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Blog

​The Loss of the Original McDonald's French Fry

​The Loss of the Original McDonald's French Fry

Posted by Stelios on 21st Sep 2023

By fate, Interstate Foods, a shortening company, sought cost-effective measures and incorporated beef fat into the equation; they unwittingly birthed the oil that would soon bestow fame upon McDonald' … read more
​The Saga of the 2018 KFC Chicken Shortage

​The Saga of the 2018 KFC Chicken Shortage

Posted by Stelios on 18th Sep 2023

The KFC fried chicken shortage, spanning nearly a week, provides a quintessential lesson in logistics management. Why did the chicken refuse to cross the road, you ask? Well, blame it on a single p … read more
​The History of Fish and Chips

​The History of Fish and Chips

Posted by Emily on 18th Sep 2023

Ah, fish and chips - a delicious love story wrapped in newspaper and seasoned with a sprinkle of British culture. This quintessential dish, with its hot, flaky fish and crispy chips smothered in sa … read more
​Chorizo Mayonnaise

​Chorizo Mayonnaise

Posted by Emily on 17th Sep 2023

This delicious chorizo mayonnaise will become an essential part of your sauce collection. Bursting with flavour combines spice, smokiness, and creaminess to burgers, buttermilk-fried chicken, or ch … read more
​New Orleans Rémoulade

​New Orleans Rémoulade

Posted by Emily on 17th Sep 2023

This rémoulade is a luscious blend of mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and spices, making it a sophisticated version of tartare sauce. Etymology Rémoûlade (n.) Originating as a French salad dress … read more
​Chinese Crispy Fried Salt & Pepper Squid

​Chinese Crispy Fried Salt & Pepper Squid

Posted by Emily on 16th Sep 2023

We've put a fresh twist on the classic dish in Chinese restaurants, making it delightfully light and straightforward to prepare. Toasting the blend of peppercorns is a step you will want to take. A … read more
​Marie Rose Sauce

​Marie Rose Sauce

Posted by Emily on 15th Sep 2023

There's just something about Marie Rose Sauce that boosts seafood to another level. This iconic dipping sauce is not just for prawns; it's also a great companion for salmon, as a rusti … read more
​The Intriguing Tale of McDonald's Filet-O-Fish

​The Intriguing Tale of McDonald's Filet-O-Fish

Posted by Stelios on 5th Sep 2023

The Filet-O-Fish may not enjoy the same status as the Big Mac, but it's a McDonald's offering that has withstood the test of time since 1962. This simple fish sandwich, consisting of a fish filet, … read more
​Smokey & Sweet Tomato-Bacon Relish

​Smokey & Sweet Tomato-Bacon Relish

Posted by Emily on 4th Sep 2023

Indulge in a delectable relish teeming with bacon, onion, and tomato, subtly enhanced with maple syrup, demerara sugar, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Imagine this Tomato-Bacon Relish accompa … read more
​The Ultimate Umami Caesar Dressing

​The Ultimate Umami Caesar Dressing

Posted by Stelios on 3rd Sep 2023

Whipping up your own Caesar dressing is a doddle, and it trumps anything you can buy off the shelf. You can tailor it to your requirements, making it as garlicky or fishy as you fancy. Trust me, yo … read more
​Make-It-Yourself Homemade Corn Relish

​Make-It-Yourself Homemade Corn Relish

Posted by Emily on 2nd Sep 2023

This simple accompaniment pairs wonderfully with hot dogs, burgers, homemade fishcakes, and rustic haddock goujons. While you can easily purchase corn relish from a cash & carry, making … read more
​Zesty Jalapeño-Lime Mayonnaise

​Zesty Jalapeño-Lime Mayonnaise

Posted by Stelios on 1st Sep 2023

This Jalapeño-Lime Mayonnaise recipe is not just your run-of-the-mill sauce; it bursts with a stimulating blend of heat, tang, and freshness. It's the secret sauce your menu has been yearning for - … read more
​Cullen Skink Luxury Fishcakes

