ABOUT ME



   


I am not married to a cowboy and I do not live on a ranch out in the middle of nowhere.  I'm not young, nor am I beautiful.  You will not find tips on here concerning how to take the best food photographs in the world.  You may not even find the best food photographs in the world.  What I can promise you though is good food and great recipes.  These are my tried and true's . . . my experiments and successes, and maybe even a few failures . . . both as a home cook and through my experience as having worked as  a personal chef for many years.  I am not fancy.  But I am good.  There won't be anything here that I don't think anyone can cook, and I will endeavour to show you how to cook whatever it is I am cooking in the very best possible way, and hopefully we can all have some fun, and a few laughs along the way.  Simple ingredients, simple methods, fantastic flavours.  That is my promise to you. 

Feel free to e-mail me at:  mariealicejoan at aol dot com

163 comments

  1. Marthanna15 November 2012 at 02:49

    Just found your blog today looking for a candied peel recipe...absolutely amazed at the amount of great recipes and information. Just bought your Christmas booklet...keep up the great work, can hardly wait to start cooking up a great holiday season! Thanks Marie! :)

    Martha Clark
    Buda, TX

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  2. Karen27 November 2012 at 03:19

    I just love your blog and would love to pin it on Pinterest but I don't see a link. Great and interesting recipes.

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  3. Marie Rayner27 November 2012 at 08:34

    Not sure what you mean by that Karen. If you have Pinterest, you should have a Pin it button on your browser which would enable you to pin anything you want to pin???

    Thanks for your kind words! I do put a lot of work into my page and I am always happy to hear that people appreciate it.

    Marthanna, I hope you enjoyed the cook-booklet!!

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  4. Unknown8 December 2012 at 10:02

    Hi Marie.
    I stumbled onto your blog this evening and am enjoying it thoroughly! I very much admire England (I am from America.) There are so many good looking recipes that it is hard to know where to start.

    AnnaMarie

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  5. Al15 December 2012 at 11:03

    Hi Marie,

    At last! A very useful blog about the GREAT English kitchen. I have lived in in the UK for over 20 years (now back in NL) and I've been missing all the lovely pies, chutneys, cakes, and roast foods,. I don't know where the myth of the English kitchen being less than others comes from but let me say there is no kitchen which gives such a comfort feeling as the english kitchen,. The dutch do have a bad kitchen and most do not know how to cook (everything comes out of a packet).
    Thank you, thank you, thank you :)

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  6. Unknown19 December 2012 at 20:31

    Hi Marie,

    Thank you for all your wonderfull recipes.

    KandS from Belgium

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  7. Unknown29 December 2012 at 15:23

    I was just browsing your blog... can't wait to try some recipes (I especially am keen on the lemon ones.) I noticed that someone asked about how to pin something from the internet onto Pinterest. Here's the link from their site on how to add it to your bar: http://pinterest.com/about/goodies/
    Now... back to browsing!

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  8. Jane Richeldis26 January 2013 at 13:41

    What a lovely introduction!

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  9. Unknown14 February 2013 at 00:29

    Love love love your blog

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  10. Unknown14 February 2013 at 00:30

    Love Love Love your blog

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  11. cherrybob119 February 2013 at 02:31

    Was searching for orchard images for a catalog cover and came across your blog/website. Just wanted to congratulate you on creating such an authentic place in a medium that is difficult to do that! All my best to you.
    Bob Sutherland, Glen Arbor

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  12. Christina | Christina's Cucina21 February 2013 at 15:19

    Greetings from California, Marie! I just found you this morning and LOVE your blog! You are a woman after my own heart: trying to change the myth of "bad" British food! I grew up in Scotland to Italian parents, so I loved that you wrote about your misconception about English food before you went was totally blown away after you tasted the food the UK has to offer! Have you travelled to Scotland yet? Brilliant food there too! I hope you check out my blog too, however I've only been doing it about a year: http://christinascucina.blogspot.com Christina :)

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  13. Homebird5 April 2013 at 15:19

    I was wondering if I could include one of your recipes for banana and date muffins in my blog- you would get all the credit obviously!! They were AMAZING!!

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  14. Marie Rayner5 April 2013 at 15:44

    So glad you enjoyed Homebird! Happy for you to share! They are pretty amazing, I agree! xx

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  15. Linda18 April 2013 at 01:39

    I'm really glad you're who you are and I look forward to trying some of your recipes. I'm an Anglophile to the core even though I'm a Texan! I hope your Mom's doing well.

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  16. Anonymous18 April 2013 at 02:44

    I cyber walked over here from Welcome Home. I now follow you on Pinterest! Love that place. My name is Karen Brightwell if you want to follow me. I am looking forward to trying out your recipes! Loved your introduction and I hope your mom is okay...see you in May!

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  17. evelyn195421 April 2013 at 15:18

    I too had the same question that Karen had. I am kinda new to Pinterest and don't/didn't know how to "pin" a recipe with the pin button on the recipe.
    Thank you Angel for explaining and the link I just tried it and now have a "pin" button on my toolbar :) I'm learning new things every day.
    I do want to saw I do love your blog I just found it this morning and am still reading.
    Hope your Mom is doing well I'm a 5 year Stage III BC survivor I wish her good health. I am also a care giver for my 93 year old Mother (she has lived with us and is total care for 6 years) that had 3 major strokes 6 years ago. So I also know the care giving side also.
    Well wishes coming from Ohio USA

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  18. kanaboke25 April 2013 at 16:46

    Your About Me made me smile!! Blessings for your mom and for you as a caregiver!

