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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
​Has the UK Vegan Wave Peaked?

​Has the UK Vegan Wave Peaked?

Posted by Emily on 29th May 2023

Several key brands, including Oatly, Nestlé, and Innocent Drinks, have withdrawn select plant-based products from the UK market, raising questions about the robustness of the vegan trend. Per- … 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
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
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
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
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
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
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 t … 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
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
Episode 128 - Getting Creative With Dan Nash

Episode 128 - 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
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
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 figures … 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
Episode 127 - Paul Gunning on his shoebox success

Episode 127 - 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
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
​Fish and chips the Wright way

​Fish and chips the Wright way

Posted by Emily on 8th May 2022

“I would never have thought of doing this in the UK because there are so many fish and chip shops, but I came to the States and there was a niche. I grabbed it, ran with it and we’ve been really su … 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
The Fishermen's Chippy Growing Organically

The Fishermen's Chippy Growing 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 shop? Or ma … 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
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 lease back … read more
Interview: Kate Nicholls, U.K Hospitality

Interview: 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
​Street food meets fish and chips

​Street food meets fish and chips

Posted by Emily on 2nd Mar 2021

Located in Southbourne, Bournemouth, just a few hundred yards from the beach, Ricky’s isn’t your average chippy. But then again, owner Ricky Knowlton isn’t your average fish frier. Building on … read more
Delivery Aggregators Unwrapped – 2021 Update

Delivery Aggregators Unwrapped – 2021 Update

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Mar 2021

The world is significantly transforming how people buy and consume food. Modern consumers are more likely to order fast food while sitting at home watching Bridgerton on Netflix than they are to co … 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
The Genius Behind The English Indian

The Genius Behind The English Indian

Posted by Emily on 27th Jan 2021

Birmingham-based street food vendor The English Indian puts an Asian twist on a very British classic From one pop-up gazebo working festivals and food halls in and around Birmingham five ye … read more
​How to Be a Great Podcast Guest

​How to Be a Great Podcast Guest

Posted by Stelios on 1st Jan 2021

The art of interviewing is a popular topic, but what about the art of being interviewed? While the role may feel more passive, it's just as active as the interviewer's.These tips for a memorable (in a … read more
Episode 48: ​James Ritchie bosses it at Stroud

Episode 48: ​James Ritchie bosses it at Stroud

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2020

Although James Ritchie’s plans for the first fish and chip shop he bought with his ex-wife Bonny was to own it for a couple of years and sell it on, it quickly became their baby and resulted in the … read more
 Bespoke Touch: Beyond the Ordinary at Krispies

Bespoke Touch: Beyond the Ordinary at Krispies

Posted by Emily on 29th Jan 2020

Krispies in Exmouth, Devon, prides itself on serving top quality food, whether from the takeaway or its newly opened click-and-collect and delivery shop, and its owners, Kelly and Tim Barnes, are m … read more
​Lets Get Technical

​Lets Get Technical

Posted by Stelios on 1st Jan 2020

We have compiled a guide to help you get the best audio quality on the day of your podcast recording. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.What Screen - It's best to use a … 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
​Ingredients Glossary: Beansprouts

​Ingredients Glossary: Beansprouts

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What are Beansprouts? The two most prevalent beansprouts are the green-topped mung bean and the larger, yellow-topped soya bean. Often regarded as a primary, somewhat mystical ingredient, bean sp … 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: Beetroot

​Ingredient Glossary: Beetroot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Beetroot? Once a staple in 1970s British salads where it was typically cooked and pickled in vinegar, beetroot is a vibrant root vegetable with a deep purple exterior and a rich pink t … 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
Ingredient Glossary: ​Arrowroot

Ingredient Glossary: ​Arrowroot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Arrowroot powder serves as a versatile starch substitute for cornflour. It's particularly effective for thickening liquids and is the go-to choice for creating transparent jellies. While its use in … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Asparagus

​Ingredient Glossary: Asparagus

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Asparagus? A cultivated lily plant yields the young shoots known as Asparagus, a delicacy vegetable. These shoots have a unique, potent, savoury flavour and are relatively expensive. T … read more
Ingredient Glossary: Hen Eggs

Ingredient Glossary: Hen Eggs

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What Are Eggs? Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein and 18 essential vitamins and minerals. They are incredibly versatile in cooking, serving as binding agents and flavour enhancers … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Banana

​Ingredient Glossary: Banana

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Originating from what is believed to be the Arabic word for 'finger', 'banan', bananas have comfortably claimed the title of the most sought-after tropical fruit worldwide. There's a delightful arr … read more
Ingredient Glossary: Asafoetida

Ingredient Glossary: Asafoetida

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Asafoetida? Asafoetida is a resinous gum derived from a species of giant fennel, and it is well-known for its intensely pungent aroma, akin to decaying garlic. It is an invaluable spice f … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Mincemeat

​Ingredient Glossary: Mincemeat

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

What is Mincemeat? A quintessential component in Christmas mince pies, mincemeat also lends well to year-round baking. Originating as an age-old concoction of dried fruits, ground almonds, spi … read more
​Ingredients Glossary: Bamboo Shoots

​Ingredients Glossary: Bamboo Shoots

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Originating from the heart of Asia, bamboo shoots are the tender offshoots of various bamboo species. Before consumption, it's imperative to cook them comprehensively, as many contain toxins that c … read more
Ingredient Glossary: Baking Powder

Ingredient Glossary: Baking Powder

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Baking powder acts as a leavening agent frequently utilised in the world of baking, particularly in the creation of cakes. Its core components include bicarbonate of soda (an alkali) and cream of t … read more
​Ingredient Glossary: Basil

​Ingredient Glossary: Basil

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

Basil, though commonly linked with Mediterranean cuisine, has made significant inroads into Asian culinary traditions. This aromatic herb is cherished for its captivating, sweet scent and robust fl … read more