​Cullen Skink Luxury Fishcakes

Posted by Stelios on 1st Sep 2023

Indulge in the sumptuousness of these Smoked Haddock Fishcakes, a luxurious tribute to the Scottish classic Cullen Skink - a hearty, smoky haddock soup from the northeast coast of Scotland. … read more
​Introducing Alabama's White Wonder Sauce

​Introducing Alabama's White Wonder Sauce

Posted by Stelios on 28th Aug 2023

Indulge in a revelation that boldly stands apart from traditional red barbecue sauces. This lusciously creamy yet tangy Alabama White Sauce is perfect for lavishing over golden buttermilk-frie … read more
​Superior House-Made Ranch Dressing

​Superior House-Made Ranch Dressing

Posted by Stelios on 28th Aug 2023

Upgrade your menu with this exceptional house-made Ranch dressing. Its creamy texture and robust flavour profile surpass any shop-bought alternative, making it the perfect dipping sauce. Craf … read more
The Ultimate Classic Russian Dressing

The Ultimate Classic Russian Dressing

Posted by Emily on 27th Aug 2023

If you're fond of Thousand Island Dressing, you'll likely be equally obsessed with this Classic Russian Dressing. Like our other homemade sauce recipes like Classic Russian Dressing,  … read more
​Heavenly Tahini Sauce

​Heavenly Tahini Sauce

Posted by Stelios on 27th Aug 2023

Let your customers indulge in this luxurious and robust flavoured Tahini Sauce. Prepared with just a few ingredients like tahini paste, garlic, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, this sauce offers a … read more
​Easy & Delicious Steak Pie: A British Classic

​Easy & Delicious Steak Pie: A British Classic

Posted by Stelios on 24th Aug 2023

Who doesn't adore a hearty steak pie, especially after a gruelling day or to warm up on a chilly winter evening? This foolproof recipe is a doddle designed to save you time without skimping on flav … read more
​Subway: Closing the Book on Family Ownership

​Subway: Closing the Book on Family Ownership

Posted by Stelios on 24th Aug 2023

Subway, a leading sandwich chain, has entered a definitive agreement to be acquired by Roark Capital, a major private equity firm. This marks a significant shift for Subway, moving it away from nea … read more
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Wings

Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Wings

Posted by Nick on 14th Aug 2023

This korean fried chicken is super addictive, coated in a glossy sauce made from smoky ‘gochujang’ chilli paste, roasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger and tangy rice vinegar. The recipe can easily be … read more
A Helping Hand

A Helping Hand

Posted by Emily on 14th Aug 2023

What is your biggest asset? If you think about it, it should be your staff. Without them, where would you be?While costs are rising for you – wrapping is the latest commodity to go through the roof, d … read more
Greek Fried Chicken Drizzled With Honey

Greek Fried Chicken Drizzled With Honey

Posted by Nick on 13th Aug 2023

This recipe is fragrant and tasty; you wouldn’t usually think of greek food and fried chicken. This recipe is easy, and you prepare it in advance.  The chicken in this recipe is su … read more
Supercharge Your Mushy Peas: The Freezing Secret!

Supercharge Your Mushy Peas: The Freezing Secret!

Posted by Stelios on 12th Aug 2023

Fancy an uncomplicated trick to upgrade your pea game? Ever been caught off guard and wished for a quick stash of ready-to-cook peas? Dream of consistently creamy mushy peas every time you make them?E … read more
​Perfecting the Marrowfat Pea Soak

​Perfecting the Marrowfat Pea Soak

Posted by Stelios on 12th Aug 2023

We're all familiar with the routine of soaking marrowfat peas. The common adage has long been to let them steep overnight. But what does 'overnight' truly entail? 8 hours? Perhaps 12? Have you ever … read more
​The Ultimate Indulgence: Buttermilk Pancake

​The Ultimate Indulgence: Buttermilk Pancake

Posted by Emily on 12th Aug 2023

Pancakes reign supreme at the table, their flavour evoking the essence of breakfast: eggy, a touch salty, and just shy of sweet. Slightly indulgent yet entirely fitting for the morning, th … read more
​The Marvellous Art of Marrowfat Pea Washing!

