If there’s one thing this cookbook journey has taught me, it’s that nostalgia has a way of creeping up on you in the most unexpected moments. This past week, I had an absolute ‘blast from the past’ moment when I thought about something I hadn’t in years: Findus Crispy Pancakes.
Now, if you grew up in Britain, chances are you’ll remember them. They were the ultimate after-school treat, the kind of thing you’d spot in Iceland and hope Mum would say yes to. In my house, though, ‘instant’ food was a rare occurrence. Mum was all about home-cooked meals, and convenience foods didn’t often make an appearance; she couldn't afford it. But every now and then, as a treat, she’d pick up a box of those golden, crispy-edged pancakes stuffed with molten, savoury filling. Biting into one was an event—piping hot, slightly too crispy around the edges (because we never waited long enough to let them cool), and always delicious (even with a burn that lasted days on the roof of your mouth)
So, when I found a homemade version, I knew I had to try it. And let me tell you—it was an instant time machine back to my childhood. Flaky, crispy coating? Check. Gooey, comforting centre? Check. The only difference is, this time, I know exactly what’s gone into them, and they taste even better than I remember.
The best part? This recipe has now earned a spot in Pork Pies & The Perfect Pickle because, let’s be honest, I know I’m not the only one who has fond memories of these little pockets of joy. The book is really coming together now, and with every recipe, I’m finding new ways to recreate and refine those flavours we all miss from home. (or "cheffy' them up a bit as I like to say.)
Writing this cookbook isn’t just about compiling recipes—it’s about bottling up nostalgia, one dish at a time. I’ve been testing and tweaking, making sure each recipe brings back that feeling of home, wherever you are in the world. Whether it’s a crispy pancake, a proper pork pie, or a Yorkshire pudding wrap, it’s all about bringing back those tastes that transport you straight to your childhood kitchen.
So, to all my fellow ex-pats and nostalgic food lovers—get ready, because this book is going to be packed with the flavours you’ve been craving. And yes, the crispy pancakes will be in there, so you won’t have to go searching for them like I did!

Who knew becoming an adult meant having to decide what’s for tea every single day... for the rest of your life? Honestly, I thought being grown-up meant freedom — not standing in front of the fridge at 5pm wondering if cereal is a viable dinner option again.
Now my mum, she had it sorted. Every week was the same — no faff, no fridge-staring, just a proper routine. She cooked for my dad like clockwork:

• Monday: Mince beef pie — made from the Sunday roast leftovers
• Tuesday: Lamb chops
• Wednesday: Egg and chips
• Thursday: Small pork loin with stuffing
• Friday: Steak in tomatoes 
• Saturday: Roast chicken — with chicken sandwiches for tea
• Sunday: Roast beef and Yorkshire puddings — proper job

Then the cycle began again. Simple, predictable, and delicious.
Now, one Tuesday Dad fancied something different, so Mum put her thinking cap on and made a lovely meal. Dad took one look and said, “It’s Tuesday! I’ve been looking forward to my lamb chops all day!” And just like that, lamb chops reclaimed their Tuesday throne forever.

​However, You know those Fridays when you’ve just about survived the week, the idea of cooking makes you sigh loudly, and the takeaway menu is eyeing you from the drawer? Yeah, I’ve been there — more times than I care to admit.
But sometimes, you want something homemade without the faff. Something comforting, quick, and dare I say... delicious. Enter this little gem of a recipe: Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Pasta — a proper Friday night winner.
Perfect for literally anyone who’s stood in the kitchen thinking, “I can’t eat beans on toast again.”
Why You’ll Love It:

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• No fancy ingredients — just fridge staples
• Feels indulgent, tastes amazing
• No delivery fees (and you can eat it in your pyjamas)

Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Pasta
Ingredients:

• 250g pasta (penne, fettuccine — whatever’s in the cupboard)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 250g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or mixed herbs — we don’t judge)
• 2 big handfuls of fresh spinach
• 150ml double cream (or thickened cream)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (plus extra to serve)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of chilli flakes for a kick

Quick How-To:

1. Cook pasta. Save a bit of the water before draining.
2. Meanwhile, in a big pan, sauté garlic and mushrooms in olive oil until soft and golden.
3. Add thyme, salt, pepper, and spinach — stir until wilted.
4. Pour in the cream, add Parmesan, and let it bubble for a couple of minutes. Thin with pasta water if needed.
5. Toss in your pasta, and mix well. Add lemon or chilli flakes if you fancy.
6. Serve with extra Parmesan — because it’s been a week.

Pro Tip:
Want to bulk it up? Add leftover chicken, crispy bacon, or even a tin of tuna — make it your own.
So there you go — Friday night sorted. No takeaway. No drama. Just a bowl of creamy, garlicky goodness and maybe a glass of wine (or two — again, no judgment).
Let me know if you give it a go — or if you’re still eyeing the takeaway drawer. I won’t tell.

 go and raise a fork to every adult who’s ever stood in the kitchen thinking, what on earth is for tea?