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  19. Unknown29 April 2013 at 15:14

    Really enjoyed your blog lovely photos too ,I started a little blog last year so taking lots of inspiration Johnnys Kitchen blog

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  20. Colette (Coco)11 May 2013 at 01:31

    Marie, you ARE beautiful and I so enjoy your blog.

    Wishing the very best for your mom. I'm currently undergoing chemo for breast cancer and can relate. Get her a fun & cute wig and push forward! oxo, Colette

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  21. Marie Rayner11 May 2013 at 10:49

    Thanks Colette, that is so kind of you to say. I am glad you enjoy my blog. I do put a lot of work into it. Mom's cancer surgery went well, but there were some complications afterwards which mean she is still in hospital. Mom is a breast cancer survivor of 31 years. She opted for complete radical mastectomy and then reconstruction. We are hoping that she will soon be able to come home. It is discouraging for her to still be in hospital. Xxoo

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  22. The Twilight Chef14 May 2013 at 16:22

    Hi Marie - I have just been looking at your blog and it is brilliant, I really love it. i have just started my own food blog and have got a lot of ideas and inspiration from your one. I am also based in the UK so can really appreciate your celebration of British foods. Thanks and looking forward to seeing your next post. I hope all is ok with you and your Mum. Best Wishes to you both.

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  23. Marie Rayner14 May 2013 at 19:04

    Thanks Twilight Chef. Mom has had a few complications, but is doing better now. It was a bit touch and go for a while. Hoping we have turned a corner now! Welcome to the beautifully addictive world of food blogging!

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  24. Colette (Coco)17 May 2013 at 17:16

    Hi, Marie.
    That's a huge surgery your mom just had. But, she's in good hands and will be home before you know it.
    Sending you best wishes. oxo

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  25. Anonymous13 July 2013 at 21:07

    Hi, I am so excited to find your site. I saw one of your recipes on Facebook and it was linked to you on the Internet. Based on the brief look, I can't wait to visit often.
    We are actually going to use one of your recipes for tonight's dinner.

    BBFN
    Krissy

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  26. Marie Rayner14 July 2013 at 06:29

    Welcome Krissy! Glad you found us. Hope that you enjoyed your dinner and come back often! You're always welcome!

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  27. Ina1 August 2013 at 20:06

    Hi Marie
    I just made some quince jelly, but after 2 days it is still slightly runny - not jelly-fied, even though the taste and colour looks perfect. Is there anything I can do to make it firmer? (One jar has been in the fridge for 48 hours with no improvement.)
    Thanks for your lovely blog!
    Cath

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  28. Marie Rayner2 August 2013 at 08:28

    Hi Ina, without actually seeing your recipe I can't answer your question directly, but I can tell you what it says in my Bernardin Guide to Home Preserving about soft jelly . . . it could be one of any of the following:

    1. Undercooking results in too little evaporation of water (Solution - cook until it reaches the gel stage ie. spoon test- using a cold metal spoon, dip the spoon into the boiling mixture and let the mixture run off the long side of the spoon. At first the mixture will be quite funny and will drip off the spoon. As it cooks and becomes thicker, the drops will become larger. The jelly is done when the drops sheet together off the spoon.

    2. Too much jelly made at one time - Solution (Use only 4 to 6 cups of juice for each batch of jelly. Do not double recipes.)

    3. Incorrect amounts of juice and sugar - Solution (Follow a reliable up to date recipe.)

    4. Not enough acid - Solution (If the fruit is low in acid, lemon juice may be added (Acid test - mix 1 tsp lemon juice, 3 TBS water and 1/2 tsp sugar. Taste this mixture and compare it to the taste of fruit juice. If the juice is sweeter, adjust taste by adding 1 TBS strained lemon juice for each cup of fruit juice.))

    5. Use of overripe fruit which contains less pectin and acid. - Solution (Use just ripe fruit. One quarter of the fruit can be slightly underripe.)

    Not sure if any of this helps you Ina. I would be tempted to cook it for longer myself, using the sheet test. Hope this helps!

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  29. Unknown26 August 2013 at 03:04

    Just found your blog today and SO happy I did. I lived in England for a year and I Miss the food. The cheeses were divine and I think your produce is better than where I live in the US. And finally a whole nation that loves custard as much as I do! LOL I cannot wait to browse through your recipes.

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  30. Marie Rayner26 August 2013 at 05:59

    Welcome Gina! So happy to have you on board. The cheeses ARE divine and the produce is exceptional to say tht least. I think that the reputation that the UK has earned in the past for having bad good is very undeserved!

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  31. KirstenInWales6 September 2013 at 14:04

    Hi Marie! I came across your recipe for a jam tray bake on Pinterest a couple of days ago which led me to your blog. Wonderful stuff on here - thank you for the inspiration! I have since made the slices and they are lovely - would you mind me sharing the recipe on my blog (obviously crediting you)? Many thanks! Kirsten x

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  32. Marie Rayner6 September 2013 at 15:17

    Hi Kristen, don't mind at all as long as you credit me. Thanks for your kind comments!

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  33. KirstenInWales6 September 2013 at 20:07

    Thank you so much! Kirsten x

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  34. marilyn r18 September 2013 at 00:23

    Marie- You don't need to be married to a cowboy, be a photographer, etc. I love your blog, and have learned a lot about British cuisine from you. Keep up the good work!! By the way, are you from England?

