A new survey of over 10,000 people, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of The Vegan Society, shows that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%.
Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets in some way.
Animal welfare is the leading reason people choose to go vegan or plant-based, with 57% of respondents identifying it as one of their primary motivations. This is followed closely by concerns about physical health (52%) and the environment (48%).
New research from The Vegan Society reveals that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%. This marks a notable gap, as Britain’s evolving dietary habits reflect the growing appeal of ethical and sustainable food choices.
Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets, spanning vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, and other plant-forward lifestyles. This includes approximately 2 million people (3% of the population) who follow vegan or plant-based diets, and an additional 4% who identify as vegetarian, indicating a broad, collective movement toward more mindful and sustainable eating habits.
The research reveals regional variations in the adoption of vegan and plant-based diets across the UK. London, the North East, and the South West emerge as hotspots, with 4% of their populations identifying as either vegan or plant-based, above the national average of 3%. In contrast, regions such as Scotland, Wales and the East Midlands report the lowest levels, with only 2% of residents following these diets.
The data also highlights key demographic trends. Younger generations are at the forefront of this shift, with those aged 16-44 being twice as likely to follow a vegan lifestyle as older age groups, signaling a strong momentum for continued growth in this lifestyle. Women are more likely than men to adopt vegan or plant-based diets, with 3.60% of women identifying as such compared to 1.98% of men.
Commenting on the findings, Claire Ogley, Head of Campaigns, Policy and Research at The Vegan Society, said: “These results reveal a remarkable transformation in attitudes toward veganism and plant-based living across Britain.
“It’s inspiring to see younger generations leading the way, with a growing number of people adopting more sustainable and compassionate lifestyles for a variety of reasons, from health to the environment to animal welfare.”
The Vegan Society’s research underscores a commitment shared by millions to reducing the impact of human consumption on animals and the planet. As awareness grows, regions including Scotland will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food and lifestyle choices in the UK.
Forget bland winter meals. This season, a vibrant risotto is bringing local produce and community spirit to your plate, straight from the kitchens of Ten Hill Place Hotel. The secret ingredient? Vegetables sourced directly from charity Cyrenians’ weekly veg boxes, proving that great food starts with great connections.
Cyrenians operates an organic farm in West Lothian and all money raised from the sale of their organic produce goes directly to fund their work tackling the causes and consequences of homelessness.
Executive Chef Dominik Kawalec, a 26-year culinary veteran who traded his native Poland for Edinburgh’s food scene, and rising star Junior Sous Chef Morgan Dow have crafted a dish that’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of local agriculture.
Their candied beetroot risotto transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a winter warmer that packs serious flavour:
Ingredients
· 1 leek, finely chopped (for leek hay)
· 1 onion, finely chopped
· 2-3 cloves of garlic
· 1 cup risotto rice (Arborio recommended)
· 1 sprig each of thyme and rosemary
· ½ cup white wine
· 1-2 bay leaves
· Salt and pepper to taste
· 100g Parmesan cheese
· 2 tbsp cooking oil
· 4 cups vegetable stock
· Beetroots for pickling and puree
Preparation
Pickled Beetroots
Combine white wine vinegar, sugar, water, and black pepper
Pickle beetroots in this mixture to add a tangy dimension to the dish
Leek Hay
Julienne the leek
Deep fry until crispy, creating a delicate, crunchy garnish
When rice is nearly cooked, incorporate beetroot puree
Finish with pickled beetroots and crispy leek hay
Garnish with goat cheese and Parmesan
Every Wednesday, Cyrenians offers fresh, organic veg boxes for pickup at Café 1505, available in small and regular sizes through weekly or fortnightly subscriptions.
By choosing these veg boxes, you’re doing more than preparing a delicious meal—you’re supporting their important work to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness and connecting with the vibrant food ecosystem of Edinburgh.
Gordon’s Trattoria, a cherished Italian gem situated on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, has been acquired by Merchant Leisure.
Gordon Scott, who opened the restaurant in 1982, recently announced his retirement and has sold the venue for an undisclosed fee to his close friend Jim Tullis, owner of Merchant Leisure.
