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

WHO SAID DINNER WAS THE MAIN EVENT? CLODAGH MCKENNA’S TWIXMAS BRUNCH IDEAS MIGHT PERSUADE YOU OTHERWISE…

Be inspired by the time-honoured traditions of this month’s contributors bringing you biryani from Sri Lanka, doughnuts from Italy, and more

Get your winter bake on with these fabulous creations

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

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