Nestled between the chalk hills and sweeping downs of Wiltshire is Wood Farm, a 350-acre organic dairy and mixed arable farm where 120 organic Guernsey cows graze on the fertile pasture land.
This lovingly reared Guernsey herd forms the cornerstone of the exceptional organic dairy that the Gosling family has been producing for over a century.
Berkeley Farm Dairy, still very much a family venture, has preserved these skills honed over generations and continues to employ traditional methods of processing for a full-flavoured, creamy organic milk.
Guernsey milk, with its lovely golden colour and high levels of butterfat, undergoes pasteurisation but remains unhomogenized to preserve its fuller taste. From there, the milk is transformed into a range of delicious dairy products.
Among our favourites is their handcrafted butter. This exceptional butter is crafted in small batches using their Guernsey organic milk, double-churned using traditional barrel churning methods, and hand-rolled, resulting in a butter packed full of natural goodness.
As to why their butter is rumoured to be a favourite of King Charles, they explain:
"We believe our butter tastes so good because: one - it’s hand-formed using traditional butter pats, two - it’s made using cream from grass-fed cows, and three - it’s made in small batches using fresh cream.”
While we believe this butter needs no adornment and is best enjoyed spread thickly on toast or hot crumpets, its creamy richness also lends itself beautifully to cooking, adding a glossy finish to roasted meats and gravies.
Additionally, it serves as an excellent base for flavoured butters in versatile recipes. Explore our home cook’s guide to flavoured butters for further inspiration.
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Imagine a warm crumpet, fresh from the griddle, with a knob of salted butter melting into its holes, leaving a glossy sheen in its wake. It's a temptation few can resist.
Yet, despite being one of life's great delights, butter has faced unfair criticism over the years. From the debunked diet culture that vilified healthy fats in favour of processed 'low-fat' alternatives, butter still bears the weight of misconceptions.
We are here to tell you why butter is always better.
Margarines and plant-based spreads undergo intensive processing and contain artificial additives, preservatives, and hydrogenated oils, meeting the definition of an ultra-processed food (UPF). The consumption of UPF has been linked to a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
Butter contains just one ingredient - milk, or two if you opt for your butter salted. Nothing hidden. Nothing added.
Hopefully, alongside legwarmers and power ballads, the low-fat diet ideology has been left firmly in the 80’s. Low fat diets are now recognised to contribute to poor health due to a combination of processed diet foods having high levels of sugar and salt and low levels of the essential fats we need for healthy brain and bodily function.
Margarines and spreads may contain less saturated fats, but also contain trans fats which are now widely accepted as the worst for your health by raising levels of bad cholesterol and lowering levels of good cholesterol in the body
Saturated fat in your diet should still be viewed with caution if it comes from fried or processed foods, but full fat foods, such as cheese, milk and butter can actually help protect rather than harm heart health.
Eating fat to stay skinny sounds like an oxymoron, but the fat content in butter can help promote satiety and reduce cravings, potentially helping to reduce snacking and aid weight loss when consumed in moderation.
Butter is a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, E, and K2, as well as healthy fatty acids. Grass fed butter, like ours, packs an even mightier nutritional punch as cows that graze on grass produce milk with higher levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants like beta-carotene. These have been associated with various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and potentially lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
For us, there is no better taste than organic butter. The natural creaminess and richness of butter, either eaten alone spread thickly on bread, melted into sauces or beaten into cake mixture can never be replicated by food scientists in a laboratory.
The quality and taste of your butter depends on the quality and taste of the milk, which is why our butter comes from organic Guernsey cows for a naturally creamy taste.
We think that one taste of our organic butter and you will agree that it doesn't get better than butter.
]]>We take food waste seriously here at Eversfield Organic. From the organic soil to our recyclable delivery boxes, eliminating waste is built into our whole business, and especially when it comes to our organic meat.
We value every part of the animals our organic farmers raise, so our butchery team operates a nose-to-tail philosophy which utilises all parts of the animal, rather than just the traditional cuts to reduce wastage and lessen the environmental impact of meat production. We also are a big fan of these less known cuts and we want you to discover them too.