Merchant Leisure have announced they wish to keep the restaurant as it is for the time being, and continue ‘serving up authentic Italian cuisine made with passion and the finest ingredients.’ Locals and tourists alike have long enjoyed the restaurant’s authentic cuisine and prominent location, offering customers ‘the heart of Italy in the heart of Edinburgh’.
Classic Italian dishes populate the menu including ‘Tagliatelle Reale’ – plump King Prawns paired with delicate asparagus and cherry tomatoes, simmered in olive oil, garlic, white wine and parsley. A range of pizzas such as the ‘Primavera’ – topped with parma ham and a balsamic glaze drizzle – are joined by much-loved sharing options like ‘Focaccia’ and a selection of chicken-based dishes such as ‘Pollo Dianne’ – cooked in mushrooms, onions, French mustard and a brandy cream sauce.
Merchant Leisure owns bars & restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Their speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street and inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, was recently shortlisted for a prestigious design award by the British Institute of Interior Design.
Commenting on the takeover, Arthur Mustard, Managing Director at Merchant Leisure Ltd, said: “We are very excited to announce our ownership of Gordon’s Trattoria.
“It’s such an honour to take over an Edinburgh establishment with such rich history and loyal customers. Our plan is to keep the venue as it is for now, serving authentic Italian food in the heart of Edinburgh.
“We look forward to welcoming new customers, as well as meeting the locals who make this restaurant so special.”
Gordon’s Trattoria is the sixth venue to be listed under the Merchant Leisure umbrella and will continue serving authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
It’s less than two weeks until we’re officially fully open so make sure that date’s in your diary – Friday, 6th December – and be one of the first down to Granton to check us out. And if you’ve been wondering who’s going to be quenching your thirst and filling your belly, our official Resident foodies will be:
Choola: Nepalese street food with a Scottish twist Fire Bowl: East Asian style street food Buffalo Truck: Delicious fried chicken with all the added delights Social Bite Does dessert: amazing sweet treats and lots of custard Lazeez: Authentic Lebanese delights (fully halal) and shish Pulp Friction: Seasonal fresh fruit infused drinks, from mulled sangrias to frozen margaritas Barney’s and Newbarns: supplying the best locally brewed beers Serving up Williams and Johnson coffee, savoury and sweets will be Long Shot Coffee.
Don’t forget, The Pitt also has two saunas from Soul Water Sauna (booking opening soon), a weekly local produce market from Granton Community Garden, community and family areas, a co-working space and one of the best views in Edinburgh across the Firth of Forth.
December opening hours: Friday 6th: 5pm-10pm Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th: 8am-10pm Then weekly until 29th: Thursday to Sunday: 8am-10pm Hogmanay, Tuesday 31st: 8am-2am – family friendly entertainment with free entry all day to The Pitt Market. Please note, the Hogmanay Extravaganza is a separate, ticketed event which is suitable for 16+ only.
Entry to The Pitt Market is from the Granton Promenade. The Market will always be free to enter and is family and dog friendly every single day.
Retail / Lifestyle Opportunity
Perfect for anyone who wants to trade and be part of a supporting community of entrepreneurs looking to kick start their business or any pop up ideas.
Running for six weeks, this latest menu provides nostalgic feelings to transport you back to a simpler time.
The menu will run in both of the capital’s Six by Nico locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street from 16 December 2024 to 26 January 2025 – with bookings starting at £44 per person
Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has unveiled its latest six-course concept, transporting guests back to the good old days with déjà vu food that serves a taste of forgotten flavours with every bite.
Taking inspiration from CEO and Founder Nico Simeone’s childhood favourites and his families festive traditions, the latest concept menu is full of creative twists on old school classic flavours that will never fade.
The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 16th December 2024 to 26th January 2025, using timeless tastes to help guests forget about being an adult for a while.
For £44, guests will be able to experience the old school flavours of Nostalgia, with a matching wine pairing from £30 per person or cocktail pairing from £40 per person. Start the experience with the snack selection for only £10 per person.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “Our final menu of 2024 and the first of 2025 pays homage to nostalgia, inviting guests on a journey through flavours that evoke personal memories.
