Experts reveal the best Christmas sandwiches for 2025 - Winners revealed from M&S, Aldi, Co-op and more
We’ve tested the best festive sandwiches on the high street and rounded up our favourites below, so you don’t need to wait till 25 December to enjoy all the flavours of a Christmas dinner
Just like advent calendars and mince pies, the arrival of Christmas sandwiches on the shelves is becoming an annual cultural moment. From turkey toasties to super-sized subs, the task of fitting a whole Christmas dinner in between two (or more) slices of bread is an art being explored in supermarkets, coffee shops and bakeries on high streets across the country from now until the big day itself. This gives you a solid six weeks to replace your usual lunch break prawn mayo or egg & cress with sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, camembert and many more festive flavours. We’ve done the hard work for you and tested Christmas sandwiches from all the big supermarkets to find the best to buy this year. Plus, we've been scouring the high street to try Christmas sandwiches from PAUL, Ole & Steen and more. What did we look for in our search for the the best Christmas sandwich? As well as undeniable festive flavours, we wanted these to be balanced and not too sweet, with complementary elements that allowed you to taste each flavour without competing. Sandwiches should hold together well and not be too messy, and we loved to see interesting innovation, good-quality ingredients and impressive breads. From returning classics to delicious new twists, these are the best Christmas sandwiches to buy this year. For more Christmas inspiration, check out the results of our Good Food Christmas Supermarket Awards (for everything from turkey to Christmas pud) and our picks of the best panettone to buy. Best Christmas sandwiches to eat in 2025 M&S Turkey Feast Available from M&S (£4) Rating: 5/5 A popular choice every year, the M&S turkey feast returns again for 2025. This is a classic Christmas sandwich done well and stood out amongst all the sandwiches we tested. It has clear layers of turkey, stuffing, bacon and a generous level of cranberry sauce that is not overwhelmingly sweet. The bread tastes fresh and soft, and the large chunks of stuffing are a highlight with a good amount of pepper and sage to season. Ole & Steen Festive Mushroom Melt Available from Ole & Steen (£7.95) Rating: 5/5 Ole & Steen's new sandwich this year is our top performing plant-based sandwich for 2025. It has a great selection of textures: it's soft, crispy, melty and cheesy all at once. The vegan cheese is impressive and the bread does not go soggy – it makes a great change from the more traditional festive sandwiches on offer. At £7.95, it's the most expensive sandwich we tried, but will keep you going all afternoon. Booths Festive Feast Sandwich Available from Booths (£4) Rating: 4.5/5 Another good option for a classic Christmas sandwich. The turkey has good flavour, plus there's plenty going on with spinach, bacon and chutney too. The rations are well balanced with a good variety of textures and no overwhelming sweetness from the sauce. M&S Fa La La La Fel wrap Available from M&S (£4) Rating: 4.5/5 This is another popular vegan- and vegetarian-friendly choice for a Christmas sandwich, The flavours aren't overly Christmassy, but it's still a colourful and tasty option. The vibrant fillings look great: purple cabbage, herby green falafel, red cranberry chutney. The cabbage adds lots of crunch and the spiced apricot harissa adds a tiny bit of heat against the herby falafel. PAUL brie & cranberry baguette Available from PAUL (£6.45) Rating: 4.5/5 Add PAUL to your lunch break rota for generous Christmas sandwiches. This baguette has PAUL's signature great bread, definitely on the chewier side. The creamy brie is delicious and its richness is balanced by plenty of veg: a veggie stuffing, crunchy shredded sprouts and a good element of sweetness from both grilled carrots and a juicy cranberry sauce. Aldi Eat & Go Turkey Feast Available from Aldi Rating: 4/5 A very classic Christmas sandwich – turkey, bacon, cranberry. The layers look good and balanced, with a generous amount of the cranberry sauce. We like the wholemeal bread, overall herby flavour and crunchy bacon, although some of the other textures could be improved. PAUL Turkey & Bacon Christmas Club Available from PAUL (£6.50) Rating: 4/5 This rustic baguette looks tasty and nicely filled. The unique sage and onion bread has great flavour and good chew: it is what makes this sandwich standout. The turkey has a pleasant smoky flavour, with a hint of heat from the horseradish mayo. There is a lot of salad in here to fill it out, with shredded sprouts, red cabbage and salad leaves. Co-op Irresistible Turkey Double Dip n Dunk wrap Available from Co-op (£4.50) Rating: 4/5 We do like to see some innovation around Christmas sandwiches. Although this dunk idea might be love it or hate it, and does require you to be sat and able to take time eating it, rather than on the go. The appearance looks nice and colourful. The ratio of spinach is a touch too high, but we like the different textures and ingredients going on with some shredded carrot and well seasoned, peppery meat. The gravy on the side is slightly spiced and smoky. Related reviews and news Best advent calendars Best hampers to buy this Christmas Good Food Christmas Taste Awards Best chocolate hampers Best sweets subscriptions
We tried 25 panettones so you don’t have to – the best Christmas picks from M&S and Aldi to GAIL’s and Carluccio’s
Our foodie experts taste tested over 25 panettones to find the best ones to buy this Christmas, from classic to quirky twists
Panettone is making a comeback – it is everywhere this Christmas. From supermarkets to bakeries, there has never been so much variety in the world of this traditional Italian festive treat. Panettone is a traditional Italian cake with a sourdough base (referred to as the mother yeast), and an open, light, yielding texture. Traditionally risen slowly over a few days, panettone is baked in a tubular mould that results in a dome-shaped top and good height. Classic panettone contains candied citrus and raisins (in Italy this is taken as seriously as any classic recipe), but nowadays bakers are risking the wrath of traditionalists to get creative with flavours. From adding chocolate to booze, there's a growing world of unusual panettone flavours to try, while still trying to stay true to the bread base. We taste tested over 25 panettones to find the best ones to buy this year – here is our verdict of the ones to get this Christmas. For more Christmas inspiration, check out the results of our Good Food Christmas Supermarket Awards (for everything from turkey to Christmas pud) and the best Christmas sandwiches to buy. Find inspiration for using up any leftover panettone with our panettone recipes including panettone pudding and French toast. Lina Stores traditional panettone Available from Lina Stores (£27.95) Rating: 5/5 Of course, you can rely on the Italians to make a good panettone. This is a perfect example of a traditional panettone – studded with raisins and large juicy chunks of orange peel. It has a soft, buttery texture and attractive domed appearance. It's also an excellent option for a Christmas gift, coming in the signature Lina Stores pretty green and white striped box. GAIL's mandarin & white chocolate panettone Available from GAIL's (£35, on sale from 5 November) Rating: 5/5 This panettone seriously impressed us – we couldn't stop going back for more! It was one of the most moist that we tried – almost more on the cake side than bread. The dough has a butteriness which is perfectly balanced by the mild citrussy flavour from mandarin throughout that isn't sickly or fake. The white chocolate also gives a sense of extra creamy indulgence, although we couldn't really find any big chunks. All round delicious. It comes in a smart gift box too, if you want to give as a present. Aldi Specially Selected panettone Available from Aldi (£5.99) Rating: 4.5/5 This was our top scoring traditional panettone from the supermarkets. It is a very good example of a classic panettone with a good fluffy texture. It has a plain appearance on the outside but lots of juicy, chunky fruit inside with large sultanas and chunks of orange peel. It has a pleasant vanilla taste coming through too – we'd happily go back for more of this. M&S Collection chocolate & cherry panettone Available from M&S (£22) Rating: 4.5/5 This is one attractive panettone – tall and rounded with a great dome (plus, it comes in a colourful keepsake tin). The panettone has a light texture, the chocolate is rich and very dark (definitely not too sweet) and it's studded throughout with generous pieces of cherry. Waitrose No.1 Sicilian orange nocciolato panettone Available from Waitrose (£16) Rating: 4.5/5 This was an extremely popular panettone during our taste test, with judges repeatedly going back for more. It has a softer texture than traditionalists may expect, but this means it is pleasingly light. This softness is balanced by the unique crunchy meringue-style topping and whole almonds that give it an attractive appearance. The panettone has really big juicy pieces of candied orange peel inside for a citrus-forward option. GAIL's chocolate sourdough panettone Available from GAIL's (£35, on sale from 5 November) Rating: 4/5 The generous amount of chocolate chips inside give this sourdough panettone a really indulgent quality – any leftovers would be perfect made into a bread and butter pudding. It has a crunchy, sugary crust with hazelnuts adding extra crunch. It is less squidgy than the mandarin GAIL's option, but the slightly drier texture works well with the rich chocolate. Again, it comes in a smart box for gifting. Carluccio's Panettone Tradizionale Available from Carluccio's (£28.95) Rating: 4/5 Another example of an Italian brand nailing a traditional panettone. It has a classic aroma as soon as you open the smart box (great for gifting). It has a good texture and flavour, with a generous amount of candied citron but not so much that it weighs down the dough, ensuring a light result. The crisp coating on top adds a touch of extra sweetness. Tesco Finest limoncello panettone Available from Tesco (£12) Rating: 4/5 This is super soft and fluffy, almost on the doughier side. It's really zingy, with lots of pieces of candied lemon alongside the familiar orange peel, for a double hit of citrus. In blind testing, we enjoyed the overall citrussy flavour but did not specifically taste limoncello. Lidl Deluxe tiramisu-style panettone Available from Lidl (£8.99) Rating: 4/5 Traditionalists, look away now! However, if you want to try something new, this may be the one. Beneath a generous coating of chocolate icing and chocolate sprinkles, the plain bread has a firmer texture. At the bottom there's a slightly confusing golden layer – despite it's deceiving golden colour, it actually has a strong coffee flavour, almost like a coffee caramel. This, together with the chocolate icing, completes the 'tiramisu' idea. It would be a good one for dunking in an espresso too. Co-op Irresistible classic panettone Available from Co-op (£6) Rating: 4/5 This classic panettone is on the firmer side, which will please traditionalists who prefer their panettone closer to bread than cake. It is well filled with fruits including generous chunks of citrus and unusual green glacé fruit, with some sweetness from the dough, too. Exceptional By Asda classic panettone Available from Asda (£5.98) Rating: 4/5 If you don't like the overwhelming sweetness of dried fruit, this classic panettone could be for you. It is on the drier side overall, with small and subtle raisins and pieces of candied peel.