    Marilynr

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  35. Marie Rayner18 September 2013 at 06:32

    Hi Marilyn! Welcome! I am a naturalized British Subject and yes, I live in the UK. But I was born Canadian. SO I'm afraid my cooking has a bit of a North American influence on it, but I love the traditional stuff as well and often cook it! Thanks for your kind words! You made my day!

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  36. Unknown18 September 2013 at 22:08

    Hi Marie! I've just found your blog now while I'm searching what toasted tea cake is!! I like your blog and I'll fallow you daily! Happy to find your blog:)
    Aylin x

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  37. Marie Rayner19 September 2013 at 06:16

    Hi Aylin! Welcome to The English Kitchen! Glad to have you onboard!

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  38. vic24 September 2013 at 17:41

    I recently happened upon your blog and love it. Have printed out so many recipes. Have made a few so far and they have been wonderful and just as advertised!

    Victoria in Indiana

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  39. Marie Rayner24 September 2013 at 17:55

    Victoria thank you so much for your lovely words! It always makes my day when I know that someone is making my recipes and enjoying the results! I love it when you take the time to let me know this. You have made my day! xx

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  40. Sheila9 October 2013 at 05:17

    I have followed your delicious blog for awhile now. I read each and every every wonderful post.
    Please blog on : )

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  41. Marie Rayner9 October 2013 at 06:32

    Thank you Sheila! I love it when my regular readers make themselves known to me. I do work very hard on this page and it's nice to know it is appreciated!

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  42. Vic Deacon20 October 2013 at 20:47

    Hi Marie, Have just printed your Chelsea Bun recipe for my better half to try.
    How about a recipe for Bread Pudding (Nelsons Pudding) or a Sussex Pond pudding, both most definitely English.
    Vic, from snowy Manitoba, but originally Sussex.

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  43. Marie Rayner21 October 2013 at 06:23

    HI Vic, I think you will find I am ahead of you there. YOu will find a Sussex Pond pudding here: http://theenglishkitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2010/02/sussex-pond-pudding.html
    and the bread pudding is here:
    http://theenglishkitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/days-out-and-bread-pudding.html

    Thanks for your kind comments. I have lived in Manitoba. I Lived in Gimli for about 7 years when I was a child and then in Winnipeg as an adult! I remember the snow well!!

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  44. Vic Deacon22 October 2013 at 00:45

    Hi Marie, thanks for the reply, sorry, obviously did not check your site properly, have had a look and would only add that in the bread pudding I always add a grated, cored apple, some marmalade and always used whole slices of old bread rather than crumbs. Soaked in the milk and then with the other ingredients squished with the fingers, mucky but fun as a kid. Squeezed most of the milk out then pack into a large (13x9)pan and bake. Whichever way it tastes great and ours was devoured almost straight from the oven or left to cool to eat cold.
    LLangollen is a gorgeous place but can be a traffic nightmare.
    Haven't been to Gimli but my better half has on quilting retreats.
    Vic

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  45. Marie Rayner22 October 2013 at 06:15

    Marie, forgot to mention that the Readers Digest "Farmhouse Cookery, Recipes from the Country Kitchen" is a great book for traditional meals. ISBN 0 340 25486 6
    Vic

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  46. Unknown30 October 2013 at 00:27

    Oh my God! I just tried the spicy baked chicken and it was amazing!Here's the story: whole cut-up chicken was on sale today, so I bought one. Didn't know what to do with it, though, because I'm fighting the flu and didn't want to spend a lot of time in preparation or cleaning up the kitchen. So I searched for a recipe that I could just throw in the oven. I absolutely loved it. Printed it and added it to my recipe binder. I've been cooking since I was nine and have become quite good at; unfortunately, that also makes me rather picky when evaluating recipes. I would definitely give this four stars. Plan on trying the onion tarts next!

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  47. Marie Rayner30 October 2013 at 07:22

    Thanks Teresa. I hope you feel better soon. I think you will love the Onion Tarts too!

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  48. Sherrylr26 November 2013 at 18:00

    A friend told me about your blog this morning and said what wonderful recipes you have. I love your introduction to yourself! Down to earth and no frills. I love it! Can't wait to try some of these. I am an avid baker and I have already seen to many things I want to try. Think I may get started this afternoon. :)

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  49. Marie Rayner26 November 2013 at 18:13

    Thanks so much for your kind words Sherrylr! I hope you enjoy what you make!

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  50. Unknown30 December 2013 at 02:54

    Do u have recipe for Sticky Toffee Pudding? Have been searching since had it in a pub when visiting London several years ago. Think had treacle sauce on it. Delish.

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  51. 30 December 2013 at 03:50

    Hi Marie,
    My mom e-mailed me your blog last night and I have been thinking about it all day today. I looked over the tips you have and I am so excited to try them out! I just started looking at the recipes and they look and sound just like the food I grew up with, I can't wait to try. Every time I ask my mom for her recipes she has a hard time explaining because she doesn't use regular measurements. I am excited to keep reading and start trying! Thank you for the time you have taken to put this together, it is amazing!

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  52. Marie Rayner30 December 2013 at 06:46

    Welcome to The English Kitchen Marialena! So happy you found me. I hope you enjoy what you find as much as I enjoy showing it to all of you! Thank you so much for your lovely comment! xxoo

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  53. Marie Rayner30 December 2013 at 06:49

    Hi Mary Agnes, here is the link to my recipe for Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake. I hope that you enjoy it!

    http://theenglishkitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/sticky-toffee-pudding.html

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  54. Warran5 January 2014 at 16:13

    Hi,

    I was doing a new years clear out in the kitchen, found some desiccated coconut and thought i'd make a cake.
    Goggled for English cake recipes and ended up here. Excellent blog full of great recipes.
    I'm an Englishman from Wiltshire, I'm well traveled and admire and appreciate many cuisines but feel our own is underrated. your doing a great job dispelling the negative myths about English cooking.
    Many thanks Warran.
    ps the raspberry and coconut pudding hit the spot, the wife and girls loved it.

