Rosemary

This spiky shrub from the Mediterranean handles frost well, producing fresh leaves to harvest all year round. They prefer a sunny position and well-drained soil. They also do well in pots.

Rosemary goes with roasts (especially lamb), vegetables, stuffing and soups.

Mint

Try and stop this hardy herb from growing! In fact, it can have invasive roots so it’s best planted in a contained place. They like a bit of shade and moist soil. There are many varieties that come from all around the world including common mint, spearmint, peppermint and Asian mint – all with distinct flavours.

Mint goes with tea, roasts, peas and in cocktails.

Chervil

This delicate looking herb comes from France and is related to parsley. It has an aniseed-like flavour. As long as this herb is sheltered from extreme cold, chervil will flourish in winter. 

It’s best in soups and sauces.

Thyme

Another popular Mediterranean herb, Thyme also handles winter well. It likes a sunny position and light soil.

Thyme goes well in casseroles, soups and stews.

 

Ingredients:

Filling

1 cup (200g) white sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons plain flour

2 tablespoons cornflour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups (350ml) water

2 lemons, juiced and zested

30g butter

4 egg yolks, beaten

Meringue

4 egg whites

75g white sugar

1 (23cm) pre-baked pie crust

 

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees C

Filling

1. Place the dry ingredients together in a saucepan and pour in lemon juice, zest and water. Stir together.
2. Continue stirring over a medium heat until the mixture begins to boil. Stir in the butter.
3. Meanwhile, separate the egg whites from the yokes. Set the whites aside. Slowly whisk in 1/2 a cup of the flour mixture while it
    is still hot. Then whisk this egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot mixture.
4. Bring the combined mixture to boil and cook until it thickens. Remove from heat. Pour into the pastry shell.

Meringue

1. In a bowl, beat the egg whites until they are foamy. Add sugar to the eggs incrementally while whisking. When the foam
    becomes stiff, spread the meringue mixture over the filling until there are no gaps. This seal is important to make sure the filling
    doesn’t overheat.
2. Bake the pie in the oven for 10 minutes or until the meringue is golden.

1. Candles

There is something so beautiful about a lit candle. The illuminating warm colour softens the space around it, creating a tranquil vibe. They make a beautiful statement on dining tables and gentle mood lighting in the living room. Scented candles can create a soothing atmosphere with sandalwood, vanilla or citrus.

2. Texture

A mix of materials, natural fibres and interesting patterns gives your home a special welcoming feel. Natural fibres tend to breathe easier, retain heat better and feel more comfortable. Think silks, velvet, wool, wood and leather when you choose your furnishings and décor. In winter, you can layer your furnishings with extra blankets, cushions and rugs.

3. Beautiful Bathroom

My goodness, it can be difficult to get out of bed in the winter months. One way to overcome this is to turn your bathroom into a special sanctuary. By placing fluffy towels, a snuggly bath mat and maybe even a scented candle in your bathroom, you can turn your morning shower into a special ritual.

4. Citrus Fruits

Oranges, mandarins, lemons, kiwi and grapefruit are ripe throughout winter. A bowl of bright fruit not only invites you to savour healthy snacks, but it makes a vibrant centrepiece for a kitchen bench or coffee table.

5. Winter Roasts

Roasts aren’t tricky to cook, but they do take time. That’s why winter is the perfect time for a delicious slow cooked meal. While spending an afternoon at home, why not let the oven heat your home and invite friends around for a traditional roast? Nothing warm you up better than tasty food and great company.