“Inspired by reflections on my childhood, it draws on moments from an era spent watching films, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors with friends.
“While New Year often focuses on resolutions, this menu celebrates traditions and revisits the timeless magic of Christmas through familiar and comforting tastes.”
The Rose Street Brewery, just a short stroll from Edinburgh Castle, officially reopened this Autumn following an extensive 3-week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look.
The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include additional seating for guests including the installation of new booths for those that want a cozy and relaxed feel, an additional TV with high seating options for guests that want to watch the upcoming Autumn Tests at Murrayfield Stadium and some much needed awnings and heaters outside to keep guests dry and warm on those Dreich Scottish days.
Rose Street Brewery is renowned for brewing the famous beer, Auld Reekie, in the old Brewhouse upstairs (now the kitchen) from 1983-1994, with Rose Street itself being referred to as a drinking Oasis ever since.
The Rose Street Brewery is proud to be a part of these historical roots and continues to uphold this reputation today, welcoming guests from near and far to come and enjoy a drink in this historical landmark
Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and ham pie, classic fish and chips and prime steak burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts to delight discerning guests.
Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, ciders and new to the menu – cocktails.
Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Derek Meechan at Rose Street Brewery said: “Rose Street Brewery is an historic part of Rose Street, and it is fantastic that we are having a major refresh of the premises before a very busy time of the year.
“The works that are being completed will make it more efficient and also more appealing to our guests than it is now, which is a major achievement. Myself and my team can’t wait to open, and welcome back our guests into the new and improved Rose Street Brewery.”
Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, a number of new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests.
For more information about Rose Street Brewery please visit Nicholson’s Pub in Edinburgh | Rose Street Brewery (nicholsonspubs.co.uk)
Garden Centre unveils festive dining for the whole family
This Christmas, Dobbies Garden Centres is serving up a series of festive restaurant experiences at its Edinburgh store. From enjoying a jolly time at Santa’s Breakfast to indulging in a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea or enjoying some seasonal drinks and cakes, customers are in for a treat.
Santa’s Breakfast at the Edinburgh store is packed with plenty of festive fun. Children over three years old can build and name their own festive soft toy stuffed with a little help from Santa and his elves, and those under three will receive a special pre-made teddy to cherish for years to come. With storytelling, festive games, and a chance to meet Santa, it’s the perfect way to kick off the festive season with the little ones.
The whole family will sit down and tuck into a delicious breakfast, with children choosing from either the regular or vegetarian menu, or continental option.
The regular options feature pork sausage, scrambled eggs, hash browns and baked beans, accompanied by apple juice, orange juice, or water, while the vegetarian option includes Quorn sausages alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns and baked beans, with the same drink choices available.
The continental option includes a children’s croissant, jam, yoghurt and banana, with the same drink choices available.
Dobbies’ Festive Afternoon Tea, priced at £16 per person or 2 for £25, is the perfect way for couples, friends, and families to spend some quality time together, sharing the joys of the season while treating themselves to three tiers of seasonal delights that’ll make the taste buds go ho ho ho.
Enjoy all the classic elements of a traditional afternoon tea with a festive twist, including freshly prepared finger sandwiches filled with seasonal flavours like turkey and cranberry, brie and grape; and ham and mustard.
Indulge in Dobbies’ famous festive scones served with a thick and creamy Cornish clotted cream and jam, followed by a tempting array of sweet treats, including Christmas pudding loaf, mince pie, tiramisu layer cake and mini macarons, all complemented by unlimited tea or coffee refills.
For the kids, Dobbies offers a Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea for £10 per child, complete with turkey and ham sandwich flowers, a signature scone, carrot and cucumber sticks with dipping cream cheese, a Christmas pudding brownie, elf doughnuts, mini gingerbread men with dipping chocolate, and orange or blackcurrant squash, making it a delightful experience for the entire family.