Living abroad is full of surprises, from unexpected weather patterns (Christmas BBQs, anyone?) to discovering the local definition of bacon (spoiler: it’s not what you’re used to). But one of the most entertaining, confusing, and often delicious challenges for any expat is navigating local holidays and traditions.
 When your new country gears up for a celebration, and you have absolutely no idea what’s going on, you have two choices: jump in feet first or hide behind a plate of something vaguely familiar.
 Let’s explore the three types of expat holiday behaviour (and see which one you are!).
 Option 1: Jump In Feet First
Many expats go all in on local celebrations — fireworks, feasts, questionable costumes and all. Whether it’s Diwali, Bastille Day, ANZAC Day, or something involving dancing goats and parades, you’re there with bells on (literally, depending on the holiday).
 
✔️ You dress up.
✔️ You join the parade.
✔️ You ask too many questions.
✔️ You take awkward but enthusiastic photos to send home.
 The best part? You learn, you laugh, and sometimes you discover a new tradition you want to keep forever, even if you still don’t fully understand what it’s about.
 
 Option 2: Blend It with Your Own Traditions
Expats are experts at hybrid holidays. It’s Australia Day with a BBQ, but your table also features pork pies and trifle. It’s Thanksgiving abroad, but you sneak in Yorkshire puddings just because.
 You honour the local customs, but let’s be real; by sundown, you’re raising a glass to the Queen (or King) and serving sausage rolls, wherever you are.
 This option is ideal for those who want to join in, but also miss home, and let’s face it, no one does a Christmas dinner like you do.
 
Option 3: Smile, Nod, and Hope for a Day Off
Some holidays are downright baffling. The locals are marching through the streets in costumes, waving flags, singing songs you don’t know, and you’re just trying to figure out if the shops are open.
 You smile, you nod, you ask someone why everyone’s eating pickled fish at 7 AM, and you pretend you understand. (You don’t, but that’s okay.)
 Bonus points if it’s a public holiday , because even if you have no clue why, a day off is a day off.
 The Joy (and Chaos) of It All
Local holidays offer a peek into the soul of your new home. They’re confusing, beautiful, messy, and often involve great food aka, the expat trifecta. (pronounced tri-FEK-tuh) means a perfect group of three things.
 Whether you’re fully participating, observing from the sidelines, or just waiting for the feast it’s all part of the expat adventure.
 After all, where else would you find yourself eating turkey in 40°C heat on Christmas Day, or explaining Bonfire Night to confused locals while they look at you like you’ve lost your mind?
 
Final Thoughts
So next time a local holiday rolls around, remember:
✔ Smile
✔ Join in (or at least eat something)
✔ And never underestimate the power of a pork pie to make any celebration feel like home.

Moving abroad is an adventure—new cultures, new experiences, and, of course, new food. But as exciting as it is, there comes a moment when the novelty wears off, and you’d trade a thousand fancy dinners for just one proper taste of home.
 For me, food isn’t just about eating—it’s about comfort, connection, and identity. It’s Sunday roasts with the family, buttered toast that tastes better than it should, and the smell of a freshly baked pie filling the house. It’s knowing exactly what brand of biscuits goes best with a cup of tea. And when you live abroad, you suddenly realise just how much those little things matter.
 
The Hunt for British Ingredients Abroad
Any expat will tell you—the first mission upon moving to a new country isn’t finding a doctor, a school, or even a good café. It’s tracking down a decent cup of tea, proper cheese, and some recognisable sausages.
 At first, you try the local alternatives. You convince yourself that the generic “black tea” will probably taste like PG Tips (it won’t). You optimistically buy a block of something labelled “Cheddar,” only to find it has all the flavour of a candle. And sausages? Let’s just say some places shouldn’t even be allowed to use the word.
 Then begins the great ingredient hunt. You ask other expats for tips, you scout out specialty stores, and eventually, you stumble across a little shop that stocks British food at wildly inflated prices. But when you spot a jar of Branston Pickle or a tin of Heinz Baked Beans, it’s like striking gold.
 
Adapting Recipes & Getting Creative
Of course, sometimes you just have to make do and mend. Over the years, I’ve learned that: 
 Homemade pastry is essential when “puff pastry” in some places is closer to cardboard.
You can recreate Bisto-style gravy with stock, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of kitchen magic.
Scones will never rise the same in hot, humid weather, but we try anyway.
 There’s a strange kind of joy in adapting recipes—making a traditional dish work with what you’ve got. It becomes a little less about recreating things perfectly and more about keeping traditions alive. And let’s be honest, we’re all guilty of stuffing a suitcase with British essentials when visiting home.
 
The Emotional Side of Food Abroad
It’s funny how certain foods can transport you back in time. A single bite of something familiar can bring a wave of nostalgia, warmth, and even homesickness. The first time I found proper bacon in Australia, I nearly cried. When I made a proper pork pie from scratch, it felt like a personal victory.
 Food is more than just fuel. It’s memories, history, and a way to feel connected—even when you’re thousands of miles away. And sometimes, the best way to cure homesickness isn’t a phone call home—it’s a warm scone, a proper cup of tea, and a moment to just sit and savour.
 
