As the seasons begin to change, and we drift from summer into autumn, many of us start craving more warm, dense, and filling foods. Our favourite autumnal meal is wild Sea Bass with warm roe tartare, salsify, and Jerusalem artichoke. Just as the weather becomes colder, we begin to crave food which is hotter.
Here are our top tips for keeping your kitchen changing with the seasons.
Eat seasonal produce.
You may have noticed how certain foods seem to taste better at certain times of year, for example how strawberries seem sweeter in the summer. The reason for this? It’s because they are in season. Produce which is naturally in season at particular times of the year grows to its full and proper potential, which means much tastier food! The transition into autumn brings hearty vegetables such as parsnips and cabbage into their prime, and for those who are more inclined towards the sweeter things in life, it’s time to reach for apples, blackberries, and pears.
Moisture matters.
During autumn the air begins to turn colder which can make our skin, lips, and hair feel much drier. To combat this, we recommend eating moisture-rich foods. Casseroles and soups are wonderful autumn meals that can be made with seasonal vegetables. Also, as well as being packed with nutrients, these kinds of foods are supplemented with plenty of fluids which will keep you hydrated and help to fight off any dryness.
Use your slow cooker.
If you have access to a slow cooker, now is the time to get it out. Our Executive Head Chef Dave Ashton loves classic winter recipes, such as soups, curries, and other lovely hot meals which are easily prepared in a slow cooker. Slow cooker recipes can be found all over the internet and most involve throwing ingredients together and leaving the cooker to do the rest! This is the perfect way to treat yourself as the climate gets colder; set up your cooker in the morning and then come home to a wonderful, warm meal after a long cold day. However, if you don’t have a slow cooker available (or even if you do), you can always visit The River Restaurant for a deliciously warming bowl of our soup of the day.
Immune boost.
One of the downsides of entering the season of autumn is that cold and flu season shortly follows. After all being locked inside for so long this past year, re-joining society means that there are more germs being passed around. Give yourself an advantage by incorporating immune boosting foods such as chillies, fish, and citrus fruits into your transitional diet. At The River Restaurant we know how important healthy fats from food such as fish is for a good, immune boosting diet. We ensure that we only serve the best fish, locally supplied by My Fish Co.
For an extra boost, try to choose meals which can include reishi, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms; these types of mushrooms have been shown to have antiviral and antibacterial properties, as well as being high in protein, B vitamins, and more – a true superfood! Furthermore, try to reduce your intake of processed foods, alcohol, and sugary food and drinks, as these are all known to deplete long term energy and immunity.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
The saying is true. A good breakfast is the most effective way to wake yourself up, and something warm is great for those chilly mornings. Make sure to keep your breakfast balanced with nutritious fruits and vegetables, a filling protein source, and an energy providing carbohydrate. Porridge with fruity toppings or a classic plate of beans on toast are perfect, healthy breakfasts to look forward to, so you can make sure get you up and out of bed on those cold, dark mornings.
The most important dietary tip for the autumn season is to keep a healthy, balanced, enjoyable diet. Remember, autumn leads into the festive party season, so ensure you stay healthy in order to enjoy your festive season to the fullest! Whilst thinking about your autumn diet, don’t forget to treat yourself – as the autumn weather becomes too cold for a walk in the park or a fun-filled BBQ, it is the perfect time to enjoy a luxurious meal or two out with your loved ones in the River Restaurant.
An incredible dining experience awaits future visits. The River Restaurant promises a dynamic menu with Executive Head Chef Dave Ashton at the helm - giving diners a modern take on classic British cuisine.
Enjoy a luxury dining experience at The River Restaurant every day.