Best red wines for cooking, from merlot to rioja
What's the perfect red wine for a meaty pasta sauce or warming veggie stew? Elevate your recipes with our guide to the best red wines for cooking
Red wine is an ultra-versatile ingredient that can add 'oomph' to a recipe, be it a hearty beef stew, rich tomato sauce, red wine jus or peppery sausage casserole. As well as bringing richness, depth and complexity, it also helps to intensify flavours, tenderise meat and give your dish a luxurious, glossy finish. Not every red wine works perfectly with every recipe, though, and to get the best results you want to choose a style that elevates your dish without overpowering it. Just as you'd pair a bottle of wine to drink with a meal, it's worth applying the same frame of mind when picking a red wine to cook with. We've selected a few familiar favourites and perhaps lesser-known styles (and where you can buy them) below, then matched them up with the recipes or ingredients which we think they work best with. All are widely available via online retailers like Laithwaites, as well as supermarkets like Tesco and Waitrose Cellar. In any case, a good rule of thumb to follow is: while you don't need to spend a fortune, avoid cooking with a wine you wouldn't want to drink – and that means steering clear of anything labelled 'cooking wine', which is often overly salty. Best red wines for cooking at a glance Best red wine for meat sauces: Malbec Best red wine for mushroom risotto: Pinot noir Best red wine for lamb: Rioja Best red wine for chicken, turkey or duck: Merlot Best red wine for beef bourguignon: Cabernet sauvignon Best red wine for tomato sauces: Chianti Best red wine for vegetarian dishes: Shiraz / syrah Best red wine for sweet and spicy flavours: Zinfandel Best red wine for Mediterranean recipes: Grenache Best red wine for sausage casserole: Beaujolais Best red wines for cooking to buy in 2025 Malbec Available from Laithwaites (from £8.99), Majestic (from £9), Waitrose Cellar (from £8), Tesco (from £4.79), Ocado (from £7.50), Virgin Wines (from £11.99), Perfect Cellar (from £16.45) Best red wine for meat sauces Renowned for its dark fruit notes, subtle spice and smooth finish, malbec is a full-bodied red that pairs well with the bold, rich flavours of a meat sauce – think lasagne, chilli con carne, spaghetti bolognese and slow-cooked beef stew. It adds depth without any bitterness or acidity and is particularly effective in recipes with smoky or spicy elements, as it enhances the overall complexity while mellowing the heat. Tried-and-tested malbec: Opi malbec reserve (Laithwaites, £16.99) HJ Fabre Barrel Selection Patagonia malbec (Laithwaites, £17.99) Available from: Laithwaites (from £8.99) Tesco (from £4.79) Waitrose Cellar (from £8) Ocado (from £7.50) Majestic (from £9) Virgin Wines (from £11.99) Perfect Cellar (from £16.45) Pinot noir Available from Laithwaites (from £9.49), Majestic (from £5), Waitrose Cellar (from £7.25), Tesco (from £9), Ocado (from £8), Virgin Wines (from £11.99), Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Best red wine for mushroom risotto Pinot noir is a light to medium-bodied red, known for its delicate cherry, raspberry and earthy notes. It has a low tannin content and bright acidity, which means, unlike heavier red wines, it's better suited to recipes where you don't want to mask the primary flavours. While mushroom risotto typically uses white wine, adding pinot noir instead will enhance the earthy, umami flavour of the mushrooms. Its gentle fruitiness also works well in lighter red wine sauces and reductions. Tried-and-tested pinot noir: Sorcova pinot noir (Waitrose, £9) Jackson Estate Vintage Widow pinot noir (Ocado, £23.75) Available from: Laithwaites (from £9.49) Majestic (from £5) Waitrose Cellar (from £7.25) Ocado (from £8) Tesco (from £9) Virgin Wines (from £11.99) Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Rioja Available from Laithwaites (from £8.99), Tesco (from £9.25), Waitrose Cellar (from £9.50), Majestic (from £9.50), Ocado (from £9), Virgin Wines (from £12.99), Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Best red wine for lamb Rioja is a bright, juicy Spanish wine with a medium body and balanced acidity, offering aromas of ripe berries, spice and oak. These notes perfectly complement richer meats like lamb without overpowering them, and the acidity cuts through the fattiness to give it a tender, succulent texture – ideal for recipes like slow cooker leg of lamb and herb-crusted leg of lamb with red wine gravy. The gentle smokiness from the oak also melds well with other flavours typically associated with lamb, like rosemary, root vegetables and garlic, while the red fruit brings a natural sweetness. Tried-and-tested rioja: Ramon Bilbao Crianza rioja (Tesco, £11.25) Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Crianza (Majestic, £14) Available from: Laithwaites (from £8.99) Tesco (from £9.25) Waitrose Cellar (from £9.50) Majestic (from £9.50) Ocado (from £9) Virgin Wines (from £12.99) Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Merlot Available from Laithwaites (from £7.99), Tesco (from £4.15), Ocado (from £5), Virgin Wines (from £5.99), Majestic (from £6.50), Waitrose Cellar (from £7), Perfect Cellar (from £10.70) Best red wine for chicken, turkey or duck Merlot is a soft, medium-bodied red wine with notes of plum, black cherry and herbs, and its smoothness means it doesn't overpower more delicate meats like chicken, duck or turkey. When roasted or served with herby sauces, Merlot has a gentle acidity and fruit-forward profile that enhances the savoury and subtle notes of the meat – perfect for recipes like coq au vin or chicken & red wine casserole. With duck, which is richer and usually paired with sweeter or fruitier sauces, the wine's slight spiciness and plush texture cuts through the fat and adds depth. Try our recipes for roast duck legs with red wine sauce and red wine risotto with duck & garlicky mushrooms. Available from: Laithwaites (from £7.99) Ocado (from £5) Virgin Wines (from £5.99) Majestic (from £6.50) Waitrose Cellar (from £7) Perfect Cellar (from £10.70) Cabernet sauvignon Available from Laithwaites (from £8.49), Tesco (from £4.49), Waitrose Cellar (from £7.50), Majestic (from £8), Ocado (from £8.25), Perfect Cellar (from £10.70), Virgin Wines (from £10.99) Best red wine for beef bourguignon With notes of blackcurrant, cedar and spice, cabernet sauvignon is a robust, full-bodied red that stands up well to rich, meaty dishes like beef bourguignon, lamb shanks and venison. It has a strong tannic structure, which helps to tenderise the meat during cooking, and adds depth to reductions and sauces. Avoid using overly oaked or expensive bottles of cabernet sauvignon, though – younger, fruit-forward styles work best as they bring a bold flavour without any bitterness. Available from: Laithwaites (from £8.49) Tesco (from £4.49) Waitrose Cellar (from £7.50) Majestic (from £8) Ocado (from £8.25) Perfect Cellar (from £10.70) Virgin Wines (from £10.99) Chianti Available from Laithwaites (from £9.69), Waitrose Cellar (from £8), Ocado (from £8), Majestic (from £15), Perfect Cellar (from £17.97), Virgin Wines (from £19.99) <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2025/10/Edizione-Limitata-Numerata-Chianti-Numero-3-Particella-21-2024-and-Pian-del-Gallo-Chianti-Classico-2022-8c468d5.