Seasonal – Bangers & Balls

19/05/2021

Foraging Fairytales: Wild Garlic

Also known as: Bear’s Garlic, Gypsies Onions or Ramsons/Ramsins. When it comes to wild garlic, I just can’t get enough. Since first scouting it in March, I’ve spent many a walk lining my (now lightly fragranced) pockets with bushels of the stuff. Unfortunately, the season is coming to an end, so I’ll be spending evenings […]

14/05/2021

The Wonder of Woodlands: Stress Relief and a Strong Drink

How do you quiet your mind? Stress relief comes in many forms- exercise, meditation, forest bathing are all amazing ways to quiet your mind and connect with yourself. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t occasionally indulge in less constructive forms of stress relief- a strong drink. But there’s a reason people flock […]

13/05/2021

The Coppicing Cure: Woodlands and Wellbeing

As we’ve been learning this week, nature is one of your biggest allies in getting yourself out of a slump. Walking, forest bathing- even living near trees is enough to boost mood and lower stress. But unless you’re lucky enough to live in the Bahamas, the chances are you’re no stranger to the gloriously wet […]

13/05/2021

7 Fascinating Facts About Woodlands and Wellbeing

Our society is becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of getting outdoors. Many of us have flocked to natural places during the pandemic- finding solace from the stress of nationwide lockdown in local greenspaces. In fact, 45% of people reported that getting out in nature has helped them to cope throughout the pandemic. We can […]

06/05/2021

Wild Violet Foraging: The Secrets to Success

Up until a week ago, I hadn’t the foggiest how to find a violet. I wasn’t even sure what they looked like! But having spent some time scouring the countryside (thankfully my friends don’t mind waiting whilst I examine random leaves and flowers while we walk) I’m seeing them everywhere. What do Violets look like? […]

24/04/2021

Foraging Fairytales: 5 Fabulous Dandelion Flower Power Recipes

Dandelion Magic: Size Matters Dandelions are popping up everywhere at the moment. So why not treat those you love the most in your life and cook up some beautiful dandelions to eat, Give the ultimate gift this year – your time and a new experience and get your family out collecting. Get outside, take in […]

13/04/2021

On the Catwalk: Wild Garlic

Strutting its stuff on the catwalk this week is Wild Garlic, one of the best scents of Spring. It is abundant, tasty and there will be a patch to sniff out near you right now. If you are new to foraging wild garlic is a great place to start, as it’s very easy to identify, […]

04/04/2021

An Easter Message from Bangers and Balls HQ.

Easter is a time of abundance after 40 days of Lent – with a day off for St. Patricks’ Day of course. A whole month with no sweets, sugar and I don’t how many Hail Marys and Stations of the Cross. This was the backdrop of my childhood Easter of the 80 and 90s. Praying […]

03/04/2021

Simnel Cake – Not Your Grandma’s Fruitcake

Simnel Cake has long been a staple of Easter celebrations. An irresistible combination of rich fruitcake and lightly toasted marzipan, it’s easy to understand its standing as a well-loved Easter classic. Fruit cake may not be the most glamorous of the Easter treats, but you’d be a fool to overlook it. In truth it’s a […]

02/04/2021

Blessed be the Buns – Boozy Hot Cross Bun and Butter Pudding with a Spring Blossom Custard

Want more mouthwatering recipes (like our delicious dandelion fritters)? Sign up to our mailing list to have them delivered straight to your inbox. The return of spring brings many things- fresh blossoms, bird song, and for many of us, what feels like a new lease of life. Bright new beginnings call for celebration, and for […]