WRAP, the climate activist NGO behind Love Food, Hate Waste and Food Waste Action Week estimates that 4.7 million tonnes of food that is still good to eat is thrown away in the UK every year, a frankly staggering figure, so this year’s Food Waste Action Week is about encouraging shoppers to adopt a Choose What You’ll Use ethos when filling their trolley.
In order to help you minimise your food waste, save money and make the most of your ingredients, we have designed you a meal planner, so you too can Choose What You’ll Use.
Meal planning is a simple yet effective strategy to combat food waste. By carefully planning your meals in advance, you can avoid overbuying ingredients, utilise leftovers efficiently, and ensure that everything in your pantry gets used before it expires. Even better, it puts a stop to unnecessary trips to the supermarket and the temptations of the chocolate aisle.
Unconvinced? Here are 5 reasons why this meal planner will change your life (well, your shopping habits at least):
So, we may be exaggerating slightly - our meal planner may not change your life, but it can help you get control of your time, shopping and budget and make a positive impact on the world. Not bad for something you can download for free.
Get started this Food Waste Action Week and download your Eversfield Organic meal planner now.
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Knowing that times are tough for all households, we have held back any increases in our pricing for as long as possible, however, due to higher production costs across the organic farming industry, we are now in a position where we must adjust our prices accordingly.
At Eversfield Organic, maintaining the quality of our organic meats has always been our top priority. We take pride in offering organic and grass-fed meats of the highest standards, sourced from trusted certified organic farms that prioritise animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.
Our commitment to paying our organic farmers a fair price for the exceptional quality meat they provide means that aligning our prices with market rates is essential to support their livelihoods.
Rest assured that we will never compromise on the quality of our products or the organic standards that have made our name, so you can remain confident that you will continue to receive nothing but the best.
We hope you have already noticed some positive changes as we continue to strive for excellence. Our customer care team has doubled since the start of the year, so there is always someone on hand to help you through any queries you might have. Responding to customer demand, we are also set to widen our selection of couriers, so that you can choose your preferred method of delivery.
Behind the scenes, we are working hard on some exciting new additions to our organic meat range and we will soon be relaunching our Home Farm Kitchen collection with a new and improved selection of hand prepared organic meals and condiments
We have made every effort to keep the price increases minimal and even with the slight adjustment, you will find that many of our prices still remain below those of our organic competitors. Don't forget to take advantage of our Loyalty Rewards Programme for added rewards whilst you shop, join our subscribe and save to make savings on regular orders and keep an eye out for our seasonal promotions.
The new pricing will be rolled out from the 12th March 2024.
Our sincere thanks for your understanding and continued support.
]]>At a time when food provenance and sustainability are at the forefront of our minds, the decision to buy British lamb this Easter is an important one. Post-Brexit trade deals struck with New Zealand and Australia in the last two years that removed tariffs on imported lamb and other meats have put pressure on an already beleaguered farming sector in the UK. Competing with imports risks compromising the UK’s excellent animal welfare standards in a race to produce cheaper meat. WWF presented in their evidence to parliament “The Australia-UK free trade agreement risks undermining UK efforts to green agriculture by undercutting UK farmers with cheaper imports produced in a more environmentally harmful agriculture system”.
For our organic farmers, animal welfare and environmental protection are of the utmost importance, and we know that this is important to you too. As consumers, we hold the power to influence the trajectory of our food systems and the welfare of the animals within them.
Reduce our environmental impact - calculating the carbon footprint of local versus imported lamb is not an easy task, but locally sourced meat has significantly reduced emissions generated by transportation. Choosing local and organic is the most environmentally sustainable option.
Support local farmers - sheep farming has been the backbone of many rural communities for generations. By buying British lamb, we directly support rural livelihoods and preserve traditional farming practices.
Uphold quality and traceability - British lamb is renowned for its exceptional quality and traceability, and of course, in our organic butchery these standards are evident with each cut of meat traceable to the farm on which it was raised and the abattoir where it was humanely slaughtered.