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Edizione Limitata Numerata Chianti Numero 3 Particella 21 2024 and Pian del Gallo Chianti Classico 2022" title="Edizione Limitata Numerata Chianti Numero 3 Particella 21 2024 and Pian del Gallo Chianti Classico 2022" /> Best red wine for tomato sauces Chianti, made primarily from sangiovese grapes, is a dry, medium-bodied Italian red with notes of cherries, raspberries, plums and herbs. It's a go-to for any dish where tomatoes are a key ingredient as it balances their sweetness and acidity, while also cutting through rich, fatty dishes. As well as tomato-based pasta sauces, it also pairs well with Italian classics like osso buco and chicken cacciatore. Available from: Laithwaites (from £9.69) Waitrose Cellar (from £8) Ocado (from £8) Majestic (from £15) Perfect Cellar (from £17.97) Virgin Wines (from £19.99) Shiraz Available from Laithwaites (from £10.99), Majestic (from £5), Waitrose Cellar (from £7), Ocado (from £7.30), Virgin Wines (from £9.99), Perfect Cellar (from £14.95) Best red wine for vegetarian dishes Shiraz, also known as syrah, is a versatile red wine known for its deep, dark colour and medium to full body, with notes of blackcurrant, blueberry, mocha and black pepper. It's these aromas that make it well suited to robust, earthy veg like aubergine, mushrooms and roasted carrots, complementing their natural sweetness – try it in our butternut squash casserole and next-level moussaka. Available from: Laithwaites (from £10.99) Majestic (from £5) Waitrose Cellar (from £7) Ocado (from £7.30) Virgin Wines (from £9.99) Perfect Cellar (from £14.95) Zinfandel Available from Laithwaites (from £14.99), Ocado (from £9), Waitrose Cellar (from £10), Virgin Wines (from £10.99), Majestic (from £11), Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Best red wine for sweet and spicy dishes Zinfandel is a medium to full-bodied red, with jammy blackberry, plum and pepper notes. Its slightly sweet edge and bold profile make it excellent for dishes with a touch of sweetness or spice, like barbecue ribs, pulled pork, or tomato-based curries. Choose a young, unoaked bottle for cooking, as the freshness will lift the dish without overpowering it. Available from: Laithwaites (from £14.99) Ocado (from £9) Waitrose Cellar (from £10) Virgin Wines (from £10.99) Majestic (from £11) Perfect Cellar (from £15.95) Grenache Available from Laithwaites (from £12.99), Majestic (from £7.50), Waitrose Cellar (from £7.50), Ocado (from £9.50), Virgin Wines (from £9.99), Perfect Cellar (from £10.95) Best red wine for Mediterranean dishes Grenache (also known as garnacha in Spain) is a juicy, medium-bodied wine with red berry, white pepper and herbal notes. Its lightness and moderate tannins make it a favourite for Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, lamb tagine and vegetable stews, as it enhances the sweetness of the roasted veg and balances more savoury spices like cumin, sumac, paprika and garlic. Its fruit-forward profile also works well in sauces for poultry and pork. Available from: Laithwaites (from £12.99) Majestic (from £7.50) Waitrose Cellar (from £7.50) Ocado (from £9.50) Virgin Wines (from £9.99) Perfect Cellar (from £10.95) Beaujolais Available from Laithwaites (from £9.99), Waitrose Cellar (from £10.50), Ocado (from £11), Majestic (from £12), Virgin Wines (from £15.99), Perfect Cellar (from £20.95) Best red wine for sausage casserole Made from the gamay grape, Beaujolais is known for its snappy red berry flavours and gentle violet notes. It also has a natural acidity that helps cut through fattier meats like sausages – ideal for comforting recipes like our one-pot sausage casserole with garlic breadcrumbs. It's also versatile enough to work with a range of ingredients, from earthier salads to tomato-based sauces, seamlessly blending with the other flavours without dominating the dish. Available from: Laithwaites (from £9.99) Waitrose Cellar (from £10.50) Ocado (from £11) Majestic (from £12) Virgin Wines (from £15.99) Perfect Cellar (from £20.95) Can you freeze red wine for cooking? Red wine can be frozen for cooking, and it's a handy trick to reduce waste and ensure you always have some on hand for recipes. To freeze red wine, pour it into an ice cube tray or silicone mould and leave a little room for it to expand. Once the wine has frozen, you can transfer the cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container, label it with the type of wine and date and store for up to three months. Each cube should equate to roughly two tablespoons, but this will depend on the size of your ice cube tray. When you're ready to use the wine, add as many cubes as you need directly into your recipe – there's no need to thaw them first, but you should avoid refreezing once melted. How long can you keep opened wine for cooking? A bottle of wine will start to oxidise as soon as it's opened, which gradually dulls its flavour and aroma, but for cooking purposes, it'll last much longer than it would if you were planning to drink it. In general, you can keep opened wine for up to two weeks for cooking, as long as it's stored properly. To maximise its shelf life, reseal the bottle tightly with its original cork, screw cap or a reusable wine stopper. Keep it in the fridge, regardless of whether it's red or white, as the cooler temperatures will slow down oxidation and help to preserve the wine's flavour profile. Red wine tends to last longer than white once opened as the tannins act as a natural preservative, while fortified wines like port and sherry can last several months because of their higher alcohol content. In any case, if the bottle has been open for a while, give your wine a quick sniff or taste before you use it – if it smells or tastes vinegary or unpleasantly sour, it's best to throw it away. Related reviews Best Pinot Noir Best Malbec Best Rioja Best pinot grigio Best champagne Best prosecco Best rosé Best classic whisky Best brandy Wine deals Champagne deals
As the brand behind the Always Pan and Wonder Oven air fryer, Our Place's pastel-coloured ultra-versatile cookware continues to be all over our social media feeds – but is it worth the money?