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  55. Marie Rayner5 January 2014 at 16:19

    Hi Warran, thanks so much for your nice comment! I really appreciate the feedback! I love the food over here in the UK and think our poor reputation is largely un-deserved! Glad you enjoyed the pudding! It's a real favourite of the Toddster's too!

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  56. Unknown2 February 2014 at 02:21

    Hi Marie!

    Found your blog a few months ago and as I am British & living in the USA I am really enjoying your receipes :)
    We have a church group that we meet with weekly and I am proudly bringing your receipes along each time :)
    Just tried the Sour Cream Banana Loaf today, it is in the oven as I write! I did notice though that in the method there was no mention of adding the Vanilla and sadly I omitted it & didn't realize until it was in the oven. Hopefully it will still turn out yummy and our group will enjoy the newest creation tomorrow.
    Looking forward to what's next on the menu....

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  57. Marie Rayner2 February 2014 at 07:35

    Oh dear Wendy. I will have to fix that! It should go in with the sugar. Sorry about that! I hope that you enjoyed it anyways!

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  58. thecraftyimaginationstation20 February 2014 at 03:47

    What an inspiring blog you have, Marie! I pin many of your recipes, and plan to put one on next week's menu. I'm a mom that loves to cook good food for my family... It's so important to me. Thanks for inspiring my culinary tastes and journey, in cooking for my loved ones. Your blog is perfect, don't change a thing! :) Blessings!

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  59. Marie Rayner20 February 2014 at 06:02

    Thank you so much for your lovely comment craftyimaginationstation! You have made my day get off to a fabulous start! xxoo

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  60. Anonymous21 February 2014 at 21:40

    Your blog is so lovely, and your photographs look as lovely as your recipes; I can't wait to have a proper look round :)

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  61. Marie Rayner22 February 2014 at 06:30

    Thank you eightpotatoes! I hope you enjoy my blog as much as I enjoy working on it. Win/win all around!

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  62. Anonymous18 March 2014 at 15:58

    I am so excited to have found your blog! I'm an American girl dating a British man--and though he has been in the states for nearly half of his life, I'm betting some of these recipes will really bring back some memories! Thank you for using American measurements in most of your recipes, I'm still working on the conversion math, haha! I can't wait to try out a few of these dishes!

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  63. Marie Rayner18 March 2014 at 16:05

    Welcome Kaity! YOU just got to love those British Men!! I adore mine. You should really buy yourself a set of kitchen scales. The usefulness of them cannot be underestimated! xxoo

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  64. Anonymous3 April 2014 at 10:16

    Hey Marie,
    Your blog (The English Kitchen) has caught our attention because of the quality of recipes.

    We would be delighted if you would join us so that we could link to it. We send thousands of visitors to our blogs on a weekly basis.

    Everyrecipe is a search engine that compiles the best Australian cooking sites and blogs from the Internet. It is a part of an international cooking search engine MyTaste.com, which is now operating in 40 countries all over the world.

    To join Everyrecipe, just go to

    http://www.everyrecipe.com.au/add-your-food-blog

    Kind regards
    Everyrecipe.com.au (myTaste Australia)

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  65. Unknown2 May 2014 at 16:40

    Love your site, and thank you for all of your fine recipes that you so freely share. My son and his family lived on Clifton Hill for a few years until they returned to the states. Love England. My grandchildren attended the American School of London, getting a fabulous education. Kudos to you and to the UK.

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  66. Marie Rayner2 May 2014 at 17:21

    Thank you so much for introducing yourself Sharon! I love it here in the UK. It has truly become my home. It's a lovely country to live in, and of course I think the food is great! xx

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  67. Unknown10 May 2014 at 15:54

    Does anyone have a good recipe for Victoria Sandwich that works with the US flour? I always make it when I go to the UK, but after 40 years of living in the US I still have not mastered it with the US flour.

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  68. Marie Rayner10 May 2014 at 17:11

    Hi Barbara, I think the closest cake that you can create in America to a Victorian Sponge, is the Hot Milk Cake. While technically not the same, it is the closest in flavour and texture. This is a very good recipe: http://whatscookingamerica.net/Cake/HotMilkSpongeCake.htm

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  69. Linda Michaud12 June 2014 at 04:01

    I just discovered your site and it's marvelous! Thank you so much!

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  70. Marie Rayner12 June 2014 at 05:39

    Hi Linda! Welcome to the English Kitchen! I do so hope that you stay around and enjoy your time here. I'm very happy to have you! You're more than welcome! xxoo

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  71. Jim12 June 2014 at 22:41

    Thanks for sharing, I really like the rhubarb custard pie. My grandmother used to make it and finally found it on your page :)

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  72. Marie Rayner13 June 2014 at 06:06

    Jim I am so happy that I was able to help you! I hope you like the pie!

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  73. Elaine Sipos25 July 2014 at 18:17

    Hi Marie,
    Buttercup recommended your blog and so glad she did! Can't wait to try some of your recipes!

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  74. Marie Rayner26 July 2014 at 11:56

    Hi Elaine, thank you so much for saying hello! I look forward to hearing from you again and I hope you enjoy the recipes which you try out! Thanks so much!

