Oysters, Leeks and Toffee
Seasonal Foods and Food Festivals in January

Following so close on the culinary excess of Christmas, food festivals are thin on the ground in January.

This, I feel, is a shame, as January - dark and dank for most of the time - could really do with cheering up.

But maybe that's why January 8th is designated English Toffee Day!

Anyone who's ever lost a filling to the sticky, chewy sweet will understand it's cheering quality.

Made from nothing but sugar and cream, the energy hit can be considerable.

But January has other treats to offer if you're wondering what to cook.

Many artisan producers offer potted meats, fish and cheese after the Christmas excess and they make excellent lunches, partnered with nothing more than good bread and a selection of pickles and chutneys.

All the root vegetables are in prime condition, as are leeks - always good after a frost.

Locally caught white fish is excellent this month and so are oysters, so there's really no excuse not to make a gigantic fish pie to feed the family.

And with the weather often so sad, it's a great month for steamed puddings, too!