Rory O'Connell returns to RTÉ One this evening with his ever popular Christmas special. This year's show will have a delicious twist as our savvy host prepares A Christmas Brunch in programme one, and A Christmas Picnic in programme two.
"The notion of having a large group for lunch or dinner can be a bit overwhelming for some," says Rory, "so I am suggesting a brunch rather than the more traditional invitation of lunch or dinner, and all of the pressure that such a meal can bring."
"Generally I find brunch to be a more relaxed affair, and in this meal most of the preparations can be done before your guests arrive, allowing you, the cook, to enjoy the event as much as everyone else."
Rory’s Christmas Brunch includes Bastible Bread with various flavours, Glazed Belly of Streaky Bacon, and Scrambled Eggs with Roast Mushroom and Tarragon.
He also prepares Potato, Roast Red Onion and Thyme Leaf Fritatta with Chipotle Mayonnaise, and Savoury American popovers with Smoked Salmon, Grilled Scallions and Creme Fraiche. Rory makes Sweet American Popovers with Raspberry Jam and Cream for pudding, and Frozen Berries with White Chocolate Sauce.
In programme two, Rory will present A Christmas Picnic: "One year my mother announced she would like to have a picnic on Christmas Day, rather than all of us sitting around the dining room table. A novel idea, and one that we were all immediately delighted by," says the TV chef.
"I am also suggesting a Christmas picnic, perhaps not to be had on Christmas Day, but at some point over the festive period. Getting out of the house to eat is a fun and sometimes liberating exercise, particularly at the darkest time of the year, when so many meals are shared indoors."
Rory’s Christmas Picnic includes Leek and Potato Soup, A Chest of Christmas Sandwiches, Christmas Turkey and Mushroom Pie, and A Salad of Winter Greens.
He completes the picnic with Christmas Trifles and Soft Irish Farmhouse Cheese with Cranberry Sauce, Fig and Cheese Crackers, followed by Chocolate Orange Sticks.
How to Cook Well At Christmas with Rory O'Connell airs on RTÉ One on Tuesday 21st December and programme two airs the following night, Wednesday 22nd December.