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  75. Erichan26 August 2014 at 14:39

    Hi Marie, I'm Liz from Italy. I really love cooking and really love England (it is my home now) and it's great cuisine. I'm in love with everything that is British and I think that your blog is fantastic! I've found it right now searching for a Spam fritter recipe and I'm absolutely amazed. Thank you so much for all the things that I'm going to learn with your blog I just love it <3
    Liz

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  76. Marie Rayner26 August 2014 at 14:43

    Hi Liz from Italy! Welcome! You will love Spam Fritters. Maybe not so healthy but they are very tasty! I really appreciate you introducing yourself to me! xx

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  77. Marie Rayner26 August 2014 at 14:43

    PS - Liz I am off to Florence next spring!

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  78. Erichan26 August 2014 at 14:54

    aww Marie thank you so much for your answer, it means the world to me :)I'll try them as soon as I can and I'll let you know :)
    Hope to keep in touch xx

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  79. Marie Rayner26 August 2014 at 15:05

    Thanks Liz! I like to stay in touch with my readers. I must say I like your icon! Very British! xx

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  80. Team Taylor29 December 2014 at 07:30

    Hi Marie
    I found your blog after googling banana+ walnut+ cranberry+ loaf. After finding your recipe I gave the loaf a try hoping your promise of a fantastic loaf was true. Well it certainly was. Everyone raved over it and I'm about to bake another now. Thanks so much. Natalie from Australia

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  81. Marie Rayner29 December 2014 at 07:39

    Natalie, I am so pleased that you enjoyed it! It's a real favourite in this house too! Thank you so much for taking the time to let me know! xoxoxo

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  82. Nancy18 February 2015 at 15:54

    What a lovely blog & such a treasure trove of mouth-watering recipes! My cousin pointed me toward your blog because she enjoys it and I'm so glad she did. Planning to try the pierogi recipe this week - comfort food for these cold, winter months. Thanks for providing such a wonderful spot on the web!

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  83. Marie Rayner18 February 2015 at 18:21

    Nancy, thank you so much for your lovely comment! Pierogi certainly are comfort food! We love them in this house I hope that you enjoy them! Xx

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  84. MaryJo7 July 2015 at 12:42

    Marie I love your introduction!
    Have just found your blog & am looking forward to doing some searching!
    I was born in England so am looking forward to being reminded of post wartime recipes as my husband is also originally English but was sent to Australia when he was 7 years old.
    Best wishes.

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  85. Marie Rayner7 July 2015 at 13:08

    Hi Mary Jo! Welcome to my blog! I hope you will enjoy my recipes and stick around! xoxo

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  86. Angharad12 July 2015 at 18:56

    I've been making your lemon tarts all week with your lemon curd recipe. So delicious I'm making more today to give away Angharad

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  87. Marie Rayner13 July 2015 at 05:59

    So glad you are enjoying them Angharad! xx

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  88. Unknown11 August 2015 at 12:34

    Hi! Great site. However you need to go back to your recipe for bacon sarnies, and please FIX IT!!!! Bacon sarnies DO NOT contain eggs or cheese. EVER. It's nondebatable. Everything else I saw seems great. But don't ever call yourself english if you don't know how to make a proper sarnie, or buttie for that matter. Butties also DO NOT contain eggs or cheese. Anyway thanks!

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  89. Marie Rayner11 August 2015 at 14:55

    Hi August. I think you will find that I am a Canadian Ex Pat and if you check my whole site out I did do a traditional Bacon Sarnie here (http://theenglishkitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2009/07/worlds-best-bacon-buttie.html) which is exactly as you have described . . . bacon, white bread and brown sauce or ketchup according to preference.

    I see nothing wrong however with taking a concept and then creating something deliciously different from it, which is what I did when I added the fried egg and the cheese. Sorry if my Canadianism has offended your English Sensabilities. I think anyone from India would probably find a typical British curry offensive as well.

    It's a good thing we live in a very multicultural country where all types of cultures and ideas can be enjoyed!

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  90. By Amy13 August 2015 at 23:23

    Hahaha! I know what ranch-dwelling cook you're referring to... : ) Can't wait to read through all your recipes and get some new favorites for the new school year.

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  91. Marie Rayner14 August 2015 at 06:24

    Ohhh, Amy! Am I that transparent? tee hee! Enjoy your visit to my page! Love having you here. xoxo

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  92. Unknown1 October 2015 at 16:19

    Hi

    Caffiniti has launched the fourth wave. In Colombia, coffee growers not only plant coffee beans but also roast and retail their coffee in the UK under their trademarks.

    I would like to invite you to visit us at The Restaurant Show London - Olympia, if you're in the area pop in for coffee and Chat

    we wonder if could you review our products

    Thank you

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    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner1 October 2015 at 16:24

      Hi there Caffiniti. Unfortunately I do not drink tea or coffee due to my religious beliefs. Living up in Chester it is also highly impractical for me to travel down to London for such things, but thank you so very much for your invitation!

      Delete
  93. Julia20 October 2015 at 15:04

    Hello Marie, I just found your blog and it looks fantastic. I will keep checking back and hopefully learn some new stuff.

