Soups and a side

This impressive plan-ahead Christmas lunch from Flora Shedden is a mouthwatering mix of traditional recipes and deliciously unexpected flavours

This inspired menu takes comforting rustic flavours and transforms them into celebratory festive dishes to savour and share

Make this savoury tear-and-share bread to serve alongside soup and dips. It also makes an eye-catching side dish for a Christmas gathering. SERVES 8-10 PREP 40 mins plus 2 hrs proving COOK 35 mins MOR

INGREDIENTS 2 tbsp oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, chopped 1 red chilli, deseeded and chopped 400g can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 litre vegetable stock Zest and juice of 1 un

A nut roast packed with umami, smokiness and sweetness from squash, lentil and dates. SERVES 6 | PREP 2 HRS PLUS RESTING | COOK 1 HR 15 MINS EASY 400g butternut squash, cut into 2cm cubes 3 tsp smoked

We’ve upped the flavour stakes on these by adding a simple seasoning that also brings a bit more crunch. SERVES 6-8 PREP 10 mins COOK 1 hr 30 mins EASY VE ❄ 2kg Maris Piper or King Edwardpotatoes6 tbs