HEAVENLY HOST
What should I provide for Christmas supper?
A zesty remoulade salad, like a posh coleslaw but without the cabbage, along with a loaf of good bread, and all the leftovers will fit the bill. On Christmas Eve, grate four carrots and a small peeled celeriac. Mix with four tablespoons of crème fraîche, two tablespoons of Dijon mustard and two tablespoons of olive oil, plus a bunch of spring onions, finely sliced, and one teaspoon of dried tarragon. Season well, and add the juice of half a lemon and two tablespoons of capers. Store in the fridge.
When guests ask if they can help, what are OK jobs to give them? As a guest, what can I offer to do?
If you’re hosting, then have a list of jobs that you can ask guests to do. Don’t feel guilty – most people genuinely want to be involved. Peeling sprouts and potatoes, being in charge of warming plates, taking on the bread sauce, and pouring wine are all good candidates. If you’re a guest, offer to do any of the above, and don’t forget non-food stuff such as collecting all the glasses in from the sitting room, answering the door and entertaining children.
If my guests bring wine, do I have to open it, or can I serve the wine I’ve planned?
Ultimately it’s your call – you’re the host. But if you are in a quandary, just ask – “I’ve already planned the wine for dinner but would you like to try this as well?” should do the trick. That said, if it’s already chilled, and a bottle of good fizz (champagne or English sparkling, say) that’s perfect before the meal, then I’d take that as a hint and pop the booty straightaway.
What’s the best way to polish the glasses?
Sparkling glasses really do make a difference, and it’s a job you can delegate. The best way is to hold each glass over a steaming (but not boiling) pan of water, to which you have added a tablespoon of vinegar. As soon as the steam condenses on the glass, polish it with a linen tea towel. Ta-dah!
Help! I’ve invited a crowd for Christmas. How much space do I need to allow per person at the table?
The standard minimum is 60cm per person, but no one minds being a little bit snug.