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    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner21 October 2015 at 07:05

      Welcome Julie! Always nice to meet a new reader! Thanks so much for your lovely comments! xo

      Delete
  94. Unknown21 October 2015 at 12:11

    Hello!
    Your blog is an excellent resource on cooking. I am a fellow blogger passionate about this as well, and I was wondering if you would be interested in having me guest blog on your website. I will make sure to prepare a high quality article which will be a great fit for your blog that your readers will definitively enjoy.
    Please let me know if you're interested.
    Thank you,
    Alexandra Keats

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner21 October 2015 at 15:01

      Hi Alexandra, many thanks for the offer and for the kind comments. I normally prepare and post all of my own content, but if I am ever looking for anything else, I will be sure to keep you in mind! xo

      Delete
  95. Patricia5 November 2015 at 15:35

    Hello Marie, I am a Canadian visiting England and trying to find my way around the English kitchen. Your blog has certainly assisted me and I hope to bring my knowledge of this countries cooking back home. Thanks for taking the time to provide the information. Patricia

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner5 November 2015 at 16:22

      Hi Patricia. Many thanks for your comment! You are certainly here when our weather is not at it's best, but I am glad that you are enjoying finding your way around the blog! I hope you are able to enjoy some of my recipes too! xo

      Delete
  96. PattyF22 November 2015 at 12:28

    Hi Marie, I made a mini turkey dinner many months back just to try your leftover turkey dinner casserole. It turned out wonderfully delicious. Looking forward to making it with the Thanksgiving leftovers again. Many of your other recipes look equally delicious. I am curious after having been in Canada for 45 years, what brought you to England?

    ReplyDelete
  97. Marie Rayner22 November 2015 at 15:10

    OH, I am so glad that you enjoyed the casserole Patricia! I love it when people enjoy the recipes I have shared! I do like to cook and eat. (and it shows unfortunately!) I moved over here when I met my husband and we decided to get married. He is from England and it was much easier for me to immigrate here than it was for him to immigrate to Canada and the employment situation was a lot better here as well! So it was a love story that brought me here. xo

    ReplyDelete
  98. Hawthorne20 April 2016 at 04:32

    Hi - just a query re your date slice posted recently, I thought perhaps the 3/4 cup of butter rubbed into the flour was less like breadcrumbs than playdough. Is this a typo? Mind you I did win first prize with it at our local show

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner20 April 2016 at 06:22

      Hi Hawthorne, it is not a typo. They should resemble coarse bread crumbs. If you press the crumbs together they will clump however. Adding the oats makes them more crumbly. I am assuming the recipe you are querying is Aunt Orabel's Date Squares. Winning first price is not a bad thing I don't think! xo

      Delete
  99. Ro'se Housel20 May 2016 at 15:33

    Just found your site. Was looking for 'Treacle Cake'. What is Treacle? Oh, its Molasses! Love the side bar on 'Make your own...' I need to let my sister (she is the cook) know about your sight. She collects cookbooks like my house collects dust!! Thank you for your blog, now I need to look through your 'Tasty Tidbits'.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner20 May 2016 at 15:42

      Hi Ro'se! Welcome! There are several kinds of treacle, the light one which is Golden Syrup. (You can sub light corn syrup for it in North America, although it will not have the same flavour quite.) Dark treacle is more like black strap molasses, so very strong. If you want to create something which is like molasses I would recommend mixing equal parts of golden syrup and dark treacle! Thanks for your lovely words! You need to tell your sister about my illustrated cookbooklets! Have a great day! xo

      Delete
  100. Nancy Dynes30 June 2016 at 05:31

    Hi Marie!
    I've been following your blog for quite a while. I just want to say how much I enjoy your recipes and blog posts. Each time I visit I feel like I'm sitting down to chat and have a cup of tea with a friend. Thanks for sharing with all of us!
    Nancy

    ReplyDelete
  101. Marie Rayner30 June 2016 at 05:43

    Hi Nancy! Thank you so very much for your very kind comment! I am so glad that you get that feeling from my posts because that is what I am aiming for! Its nice to know that is coming across! You have made my day! xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  102. Unknown31 July 2016 at 15:59

    I came upon your site looking for a recipe for what my wife calls Cheese and Onions Her mother originally from Newcastle upon Tine made this for her as a child . I am only finding Cheese and Onion soup and pie From her description it was thicker than Welsh Rarebit but served with toast on the side Any direction you can offer?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner31 July 2016 at 17:17

      Hi Unknown, I have done a search in my books and I found this recipe, which might be what you are looking for. It comes from an old book called The complete Farmhouse Kitchen Cookbook, and was published in association with Yorkshire Television, which is in the North East so very close to Newcastle Upon Tine.

      *Cheese and Onion Savoury*
      Serves 2 to 3

      450g (1 pound) onions
      a little salt
      300ml (1 1/4 cup) milk
      225g to 275g (8 to 10 oz) cheshire cheese
      2 TBS fresh bread crumbs
      2 tomatoes to garnish
      a little butter
      thick slices of bread or toast to serve

      Peel and thinly slice the onions. Place them in a pan with half a teaspoon of salt and just enough milk to cover. Cook gently until the onions are soft.

      Place the onions in a greased shallow casserole or small oven tin and cover with the thinly sliced cheese. Sprinkle with the bread crumbs and dust with a sprinkling of black pepper.

      Dot with butter.

      Place in an oven heated to 180*C/350*F/ gas mark 4 and leave until the cheese melts, about 15 to 20 minutes.

      Usually served with a thick slice of bread or toast to mop up the juices.

      Delete
    2. Marie Rayner31 July 2016 at 17:18

      It does sound like it might be what you are looking for. Do let me know how you get on!