Anyone with a social media algorithm tuned into cookware, food or interiors will be familiar with Our Place. As the brand behind the Insta-famous Always Pan and the Wonder Oven, it's the epitome of the millennial kitchen aesthetic: where soft pastels and earthy hues meet practical design and storage. Most of us accumulate pots and pans of all shapes and sizes, then tuck them away in various drawers and cupboards, but for Our Place it's about the opposite. Its cookware is multifunctional, so in theory you only need one of its pans to do the job of several, and it's so good looking that you'll want to keep it out on display permanently. The brand has also just launched a new 'butter yellow' cookware range in partnership with Crocs and US cook Molly Baz. But as every Instagram or TikTok influencer affirms that Our Place is a must-buy brand, you might be asking: is the hype actually justified? We've spent our fair share of time testing Our Place products over the past four years, and we've put everything from the Perfect Pot to the Wonder Oven through its paces in the Good Food Test Kitchen – measuring against everything from ease of use and quality of materials, to sustainability and cooking results. This means we know exactly which pieces of Our Place's cookware will give you bang for your buck, and how it compares to other brands on the market like HexClad, ProCook and Le Creuset. For more advice and product recommendations, read our guides to the best non-stick frying pans, best pan sets and best casserole dishes. Jump to: Is Our Place worth it? What are Our Place pans made of? Is the Always Pan worth it? When does Our Place have sales? Our top-rated Our Place products What are the best Always Pan alternatives? Where to buy Our Place cookware Is Our Place worth it? Deciding whether Our Place is worth the hype (and cost) comes down to a few different factors: how much budget you have to spend; what you want from your cookware; and how much space you have in your kitchen. Here are a few things to consider before you hit the buy button: Our Place offers a lifetime warranty on its titanium, cast-iron and steel cookware Its non-stick, silicone, plastic, wood and ceramic products, and the Wonder Oven air fryer, only have a one-year guarantee The cookware is designed to be multifunctional, negating the need for lots of different pots and pans Its non-stick coating is PFA-free, which means it's made without PFTE (commonly known as Teflon) It can more expensive than other brands, with prices starting at £100 for the Mini Always Pan Our testers have found the non-stick of the Always Pan degrades after a year or so, even after proper care and use All the products are well made, stylishly designed and available in a range of colours – including the new limited-edition 'butter yellow' The ceramic non-stick pans are oven-safe but not metal utensil safe or dishwasher-safe To maintain the non-stick, Our Place advises against exposing its pans to high temperatures The brand uses recycled materials for its cookware and all its packaging is plastic-free What are Our Place pans made of? For many, the main selling point of Our Place's cookware and bakeware is that it's PFA-free, which means it's made without chemicals like PTFE (also known as Teflon). Traditional non-stick materials like PTFE are safe to use providing you use non-metal utensils, avoid abrasive scrubbers and don't overheat them (above 260C/500F) – you can read more about this in our guide on how to care for non-stick cookware. Most of the general health concerns around non-stick actually centre around another chemical, PFOA, which was banned in the UK in 2005. When it comes to overall construction, the Always Pan 2.0 and Perfect Pot are made with a ceramic non-stick coating and 100 per cent recycled aluminium exterior, which means they're lightweight and heat quickly. If you're after cookware with a bit more heft, Our Place's Titanium Pro range has a stainless steel exterior with an aluminium core and titanium interior, which means it's metal utensil safe and can handle high temperatures (up to 400C). Enamelled cast iron has been used to create the Cast-iron Always Pan, and compared to other cast-iron skillets we've tested, it's remarkably lightweight at 4.2kg. Is the Always Pan worth it? The Always Pan is undoubtedly Our Place's hero product, having launched first in the UK in 2021 – and then again as the Always Pan 2.0 in 2023. We were fans of the original Always Pan when we tested it in 2021, rating it 4/5 stars, and its smooth non-stick and even heat distribution impressed us. However, at £125, we weren't sure the cost was justified and felt there were plenty of other pans as effective but much cheaper. Unlike similarly priced offerings, like those from Le Creuset and HexClad, the original Always Pan also couldn't go in the oven. So, when Our Place launched the oven-safe Always Pan 2.0 in 2023, it was music to our ears. Like the original, it comes with an integrated stainless steel steamer basket, beechwood spatula and heatproof handle. We awarded it 5/5 stars in testing and rated its impressive non-stick performance, lightweight build and fully recyclable packaging. To maintain the effectiveness of the non-stick, high temperatures are best avoided, which makes searing and frying more difficult. With this in mind, the Always Pan 2.0 is perhaps less versatile than it makes out, though Our Place did share with us that "the occasional sear is totally fine". For this kind of cooking, the Titanium Always Pan Pro, which can handle temperatures of up to 400C, might be the better choice. In our experience, the non-stick coating also starts to degrade after a year or so, even with proper care and use – so this is something to bear in mind. If you're just looking for a new frying pan, you will find more affordable options that do the job just as well. However, we do think it's a solid pick for anyone lacking cupboard space or looking for a statement piece of cookware that looks attractive on the counter. We also love a brand that takes sustainability seriously, and Our Place's commitment to an ethical chain of production and plastic-free packaging are worth applauding. How to clean the Always Pan Using a dishwasher to clean your cookware undoubtedly saves time and effort, but high temperatures and powerful detergents will impact the longevity of the non-stick coating. So, to make sure your Always Pan stands the test of time, make sure you only wash it by hand once it's cooled – warm water, mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge are all you need. If you're tackling burnt-on residue, simply sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the pan's surface, add a splash of water to form a paste, then gently rub with a soft sponge before rinsing thoroughly. When does Our Place have sales? Our Place runs sales events regularly throughout the year, and even though Black Friday doesn't fall until Friday 28 November, the brand has just launched its Black Friday sale for 2025. The biggest deals we've seen so far include £35 off the Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro (was £170, now £135) and £26 off the Perfect Pot (was £135, now £109). You can also save £40 on the Our Place Wonder Oven (was £195, now £155). The Always Pan 2.0 is available at a discounted price of £99, too – that's a saving of 21%. That said, last year we saw the price drop as low as £80, so it may fall again as we get closer to Black Friday itself. Our top-rated Our Place products If you need some help deciding, we've selected a few of our top-rated Our Place products below – all of which have been tried and tested by the Good Food product reviews team. Always Pan 2.0 Available from Our Place (£99), Selfridges (£99), Fenwick (£99), Amazon (£125), Harrods (£125) Star rating: 5/5 An upgrade of the pan that started it all, the Always 2.0 is the do-it-all piece of cookware that's "deep enough to roast a chicken and shallow enough to flip an egg". It's oven-safe up to 230C, can be used as a steamer with the handled steamer basket (included) – which also doubles as a colander – and comes with a wooden spatula that nestles into the handle. It's incredibly light for its size and build, and comes in five colours. We also found the ceramic non-stick coating ultra smooth and achieved speedy results, and even browning when cooking omelettes in test. Read more in our guide to the best non-stick frying pans. Available from: Our Place (£99) Selfridges (£99) Fenwick (£99) Amazon (£125) Harrods (£125) Our Place griddle pan Available from Amazon (£110) Star rating: 4.5/5 Functioning as a roasting tray, generous baking sheet and stovetop griddle, the multi-purpose Griddle Pan is a serious piece of kit, though it comes with a bit of a catch. It's not induction-friendly, but at 53cm wide it's large enough to cover two electric hob rings or gas burners. It's also oven-safe up 230C, but the size of it does mean it won't fit inside a standard oven, so you'll need a range oven if you want to roast or bake with it. For those who have the space, though, it's a brilliant pick for feeding guests or a large family. In test we cooked eight sizeable American-style pancakes in one go and, despite the uneven spreading, all of them were perfectly cooked and slipped onto a plate with no trouble. Read our full guide to the best pancake pans. Available from: Amazon (£110) Our Place Perfect Pot Available from Our Place (£109), Selfridges (£109), Amazon (£135), Harrods (£135) Star rating: 4.5/5 Our Place has channelled the colourful, multifunctional design of the Always Pan into its 5.2-litre casserole dish, also known as the Perfect Pot. It can be used as a stock pot, dutch oven, saucepan, roasting rack, steamer, strainer, and braiser, and a spoon rest has been incorporated, too. Like the Always Pan, the non-stick coating is PFA-free and our pot arrived in plastic-free packaging. It's more lightweight than other casserole dishes we've tested, which meant it shifted around on the hob a little while stirring. On the plus side, this meant we could effortlessly transport it from the countertop to the oven to the table. Read our first-look review of the Our Place Perfect Pot, plus our full guide to the best casserole dishes. Available from: Our Place (£109) Selfridges (£109) Amazon (£135) Harrods (£135) Always Pan Titanium Pro Available from Our Place (£135), Selfridges (from £135), Amazon (£185), Harrods (£185) Star rating: 4/5 For those who love the multi-functionality of the Always Pan 2.0 but want the searing power of cooking on stainless steel, the Titanium Pro is an excellent choice. Its tri-ply set-up, made from aluminium, titanium and stainless steel, doesn't rely on coating or chemicals, but will require a little seasoning with oil before use. The surface of the pan also has a mesh-like texture, which prevents food from sticking but did leave a noticeable imprint behind on our American-style pancakes. Unlike the Always Pan 2.0, it's metal utensil safe, too. For the price it's not the most premium-looking frying pan, though it does feel robust and with the right care should withstand years of use. Read more in our full guide to the best non-stick frying pans. Available from: Our Place (£135) Selfridges (from £135) Amazon (£185) Harrods (£185) Our Place Wonder Oven Available from Our Place (£155), Selfridges (£155), Harrods (£195) Star rating: 4/5 Our Place jumped on to the air fryer trend in 2024 with the launch of the Wonder Oven, which sports the same chic, colourful design as the rest of its product range. The Wonder Oven has proved to be a huge hit on social media, and in test we had a great time cooking with it. Functions include air fry, grill, roast, bake, toast and reheat, and though it's a little noisy and slower than other air fryers we've tested, we found it a doddle to use. All our dishes were nicely browned and evenly cooked, and accessories like a wire rack, non-stick baking sheet and air fryer basket are thrown in, too. Read our first-look review of the Our Place Wonder Oven, plus our full guide to the best air fryers. Available from: Our Place (£155) Selfridges (£155) Harrods (£195) What are the best Always Pan alternatives? Our Place is still the frontrunner when it comes to multifunctional 'everything' pans, but in the last couple of years we've spotted a handful of dupes from the likes of Aldi, M&S and ASDA. There's also Ninja's Foodi 9-in-1 PossiblePan, which is roughly the same price as the Always Pan – it's now widely out of stock but still currently available at Very. This summer, we also saw the release of the Lakeland 8-in-1 Only Pan, which is similar in terms of versatility but over 50% cheaper at just £59.99. Like the Always Pan, it has a PFA-free non-stick ceramic coating, integrated steamer basket and domed lid with an incorporated utensil rest, and can be used for steaming, searing, sautéing and more. We're yet to test the performance of the Only Pan, but as looks go, Lakeland definitely got the memo. There's a choice of three colours – 'sage green' has been a sell-out – and the shape and style of the pan closely resemble those of the Always Pan. Where they differ is the Always Pan can handle higher oven temperatures – up to 230C – so can be used for roasting and baking, where the Only Pan is only oven-safe up to 150C. The Only Pan is 3.5L, so slightly larger than the standard-sized Always Pan (2.5L), and because of this it's a little heavier too (1.79KG, versus 1.36KG). Our Place says it offers a 'limited lifetime warranty' on its non-stick products – dig a little deeper and you'll find the guarantee is actually three years if the pan is purchased after 1 May 2025 (or one year if the pan is bought before this date). Lakeland, on the other hand, offers a 10-year guarantee on the Only Pan. Where to buy Our Place cookware You can buy Our Place products directly from its website, as well retailers like Harrods, Selfridges, Fenwick and Amazon. Related reviews Best non-stick frying pans Best saucepans Best pan sets Best griddle pans Best sauté pans Best pancake pans Best cast iron skillets Best casserole dishes Best stainless steel frying pans Best paella pans How to store pans How to care for non-stick cookware Interested in Le Creuset and HexClad? We're also answered 'is HexClad worth it?' and 'is Le Creuset worth it?' in similar guides.
