Latest recipes, kitchen notes and food ideas from MJ’s Fun with Food.

Provencal Braised Lamb Shanks with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate Easter with these Provencal Braised Lamb Shanks, simmered slowly in a fragrant white wine broth with fresh spring vegetables and aromatic herbs. This French-inspired centerpiece is meltingly tender, bursting with rustic flavors, and perfect for a festive gathering. Serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a truly memorable holiday meal.
Cooking for one?
I wrote a short, practical guide on building simple, low-waste meals for one person — without batch cooking or stress.

Rustic French Lamb Stew with Spring Peas & Tarragon
Celebrate Easter with this rustic French lamb stew, brimming with tender lamb, sweet spring peas, and a fragrant tarragon broth. Slow-simmered for deep flavor, this comforting dish is both elegant and approachable—perfect for a festive family gathering. Serve with crusty bread for a truly memorable holiday meal.

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Dijon Shallot Jus
Celebrate Easter with this elegant French-inspired Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb, crowned with a golden crust of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs, then drizzled with a velvety Dijon shallot jus. The tender lamb, infused with garlic and aromatic thyme, is roasted to perfection for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s surprisingly approachable. Serve alongside your favorite spring vegetables for…

Zesty Carrot-Ginger Soup with Roasted Garlic Swirl
Warm up with this soul-soothing Zesty Carrot-Ginger Soup, where sweet carrots and fiery fresh ginger are simmered to perfection alongside mellow onions and a swirl of roasted garlic. This vibrant, velvety soup is bursting with bold flavors and makes for a comforting lunch or a show-stopping starter. The roasted garlic adds a creamy depth, while…

Easter Bunny Chocolate Nests: No-Bake Kid-Friendly Treats
Hop into Easter fun with these adorable Chocolate Nests! This no-bake recipe is perfect for little hands, letting kids shape their own crunchy, chocolatey nests filled with colorful candy eggs. It’s a sweet, creative activity and a delicious treat all in one—ideal for family gatherings or a festive afternoon in the kitchen.

Zesty Lemon-Garlic Prawn Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up your dinner routine with this Zesty Lemon-Garlic Prawn Pasta! Succulent prawns are sautéed with aromatic garlic, tossed with al dente pasta, and finished with a splash of lemon and a shower of fresh herbs. It’s a quick, elegant meal that’s bursting with fresh, lively flavors—perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

Apple-Port Glazed Pork Tenderloin Weekend Treat
Indulge in the sweet and savory harmony of our Apple-Port Glazed Pork Tenderloin. This dish features tender pork, beautifully caramelized apples, and a rich port sauce that elevates your dinner table with its delightful flavors. Perfect for a cozy family meal or an elegant gathering, this recipe is as simple as it is impressive, bringing…

Easy Beef Mince Tacos (Quick Family-Friendly Dinner)
Deliciously seasoned beef mince tacos, perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together!

Smoky Tomato Minced Beef Skillet (Easy One-Pan Dinner)
Cozy up to this smoky tomato-braised mince beef skillet—a one-pan wonder that’s brimming with juicy tomatoes, tender beef, and a touch of paprika warmth. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a hearty, flavor-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner.

Dark Chocolate Pear Tart with a Crisp Cocoa Pastry
Impress your guests with this elegant British dessert featuring luscious pears and rich chocolate.

Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes with Molten Centres
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these rich and gooey Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes. Perfectly baked with a molten center, each bite delivers an explosion of chocolatey goodness that will leave you craving more. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in.

Creamy Decadent Chocolate Cream Mousse
Indulge in this rich and creamy chocolate mousse that’s perfect for any occasion!