​The Marvellous Art of Marrowfat Pea Washing!

Posted by Stelios on 12th Aug 2023

We're all rushed off our feet, especially in the hustle and bustle of a British Fish & Chip Shop. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of tasks, one mustn't forget a crucial pre-opening ritual: giving our spl … read more
​The Brit-Indian Fusion Fried Chicken

​The Brit-Indian Fusion Fried Chicken

Posted by Emily on 11th Aug 2023

Embrace the sublime fusion of British, Indian, and American culinary influences with this delectable fried chicken recipe. While it isn't purely Indian, this dish delights with authentic Indian fla … read more
​Crispy Battered Mini Sausages

​Crispy Battered Mini Sausages

Posted by Emily on 8th Aug 2023

There's a certain joy in a crispy battered sausage served with Ceres Curry Sauce. But what about making it more delightful by having a bounty of these small tasty treats? They're … read more
​Easy British Cheese Croquettes Recipe

​Easy British Cheese Croquettes Recipe

Posted by Stelios on 6th Aug 2023

Indulge in these divine croquettes featuring a trio of unique British cheeses. They are effortless to prepare and keep well for several days in the fridge. For a delightful twist, try serving them … read more
​Cooking Mushy Peas With An Induction Hob

​Cooking Mushy Peas With An Induction Hob

Posted by Emily on 6th Aug 2023

Induction hobs are unique compared to other available hobs, as they heat the pan directly instead of the hob ring. When you switch on an induction hob, a magnetic field underneath the surface is ac … read more
Effortless, Quick, and Delicious Flatbreads

Effortless, Quick, and Delicious Flatbreads

Posted by Stelios on 6th Aug 2023

The beauty of natural batter mix lies in its simplicity – just British flour and leavening agents, no needless additions. Sure, ready-made mixes are plentiful on the market, but i … read more
​Crispy Delights: Banana Fritters and Beyond

​Crispy Delights: Banana Fritters and Beyond

Posted by Emily on 6th Aug 2023

Immerse your customers in a delicious journey of flavours with our delightful dessert – the "Crispy Banana Fritters". This extraordinary recipe presents a mouth-watering blend of ripe bananas, arom … read more
​Considering Selling Your Fish & Chip Shop?

​Considering Selling Your Fish & Chip Shop?

Posted by Emily on 6th Aug 2023

It could be that you're contemplating selling your cherished Fish & Chip shop. Perhaps you're yearning for a grander venture, planning for a serene retirement or maybe even aiming to downscale. Reg … read more
​Taste of the Sea: The Supreme Fishcake

​Taste of the Sea: The Supreme Fishcake

Posted by Stelios on 6th Aug 2023

Our Supreme Fishcake is not your ordinary fishcake; it's an enticing concoction that reels you in with an exquisite blend of flavours that echo a traditional, comforting fish pie. This delicacy is … read more
​The Ultimate Salmon & Cod Fishcake Recipe

​The Ultimate Salmon & Cod Fishcake Recipe

Posted by Stelios on 5th Aug 2023

A bold title indeed, but this fishcake recipe truly earns its acclaim. In an age where consumers see salmon as a luxury and cod as an everyday favourite, why not bring these two together for a deli … read more
​Punchy Bacon & Blue Cheese Sauce

​Punchy Bacon & Blue Cheese Sauce

Posted by Stelios on 3rd Aug 2023

Indulge yourself in the robust flavours of this homemade sauce that's nothing short of a profit-maker in the kitchen. Far from mundane, this sauce brings a unique twist to your menu, so don't be co … read more
​Absolutely Splendid Homemade Onion Pakora