Top reasons to go to the Good Food Show Winter
Get into the festive spirit at the Good Food Show Winter 2025! Discover top chefs, tastings, gifts and seasonal recipes for the ultimate foodie day out
A festive day out awaits! From 27-30 November at NEC Birmingham, the Good Food Show Winter 2025 offers everything you need to kick off the holiday season. With an incredible lineup of chefs, tastings and shopping, this year’s event will be bursting with festive spirit. We’ve highlighted 10 reasons why you won’t want to miss it. Secure your tickets now for a memorable foodie adventure! Book now 11 Reasons to join us this winter 1. Top chefs & experts See your favourite stars in the Big Kitchen, your front-row ticket to watch some of the UK’s biggest culinary names in action. From mouthwatering dishes to a lively festive atmosphere, it’s set to be a highlight of your day, with a star-studded 2025 line-up including James Martin, Si King, Rachel Allen, Lisa Faulkner, Jane Dunn of Jane’s Patisserie and host Marcus Bean. 2. Taste & shop This year, shop from 350+ handpicked producers, from big-name brands and brand-new product launches to small artisan creators and discovering your new favourite snack. In the new Gifting Village area of the show, you can find stocking fillers and gifts alike and connect with the makers bringing their creations to life. This is your one-stop destination for festive gifting, from winter treats and stocking fillers to Christmas gadgets, helping you prepare for the big day in style. 3. Calling all Good Food subscribers If you subscribe to Good Food magazine, or to the Good Food app, you get exclusive access to the Good Food Subscriber’s Lounge at the show. It’s a great spot to take a break from the bustle of the show with a tea or coffee while listening to the action next door at the Let’s Talk Good Food Stage, plus to meet your favourite chefs at exclusive book signings. 4. Seasonal recipes Dive into the festive spirit at the Christmas Kitchen, hosted by Chris Bavin. It’s your go-to spot for cosy festive recipes made by a star-studded line-up. From Chariya Khattiyot to Ping Coombes and The Happy Pear, they will be making their favourite festive treats while spreading Christmas cheer to get you in the holiday spirit. 5. Indulgent tasting sessions For wine lovers, celebrate with Grant Hedley at the Good Food Wine Club, the perfect way to learn which wines you should be serving this festive season. Consider yourself a cheese lover? Head to the new Cheese Hub, with experts Keith Kendrick, Sam and Amy Brice from Freshly Ground PR and take a seat as you sample cheese and learn tips and tricks to level up your cheeseboard game this Christmas. It’s the ultimate excuse to eat more cheese. 6. Good Food Hub New for the 2025 show, don’t miss the Good Food Hub. Head here to find the Let’s Talk Good Food Stage, book signings, Good Food Kitchen, Subscriber Lounge and new Good Food merch. 7. Good Food Kitchen Take a seat at the free-to-attend Good Food Kitchen, where magazine recipes come alive, with chefs such as Brin Pirathapan, Karan Gokani, Max La Manna, and more. It’s is the perfect place to pick up top tips from familiar faces that are sure to impress your friends and family. 8. Fabulous food finds tasting theatre Love discovering something new, interesting and delicious to delight your taste buds? From artisan coffee tastings, new artisan finds, game-changing spices, sweet treats and more to choose from, you’ll be guided through an outstanding selection of food and drink products to taste and enjoy. Plus, head over to the new Fabulous Food Finds Marketplace to shop from the producers. 9. Chefs unplugged: insights into their culinary journeys The Let’s Talk Good Food Stage is the go-to spot to get up close with your favourite show stars, as they dive into everything from kitchen hacks and behind the scenes stories, to seasonal secrets and tricks. Head here for the Good Food Podcast live, plus brand-new Kitchen Clinic sessions, with themes ranging from perfecting roast potatoes to mastering veggie centrepieces for your table. 10. Brand new Christmas Table Get hands-on in an elevated, intimate workshop on the beautiful Christmas Table, led by show stars including Becky Excell, Cyrus Todiwala and more. With an arrival drink in hand, book your spot with sessions including magical masalas, canapé creations with Louisa's Honey, gluten-free festive cupcakes, edible Christmas gifts, the perfect charcuterie board and more. 11. Magical moments Experience the thrill of connecting with your favourite culinary stars. After watching them showcase their skills, you’ll have the chance to meet them at the book signing sessions. Meet your idols up close, snap a selfie and have your copy of their book signed – an unforgettable keepsake from your foodie adventure. Inspired? Book your tickets to the Good Food Show Winter now and enjoy the ultimate foodie day out! We’re looking forward to seeing you there. Book tickets now.