Finding Home in Every Bite
Living abroad changes the way you cook and eat. You learn to be resourceful, adaptable, and to appreciate the little things. You learn that a meal doesn’t have to be perfect to feel like home—it just needs to be made with love (and preferably a good dollop of butter).
 So, whether it’s a Sunday roast in a sweltering Aussie summer or a homemade sausage roll when no bakery stocks the real deal, every expat knows:
 Home isn’t just a place—it’s a plate.
 Would love to hear—what’s the one food you miss the most from home? Let me know in the comments!

There’s something magical about the combination of corned beef, potatoes, and flaky pastry—a humble trio that delivers pure comfort in every bite. If you grew up in the UK, chances are you’ve had some variation of this classic. Whether in a crisp pasty, a deep-filled pie, or a hearty slice, it’s one of those no-fuss recipes that always hits the spot.
For me, this bake brings back childhood memories of quick dinners on busy school nights, when a simple tin of corned beef could be transformed into something absolutely delicious. Served hot with baked beans or eaten cold straight from the fridge (if any was left over!), it’s the kind of food that just feels like home.
Now, living abroad, I’ve come to appreciate recipes like this even more. It’s easy, satisfying, and made with ingredients you can find almost anywhere—perfect for expats craving a taste of Britain.

A Budget-Friendly ClassicOne of the best things about this recipe? It’s budget-friendly! Corned beef is a pantry staple, and potatoes and onions are as cheap as they come. Whether you’re looking for an affordable midweek dinner or a nostalgic treat, this dish delivers without breaking the bank.

How to Make Corned Beef & Potato Slice
Ingredients (Makes 8 slices)

• 1 can corned beef
• 2 medium potatoes
• 1 onion, peeled and chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 beaten egg (for glazing)
• 1 pack of supermarket puff pastry

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling
   • Peel, boil, and mash the potatoes with butter and a splash of milk to make them fluffy. Allow them to cool slightly.
   • In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with the chopped corned beef and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Assemble the Slice
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan) / 210°C / 410°F.
   • Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into equal rectangles.
   • Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto half of the pastry pieces.
   • Cover with the remaining pastry rectangles and use a fork to seal the edges.
   • Brush the tops with beaten egg for a lovely golden finish.
3. Bake to Perfection
   • Place the slices on a lined baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
   • Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can wait that long!

Serving Suggestions

• For a proper British tea-time treat: Serve warm with a mug of strong tea and a dollop of brown sauce.
• Classic combo: Enjoy with baked beans or mushy peas for a hearty meal.
• On the go: Let them cool and pack them up for a lunchbox snack or a picnic.
• Make it a meal: Add a simple side salad for a balanced plate.

Tips for the Best Corned Beef Slice✔️ Use good-quality corned beef – The difference between a cheap, fatty tin and a premium one is noticeable!
✔️ Don’t overwork the filling – You want some texture, not a paste.
✔️ Chill your pastry before baking – It helps keep it crisp and flaky.
✔️ Experiment with extras – A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of grated cheese in the filling can take it to the next level!



Why You’ll Love This Recipe✅ Easy to make – Minimal prep, simple steps, and no fancy ingredients.
✅ Great for batch cooking – Make a few and freeze them for later.
✅ A taste of home – The ultimate nostalgic British bake, wherever you are in the world.

Whether you’re an expat missing the taste of home or just someone who loves a good old-fashioned bake, this Corned Beef & Potato Slice is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try, and let me know--do you prefer yours hot, cold, or straight from the fridge?

Ingredients
 
- 500g Pork sausage meat (you can use a good English pork sausage and remove the skin)
- 250g Bread crumbs
- 250g Water
- 2 tsp Chives
- 2 tsp Parsley
- 2 tbsp Mustard
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp White pepper
- 1 pack Frozen puff pastry
- Egg (for brushing)
 
Method
 
1. In a bowl, combine the herbs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper with the water, mixing well.
2. Add the sausage meat and mustard to the mixture, and mix thoroughly with your hands.
3. Roll out the puff pastry and brush one long edge with egg wash.
4. Place a tablespoon of the filling along the centre of the pastry, shaping it into a long sausage, ensuring the meat is tight and compact without any gaps.
5. Brush the edge of the pastry with the egg wash. Then, roll it up, finishing with the seam side down.
 
To Cook
 
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut each log into four equal lengths, or just two if you prefer full-sized sausage rolls. Brush them with egg wash.
3. Place the sausage rolls on two baking trays lined with baking paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is a deep golden brown.
5. Allow to cool on the trays.
 
Tips
- If you don't like the feel of raw meat on your hands, use powder free catering gloves.
- Use a piping bag to pipe the sausage meat onto the pastry for an even filling.
- For a sweeter flavour, use Dijon mustard.
- Use a pizza cutter or a scraper to cut your sausage rolls.
- Experiment with different flavours by adding shredded pork or bacon for a meatier taste.
- Quick tip: A box of sage and onion stuffing can work just as well if you are pressed for time. Follow the instructions on the mix, then add the meat and mustard.