​Absolutely Splendid Homemade Onion Pakora

Posted by Stelios on 3rd Aug 2023

This is a straightforward recipe that takes hardly any time to prepare and can be made in advance. These Homemade Onion Pakoras might well be the upsell item you've been seeking. They're inexpensiv … read more
​Flavour-packed Sausage & Cheese Croquettes

​Flavour-packed Sausage & Cheese Croquettes

Posted by Stelios on 3rd Aug 2023

Delight your customer's taste buds with these delicious sausage and cheese croquettes featuring the Ceres Fishcake Mix and Rustic Breadcrumb. This simple yet flavourful recipe ensures a c … read more
​Savour the Flavour with Cheating Chicken Curry

​Savour the Flavour with Cheating Chicken Curry

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Aug 2023

Have you ever wished for a way to dazzle your customers with a fragrant, sumptuous chicken curry without fuss? Well, your culinary dreams are about to come true with our Cheating Chicken Curry. Uti … read more
​Crispy Salmon Tatsuta-Agé: A Japanese Delight

​Crispy Salmon Tatsuta-Agé: A Japanese Delight

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Aug 2023

Indulge in the exquisite taste of Salmon Tatsuta-Agé, a beloved Japanese tradition. This recipe brings the succulent flavours of marinated Salmon and the crunch of a perfect deep-fried coating. And … read more
​Tap Into Hidden Talent: Hire Ex-Offenders

​Tap Into Hidden Talent: Hire Ex-Offenders

Posted by Emily on 1st Aug 2023

Are you looking to fill a position with a skilled, enthusiastic employee? Your search might have taken you to online advertisements, in-house referrals, or the Jobcentre. But there's an untapped re … read more
Florigo Cleaning with Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner

Florigo Cleaning with Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner

Posted by Stelios on 28th Jul 2023

Maintaining your Florigo frying range is essential, given its sizeable investment. Regular cleaning with Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner ensures peak performance and a longer lifespan for your applia … read more
The Power of Regular Fryer Boil Outs

The Power of Regular Fryer Boil Outs

Posted by Stelios on 27th Jul 2023

We all love the tantalising aroma and satisfying crunch of freshly fried fish & chips. Whether it's crispy chicken tenders, calamari, or mouthwatering tempura prawns, there's something undeniably d … read more
​Understanding Acrylamide: What You Need to Know

​Understanding Acrylamide: What You Need to Know

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

Acrylamide is a natural chemical that forms when we cook starchy foods like bread and potatoes at high temperatures for a long time. When we fry, bake, roast, toast, or grill these foods above 120° … read more
Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

Celebrate the all-American classic with our delicious and crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe. The combination of tender chicken, creamy buttermilk, and a flavourful coating creates the perfect … read more
A Guide to Chipping & Treating Chips

A Guide to Chipping & Treating Chips

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

In this guide, we present two methods for preparing and treating chips, each yielding excellent results. Whether you follow the standard method or opt for the concentrated, fast soak method, you'll … read more
Improve Your Chips by Reducing Excess  Starch!

Improve Your Chips by Reducing Excess Starch!

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

Potatoes, those underground tubers grown on the roots of the potato plant, are the basis for popular foods like french fries, potato chips, and potato flour.  When fresh, potatoes … read more
Traditional Batter Mix sets new standards

Traditional Batter Mix sets new standards

Posted by Stelios on 18th Jul 2023

Introducing our latest creation: Traditional Batter Mix. As food enthusiasts, we are thrilled to share we have developed this exceptional batter mix specifically for foodservice operators like … read more
How to make Ceres Curry Sauce

How to make Ceres Curry Sauce

Posted by Stelios on 13th Jul 2023

The British public has a great affinity for curry sauce, particularly the one found in chip shops.  The Ceres Curry Sauce is a high-quality option designed for the chip shops of today. It contai … read more
The Fishermen's Chippy drives for quality

