Take the stress out of the proceedings and let your kitchen appliances do all the hard work

SERVES 6-8 Ingredients 2kg unsmoked bonelessgammon joint, tied2 onions, halved4 bay leaves10 black peppercorns2 litres cola For the glaze 1 handful of cloves 4 tbsp runny honey 4 tbsp English mustard

INGREDIENTS 3 litres of water200g sea salt100g brown sugar6 bay leavesHandful of thyme sprigs10 peppercorns1 orange (unpeeled and quartered)1 onion (unpeeled and quartered)5.5kg turkey75g goose fat50g

The days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve lend themselves to casual get-togethers centred around sharing plates – plus a showstopping treat or two

For a sweet and savoury taste sensation, we’re bringing mince pies and cheddar together in festive harmony, plus even more fruity ideas to liven up your cheeseboard

It’s not a party without an all-star buffet line-up…