For just £20 per person or 2 for £32, you can upgrade to a Luxury Afternoon Tea for a special treat over the festive period. This upgrade includes all the classic afternoon tea favourites, with an added touch of indulgence. Enjoy savoury delights such as cheese and tomato quiche and sausage roll, alongside a selection of elevated finger sandwiches, with smoked salmon, lemon mayonnaise and dill; cheddar cheese with green tomato chutney; and ham with rocket and wholegrain mustard.
Customers can also celebrate the most magical time of the year by taking advantage of Dobbies’ Festive lunch offer, with two courses for just £17 per person.
Available from 7 November through to 24 December, you can choose from a Christmas dinner or vegetarian Christmas dinner, followed by a traditional Christmas pudding served with custard, or reindeer cheesecake, baked vanilla flavour cheesecake served with a chocolate pretzel and a smartie nose.
With festive sweet treats including mince pie tart and a festive scone, as well as luxury hot and cold drinks such as gingerbread latte, gingerbread hot chocolate and raspberry lemonade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Adam Veysey, Head of Food Development at Dobbies, is excited to see families spend the festivities at the Edinburgh store. He said: “Christmas is just around the corner and what better way to spend the festive season than together with your family, friends and loved ones over some good food and wholesome activities.
“Our festive restaurant experiences are always popular with customers looking to relax and catch up and we’re excited to showcase this year’s offering. The reindeer cheesecake is a brand-new option this year and the tiramisu layer cake is a must-try. We’ve also extended the Santa’s Breakfast menu with a continental option for children.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone along to the restaurant to try out the new dishes and much-loved Santa’s Breakfast experience.”
Santa’s Breakfast in Dobbies’ Edinburgh store runs from 30 November through to 24 December and is priced from £8.60 per adult, £16.99 for children between 3 to 10 years old, £13.99 for under 3s.
Festive Afternoon Tea is bookable now at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store and is priced at £10 per child and £16 per adult, or 2 for £25. Luxury Afternoon Tea is priced at £20 per person, or 2 for £32.
The Festive Lunch Offer runs from 7 November to 24 December, priced at two courses for £17pp, with a deposit of £5pp to secure your booking.
For more information about Dobbies’ festive restaurant experiences at the Edinburgh store and to make a booking, visit dobbies.com/events
FRESH START are running our Saturday Night Supper cook at home programme again for anyone who wishes to learn cooking skills and may have already attended our classes.
These sessions build on the skills learned in class, feel free to share and to sign up by contacting cooking@freshstartweb.org.uk
We also have spaces in our English classes – Beginners and Intermediate, please contact me to sign up: abigail@freshstartweb.org.uk
Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has introduced its latest six-course instalment, taking customers on an adventure full of magical flavours where each bite sends your taste buds into technicolour.
Inspired by the iconic story from The Wizard of Oz, customers will begin their journey on the yellow brick road, travelling through a bewitching menu where each bite leads you closer to the Emerald City.
The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 4th November to 15th December where customers will be immersed in this magical culinary experience and transported to the Land of Oz.
Baby Aubergine, Coal Emulsion, Red Pepper Ketchup, Kohlrabi & Tarragon
Course 5 – ‘The Wicked Witch’
Barbecue Leek, Burnt Onion & Black Garlic Ketchup
Parsley Risotto, Confit Garlic & Pickled Shallot
Course 6 – ‘Emerald City’
Apple Cremeux, Honey Mousseline, Yoghurt Sorbet & Lemon Gel
For £44, guests will be able to experience the magical flavours from the Land of Oz, with a matching wine pairing from £33.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “The Land of Oz menu is an exciting journey for us. We’ve been exploring this magical world for a while, and guided by guest feedback and our passion for storytelling, we’ve crafted each dish to immerse diners in Oz’s enchanting tale.
“We’re thrilled to offer diners in Edinburgh with a unique experience that pushes the boundaries of what Six by Nico can bring to the table.”
Land of Oz menu bookings can be made via the website:
M&S takes the crown for the most winners in this year’s Good Food Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, scooping seven of the 21 categories, with Waitrose winning five categories.
