Simple meals for easy entertaining
Having guests over? No worries. These recipes can be made way in advance – giving you more time to relax and enjoy playing host
MAKE dining with friends a hasslefree occasion by prepping ahead and using simple but scrumptious recipes.
Annabel Frere’s book, Help! There’s a Guest at My Table!, not only has great recipes that are easy to follow but also contains a guide to planning your meal, and various tips and suggestions for effortless entertaining.
CHICKEN AND CHORIZO WITH TOMATOES
This dish can be prepared in advance. SERVES 6-8 PREPARATION: 15 MIN COOKING: ABOUT 1 HOUR 30ml (2T) oil 225g spicy chorizo, skinned and thinly sliced 2 red onions, peeled and quartered lengthways 8-12 medium to large chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat 6ml (1 heaped t) paprika 1 large garlic clove, peeled and finely chopped 5ml (1t) dried oregano salt and pepper 250ml (1c) dry white wine 250ml (1c) chicken stock (use only ½ stock cube) 1 can (400g) peeled whole tomatoes in juice 1 Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. 2 Fry the chorizo and onions for 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally to soften the onions and release the chorizo oils. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the oil in the pan. 3 Add the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle the paprika, garlic and oregano over, season lightly with the salt and pepper and turn the heat up a little. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 4 minutes a side. 4 Pour in the wine and scrape gently around the pan to deglaze. Stir in the chorizo, onions, stock and tomatoes, mashing the tomatoes with a fork. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. 5 Garnish as desired and serve with baby potatoes.