Belgian waffles are thicker, fluffier and lighter than American-style waffles. Top with whatever you fancy, like fruit, ice cream or bacon
Make these super green muffins as a first weaning food. Made with spinach, cheese and wholemeal flour, they're a good first food for babies from six months
The best Christmas gifts to buy for foodies – food, drink, gadgets, homewares and more
The definitive guide to the best Christmas gifts for foodies, from home kits, gadgets and homeware, to edible and alcoholic presents
Looking for a food- or drink-inspired gift for Christmas? Look no further. We've compiled some of the very best Christmas presents for the budding chefs, passionate foodies and kitchen gadget lovers in your life. For a dose of gift magic, why not treat others or yourself to homeware too, from kitchen accessories and cookware, to unique handmade tableware. These are the ultimate foodie Christmas gifts to find under the tree this year. From gourmet food gifts that tickle the tastebuds, to your favourite food lover's top tipple, there are plenty of gifts to choose from, so treat those you love or even yourself – why not brighten up your own kitchen cupboards? There are indulgent sweet treats, special bottles for a home bar, useful gadgets, gorgeous homeware ideas, and so much more. Browse the list for gift inspiration and then check out our guides for much more, including the best Christmas hampers, best wine gifts or best gifts for cocktail lovers. You can also check out coffee table books on our sister brand olive magazine. Jump to section: Best food gifts for Christmas Best drink gifts for Christmas Best gadgets and kit gifts for Christmas Best home and kitchen gifts for Christmas Best food gifts for Christmas Black Bee Christmas honey Available from Black Bee Honey (£8.95) Slip a jar of seasonal honey into a Christmas stocking. This one is soft-set with notes of almond and vanilla for a marzipan-like finish. Available from: Black Bee Honey (£8.95) Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea for two Available from Virgin Experience Days (£140 for 2) This afternoon tea is something special. Head to Fortnum & Mason for an elegant afternoon tea in a salon opened by HM The Queen, featuring luxurious finger sandwiches, warm scones with velvety lemon curd, and seasonal patisseries. Enjoy a variety of teas including the famous smoky Earl Grey and champagne highlights like a light Brut rosé and Fortnum’s Brut sparkling from Cornwall. Available from: Virgin Experience Days (£140) DukesHill The Ruby Celebration hamper Available from DukesHill (£225) You can always count on DukesHill for an extra special hamper, and this year doesn't disappoint if you're looking for an extra special Christmas gift. The classic wicker basket is filled with 15 items to last throughout the festive season and has something for everybody. On the savoury side, treats include a 1.2kg ham, a slab of Montgomery's Cheddar, piccalilli and crackers (great for a Boxing Day buffet). For the sweet tooth, you'll find mince pies, Christmas pudding, fudge, a large tin of buttery shortbread (our highlight) and mini panettone. Finishing extras include a bottle of fizz and DukesHill tote. Available from: DukesHill (£225) MELT orange slices dipped in dark chocolate Available from MELT (£22.99) This is the box of chocolates we want to find under the tree: juicy confit orange slices dipped in 70 per cent dark chocolate, scattered with cocoa nibs. Available from: MELT (£22.99) Venchi maxi murrine book Available from Venchi (£40) A luxury take on your classic box of chocolates that makes a special gift for someone with a sweet tooth. This elegant book-shaped keepsake tin from Venchi is filled with a colourful variety of their bestselling chocolates, each one a treat to unwrap. Expect plenty of rich gianduja, a variety of milk, dark and extra dark options, on-trend pistachio and fun tiramisu flavoured bites in amongst this grown-up selection. Available from Venchi (£40) Sylt Great Taste pickling starter pack Available from Not on the High Street (£26.99) Homemade pickles have never been easier. You only need to add fruit or veg to these jars of seasonally spiced liquor. The interesting flavours include Scotch Bonnet & Lemon or Dill & Mustard. Available from: Not on the High Street (£26.99) Grind x Baileys coffee pods Available from Grind (from £5.25 for 10) Give a coffee lover a Christmassy start to the day with pods infused with the iconic creamy flavour of Baileys, minus the alcohol. Available from: Grind (from £5.25 for 10) Cookies & cream malt balls Available from Selfridges (£9.99) A fancy edition of a favourite, these malt balls are coated in white chocolate and crunchy cookie pieces with an impressively deeply malty crunchy centre. Available from: Selfridges (£9.99) The Real Cure British charcuterie signature hamper Available from Not on The High Street (£45) Celebrate artisan British produce with a hamper packed with salamis, coppa and venison pepperoni. The spicy Dorset chorizo is our favourite. Available from: Not on The High Street (£45) Fitzbillies Chelsea buns Available from Fitzbillies (£24 for 6-pack) Cambridge-based bakery Fitzbillies has been making these iconic buns since 1920 and this subscription sees six buns delivered to the lucky recipient's door, complete with sticky bun syrup. Available from: Fitzbillies (£24) Yiayia and Friends olive oil Available from Fenwick (£40) Beautifully designed bottles encase equally beautiful tasting fresh and flavourful Greek olive oil. Whether you’re opting for the original extra virgin olive oil option or one of Yiayia’s infused offerings (choose from lemon, basil, chilli, truffle and garlic), these lovingly produced oils are sure to make the perfect gift. Available from: Fenwick (£35) Cutter & Squidge classic chocolate mini brownie box Available from Cutter & Squidge (£18.99) Who is ever going to say no to a box of brownies? Choose from a gift box of 12 or 24, and receive pre-cut, fudgy, ganache-topped brownies delivered straight through the door. Available from: Cutter & Squidge (£18.99) Summerdown ultimate mint chocolate collection Available from Summerdown (£9.99) Who says selection boxes are just for Christmas? Ideal for sharing in front of some TV at any time of year, this is the ultimate selection box for a mint chocolate fan. Available from: Summerdown (£9.99) Spice Pots Curry Night kit Available from Not on the High Street (£21.95) Spice Pots have made curry night simple with four clever dried spice blends (korma, bhuna, tandoori masala and Goan) plus recipes to make you a curry pro in no time. Available from: Not on the High Street (£21.95) Imp & Maker Italian Food Lovers hamper Available from Imp & Maker (£59) Full to the brim with Italian essentials, this hamper from Imp and Maker makes the perfect gift for the person in your life who is obsessed with all things Italy. There’s everything you’d need to accompany an afternoon aperitivo, from cured meats and cheese, to Perello olives and cannoli. Plus, almost everything you need to make a punchy arrabbiata with spaghetti. Mangia bene! Available from: Imp & Maker (£59) HydroHerb gift set Available from HydroHerb (£60, set of 3) If you're buying a gift for someone green-thumbed, a herb kit from HydroHerb is a fabulous choice. Pick your choice of herbs, there are 12 to choose from, and receive three, full-sized kits. Eco-friendly in design, the HydroHerb kit is crafted from a recycled wine bottle and has hand-smoothed edges for safety. Perfect for those short on space, this easy-to-maintain kit ensures fresh herbs for up to two years with organic hydroponic fluid plus spare parts for maintenance. Available from: HydroHerb (£60, set of 3) Trulli Ulivi olive oil Available from Trulli Ulivi (£22.50) Produced in Puglia, this peppery olive oil is just the thing for drizzling over roast veg or dipping bread. Available from: Trulli Ulivi (£22.50) Best drink gifts for Christmas Nemiroff wild cranberry vodka Available from Amazon (£21.50) Did you know Ukraine is one of the biggest exporters of cranberries in the world? Nemiroff have been producing vodka in Ukraine since 1872 and this tart, fruity version is perfect for a festive punch. Check out our best cocktail gifts for 20 present ideas for cocktail lovers. Available from: Amazon (£21.50) Portofino Gin Available from Master of Malt (£43.50), The Whisky Exchange (£43.50) Here’s a pretty addition to someone’s bar cart collection. This Mediterranean-inspired gin contains 21 botanicals including lavender, rosemary and sage. Available from: Master of Malt (£43.50) The Whisky Exchange (£43.50) Mijenta reposado tequila Available from Harvey Nichols (£60), Master of Malt (£60.49), Selfridges (£67.99) Newly B-corp certified, this extra special artisan tequila is carbon-neutral, made in small batches and aged for six months for a complex final spirit. Read our round-up of the best tequilas to buy for more top-quality options. Available from: Harvey Nichols (£60) Master of Malt (£60.49) Selfridges (£67.99) Avallen calvados Available from Ocado (£37.50), The Whisky Exchange (£38.75), Amazon (£34.99) Every bottle of this floral, fruity calvados removes 2.73kg of CO2 from the atmosphere (as the apple trees absorb it), for a sustainable, quality spirit choice. Available from: Ocado (£37.50) The Whisky Exchange (£38.75) Amazon (£34.99) Orangino gin liqueur Available from English Spirit (£26) This would be a welcome addition to a cocktail lover’s drinks cabinet – a splash of English orange liqueur adds a citrussy kick to a glass of fizz. Available from: English Spirit (£26) Lockdown Liquor agave cocktail gift set Available from Lockdown Liquor (£45) Mezcal takes centre stage in this set, with a smoky mezcal picante, mezcal negroni (for a twist on the Italian classic) and a classic passion fruit margarita. Available from: Lockdown Liquor (£45) Best gadget and kit gifts for Christmas Ninja Crispi Available from Amazon (£129.99), John Lewis & Partners (£149), Ninja (£149.99), Currys (£149.99), Argos (£149.99) Splash out with this latest release from air fryer stalwarts Ninja – a clever four-in-one model that can air-fry, roast, reheat and keep warm. Its glass base allows you to keep an eye on progress. We gave it a 4.5/5 when our experts tested it. Available from: Amazon (£129.99) John Lewis & Partners (£149) Ninja (£149.99) Currys (£149.99) Argos (£149.99) Jamie Oliver proper pie dish Available from John Lewis (£30), Dunelm (£30), Robert Dyas (£29.99) Pretty in pink, this stoneware dish will make a pie look even more tempting – and it makes a lovely serving dish too. Available from: John Lewis (£30) Dunelm (£30) Robert Dyas (£29.99) Smeg mini milk frother Available from Smeg (£99.95), Selfridges (£100) Available in a rainbow of colours to match any kitchen, this sleek mini frother will become an essential for a coffee and matcha fan. Available from: Smeg (£99.95) Selfridges (£100) Addison Ross bow tie corkscrew Available from Addison Ross (£35) Get ready to pop bottles in style with this sleek colourful corkscrew which comes in a range of colourways – the ideal gift for wine lovers with an eye for design. Available from: Addison Ross (£35) Our Place Mini Always Pan and Mini Perfect Pot Available from Our