Danebury Food Blog – 16 May 2025

There is nothing better than a home-cooked meal that is quick and nutritious. Each week we will be sharing recipes that have been nominated by pupils or members of staff, that are more delicious than freezer food and considerably cheaper than ordering a takeaway. In addition, we will be sharing news about the fantastic food preparation undertaken by our pupils.

Pupil Choice Recipe

Peppercorn Sauce

This recipe has been suggested by Reuben, Yr 10 who loves this sauce with steak and chips :

Ingredients

· Black Peppercorns: 2 tablespoons, roughly crushed

· Butter: 2 tablespoons

· Shallots: 1 small, finely chopped

· Beef or Chicken Stock: 150ml (about 1/2 cup)

· Double Cream: 150ml (about 1/2 cup)

· Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional)

· Salt: To taste

Preparation

Step 1: Crush the Peppercorns

· Crush the Peppercorns: Use a mortar and pestle or the bottom of a heavy pan to roughly crush the peppercorns. They should be cracked, not ground, for the best texture and flavour.

Step 2: Sauté the Shallots

· Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized pan, melt the butter over medium heat.

· Cook the Shallots: Add the finely chopped shallots to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until they are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

· Add the Stock: Pour in the beef or chicken stock, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

· Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the double cream. Add the crushed peppercorns and Dijon mustard (if using).

· Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Step 4: Season and Serve

· Season with Salt: Taste the sauce and season with salt as needed.

· Serve Hot: Pour the peppercorn sauce over your steak, chicken, or vegetables, and serve immediately.

This version was inspired by jamieolivereats.co.uk

Please do try this at home and enjoy! Feel free to send photos of your cooking to Mr Page at pagea@testvalley.hants.sch.uk.

Danebury Chefs of the Week

This week’s Chef of the Week in Leo R, Yr 9, who made a beautiful strawberry cheesecake (see Chef’s Gallery). Well done Leo!

Chef’s Gallery

Yr 7 Pasta Salad

Chef’s Gallery

Yr 7 Pasta Salad

 

Yr 9 Cheesecake

 

 

Next Week’s Lessons

Yr 7 – Sprintime Soup

Yr 8 –  Fruit Muffins

Yr 9 – American Pancakes