The Fishermen's Chippy drives for quality

Posted by Emily on 11th Jul 2023

As well as three fish and chip shops in southwest Cornwall, Tom Doran owns The Fishermen's Chippy mobile fish and chip van, which tours campsites and fetes during the week and attends functi … read more
How to make Ceres Gravy Mix

How to make Ceres Gravy Mix

Posted by Stelios on 10th Jul 2023

There's often debate about how Gravy should be enjoyed in the UK. While it's commonly served with roast dinners and pies with chips, pouring Gravy over fish and chips can spark a heated argument! But … read more
Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo

Posted by Nick on 19th Jun 2023

Pico de gallo is a traditional Mexican side dish with tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos.Pico de gallo is so effortless to make. You will need only five ingredients (six if you count the salt): ripe red … read more
Pineapple & Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce

Pineapple & Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce

Posted by Nick on 12th Jun 2023

Scotch bonnet chillies and pineapple belong together; this topical hot sauce is an absolute winner of a sauce. The recipe has minimal ingredients, takes no time to make, and lasts ages in … read more
A poem about fish and chips

A poem about fish and chips

Posted by Emily on 10th Jun 2023

Meeting and cooking for the Chelsea Pensioners on National Fish & Chip Day was a real honour and hearing their memories and stories of a dish they grew up on was absolutely fascinating. What we did … read more
Captain Thornton’s Leeds the way 

Captain Thornton’s Leeds the way 

Posted by Emily on 3rd Jun 2023

When most people hear the name Thornton’s, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the chocolatier. But if you’re from Leeds, it’s more likely to be the two fish and chip takeaways James and … read more
Breaking down barriers for disabled workers

Breaking down barriers for disabled workers

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2023

The government made it clear in its Spring Budget earlier this month that it is serious about getting people back into work, announcing a range of measures totalling £3.5 billion over five years to … read more
Spring Budget 2023

Spring Budget 2023

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2023

As we predicted, there were no major reforms in Jeremy Hunt’s first-ever Spring Budget as Chancellor that would directly help the hospitality industry, either in terms of a VAT cut or even a hint of a … read more
Introducing  Nick

Introducing Nick

Posted by Stelios on 18th Mar 2023

Coffee shops have expert baristas, cocktail bars have professional mixologists and at Ceres we have…Nick Damurakis! I’m delighted to welcome Nick to the Ceres team as our Business Deve … read more
What is Panne?

What is Panne?

Posted by Stelios on 11th Mar 2023

When writing articles on fishcakes or doing a demonstration, people always give us a funny look when we mention the word panné (also referred to as pane). We thought now would be a good time … read more
Top Catch turns its fortunes around

Top Catch turns its fortunes around

Posted by Emily on 11th Mar 2023

Making a good living from a convenience store on a parade of shops in Southampton, Raj Khaira decided to capitalise on the fact there were 185 flats above his shop yet no takeaways to service them … read more
A Balancing Act at Linfords

A Balancing Act at Linfords

Posted by Emily on 11th Mar 2023

Using Ceres products has enabled Chris Pithey to strike the perfect balance between serving homemade items and traditional chip shop favourites at Linfords in Market Deeping, Peterborough.  … read more
Garlic & Ginger Fried Cod

Garlic & Ginger Fried Cod

Posted by Stelios on 5th Mar 2023

Over the years, I have played with different types of fish coatings, not just in my current role but also when I worked back in the family fish and chip shops. But for the most part, any off-the- … read more
Exploring Monosodium Glutamate

Exploring Monosodium Glutamate

Posted by Stelios on 4th Mar 2023

WHAT IS MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE? Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular seasoning and flavour enhancer. It is the purest form of umami, the fifth taste sensation. Monosodium glutamate is widely used … read more
Tori Karaage