Our organic farmers guarantee that the pastures in which our grass-fed lamb are raised are free from weedkillers, pesticides and other chemicals that are harmful to local biodiversity and human health.
Our expert organic lamb producers manage their flocks carefully to reduce the need for medical intervention and never use antibiotics preventatively.
Our organic lambs are grass fed and never supplemented with any grain feed. This allows them to grow slowly and naturally, for longer than non-organic lambs.
We avoid causing our organic lambs undue distress by reducing transportation to a minimum, choosing local abattoirs that adhere to the highest welfare standards and offer a calm environment.
We think that this is why you will not find a better tasting, more sustainable or ethically sourced lamb joint anywhere else than our organic butchery. Why not try it for yourself this Easter?
Explore our Easter collection now.
]]>Choosing welfare over profit for the most ethical way to farm and shop.
]]>In recent years, a significant shift has occurred in the way we think about the meat on our plates. We are all increasingly conscious of the environmental, ethical, and health implications associated with meat production.
The RSPCA have been campaigning for years on the plight of the animals that make up incredibly cheap supermarket deals on meat. They claim that more than 90% of the chickens that are slaughtered in the UK each year are bred to grow too quickly and reared in bare, dimly lit and overcrowded conditions. In addition, the mega-farm is on the rise in the UK rearing and processing thousands of animals at a time, designed to profit by producing cheap meat and dairy.
Unsurprisingly, cheap meat comes at a great cost to animal welfare.
“cheap meat comes at a great cost to animal welfare.”
Our organic farmers believe that there is a better way to rear animals and ensure that they live the happiest, healthiest and most natural lives possible before slaughter, but what do we really mean when we call our meat ‘ethical'?
For us, ethical farming is about understanding that as meat eaters we have a responsibility to know where our food comes from, and that it is reared, slaughtered and butchered in the most ethical, sustainable way possible.
Animals are put first; to maximise their quality of life, to allow them to live aligned with their natural habitats as far as possible and encourage their natural behaviours. Ethical farming isn’t driven by just altruism though, it gives farmed animals the best lives possible, but it also results in a higher quality and better tasting meat. Ethically raised animals lead healthier lives. They are not pumped with antibiotics or growth hormones, producing meat that is not only safer for consumption but also more nutrient-dense. High-quality, ethically sourced meat is rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, contributing to a healthier diet.
“prioritising animal welfare is worth the investment”
Our organic meat arrives at the farm from small, family-run abattoirs. Small abattoirs process less animals and so are able to more effectively manage their environment to avoid loud noises, overcrowding and other stress factors to create the most humane slaughtering environment. We also ensure these abattoirs are located close to the farm on which the animals were raised in order to minimise the stress of live travel time.
Our meat may cost more than supermarket alternatives, but we firmly believe that prioritising animal welfare is worth the investment. We know that you value the transparency and accountability that ethical farming affords. With us, you can shop with confidence, knowing that we've done the work for you by choosing the most ethical, not the most profitable option at every stage from the farm to your table.
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In 2015, the World Health Organization categorised processed meats to its list of products carcinogenic to humans, comparing their consumption to that of tobacco or alcohol. Seven years later, British MP’s and scientists petitioned the government to phase out nitrates in food entirely, following France’s lead. However, meat processed with nitrates and nitrites are still being sold and on the menu in schools and hospitals.
Nitrates and nitrites are commonly used as preservatives in processed meats to prevent bacterial growth and maintain colour. However, when these compounds are exposed to high heat during cooking or digestion, they can form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens. The presence of nitrosamines in processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer and other health issues.
Additives to look out for are E250 sodium nitrite, E251 sodium nitrate and E252 potassium nitrate - although approved for human consumption by the Food Standards Agency, they can form toxic nitrites when chewed and eaten.
The World Health Organisation now recommends no more than 70g of processed meats to be consumed per day, which they identify as “hot dogs (frankfurters), ham, sausages, corned beef, and biltong or beef jerky as well as canned meat and meat-based preparations and sauces.”, but also includes bacon and cured meats. 70g equates to roughly 2 rashers of bacon or one and a half sausages.