Place, Mini Always Pan (£100), Mini Perfect Pot (£110) Following on from their ever popular Always collection and the Instagram-famous Always Pan, Our Place launched the multifunctional Mini Pot and Mini Pan for cooking smaller quantities, reheating leftovers and simmering sauces. They have a non-stick, non-toxic coating and are compatible with all hob types. Available from: Our Place, Mini Always Pan (£100), Mini Perfect Pot (£110) Kuhn Rikon Black Star iron skillet pan Available from Kuhn Rikon (£139.97) Chosen as our ‘best lightweight skillet pan’ in testing, this innovative spun iron skillet can go straight from hob to oven. A versatile investment built to last. Available from: Kuhn Rikon (£139.97) MEATER Pro thermometer Available from John Lewis (£129), Amazon (£103) Help someone take their Sunday roast up a notch with this sleek wireless thermometer for perfect results every time. Available from: John Lewis (£129) Amazon (£103) Cuisinart ice cream and gelato professional ICE100 Latest Deals Earning a five-star rating from our reviews team, this is the ultimate gift for ice cream fans, producing silky smooth gelato, ice cream and sorbet at the push of a button. Read more in our test of the best ice cream makers review. Available from: Lakeland (£299.99) Uashmama beverage chiller Available from Uashmama (from £30) Made of innovative and sustainable washable paper, this wine chiller stores flat in the freezer and comes in 10 colours. Available from: Uashmama (from £30) Smeg non-stick frying pan Latest Deals Choose between red, cream or black finishes on this non-stick frying pan, available in three sizes and ovenproof for versatility. Latest Deals Netherton Foundry spun iron focaccia pan Available from Sous Chef (£79) Focaccia has been all over our social feeds this year. This pan-for-life will be well received by a home baker and is also great for roast potatoes. Available from: Sous Chef (£79) Falcon Enamelware decorative cake tin Available from Falcon Enamelware (£34) Bake impressive cakes to share or set grand jellies in this chic white enamel tin. Available from: Falcon Enamelware (£34) Best home and kitchen gifts for Christmas Eleanor Bowmer star glass tumblers Available from La Redoute (£34, set of 4) <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2025/10/Pure-Table-Top-ELEANOR-BOWMER-FOR-PURE-TABLE-TOP-FABULOUSLY-FESTIVE-SET-OF-4-GLASS-TUMBLERS-40-8817296-copy-2261725.jpg" width="3898" height="2599" alt="Pure Table Top, ELEANOR BOWMER FOR PURE TABLE TOP FABULOUSLY FESTIVE SET OF 4 GLASS TUMBLERS, £40, 8817296 copy" title="Pure Table Top, ELEANOR BOWMER FOR PURE TABLE TOP FABULOUSLY FESTIVE SET OF 4 GLASS TUMBLERS, £40, 8817296 copy" /> A colourful quartet of glasses adorned with hand-painted stars to brighten up someone’s Christmas tablescape. Available from: La Redoute (£34, set of 4) Rolfe & Willis Sounds bone china mug collection Available from Not on the High Street (£50, set of 4) With patterns inspired by sounds, these colourful mugs will liven up any coffee morning. Available from: Not on the High Street (£50, set of 4) Neesh Home chilli crisp tea towel Available from Sous Chef (£14.99) A pop art tea towel for the person who adds chilli crisp to everything. Available from: Sous Chef (£14.99) Wick Guru buttery croissant candle Available from WickGuru (from £35), Not on the High Street (from £19) A friend will thank you for the scent of warm, fresh croissants with no baking required. This soy wax candle is handmade in the UK. Available from: WickGuru (from £35) Not on the High Street (from £19) LSA bowl set and paddle £50 Available from LSA International (£50) <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2025/10/Paddle-Pop-Bowl-Set-Ash-Paddle-L40cm-White-Tarn-Blue50-www.lsa-international.com-2-copy-350b945.jpg" width="2000" height="1333" alt="Paddle Pop Bowl Set & Ash Paddle L40cm, White Tarn Blue,_50, www.lsa-international.com (2) copy" title="Paddle Pop Bowl Set & Ash Paddle L40cm, White Tarn Blue,_50, www.lsa-international.com (2) copy" /> Drinks and nibbles get an upgrade with this smart bowl trio and serving board, ready to fill with olives, crisps, nuts or whatever your heart desires. Available from: LSA International (£50) Le Creuset Stoneware Camembert baker Latest Deals Serve up a melting Camembert in style with this glossy stoneware dish that gives perfectly gooey cheese every time. Latest Deals ‘Make mine an espresso’ print Available from Lyonette Designs (from £12) Must-have kitchen art for anyone who considers an espresso martini their go-to cocktail, plus 10 per cent of all sales are donated to a children’s charity. Available from: Lyonette Designs (from £12) So’home speckled cake stand Available from La Redoute (£34.99) Chic monochrome speckles won’t steal the limelight from the cake or tart a keen baker chooses to display on this simple cake stand. Available from: La Redoute (£34.99) Meri Meri gold star taper candles Available from Meri Meri (£18) Here’s a great way for your favourite host to make every dinner party sparkle. Available from: Meri Meri (£18) More gift inspiration... Best gifts for bakers Best letterbox gifts Best gifts for coffee lovers Best gins to give as gifts Best advent calendars Best sweet subscriptions and deliveries Best letterbox-friendly gifts by post Best gluten-free hampers to buy Best chocolate hampers to give Best cheese gifts 30 best gifts for coffee lovers Best jelly moulds Homemade Christmas drinks gifts If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
This leek and butter bean soup recipe will make lunchtime the highlight of your day
Soup season is upon us. Try our leek, butter bean and bacon soup for a dairy and gluten-free bowl full of flavour and bang on trend
With a crisp chill entering the air, there’s only one thing that can mean – soup season has arrived. Salads and light lunches make way for steaming bowls of something hearty, as we wrap our hands around bowls of comfort and settle into autumn. At Good Food, we notice two key moments when soup really takes centre stage: October, when we’re all seeking warmth and comfort, and January, when we’re looking for lighter, nourishing meals to kick-start the year. This leek, butter bean & bacon soup is the perfect all-rounder – creamy yet wholesome, dairy- and gluten-free and packed with flavour. It’s also bang on trend, with beans continuing to have their well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Affordable, versatile and full of plant-based protein, they’re a brilliant store-cupboard staple. Still need persuading? Take a look at our guide on reasons to eat more beans and pulses for plenty of reasons to embrace this humble ingredient. Discover more healthy soup recipes to get ahead of your health goals before the New Year. 1. Leek & butter bean soup with crispy kale & bacon With just 10 ingredients, this leek & butter bean soup comes together in under an hour for a comforting bowl that serves up to four. Finish with a garnish of crispy kale, smoky bacon and toasted hazelnuts for a salty, crunchy contrast. Keeping it vegan? Simply exclude the bacon. 2. Spicy pumpkin soup With Halloween just around the corner, give your jack-o’-lantern leftovers a second life in this spicy pumpkin soup. Don’t toss the seeds, roast them for a high-fibre, crunchy topping that adds extra texture. This recipe serves four and freezes beautifully, making it ideal for an easy lunch or a quick dinner on nights when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch. Check out more pumpkin recipes for sweet and savoury recipe inspiration. 3. Parsnip & miso soup with sesame croutons Sweet parsnips, thought to help boost serotonin levels, pair beautifully with savoury miso in this feel-good winter soup. Finish with crispy sourdough croutons, sesame seeds and a dollop of natural yogurt, then garnish with fresh coriander and serve alongside your favourite warm bread. Want to know more? Read our guide to the health benefits of parsnips and make the most of this seasonal veg with our parsnip recipes. 4. Butternut squash soup Having a tough day? We’re confident this butternut squash soup will lift your spirits. With more than 750 five-star reviews, it’s a tried-and-tested favourite among the Good Food community. A hint of chilli adds gentle warmth, while a swirl of crème fraîche brings a lovely creaminess. Give it a try and see why so many of our readers keep coming back to it. Looking for more comforting bowls on a budget? Take a look at our best budget-friendly soups to nourish the soul for recipes sure to give you a much-needed pick-me-up. 5. Cauliflower soup Make this creamy cauliflower soup for a comforting lunch or light supper. It’s delicious topped with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread. Follow our step-by-step images and helpful video tutorial to get it just right every time. For more ways to make the most of this versatile veg, take a look at our best ways with cauliflower guide. Then cut down on waste with our tips for using up cauliflower leaves, which are often discarded but are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. 6. Spiced lentil & butternut squash soup This spiced lentil & butternut squash soup is perfect for a Sunday batch cook to set you up for the week ahead. Made with just 10 ingredients, it serves 4-6 and freezes well, so you can portion it out for easy lunches or quick dinners when you’re short on energy. A wholesome, healthy and vegetarian option that’s full of flavour. For more ideas to help you get ahead on meal prep, take a look at our batch cooking recipes. 7. Ratatouille lasagne soup Combine two Italian favourites in this hearty vegetarian soup – lasagne and ratatouille. Serving four, it’s packed with vegetables and fibre, delivering four of your five-a-day. Pair it with our homemade crusty garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal. 8. Celery soup Looking for a low-calorie lunch that keeps you full until dinner? Our simple two-step celery soup makes up to four servings, so you can prep lunches for the week ahead. It’s an easy way to stay on track with your healthy eating goals. Check out more of our low-calorie lunch recipes because hitting your health goals doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavour. 9. Celeriac, pancetta & thyme soup It might not be the prettiest veg in the patch, but don’t overlook celeriac. Once blitzed with vegetable stock and double cream, its soft white flesh transforms into a beautifully smooth, velvety soup infused with bay and thyme. Finish with crispy pancetta for a salty crunch, then drizzle with olive oil to serve. 10. Tomato & pasta soup Looking for a budget-friendly soup to see you through to payday? This tomato & pasta soup makes the most of storecupboard staples like pasta, chopped tomatoes and chickpeas. Shop-bought pesto adds instant flavour, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Simple, healthy and perfect for those end-of-month meals. Check out more budget recipes to keep your spending on track. Like this? Check out more... Top winter soup recipes Soup maker recipes we're loving right now Most popular soup recipes Easy ways to make soup from leftovers Hearty soup recipes
Can your birth sign really influence how you should work out?