      Delete
  103. Betsy8 October 2016 at 05:08

    You are the best! Love your recipes!
    betsy

    ReplyDelete
  104. Anonymous2 November 2016 at 18:02

    Hi Marie, have tried to comment before without success but I hope this time it gets through. I found your blog by accident when looking for a recipe (I think for Magic Pie but not certain.) Your blog is great and I've tried (and recommended to my friends) several recipes. Thank you very much for a great site and lots of inspiration. LizT

    ReplyDelete
  105. Unknown19 December 2016 at 15:02

    Dear Marie. What is the best way to contact you. I am producing a news report for French TV about Christmas dinner in the UK and would like your thoughts. Best regards, Elise (f2londres@france2.fr)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner19 December 2016 at 15:46

      Hi Elise, please feel free to contact me via my e-mail address: mariealicejoan at aol dot com

      Delete
  106. Nicole Acker24 January 2017 at 21:08

    Hello Marie! So happy to have found your blog. My soul belongs in England. I cant wait to try your recipes and am glad that thye are tested well and give US equivalents :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner25 January 2017 at 05:49

      Welcome! I am happy that you are happy! This is my passion and I thank you for taking the time to let me know you appreciate it! I was always an anglophile myself and living here has been a dream come true! xo

      Delete
  107. Unknown18 February 2017 at 05:14

    Hi Marie,

    Thankyou so much for sharing these great recipes. I live in Australia, however my Nan is from the UK & migrated here in the 60's as part of the '10 pound pom' scheme. She is a wonderful cook and I've learned many recipes from her, my fave being Yorkshire puddings. I can't wait to try some of your recipes on here - I can't help but feel everytime I have English cooking - I feel at home somehow. I hope to make it to the U K someday, thanks Marie :) Jen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner18 February 2017 at 05:21

      Hi Jen! Welcome and thanks so much for your lovely comment! I have heard of the 10 pound Pom scheme. My husband had signed up for it, but the door slammed on it just before he got ready to leave. He has always wondered what if. He did have an Uncle go who bought a pineapple farm! He has always wondered how he made out. In any case I hope you enjoy my recipes and discover a taste of your heritage here! xo

      Delete
  108. Ulla30 May 2017 at 09:29

    Just found your blog. I really love the way you introduce yourself! Like your recipes.
    Thank you for that!
    Ulla

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner30 May 2017 at 09:51

      Thanks Ulla! I hope you will return and try some of the recipes and enjoy them as much as I do! xo

      Delete
  109. Unknown4 June 2017 at 18:53

    Hi Marie! I just discovered your blog today and am planning on trying out a few of your recipes. They look scrumptious! Quick question: are you LDS? I noticed in one of your posts that you sometimes had missionaries over for tea, and I thought maybe they might be LDS missionaries. :) All the best!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner4 June 2017 at 19:00

      Hi Crystal! Welcome to my blog! I hope you do make some of my recipes and that you enjoy them! I also have a cookbook coming out soon so watch for that! Yes, I am LDS! In fact my husband and I just finished a full time service mission in December of last year! WE loved it!

      Delete
  110. Irene7 July 2017 at 19:07

    How lucky am I to have stumbled upon your blog! I am a schoolteacher and a sometime baker, and was seeking a scrumptious looking blueberry cake recipe...yours looked the most delish so I'll be baking it for the local market tomorrow. Thank you from across the pond!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner8 July 2017 at 08:52

      Hi Irene! Nice to meet you and you're quite welcome! I hope you enjoy the cake! xo

      Delete
  111. Tanvi10 October 2017 at 06:21

    Hi Marie,

    My name is Anuj Agarwal. I'm Founder of Feedspot.

    I would like to personally congratulate you as your blog The English Kitchen has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 60 London Food Blogs on the web.

    https://blog.feedspot.com/london_food_blogs/

    I personally give you a high-five and want to thank you for your contribution to this world. This is the most comprehensive list of Top 60 London Food Blogs on the internet and I’m honored to have you as part of this!

    Also, you have the honor of displaying the badge on your blog.

    Best,
    Anuj

    ReplyDelete
  112. Unknown17 May 2018 at 06:49

    xcs

    ReplyDelete
  113. 1106009711 August 2018 at 12:01

    Your recipes are amazing, some great and creative ideas here !

    Gonna try the Apple Pie!

    ReplyDelete
  114. Smith7 February 2019 at 12:11

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  115. Memarge29 May 2019 at 06:02

    Are you still publishing, dear?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner29 May 2019 at 07:21

      I am not sure what you are asking Memarge? I do publish a blog post each day. I have published several cookbooks and a bunch of cookbooklets. Another book should have been out in November of last year, but my publisher has hit a snag so it is on hold for the moment, but hopefully not for long! xoxo

      Delete
  116. Memarge29 May 2019 at 07:43

    I used to get your lovely postings on Bloglovin' and then stopped getting them and I have soooo missed receiving them but I am glad to see you are still here and were always here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner29 May 2019 at 07:46

      I am not sure why Memarge! But I do post every day, so if you check back each day you should fine me. It is very rare that I don't! Thanks so much! xoxo

      Delete
  117. Unknown28 September 2019 at 23:25

    Hello Marie. I was wondering if you have a recipe for Bread Pudding. My Grandmother came from Britain. She never had a recipe written down and she never used measuring cups.I loved that Bread Pudding. I wish I could make it. Thank you for your page. I have made a lot of good dishes from here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner29 September 2019 at 11:32

      Hi there. I do have a recipe for an old time Bread Pudding: https://theenglishkitchen.blogspot.com/2014/12/old-time-bread-pudding.html
      This is the traditional one with fruit and spices. Then I have quite a few other recipes based on Bread & Butter Puddings. Hope this helps!