Of course, some people have decided that any nitrates in their food is too great a risk and the demand for nitrate-free meat has been steadily increasing.
Many vegetables are rich in naturally occurring nitrates, like beetroot and spinach, which are acquired from the soil in which they are grown. There is no question that these vegetables are part of a healthy diet and should not be avoided. Vegetables with high levels of nitrates and nitrites have been linked with lower blood pressure and reduced risks of heart disease. However, choosing organic vegetables is still the best option, the Soil Association quotes research finding that organically produced crops contained up to 68% more antioxidants than non-organic produce.
Nitrate-free meat products are produced without the use of synthetic nitrates or nitrites as preservatives. Instead, natural alternatives such as sea salt are used to achieve similar preservative effects without the associated health risks.
Traditional preserving techniques that existed before the creation of nitrates are still in use today by smaller and artisanal producers which utilise salt and drying to maintain the pinkness and prevent harmful bacteria from forming.
Fans of nitrate free meat claim that the taste is improved by the removal of these artificial preservatives. Why not taste the difference yourself, with our nitrate-free gammon, bacon and ham.
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As we look forward to another year here at Eversfield Organic, we are embarking on some spring cleaning of our website and our ranges.
We believe that the very heart of our business is our exceptional organic and grass fed meat and ethical butchery, and looking at our customer reviews since the start of the year, it seems that you agree:
We listen to your feedback and read every review that you leave, so where we have not received five stars or you have raised concerns, we have taken note.
As a result, we've decided to streamline our product offerings to ensure that they all meet the high standards our customers expect from us.
We have found that some dairy, in particular milk and eggs, have faced challenges during transit, leading to breakages and customer concerns. To address this, we will be simplifying our organic dairy range to focus on our organic butters and selected organic cheeses that we can ensure will arrive with you in the same perfect condition as they leave our fridges.
Similarly, we've also encountered difficulties with maintaining the desired quality of fruit and veg due to issues in the supply and transportation of fresh produce from our suppliers. Guaranteeing that you receive produce in perfect condition is our priority, mirroring the quality you'd select yourself. With that in mind, we have made the hard decision to discontinue these ranges.
Whilst we will be losing some lines, our organic meat, fish and wild game ranges will be expanding with new products, which we are confident that you are going to love.
In addition, we are delighted that our Home Farm Kitchen range is set to return soon. We have been working on some exciting new organic recipes and hand prepared organic meals that will make for tasty meal planning and convenient entertaining.
We are convinced that you will not find better, lovingly reared, sustainably sourced and ethically butchered organic meat delivered to your door in the UK than with our Eversfield Organic meat delivery.
By streamlining our range to concentrate on this excellence we hope that every customer experience will echo this happy customer last month:
With steak as good as ours, we like to keep things simple when cooking and let the flavour shine. However, there's one ingredient that pairs with steak like vinegar with chips or jam with scones: butter. We could argue that most things are improved with butter, but there is something special about the alchemy of melted butter and seared meat that is hard to beat.
Great steak deserves the best butter. Forget your spreadable butter mixed with vegetable oils, you need a rich, creamy pure butter. Our organic butter, sourced from our friends at Berkeley Farm Dairy and made in small batches from the milk of their organic, pasture raised Guernsey cows is the perfect choice.
Whilst steak needs only butter, salt and pepper to be delicious, we like to add interest by making flavoured butters. These can be made in advance and kept in the fridge or frozen for convenience.
Start by softening regular unsalted butter to a spreadable consistency. Then, mix in your desired flavourings, such as herbs, garlic, lemon zest, or spices..
Once the flavourings are mixed in evenly, transfer the butter onto a piece of cling film or baking paper. Shape it into a roll, wrap it tightly and twist the ends to seal. Leave it in the fridge to firm up, or freeze (it can be frozen for up to three months). You can then slice off what you need for cooking.
Some delicious flavour combinations to try are:
Herb Butter: Mix softened organic butter with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, or chives. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Garlic Butter: Combine softened organic butter with a crushed garlic clove, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Blue Cheese Butter: Add crumbled blue cheese and parsley to your softened organic butter. Our smooth and creamy Cropwell Bishop stilton makes a great choice.
