November, 2024
Welcome to the November edition of Bare Ingredients
November arrives, ushering in a season of cozy comfort and heartwarming gatherings. As the Northern Hemisphere settles into the crisp embrace of late autumn, our kitchens become sanctuaries of warmth and nourishment. It's time to slow down and savor the rich flavors of the season – think simmering stews fragrant with herbs, golden-crusted pies celebrating the last of the harvest, and earthy dishes featuring wild mushrooms and game.
For our Southern Hemisphere readers, November marks the final weeks of spring, with summer just on the horizon. Farmers' markets are hitting their stride, showcasing a vibrant array of late-spring produce. Sweet stone fruits are beginning to make an appearance, while tender greens and herbs are at their peak. It's a wonderful time to embrace the fresh, lively flavors of the season – perhaps with a bright salad bursting with colorful veggies, or a chilled soup that captures the essence of spring.
As thoughts turn to the upcoming holiday season, November is the perfect time to start preparing those cherished Christmas favorites. The rich, spiced aromas of mincemeat, Christmas puddings, and Christmas cakes begin to fill our homes, promising the joys of the festive season to come. Whether you're sticking with tried-and-true family recipes or experimenting with new twists on classic dishes, now is the moment to gather your ingredients and begin crafting these beloved treats. Involve loved ones in the process, sharing stories and laughter as you mix, stir, and bake – after all, the memories made in the kitchen are just as sweet as the finished products. Let's embrace the anticipation and magic of the season, one delicious dish at a time. Happy cooking and happy holiday preparations!
Thanksgiving, 2024
For our American readers, November also brings the much-anticipated celebration of Thanksgiving. This year, we're excited to share a collection of recipes that showcase the bountiful flavors of the season while adding a fresh twist to your holiday table. From a succulent herb-brined turkey and silky-smooth pumpkin soup to a vibrant cranberry and persimmon salad and decadent bourbon pecan pie, our Thanksgiving recipes are designed to inspire and delight. Whether you're hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive feast with friends, these dishes are sure to become new favorites, infusing your Thanksgiving with a sense of joy, gratitude, and culinary adventure. Happy cooking and happy holiday preparations.
Recipes
To begin
Main
Side dishes
Condiments
Dessert
Christmas Countdown
Those traditionalists and those new to the whole prepping for Christmas will need to get started in the kitchen as it starts now. A good old-fashioned Christmas Cake needs plenty of time to soak in all those flavours. While a Christmas Pudding needs at least 2 weeks to mature.
You will find that bare ingredients have plenty of Christmas choices, from traditional combinations to modern ones. Try our vegan-friendly Macadamia Mincemeat, which has coconut oil instead of suet, or try our Tropical Christmas Cake for a contemporary twist.
Preparations
Mincemeat
Cakes
Pudding
Recipe Ideas
Lobster Bisque
Prep: 30 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Pigeon Terrine
Prep: 30-40 minutes plus 2 hours marinating
Cook: 1½ hours
Stuffed Crab Claws
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 15 Minutes
Spicy Flat Iron Steak
Prep: 15 minutes plus minimum 4-12 hours marinating
Cook: 5 minutes
Raw Broad Bean Dip
Prep: 30-40 minutes
Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 50-60 minutes
Seasonal Recipe Ideas
Sarah's Seasonal Recipe List has been updated with great ideas, which can be found below. Also, we have the November's guide to the best seasonal produce. It is our "What to eat now" guide for those who are looking to get the most out of their local ingredients. There are Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere articles.