For stylish, festive fare, Marie-Claire Digbyfinds inspiration from sunnier climes, and from a troupe of Irish caterers
Fresh, appetising Christmas recipes that are original, and unusual, can be tough to track down, but there's inspiration galore in a new title from the long-established Australian Women's Weekly publishing house. Christmas Food and Crafthas a lightness of touch and quirky originality that must have something to do with celebrating the festive season in blazing sunshine rather than mid-winter weather. But there's plenty of scope for adapting the recipes, menu ideas, and serving suggestions to suit the Irish table. Why does the cake have to be white-iced and decorated with a palette of silver, gold and red, for instance? Instead, make the gorgeous palest pink and silver cake and start your party with elegant and seasonal apple cranberry cosmopolitans.
All the Christmas favourites - puddings, cakes and big birds - are featured, but with refreshing twists and unusual serving suggestions. Your gift-giving is sorted, too, with a chapter on edible gifts that highlights the importance of making your offerings look as good as they taste. Instructions for making stylish decorations, and suggestions for elegant table settings completes the package. And, when you've the menus planned, the exquisite home-made invitations issued, the house decorated and the cooking done, you can turn to the inside cover and brush up on your party piece with the Christmas carol songbook that's enclosed.
• Christmas Food and Craftis published by ACP Books, £12