Toast, soup, a bake, a biscuit… When the days are dark and cold, you want simple recipes with a nod to nostalgia and childhood comforts, but with flavours that feel right for now

Enjoy a relaxed weekend feast with these delicious dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, and simply warmed up when you’re ready to serve

Nourishing recipes to keep you warm and cosy from the inside out

Pearl barley creates robust, nutty texture and, while it takes longer to cook than rice, it’s worth the effort. Dairy adds richness – we’ve gone for a triple hit with brown butter, mascarpone and goat

Ingredients (Serves 4 or 6 as a side dish) 1 red pepper, cut into 4 cm pieces500 g pumpkin, peeled and cut into4 cm pieces375 g parsnips, peeled and quarteredlengthwise, then cut in half175 g shallots

SERVES 4 PREP 30 mins COOK 1 hr 20 mins EASY ❄ ragu 2 duck breasts, skin removed2 tbsp olive oil1 onion, finely chopped1 tsp fennel seeds2 garlic cloves1 bay leaf½ small pack parsley, leaves picked,st