Tori Karaage

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Tori karaage, named after its cooking method (frying), is traditionally made with small, boneless chicken pieces, usually thigh meat. In this recipe, the chicken is marinated in fresh ginger, garli … read more
Fritto Misto

Fritto Misto

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Every culture does fried food, but Italians do it exceptionally well. In Italy, Fritto Misto is nearly always served as a first course and is especially lovely in bite-size pieces. We reco … read more
Crispy Hot Wings

Crispy Hot Wings

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Nothing beats a portion of delicious hot wings with a side of punchy bacon & blue cheese sauce. Chicken wings are cheap, tasty and addictive, and you can serve them as a side or a profit-maki … read more
Crispy Calamari

Crispy Calamari

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Golden, crispy, tender morsels of calamari. it’s the staple dish of many European and mediterranean holidays. but why can’t it be great here in the U.K? These days, squid (calamari) is available … read more
Nashville Hot Fried Chicken

Nashville Hot Fried Chicken

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Although I have never been to Nashville, hot fried chicken is one of my favourite foods. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and breaded to create a crispy shaggy crust, then basted with Nashville hot s … read more
Sour Cream & Chive Dip

Sour Cream & Chive Dip

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

Homemade Sour Cream and Chive Dip? This Sour Cream and Chive Dip recipe is the perfect dip. It is incredibly adaptable and packed with flavour, using only a few ingredients.It tastes better than buyin … read more
Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Posted by Nick on 4th Mar 2023

These deep-fried chicken tenders are one delicious treat that your customers will love! Marinated in buttermilk and Alpha Coated, they are juicy and succulent. Perfectly crispy, these tenders a … read more
British Pie Week

British Pie Week

Posted by Stelios on 19th Feb 2023

From 6th-12th March all eyes are on the pies as British Pie Week takes place, and we have all the bases covered. We’ve got everything from a really simple homemade steak pie that even you w … read more
Ceres Proves a Problem Solver for Auckley Friery

Ceres Proves a Problem Solver for Auckley Friery

Posted by Emily on 31st Jan 2023

David Nicolaou bought Auckley Friery in Auckley, Doncaster, almost 20 years ago. A traditional ‘80s shop at the time, it was dated with strip lighting down the middle and a suspended ceiling.  … read more
The Benefits of Being Small

The Benefits of Being Small

Posted by Emily on 24th Jan 2023

Having fried fish and chips seven days a week for 10 years and eventually burning themselves out, Terry Collinson and his wife Jennifer, downsized and bought a takeaway in Pagham, West Sussex, which t … read more
Miller's Keeps Moving Forward

Miller's Keeps Moving Forward

Posted by Emily on 8th Dec 2022

Millers certainly can’t be accused of resting on its laurels. Since winning Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in 2018, the York-based, family-run chippy has worked tirelessly to build its brand and carve o … read more
Homemade Coleslaw

Homemade Coleslaw

Posted by Nick on 29th Nov 2022

Set aside shop-bought versions of Coleslaw and supercharge your menu with homemade slaw. It’s an ideal side for Fish & Chips, kebabs, and homemade fried chicken.This Homemade Coleslaw recipe is a … read more
Pitco Fryer Cleaning with Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner

Pitco Fryer Cleaning with Ceres Deep Fryer Cleaner

Posted by Stelios on 1st Nov 2022

Pitco fryers are used by many restaurants and commercial kitchens. These deep fryers can produce a variety of fried foods, from chicken nuggets to fried chicken, in just a few minutes. That's why regu … read more
Every Day Is a School Day at Chez Fred

Every Day Is a School Day at Chez Fred

Posted by Miria on 1st Nov 2022

Even with 38 years in the fish and chip trade, the last 33 spent at Chez Fred in Bournemouth, Fred Capel still believes that every day is a school day.  There’s always something to learn, … read more
Egg vs Batter!

Egg vs Batter!

