Leek Nut Roast Tatin

I’m glad I prepared the Harissa hot Smoked Salmon Rillettes and most of the Leek Nut Roast Tatin yesterday as they took longer to prepare and cook than I anticipated.

Lynne and Gavin really enjoyed both courses (I had some braised red cabbage and a few roast potatoes to go with the main). We had zabaglione trifle which I had frozen for pudding. I’m not used to cooking (or eating) a 3 course lunch but it was a pleasant afternoon. Chat ranged around books, films, health, schools, restaurants, family, work, walks, scouts, churches (our combined experiences of C of E, United Reformed, Methodist, Baptist, C of Scotland, RC), sport, travel - any recommendations of places to stay in Rotterdam would be welcome.

#3 daughter had a good journey to Cape Town. They slept 4 hours and their hotel sent a car to pick them up. £17 is great value for 3 people, and saves a lot of hassle with tired children. Needless to say we have never had that luxury when travelling - Mr C investigates the local buses or trains. It was raining when they arrived but now they are all in the pool. There’s even a view of Table Mountain.

I’ve finished Nice Work and am about to start on The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. Although it was a Guardian book of the Year and B Obama’s book of the year, The Washington Post calls it “love affirming” so we’ll see.