10 cosy seasonal recipes for dark November days
November has properly arrived. The evenings are dark, the heating is on and the kettle is putting a shift in. It's the time of year when we all want food that's warming, filling and easy to share.
We've put together a week's worth of cosy November meals, plus a few sweet treats for afterwards, and some extra snacks for chilly evenings.
Main meals for the whole family
Bringing everyone together is what this time of year is all about. Because when you're surrounded by loved ones, with a freshly-cooked hearty meal on the table, you won't even notice the cold weather outside.
1. Autumn roast dinner
Want to try something different with your Sunday roast? Manchester foodie SpamellaB has got you covered. Her recipe pairs seasonal veg with perfectly roasted chicken, seasoned with wild garlic and herbs. Find the full recipe here, and shop the ingredients right here on Creamline – our friendly roundspeople will deliver it straight to your doorstep, ready for the oven.
2. Chunky beef, vegetable and sweet potato hotpot
You can't go wrong with a hotpot on a cold, rainy day. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with root vegetables and tender beef, topped with a layer of sweet potato slices.
3. Pork steak with cider and caramelised onions
Sweet onions and cider make a simple sauce for these succulent pork steaks from Little Pigs butchers. It's a classic combination that's guaranteed to fill your kitchen with all the wonderful warmth of autumn.
4. Salmon fish pie
A traditional, warming fish pie using chunky salmon fillets, hearty potatoes, lemon and fresh parsley. And of course, a splash of Creamline milk for that silky, creamy sauce.
5. Sausage, pesto and pepper risotto
An Italian classic meets British ingredients in this veggie-packed risotto. Roasted cherry tomatoes, local Cumberland sausages and a touch of garlic, served on creamy Arborio rice. What's not to love?
6. Chicken Thai curry
This is a fuss-free weeknight curry that works with either boneless chicken thighs or breasts, whatever you've got from the butcher or leftover from your Sunday roast. The turmeric and ginger give it a gentle warmth, while butternut squash (or pumpkin) chunks make the most of seasonal veg.
Seasonal sides and snacks
Serve these alongside a main meal, or make a batch for an evening when you want something a little something extra
7. Crispy parsnip croquettes
A twist on a traditional side dish. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside – these parsnip croquettes pair cheesy béchamel with a dash of horseradish for a subtle kick.
8. Loaded chilli sweet potato fries
Comfort food at its best: sweet potato fries topped with a hearty spoonful of warming chilli, finished with fresh salsa, coriander and avocado slices.
Sweet treats
It might not be Christmas yet, but you can still indulge your sweet tooth on a treat or two. Baking at home is the perfect activity for rainy days, especially if you get the kids involved with stirring or decorating (beware sticky fingers afterwards!)
9. Apple Cinnamon Strudel
Decadent, deliciously sweet, and filled with tart British apples – this Austrian-inspired strudel recipe is sure to go down a treat. Ready, steady, bake!
10. Parkin
Ok, who else grew up enjoying this traditional Northern bake on Bonfire Night? Parkin isn't just for the 5th though – the deep, treacle flavour and warm spices make it a real treat for any cosy afternoon.
However you spend these darker evenings, we hope you find something here for your table. It might be a hotpot for the whole family, a curry in the middle of the week or a parkin set aside for a rainy Sunday.
