Laurie in Stafford is looking for some new dishes to compliment her main course, a standing rib-roast.

Lucky for Laurie, I’m also cooking a rib roast and have been giving a lot of thought to just that question.

What follows is a description and link (to print and get recipes) to my
English Christmas Menu:

Canapes: Potted Shrimp and Smoked Salmon with Caviar
Mushroom Bisque with Creme Fraiche
Prime Rib
Braised Brussels Sprouts
Mashed Rutabaga with Triple Sec and Raisins
Yorkshire Pudding
Plum Pudding with Hard Sauce and Trifle

Perhaps the most traditional accompaniment is the Yorkshire pudding, which is actually a bread very similar to pop-overs. Here is a link to a good recipe.

The mashed rutabaga is easy to do - just peel and cube your rutabagas and then boil until tender. Mash it as you would potatoes with butter. Stir in about 3 tablespoons of maple syrup (be sure to use the real thing) and bourbon, and 2-3 tablespoons of horseradish. Use a touch of nutmeg and some salt for seasoning, then taste and adjust to suit your preferences.

The Brussels sprouts are equally easy and you can find a recipe on my Web site.

I hope you enjoy these dish ideas as much as I do. Happy Holidays!