Cooking steak is not difficult but it is all about timing, so a little preparation is key.
Take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. When ready to cook, ensure that your griddle pan is hot before you start cooking - you need that sizzle to caramelise the meat and render the fat. Brush the pan with butter and season the steak to start and turn the steak regularly to ensure an even cook.
The way you like your steak is down to personal preference. We like ours medium rare, but if you prefer yours well done, then that is perfectly fine (don’t let steak purists make you feel bad), just be careful not to overcook the steak and let it get tough.
Aim for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare and 4-5 minutes for medium-well, adjusting for steak thickness.
Add the flavoured butter at this final stage to allow the flavours to mingle with the steak juices. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, allow it to rest before serving.
There must be something special in the Devon soil, because when we were looking to find the highest quality cured meats to add to our organic meat range, we were converted from the first taste of The Organic Cure’s charcuterie from the lush Devon pastures of Haye Farm.
You may not have heard of this hidden gem of a range until now and that is because The Organic Cure has only been crafting artisanal meats since early 2023. Established through a shared love for charcuterie by acclaimed chef Daniel Gavriilidis and Harry Boglione & Emily Perry from Haye Farm in Devon, their exceptional range does not taste like a new venture, instead evoking years of charcuterie expertise passed down through the generations.
Haye Farm is an independent, organic, high-welfare mixed 90 acre farm with pasture for beef, sheep, pigs and chickens as well as fruit and vegetable gardens. Their animals are grass-fed, and slow grown to organic standards making their ethical charcuterie sustainable from the soil up.
Only the best meat is meticulously handpicked and cured with the utmost precision using traditional techniques infused with organic herbs and spices, resulting in the production of small, but distinguished, batches of award-winning British charcuterie. From classic pancetta to spicy chorizo and fragrant lomo, there is so much to discover in their range.
Of the partnership with Eversfield Organic, they say:
“We are thrilled to share that The Organic Cure is launching organic charcuterie for retail through Eversfield Organic in our home county of Devon. With a shared commitment to sustainability, regenerative agriculture, and animal welfare, we have found ideal partners to bring our products to market “
Last week we were thrilled that our organic meat was chosen to be included in a special event hosted by the Soil Association.
Called ‘Go With Your Gut’, it was an evening exploring how a commitment to organic, gut-friendly options can be accessible and positively impact our overall health.
As part of this celebration of organic food, renowned climate friendly chef Tom Hunt was tasked with creating a happy meal truly worthy of the name, using the finest organic ingredients to make ‘A Happier Meal’ with care for the environment.
Naturally, the best burger starts with the best quality beef mince which is where we came in.
Our butchers use only the finest quality organic grass fed beef steak to form our beef steak mince, which means that it is packed with more Omega-3 fatty acids and beneficial nutrients than your average supermarket variety.
We were delighted that our mince was to be chosen to take centre stage in A Happier Meal. We are rightfully proud of the quality and traceability of all our organic meat. We can track meat from the field to the fork and believe that our respect for the animals that pass through our butchery can be tasted in the excellent cuts of meat that we produce.
There was more than burgers too, it was an evening celebrating the benefits of organic food with nutritionist Michaella Mazzoni sharing valuable insights into the nutritional benefits of organic food. Did you know that researchers found organic milk and meat to contain around 50% more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and lower levels of saturated fats than non-organic?
Organic farmer Ben Andrews was also on hand to share his knowledge of the meticulous care and sustainable practices involved in cultivating organic food, that all our organic producers share.
If you want to recreate your own ‘Happier Meal’ at home, then we have an easy to use Make Your Own Burger mix featuring our organic beef steak mince with onion and spices for you to try.
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As we head into February, the land is still in the grip of winter, but beneath the frozen ground, the garden remains fruitful. We may not have the abundance of summer crops; however, there is still a wide variety to be discovered.
Walking through your local supermarket, it can feel like we have entirely lost sight of what is in season right now. As it's now estimated that the transportation of fruit and veg around the world is responsible for 6% of global carbon emissions, eating seasonally is more than just a local issue.
