glass of beer on the side

Chocolate truffle cake

This flourless cake is rich, indulgent and perfect for after dinner. The cake puffs up then falls after baking, creating a delicious fudgy texture. We’ve given it a seasonal makeover, piling it high with chestnut cream, borrowed from the classic Alpine dessert.

A large chocolate cake with cream on top

Authors

Janine Ratcliffe Portrait
Janine RatcliffeFood director

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