Spending a cold, wet, winter’s day in the kitchen producing a three-course meal is as satisfying for the cook as it is for guests. Kathy Patterson shares her recipes for a perfect night in with friends.
Soup to start
The delightful little dumplings in this soup come from a recipe by Australian foodwriter Stephanie Alexander. Stephanie doesn’t pan-fry them to finish, but we do here for extra colour and flavour.
Clear chicken soup with dumplings
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Main course
To ensure a tender piece of meat choose the chateaubriand end of a fillet of beef (the top, thicker part of the cut).
Eye fillet of beef with bitter greens and charred sourdough
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Sweet finish
Flavoured custards are a favourite Bite dinner party dessert — they are delicious, with a comforting creaminess and can be made a day ahead if wished.
Orange pots, oranges and chocolate crumble
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