Even without the environmental concerns, a reliance on imported veg in winter could cause us to overlook the delicious crops grown on our doorsteps. Swedes may not be as glamorous as red peppers, but at this time of year, they are at the peak of their nutrients and freshness.
Now is the season where root veg dominates; reliable spuds, nutty swedes, ruby beetroot, fresh celeriac, and sweet parsnips are all readily available and an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, fibre and essential vitamins.
And as though nature knows what we need at this time of year, winter also brings seasonal greens including prebiotic-supporting leeks and shallots, while kale and Brussels sprouts bring a rich supply of folate and iron to support immunity.
Add in seasonal stars with a splash of colour like beetroot, forced rhubarb, and purple sprouting broccoli for a vibrant, seasonal plate.
Our British seasonal organic veg box is a great way to explore what’s at the peak of their season. Our February box is packed with 7 varieties of British-grown, organic veg including: white cabbage, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, swede, and beetroot.
Some meats are also at their best in these winter months. Game is at its peak right now with pheasants, venison, and rabbit at the height of their season, rich in B-vitamins, iron, and zinc to support winter health.
Explore our selection of wild game sourced from the finest estates in the country and pair with sides from your British organic veg box.
Beef and chicken are farmed all year round, so there is no compromising on taste or nutrition. Our organic grass fed beef and organic free range chicken are a sustainable and ethical choice.
Make the most of seasonal game with our wild venison and juniper pie, or pheasant and apple stew.
Roasted beetroot with its strong, earthy quality suits a sweet, balsamic glaze to accompany rich meats like beef and game.
Or brighten up your lunchtimes with our cheap and filling beetroot hummus.
Accompany prime organic cuts of beef with seasonal mashed swede and roasted Brussel sprouts.
Try this twist on a traditional roast chicken, served with a side of freshly harvested cabbage.
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We have already talked about gut health in this Winter Reset series, and you can read why we think supporting gut health is vital for your health, here. A happy gut rich in beneficial bacteria has many health benefits, from improving digestive issues to better mental health.
Since a significant portion of our immune system resides in the gut, it makes sense that maintaining a healthy balance of gut flora is vital for overall immunity with research showing that probiotics may be the best line of defence against the common cold. Choose fermented foods and those rich in probiotics and prebiotics, for an in-depth look at gut friendly foods, head to our gut health article.
Today is Blue Monday, supposedly the most depressing day of the year when our post-Christmas finances are stretched and we are in the depths of the darkest months. Whether Blue Monday is a real thing or a marketing strategy designed to sell gym memberships and foreign holidays, it is true that winter's chilly embrace can sometimes cast a shadow on our mental well-being. The seasonal shift, with its shorter days and longer nights, can impact our mood and energy levels. However, with mindful practices and intentional self-care, winter can become a season of restoration and mental rejuvenation.
Many people struggle with low mood or lack of motivation in the dark winter months for good reason. The reduced daylight of winter can disrupt our circadian rhythm and affect serotonin and melatonin levels, neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in regulating mood and sleep.
To combat the winter blues, there is a simple life hack that is claimed to transform your sleep and mood. Exposure to up to 10 minutes of natural daylight in the morning helps activate cortisol and regulate melatonin production in the body - two things that are so important for a regular sleeping pattern.
Daylight also ups your Vitamin D levels, a deficit of which has been linked to low mood and depression
Maximise your exposure to daylight by opening your curtains as soon as the day breaks and give your windows a scrub to ensure your house is as bright as the winter gloom allows.
Darker days that increase our natural melatonin levels make us feel more sluggish and sleepy which can lead to a lack of motivation to stay active, but maintaining activity levels during winter is essential for our mental and physical health. Those of us who own a dog know that however much resistance you may feel before heading out in the cold and rain, a walk always leaves a little glow when you get back.
Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters and exercising in cold weather also makes your immune system work harder and improves your body's ability to fight infection.
Indoor workouts, like yoga, may be more palatable when the weather turns wet and cold, but the restorative benefits to being outside, like increased vitamin D and improved mental health means that if you can aim for three outdoor exercise sessions per week, you will feel the all-round health benefits.
