Hot tip

Christmas Gift Books

The fabulously retro Cook’s Book: For the Cook who’s Best at Everything is a perfect gift for anyone comfortable in the kitchen but still open to learning more. The recipes are familiar and reliable and the tone is friendly and approachable.

You’ll find tons of tips on making perfect jam, how to help your bread rise, and uses for store cupboard staples. Just the thing to put a smile on your favourite cook’s face. www.mombooks.com

Marguerite Patten is 93 and still cooking. In her latest volume, Best British Dishes, she’s selected 400 recipes which showcase the produce and traditions of Britain and Ireland. Patten has always emphasised the importance of good home cooking and economy in the kitchen, but her message is particularly prescient today. Email: [e-mail]