A taste of spring

YOU WILL NEED ✔ 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil ✔ 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar ✔ 1 tbsp tahini ✔ 1 tbsp harissa paste, plus extra to serve (optional) ✔ salt and pepper ✔ 1 carrot, cut into small chunks ✔ 1 red o

Whether it’s festive nibbles with the neighbours or a full-scale NYE party, these drinks and canapés are sure to please all

They all started out on different paths – from sales offices to science labs – but each of these professional bakers found purpose and joy in baking. Here, they tell Jill Foster why it has become a passion that continues to nourish their souls

By The Happy Pear (thehappypear.ie) Serves 6-8 | Prep 15 mins | Cook 20 mins 1 sheet of shop-bought puff pastry, such as Jus Rol4 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Lovely Basil Pesto2 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Sun-dr

INGREDIENTS 100g sourdough starter 380ml warm water 1 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp salt 500g strong white bread flour TOPPINGS 2-3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 3-4 ripe plums, stones removed and cut into quart

Happiness is a perfect pudding made with simple ingredients and a winning recipe, say the founders of Edinburgh bakery Twelve Triangles. Here, they share some of their favourite sweet treats