Just make sure that you pay particular attention to your warm-up routine and stretch well before exercising in cold weather to prepare cold muscles for movement.
The excesses of Christmas can leave us feeling sluggish and unmotivated and with the known link between a diet high in UPF and an increased risk of mental health difficulties such as depression, nourishing your body with the right foods is even more important in the winter months.
Concentrate on introducing foods that support physical and mental wellbeing to your diet rather than embarking on a faddy post-Christmas diet which could be unsustainable, unhealthy and cause increased negative feelings.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in oil fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts have been linked to improved mood and cognitive function. Leafy green vegetables are high in folate, the deficiency of which has been linked to depression and decreased brain health. Food rich in probiotics and prebiotics, like fermented foods, bone broth and vegetables from the allium family support gut health, immune function and improved mental health.
For those amongst us who love our bed, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not laziness that makes us struggle to get up in the morning on these dark mornings, but we may actually need more sleep in winter after all.
For optimum health, establish a consistent bedtime routine, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Avoid screens for at least half an hour before going to sleep and ensure your bedroom is not too hot from central heating - a cool bedroom leads to a more restful night's sleep . Quality sleep enhances mood, cognitive function, and overall mental resilience.
Combat the potential isolation that winter can bring by prioritising social connections. The cold may make some activities more challenging, but find ways to connect with friends and family. Take the opportunity to discover and nurture hobbies that not only provide a personal sense of fulfilment but also facilitate social contact. Don't confine yourself to indoor pursuits; consider exploring outdoor activities that allow you to fully embrace the joys and beauty of winter. Joining rambling groups, trying winter photography, or even venturing into the chilly waters of wild swimming can not only combat isolation but give you a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
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There have been many advances in food technology this century. Some have been undoubtedly beneficial, like pasteurisation, allowing food to be stored longer and safely, however in the search for ever more sales, health considerations have taken a back seat to convenience with the rise of Ultra Processed Foods.
From sugary beverages to ready meals, these products line our supermarket shelves, promising quick solutions for our busy lives and it seems we can’t get enough. Half of the diet of a UK adult now consists of these tempting ultra processed treats, but do we really know what we are eating when we put them in our shopping basket?
“It’s not food. It’s an industrially produced edible substance.”
Chris Van Tulleken, Ultra-Processed People.
Ultra Processed Foods (or UPFs) are mostly mass produced edible products that have been industrially formulated. In many cases the foods have been so altered from their original state that they are no longer recognisable; think of the difference between a hand cooked salted potato chip and a tube of Pringles.
UPF may sound like a new buzzword to demonise certain foods, but the reality is that a growing body of evidence shows that these convenient culinary options may come at a significant cost to our health.
So how worried should you be about the UPFs in your kitchen?
“Don’t eat anything your great-great grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.”
Michael Pollan, In Defence Of Food
One of the main concerns surrounding ultra-processed foods is their nutrient-stripping nature. The extensive processing methods can eliminate essential nutrients while introducing harmful additives, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies.
Ultra-processed foods often contain high levels of hidden sugars and salt, contributing to obesity and hypertension. These additives are not only detrimental to physical health but can also lead to compulsive eating patterns, making it challenging to maintain a balanced diet.
A report in the British Medical Journal has called for some UPF’s to be labelled as addictive due to their effect on the human body, with some people experiencing symptoms similar to those with substance abuse including cravings, withdrawal symptoms and impulse control. They estimate that up to one in seven adults are “addicted” to UPF with a worrying one in eight children affected, with children particularly vulnerable to the negative health impacts of Ultra Processed Foods.
A diet dominated by these foods is linked to a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
Beyond physical health, there's a growing recognition of the impact of diet on mental well-being. Ultra-processed foods have been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Research has shown a link between a high UPF diet and a greater risk of developing depression, although the reasons are still unclear. It is thought that eating nutritionally poor UPF causes a deficit of the vitamins and minerals essential for healthy brain function.