Does being a Gemini mean you should exercise differently to Scorpios or Libras? Discover how it could influence your habits
Chances are, that even if you don’t follow astrology, you still know what your star sign is. Horoscopes still feature in many magazines and newspapers, and reports suggest that 20 per cent of Brits and 30 per cent of Americans consider star signs to be useful in understanding one’s personality. However, the science doesn’t support the concept of astrology. Even a study that brought together 30 of the top ranked (by their peers) American and European astrologers to test whether astrology could be used to accurately identify personality traits, resulted in only a one in three success rate (that’s no better than if you or I had taken a random guess). But where star signs could be useful is in how they influence believers’ own interpretations of their personality traits. There are a number of studies claiming that if someone believes in astrology, it could influence how they view their own personality, effectively leading to a form of self-stereotyping. Psychotherapy has proven that thoughts can change behaviour, so believing you are a particular zodiac sign could actually shape the person the outside world sees. It’s possible that if you think you’re a certain star sign, you might start to adapt behavioural characteristics that align with it. And this is how astrology could potentially prove a useful tool in helping you to identify the type of workout that will be your best fit. Followers who relate to their birth sign can use this to help find a workout that appeals to their personality or character traits. The more comfortable you feel with a fitness regime, the more likely you are to continue it. So, if your actions sit within the celestial definition, shaping up with the stars might actually work! Common traits for your birth sign You’ll often see the 12 zodiac signs divided into four groups: fire, earth, air and water. Fire signs are Aries (March 21 – April 19), Leo (July 23 – August 22) and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and are associated with being energetic and passionate. Aries often grasps the nettle, being driven to take action. Leo is said to revel in the role of leader and Sagittarius are thought to be more adventurous than the norm. The earth signs are Taurus (April 20 – May 20), Virgo (August 23 – September 22) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) all of which lean towards stability and safety, recognised as being patient and practical. Taurus loves being in the comfort zone, while Virgo is known as a friend of the people, always willing to help out. Capricorns are thought to be focused and hard working. Gemini (May 21 – June 20), Libra (September 23 – October 22) and Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) are the air signs, thought to be smart, creative and good communicators. Additionally, Gemini is said to be inquisitive, Libra loves balance and harmony while Aquarius is innovative and often focused on the future. Finally, the water signs, Cancer (June 21 – July 22), Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) and Pisces (February 19 – March 20) are sensitive, in touch with their emotions and empathetic. Cancer is caring and nurturing and Scorpio is passionate and imaginative. Pisces can sometimes be seen as a bit of a dreamer. How to choose the right workout for your personality The key to sticking to exercise long enough to see results could be as straightforward as finding something you actually enjoy doing, according to research by UCL. More importantly, it has been suggested that personality type could be used to predict which forms of exercise you’ll probably like. The study used a modified version of the Big Five personality test (based on five key personality traits: openness, agreeableness, neuroticism, extraversion and conscientiousness) and discovered a correlation between exercise genre and personality traits. For example, extroverts enjoy high intensity, social workouts, while introverts prefer solo, more mindful activities. Neurotics feel more comfortable with interval training rather than endurance sessions and will often monitor their efforts, while conscientious types will focus on routine and the potential health benefits. Those with a friendly, open disposition, unsurprisingly favour varied and fun workouts. You may assume that the sound science behind the five-factor model, with roots dating back to Sigmund Freud, would be poles apart from a concept based on star-gazing. However, there’s a surprising overlap with fire signs slotting neatly into extraversion, earth signs leaning towards conscientiousness, air signs aligning with openness and water signs reflecting agreeableness. And both astrology and psychology share a common purpose in helping us to understand who we are. To identify your own personality using the Big Five model, try this simple test. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2025/10/GettyImages-1354937085-f096b33.jpg" width="2121" height="1414" alt="Digital illustration of the Solar system. Sun, Earth and planetary Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and the dwarf Pluto" title="Digital illustration of the Solar system. Sun, Earth and planetary Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and the dwarf Pluto" /> The best exercise for each star sign Matching exercise choices with the personality characteristics dictated, or merely influenced, by your star sign, results in the following recommendations to ensure you don’t just end up with sweat on your brow, but also with a smile on your face. Aries You might enjoy the buzz, toughness and instant gratification provided by HIIT, spin and combat fitness such as boxfit or martial arts, maybe even training for competition. Taurus Strength training, power walking and swimming provide consistency, the workouts give no surprises and therefore don’t cause any anxiety. Patience will enable you to go the course until the results manifest. Gemini With the typical a flirtatious streak, you’re the ideal candidate for pole dancing, although any group class or team sport could work due to the social aspect. Rock climbing would allow you to focus on your whole body and figure out the next move of hand or foot. Cancer Anything partner-based is ideal, such as circuit training, tennis and padel. Inwardly focused pursuits such as tai chi provide calm and you’re likely to feel at home in water-based activities like rowing and aqua fitness. Leo Dance classes, from Zumba to barre and Bollywood to contemporary will allow you to express yourself and afford you moments to be the centre of attention. HYROX, due to its competitive nature, could give you the opportunity to shine. Virgo Functional fitness training requires you to master the correct technique with balls, bells and bands, plus reformer Pilates will test and develop your ability to scan and correct your posture, both static and dynamic within a welcoming group environment. Libra A sociable nature and ample communication skills would make you a good candidate for ballroom dancing, and harmony required by balancing strength and flexibility, stillness and movement make yoga a great selection. Scorpio A great outlet for both passion and empathy is latin dance, so think salsa, cha cha and tango. You can really tap into your deeper emotions in binaural beats, a form of meditation based on listening to music of two different frequencies in each ear. Sagittarius High-energy activities to push your limits include circuits and spin classes, but also consider outdoor sports such as hiking, trail running or mountain biking to satisfy the adventurer in you. Capricorn Weight-training, maybe even powerlifting, will satisfy a goal-oriented nature, especially when you have the patience it takes to see results. Marathon-running requires effort and discipline, so this is a match that could see you flourish, too. Aquarius Try something a little different – aerial yoga, reformer Pilates and parkour will stretch your skills and your senses. Pisces Mindful activities such as qigong, stretch classes and meditation allow for quality moments of inwardly directed focus that will feed your life force. The natural flow of swimming might also float your boat. Overall, astrology is centred around the belief that your birth chart, a map of the celestial bodies at the exact moment you were born, provides a snapshot of the universe's energy at that very moment and can provide insights into your personality. It’s possible for your zodiac to influence your personality through the power of suggestion, and anything that could be used to identify which workouts you’re more likely to enjoy is of benefit. So while trying to find the right fitness activity for your personality could be the recipe for shape-up success, I’m pretty sure that when you were born makes no difference. Not 100 per cent sure though… it must be the Gemini in me. For more fitness inspiration and guidance: What is the best exercise for weight loss? How to work out at home What should I eat if I exercise in the morning? 1o ways to be the healthiest version of yourself