preference: Vegetarian
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Mary Beaven’s Potatoes
This is very simple alternative to boiled or baked spuds which elicits compliments every time.
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Curried Rice Salad
A stalwart of many Australian barbies, this curried rice salad is gently spiced and faintly sweet. It’s best made a little ahead so the flavours have time to settle. This quantity comfortably feeds two for dinner, with enough left over for lunch the next day.
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Rom’s Gingerbread
This is Rom’s most iconic recipe. Gingerbread, beloved by her children, grandchildren, and friends alike. A mate and I were almost driven mad by the aroma while it baked in Palmerston North. Gingerbread, still warm from the oven and spread generously with butter, is one of the best things in the world. Warm gingerbread with…
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Broccoli and Orecchiette with Yoghurt and Peas
A simple, generous pasta built around vegetables and a soft yoghurt dressing. Orecchiette, broccoli and peas are folded together while still warm, finished with basil, pine nuts and olive oil—an easy dish for sharing, from the wonderful Hetty Lui McKinnon.
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Mushroom and Miso Soup
A quiet, savoury soup built on mushrooms and light miso. Simple to make, gently warming, and deeply comforting — this is the kind of everyday dish that rewards patience rather than fuss.
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Mushroom stock
Mushroom stock is my favourite quiet kitchen habit: mushroom stems and a few pieces of kombu gently simmered for twenty minutes, then bottled and kept in the fridge. It’s not a bold broth—just an easy way to add a splash of umami to soups, grains, sauces, and anything that needs a little extra depth.