EDITOR’S NOTES

As you start to prepare for the upcoming season of parties, gifting and hosting, we hope you find this issue a helpful resource right through to the New Year.

“Inside Scoop” isa new section that we introduced this past Summer and here it is again, packed with information, tips, trends and ideas that answer many of the questions we all ask at one time or another over the next two months. Lumpy gravy or burnt-on pans? Need a last-minute (and no-bake!) cookie for the holiday swap? Looking for cheap and cheerful décor ideas for a festive touch? Stuck on what punch to serve at your annual party or which sparkler is the right choice no matter your price point? We’ve got all the answers, plus so much more, starting on page 25.

Understandably, the number one request of me by friends and family at this time of year is for suggestions for what to buy at the LCBO. Lucky for me, I know all the answers are on the pages of this magazine and I can always point to a solution. Question number one: “What wine should I buy to serve with Christmas dinner?” Well, it depends on what type of cook you are… Starting on page 169 we’ll help you determine that with a checklist of typical dishes and ingredients; and once you’ve settled on your style, we’ve proposed a red, a white and a rosé wine that are ideal accompaniments. Choose just one, or all three so guests can pick their favourite. A suggestion for gifts is easily question #2 and we have three stories in this issue to help with that. Check out bottles for the host on page 55, unique gifts for the hard-to-buy-for on page 101 and a seasonal roundup for anyone else on your list on page 118.

We know after all the work that goes into dinner, it’s tempting just to buy dessert—but this year, don’t do it! Starting on page 93 we have four easy recipes that are riffs on popular holiday-season chocolates—a fun and delicious way to cap off any gathering. If you’re on a budget, but still want to host a dinner party on New Year’s Eve, go to page 179 for a menu that serves four for under $100 (including wine!). And finally, at this time of indulgence, it’s always a good idea to have some better-foryou options at the ready: “Smart Snacking” on page 49 offers three tasty chip-and-dip pairings that are guaranteed to please.

From all of us at Food & Drink we wish you and yours the happiest of holidays!