Posted by Stelios on 1st Aug 2022

For as long as we have been making our Ceres Fishcake Mix we’ve had plenty of customers ask us what is best for dipping the fishcakes into so as the breadcrumb sticks. There are two … read more
Getting Creative With Dan Nash

Getting Creative With Dan Nash

Posted by Michael on 1st Aug 2022

Dan Nash is the founder of SixEight, a creative agency that helps turn food brands into cult brands through the power of storytelling. In our latest podcast, Dan cuts through all the marketing jargo … read more
Ramp up your recruitment drive

Ramp up your recruitment drive

Posted by Emily on 7th Jul 2022

While all business sectors are currently undergoing a staffing crisis, the hospitality industry is bearing the brunt with staff shortages reaching critical levels. According to recent ONS f … read more
Calabrian Chilli Mayonnaise

Calabrian Chilli Mayonnaise

Posted by Stelios on 7th Jul 2022

Anyone who knows me will know that I love chillies. Something about how the chillies taste, scotch bonnets are oddly fruity underneath the fire, and African bird’s eye chillies are peppery under th … read more
Paul Gunning on his shoebox success

Paul Gunning on his shoebox success

Posted by Emily on 7th Jun 2022

He’s worked in five star hotels, 2-3 rosette and Michelin starred restaurants and, 11 years ago, he opened Purslane in Edinburgh. If you’ve not yet had a chance to listen to our podcast with Paul … read more
Adapting is the key to survival

Adapting is the key to survival

Posted by Emily on 7th Jun 2022

In the vibrant coastal town of Clacton-on-Sea in Essex, Lucas Lambrou, owner of The Fish Inn, is working out ways to streamline his business to beat the host of challenges that his takeaway is facing. … read more
Tips for tough times

Tips for tough times

Posted by Stelios on 19th May 2022

It might feel at the moment that everything is stacked against you. Price increases on core ingredients are coming thick and fast, while problems with product availability are an increasing worry f … read more
Life at the sharp end

Life at the sharp end

Posted by Emily on 18th May 2022

“Knife sharpening is an important trade,” says Stefano Nella, director of sales operations of knife sharpening service Nella Cutlery Services. And he’s not joking, stating that the imp … read more
Sandy’s raises the bar in Folkestone

Sandy’s raises the bar in Folkestone

Posted by Emily on 5th May 2022

Following a £150,000 refurbishment, a rebrand and new ownership, Sandy’s Fish & Chips has become the top-rated fish and chip shop in the Kent coastal town of Folkestone on both Google and Just Eat, an … read more
Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day

Posted by Emily on 6th Apr 2022

There are plenty of days throughout the year that you can use as a hook to promote new menu items, signature dishes and your business generally. National Fish & Chip Day is the big one, of course, but … read more
Stand Out With Our New Labelling Solutions

Stand Out With Our New Labelling Solutions

Posted by Stelios on 21st Mar 2022

We’ve launched a series of high quality, value for money food labels to help your shop run more smoothly. The first is our Advanced Food Rotation Label which allows staff preparing bat … read more
Growing a Business Organically

Growing a Business Organically

Posted by Emily on 1st Mar 2022

When is the right time to open a second shop? When an opportunity comes up that’s just too good to miss? When a business reaches capacity and the market is large enough to support a second s … read more
Positive Thinking

Positive Thinking

Posted by Stelios on 1st Feb 2022

I don’t know if I’m alone in thinking this – and I hope I’m not – but I feel quite optimistic about 2022. The scrapping of most Covid measures across the UK recently has felt like a massive step fo … read more
Christmas cracker or a festive flop?

Christmas cracker or a festive flop?