Over 185 products from 13 supermarkets were blind-tasted, and anonymously rated by a panel of expert judges overseen by an independent adjudicator, winners include Morrisons £3.25 pigs in blankets, and Asda £5 mulled wine.
The UK’s number one food media brand, Good Food, has announced the results of its Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, judging the best festive foods from 13 supermarkets across 21 categories, from smoked salmon to Christmas cake, pigs in blankets and mulled wine.
To arrive at the winners list, over 185 products were blind-tasted by Good Food’s expert panel, overseen by an independent adjudicator. All packaging was removed and food prepared and cooked following pack instructions and presented by an independent home economist. The judges submitted comments and a score out of 10 for each product in the category via anonymous online judging forms.
The full results are in the iconic Good Food Christmas issue which is on sale now with a “Make Christmas memories” message, packed with over 90 thoroughly tested recipes for memorable celebrating, entertaining and gift-giving, plus features on reducing food waste and tips for using up leftovers.
Of the thirteen supermarkets, M&S won the most, scooping seven wins out of the 21 categories, including Best cranberry sauce and Best classic mince pies.
Waitrose was awarded five wins including: Best turkey crown, Best Christmas cake and Best Christmas pudding. Asda and Aldi tied for third place with three wins each, while Morrisons won the coveted Best pigs in blankets category and Co-op Best showstopper dessert.
Lily Barclay, Content Director, Good Food, says: “Good Food celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, which means 35 years of Christmas memories.
“Our iconic Christmas issue will help create more memories with reinventions of retro classics and ideas for meaningful home-baked Christmas gifts.
“The Good Food team of experts started testing in August for the mammoth Good Food Christmas Supermarket Taste Awards, creating the ultimate guide to festive food buys.
“This Christmas the supermarkets have outdone themselves with the range and quality on offer, and our selection of winners will help save time in the kitchen, so you can focus on celebrating the festive season with family and friends..”
The results of the Good Food Christmas Taste Awards 2024, with judges’ comments:
Starters
Best smoked salmon Winner: Booths Strong Oak Smoked Scottish Salmon, 200g (£8.00)
Judges’ comments: “This has nice thick slices with a classic, crowd-pleasing smoked flavour that would work well in sandwiches.”
Best hot canapé Winner: M&S Collection Barber’s Extra Mature Cheddar & Ham Hock Scone, 290g (£7.50)
Judges’ comments: “The scone has a great flavour and a lovely, crispy texture. The ham works beautifully with the creamy roux and buttery, cheesy notes – it’s easy to eat and perfect for nibbles with drinks.”
Judges’ comments: “This juicy turkey has excellent flavour, complemented by the herby chestnut stuffing and a lovely saltiness from the bacon.”
Best alternative Christmas main Winner: Aldi Specially Selected Wagyu Wing Rib, 1.8-2.8kg (£24.99 per kg)
Judges’ comments: “This impressive-looking joint would make a fantastic showstopper. The meat has a good texture, and the outside sears well.”
Best gammon Winner: Aldi Specially Selected Sugar Baked Crackling Gammon Joint, £18.99
Judges’ comments: “A clear winner for the judges – this centrepiece gammon is complete with crunchy crackling and juicy, tender meat.”
Best pigs in blankets Winner: Morrisons The Best pigs in blankets, 210g (£3.25)
Judges’ comments: “Caramelised onions give these a touch of sweetness, with pleasing crispy bacon and good texture to the sausage-meat.”
Best cranberry sauce Winner: M&S Cranberry Sauce (fresh), 400g (£3.25)
Judges’ comments: “This cranberry sauce has a nice sweetness, a distinct cranberry flavour and a pleasing tartness. It’s perfect for making sandwiches with your Christmas leftovers.”
Best vegetarian main Joint winner: Waitrose Ultimate Plant-based Festive Wellingtons, pack of two (£7.50)
Judges’ comments: “This vegetarian mushroom wellington has a flavourful umami kick, crispy pastry, lovely mushroom and thyme notes, and warming gravy.”
Judges’ comments: “This hearty galette impressed the judges: it is incredibly flavoursome, enjoyably cheesy and has plenty of veg.”
