A year in a Scots kitchen

For the last several years I have taken an undue amount of pleasure in getting in the kitchen, rolling up the sleeves and tying on the old apron. Some of you may have erroneously believed that I do this for the benefit of my friends and family. Well, remove the veil from your eyes. It is 100% self indulgence.

Recently however, I must admit I have been casting about for inspiration and feared that I was about to witness the death of my hobby. But luckily I had a brilliant idea (actually Julie Powell had a good idea which I have coopted). I decided that I would try to cook my way through one of my many cookbooks. And not just any cookbook - but a Scottish cookbook! All bias aside, this book really is quite marvelous. The recipes are laid out according to month and season. And each section contrasts traditional and often very old recipes alongside more contemporary versions. At the close of each month there is even a gardener's guide from the 17th Century. So hopefully the next twelve months will find me busy in the kitchen as ever. Check in from time to time to follow my progress.