Posted by Emily on 10th Dec 2021

2021 looks set to end the same way it started, with much uncertainty about what is to come. Growing fears around the Omicron variant are already showing signs of dampening consumer confidence while … read more
Starting the Year Vegan-friendly

Starting the Year Vegan-friendly

Posted by Nick on 30th Nov 2021

Move over basted turkey, pigs in blankets and honey-glazed ham, because just seven days after sitting down to a traditional Christmas feast, attention quickly turns to Veganuary. A whole month dedi … read more
Lifting Lunchtime Trade

Lifting Lunchtime Trade

Posted by Stelios on 21st Nov 2021

Lunchtime trade has taken a kicking over the last 18 months as Covid had people working from home and turning to homemade lunches or treating the family in the evening instead. The grey pound, whic … read more
Athena B Inspired by Ceres Support

Athena B Inspired by Ceres Support

Posted by Emily on 1st Nov 2021

What started as a recommendation to use Ceres Natural Batter Mix has resulted in a journey of discovery for Athena B in Portslade, Brighton. Matthew Konen and his mum Mary took the lea … read more
Head to Head: Kate Nicholls, U.K Hospitality

Head to Head: Kate Nicholls, U.K Hospitality

Posted by Stelios on 14th Oct 2021

This week, UKHospitality stepped up pressure on the Government to retain the current 12.5% VAT rate for hospitality long-term by launching its #VATsEnough campaign. We caught up with CEO Kate Nicho … read more
​Burton Road Chippy Finds a New Home

​Burton Road Chippy Finds a New Home

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2021

Confronted with a steep 17% hike in rent coupled with the mandatory shuttering of their restaurant due to the COVID-19 crisis, Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln opted for relocation last summer. Lesley … read more
​Behind the Scenes with Amanda Afiya

​Behind the Scenes with Amanda Afiya

Posted by Emily on 3rd Dec 2019

During her time as editor at leading hospitality and catering magazine The Caterer, and in her current roles where she provides PR and consultancy services to chefs, restaurants and hotels, Amanda … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Capers

​Ingredient Glossary: Capers

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Capers are petite, brined flower buds with a unique salty character. Learn how to choose the finest ones and integrate them into your recipes. But be aware that they may be small but full of flavou … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Parmesan

​Ingredient Glossary: Parmesan

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

This is a robustly flavoured Italian matured hard cheese and a favourite addition to pasta dishes and many more. Learn about Parmesan's PDO credentials, how to select the finest quality, and what r … read more
​Ingredients Glossary: Quinoa

​Ingredients Glossary: Quinoa

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Quinoa? Quinoa consists of tiny, bead-like seeds, which are more commonly categorised alongside grains. These seeds sprout a tiny tail when cooked and boast a subtly nutty flavour as w … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Quince

​Ingredient Glossary: Quince

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

The dual forms of quince, resembling both apples and pears, provide an evident hint towards their closely related fruits. When mature, quinces emanate a strong fragrance and boast a sleek, golden-y … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Quark

​Ingredient Glossary: Quark

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Quark? Quark is a soft, velvety curd cheese with a pleasingly light tartness. It varies from low-fat versions made from skimmed milk to richer varieties enhanced with cream. Traditionally … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Quail

​Ingredient Glossary: Quail

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What Are Quails? Initially indigenous to the Middle East, quails are now widespread across Europe. These small birds typically serve one person as a starter dish; for a main course, you would … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Anchovy

​Ingredient Glossary: Anchovy

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Commonly sold in tins or jars, anchovies bring a savoury, umami touch to various sauces and dressings. Here's your comprehensive purchasing guide for storing, preparing, and cooking this versatile … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Agar-Agar

​Ingredient Glossary: Agar-Agar

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Comparable in texture to jelly, agar-agar serves as a setting agent for terrines, custards, and creams. Learn how to buy, store, and prepare dishes using agar-agar. Originally discovered in Ja … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Tahini

​Ingredient Glossary: Tahini

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Tahini, a paste crafted from ground sesame seeds, is more than a mere auxiliary ingredient; it stands tall as a sauce and condiment in its own right. Often overshadowed by the likes of chickpe … read more