Best vegan main Joint winner: Tesco Finest Roasted Vegetable & Cranberry Star, 340g (£6)
Judges’ comments: “This attractive centrepiece features beautifully nutty and umami flavours with notes of thyme, marjoram and sweet onion. It has buttery, flaky pastry and festive star shapes.”
Joint winner: Aldi Plant Menu Vegan No Turkey Crown, 490g (£4.99) This no-turkey crown does a great job of replicating the texture of meat quite well. It would go down extremely well with roast potatoes and a generous helping of gravy.
Festive desserts
Best Christmas cake Winner: Waitrose No.1 Hand-Decorated Matured Rich Fruit Cake, 1.5kg (£18.50)
Judges’ comments: “This Christmas cake has a generous amount of marzipan, a slightly crumbly texture – which guests might take as homemade – and a pretty, impressive appearance with good, solid icing.”
Best alternative Christmas cake Winner: Asda Ginger and Caramel Snow Cake, serves 16 (£12)
Judges’ comments: “The gingerbread and caramel cake captures the festive spirit beautifully. Its appearance is charming, both as a whole and when sliced, making it an attractive addition to any holiday spread. The cake boasts a strong gingerbread flavour that is nicely balanced, and the sponge is wonderfully soft and spongey.”
Judges’ comments: “This Christmas pudding has a rich flavour, a pretty fluted shape, lots of cherries and whole almonds, and a nice spiced citrussy note.”
Judges’ comments: “This golden sponge crown boasts a lovely gingerbread flavour with warming ginger and cinnamon notes, complemented by a rich caramel sauce and toffee drizzle. It looks impressive, is easy to serve, and has a homemade, festive taste.”
Best trifle Winner: M&S Sticky Toffee Trifle, 1kg (£15)
Judges’ comments: “This trifle features a delightful blend of caramel, gingerbread and butterscotch flavours, beautifully paired with whipped cream and luscious custard. The layers are clear and well-textured, with attractive toppings.”
Best free-from dessert Winner: M&S Chocolate & Orange, Fruit & Nut Brownie, 630g (£12.50)
Judges’ comments: “This gluten-free brownie tastes like it is made from quality chocolate, and the hint of orange isn’t overbearing.”
Festive bakes
Best classic mince pies Winner: M&S Collection Mince Pies, pack of six (£4)
Judges’ comments: “These classic mince pies have a beautiful, unique design with a well-patterned top, buttery pastry with a good mouthfeel, and a nicely spiced filling with discernible fruit.”
Best flavoured mince pies Winner: Morrisons The Best Cherry Bakewell Mince Pies, pack of four (£2.75)
Judges’ comments: “These Bakewell-flavoured mince pies feature a pretty flaked almond topping and a well-balanced frangipane that’s not too sweet. The mincemeat is moist and fruity, creating a pleasant hybrid of a classic mince pie with a nutty, crumbly twist.”
Best gluten-free mince pies Winner: Waitrose Mince Pies, pack of four (£2.90)
Judges’ comments: “These gluten-free mince pies have a nice texture that holds together well without crumbling too much.”
Best vegan mince pie Winner: Asda Free From 4 Mince Pies 220g (£2)
Judges’ comments: “These vegan mince pies have a beautiful, uniform appearance with a simple star decoration and feature a lovely, juicy filling. The pastry is crisp with a good crumbly texture and a nice sugary top, making them a delightful treat.”
Best biscuit tin
Winner: M&S Collection Shortbread Tin, 400g (£10) Judges’ comments: “These Christmas shortbreads are melt-in-the-mouth buttery, with a good salty hit and a rich, milky chocolate coating. Their soft, crumbly texture makes them a true winner.”
Best mulled wine Winner: Asda Extra Special Mulled Wine, 75cl (£5)
Judges’ comments: “This mulled wine offers a delightful boozy flavour with a rich ‘mulled’ quality, making it a standout choice for a sweet, spiced experience.
All prices correct at time of publishing.
The Christmas issue of Good Food is out now, get your copy in store or order direct from www.MagsDirect.co.uk