      Delete
  118. Memarge29 September 2019 at 12:08

    You are so kind. Thank you for going to the trouble. Your food is always delicious and recipes easy to follow.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner29 September 2019 at 12:55

      You are very welcome. Happy to oblidge! I am thinking you must be the commenter who wanted the bread pudding recipe. Thanks for your kind words!

      Delete
  119. Unknown25 November 2019 at 19:27

    Hi, I just found your blog through Pinterest and I just love it. It feels so homey to me and full of love. Thank you for sharing your passion with us here in the US. I'm looking forward trying some of these out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner26 November 2019 at 08:17

      Hi there and welcome! I am happy that you feel like you do about my blog. That is exactly what I am trying to convey! I have always wanted it to seem like we were just sitting down for a good old gab and an exchange of recipes! xoxo

      Delete
  120. Duncan18 January 2020 at 16:03

    With kind eyes and a honest smile that's beauty to me, just found your blog, Wow real food, I love cooking, you know the stuff that feeds the soul and leaves you with good memories. love your blog and will be trying out several of your recipes, keep up the good work and glad you are in the UK.

    Kind regards Duncan

    ReplyDelete
  121. pjsgls11 September 2020 at 07:29

    Hello, re your lemon caraway seed cake, the lemon essence is omitted in the method and also it says to cool in the tin for 10 hours?
    Presumably should be 10 mins?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner11 September 2020 at 07:33

      You need to add the lemon when you add the vanilla and yes it is 10 hours. Hope this helps!

      Delete
  122. pjsgls11 September 2020 at 11:11

    Great Marie, thanks for your quick response but alas I’ve eaten some cake already. Beautiful. I’ll give it 10 hours in the tin next time!

    ReplyDelete
  123. Unknown29 September 2020 at 19:38

    I can not find the page with your spice blend recipes. I used to go there all the time to make my spice mixes It used to be at the bottom of the about you page.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner30 September 2020 at 09:01

      Hi there. I have given them a page all of their own, under the pages section. Here is a link to the one on homemade mixes and spices: https://www.theenglishkitchen.co/p/make-your-own-list-of-make-your-own.html

      Delete
  124. Faith Joanne11 May 2021 at 17:43

    HI, Marie ! I was looking for a recipe for Irish Tea Brack, and found your website. Thanks for the recipe: I tried one from Brigit's Kitchen from Galway, Ireland, turned out stodgy, think it was the difference in flour. I'm an English expat. turned Canadian citizen in the Ottawa area. Glad I found you! Thanks.
    Love the recipe for Fried cabbage, and Mary Berry's cheese scones.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner11 May 2021 at 22:43

      You are so welcome! I am glad you like my recipes! That’s why I do this! My brother lives in Ottawa! It’s a beautiful city! Xo

      Delete
  125. Kitchen Bounty15 July 2021 at 12:31

    Hi, Marie. I must have missed something along the way. Why are you in Canada and not the UK? I hope it was nothing catastrophic.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner15 July 2021 at 13:56

      I moved back to Canada on the 6th of November last year with two suitcases and a truckload of faith. It was quite catastrophic actually. My whole life was turned upside down. Its been a long and very difficult journey to get where I am now, but I am standing in the light at the end of the tunnel now and things are good. xoxo

      Delete
  126. Marie Rayner15 July 2021 at 14:01

    Here is a link to somewhat of an explanation: https://andthenweallhadtea.blogspot.com/2020/11/first-you-cry.html

    ReplyDelete
  127. 16 March 2023 at 10:06

    What a lovely blog! Why didn't I find it much earlier? Greetings and best wishes from Germany!

    ReplyDelete
  128. Martin Heider, Germany17 August 2023 at 22:15

    Having tried a few of your recipes I am even more convinced of the wonderful tradition of English cuisine. Then I found out I could have an enormous collection in print. Alas, it is out of stock everywhere. Even used copies are on sale at fancy prices like 195 €, 150 £, 175 $ etc.
    Is there a chance you could have "The English Kitchen" reprinted? I guess that would make many more people glad than just me.
    Meanwhile, I do use and enjoy your blog here. All the best to you - stay blessed!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous18 August 2023 at 01:02

      Agreed!!! I REALLY want this book. 😊❤️❤️❤️Love real English food!

      Delete
  129. Marie Z21 January 2024 at 03:29

    Thank you for your honesty. That in itself is beautiful. It’s what the world needs more of.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner22 January 2024 at 14:04

      Thanks very much! I try to be honest in all of my dealings with others! xo

      Delete
  130. hegasaer in Orkney24 May 2024 at 13:50

    Glad to come across your blog. I’m full English, living in far-off northern Scotland, and baking is my homebase. You look like my kind of cook and baker, so I hope you are ok with me joining up, and maybe joining in, too!
    I have just seen your recipe for yoghurt cake on Facebook. Irresistible image, and it’s ages since I made one. As my girls are laying fit to bust right now, it’s a great excuse for using eggs. Thanks for reminding me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marie Rayner28 May 2024 at 20:10

      Thank you so much for your comment Hegasaer! I would so love to have chickens. How lucky are you! I am really pleased to have you here! I hope you enjoy the recipes! xo

      Delete
    2. Anonymous11 August 2024 at 02:58

      Thank you Marie for the best. Blog. Ever!!! Love your recipes. I’ve made so many and am really loving your blog. Thank you for working so hard for our benefit. Love you!!!

      Delete
    3. Marie Rayner11 August 2024 at 19:05

      Thank you so very much. I appreciate all of you just as much. Without you and my other readers, there would be no blog! xo

      Delete

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