The effect of UPF on the brain can be scarily fast. A study showed that even a short period of consuming UPF had a detrimental impact on memory and learning tasks with results evident after just a week of a high UPF diet. This is particularly worrisome for children and young adults whose brains are still developing.
“UPF has a long, formal scientific definition, but it can be boiled down to this: if it’s wrapped in plastic and has at least one ingredient that you wouldn’t usually find in a standard home kitchen, it’s UPF.”
Chris Van Tulleken, Ultra-Processed People
It is important to understand that not all processed food is bad for you. Many foods undergo some form of processing, in order to make them safer for storage, reduce bacteria or as a natural part of the food production process, for example olive oil or preserves.
Understanding food labels is crucial in making informed choices. If you are unsure if a food is Ultra Processed, take a look at the ingredients list - if it contains emulsifiers, hydrogenated fat, sweeteners, preservatives and many things you cannot name, then chances are it is ultra-processed.
Whilst we all know that foods such as fizzy drinks, sweets and crisps are ultra-processed, you might be surprised that common everyday staples like supermarket bread, baked beans and products aimed at those following a low-fat diet also fall into this category. It might be unrealistic to remove all UPF from your diet, so concentrate on eliminating or greatly reducing those that offer limited or no nutritional benefits.
When looking to eliminate UPF from your weekly shop it may be less overwhelming to consider your diet overall. Choose organic food where you can and embrace fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Try our Reset and Restore Meat Box which contains a handpicked selection of lean, organic meats and nourishing bone broths.
Concentrating on including more wholefoods and nutrient dense foods for you and your family can be a transformative step towards better health.
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Following the excesses of Christmas, our gut health may need a bit of extra support to enter the new year in tip-top health. A healthy gut not only boosts your immune system during the colder months but also lays the foundation for a vibrant and energetic you.
Our gut is referred to as our second brain for a good reason. Comprised of approximately 500 million neurons, our gut ‘brain’ does more than just aid digestion, it can even influence our thoughts which may be why when stressed we opt for comfort foods which we know are not good for us.
When our gut health is poor, we can experience all manner of physical and psychological effects from bloating to symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Your gut microbiome needs the right balance of so called ‘good’ and ‘bad bacteria for optimal health. This delicate balance can be disrupted by factors such as a poor diet (like an increase in sugary and fatty Christmas foods), a period of stress or a course of antibiotics, which can cause the ‘bad’ bacteria to flourish.
If you are experiencing any of the following: bloating, digestive issues, a flare up of allergies and skin conditions or fatigue, you might be experiencing a gut imbalance and could benefit from improving your gut health.
Probiotics are packed full of ‘good’ bacteria and can help restore the equilibrium of your gut microbiome. There are many probiotic supplements on the market, but evidence suggests that eating food rich in probiotics is a more effective way of improving your gut health and have added nutritional benefits.
Fermented foods like live yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, miso and kimchi are rich sources of gut friendly bacteria and are valuable additions to your diet.
While probiotics garner attention, prebiotics are equally essential. Prebiotics help promote the activity and growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Luckily prebiotics are easy to include in your daily diet as many commonly used veg, such as garlic, onions and leeks are rich in the non-digestible fibres that are the perfect environment for happy gut bacteria.
If you are stocking a gut healthy larder, then consider these great staples.
Fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut and kombucha are great for boosting gut health, but not all fermented foods are created equal. For the maximum benefit from your fermented food, choose those that are made with organic ingredients using natural processes with live cultures.
Fibre rich wholefoods such as, wholegrains, oats, beans and pulses play a vital role in promoting those all-important good bacteria as well as contributing to smooth digestive passage and contributing to overall health.
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is full of immune boosting bacteria and can make delicious dressings. Look for an apple cider vinegar containing the ‘mother’ (this will appear as a murky or stringy blob in the bottle) this is a sign that the vinegar is full of healthy live bacteria.
Bread is not off the menu, but choose sourdough over a supermarket sliced loaf. A wholegrain sourdough has the double benefit of prebiotic goodness and high fibre for digestive health.
If this is a new way of eating for you, introduce these probiotic-rich foods gradually to allow your digestive system to adjust. Fermented foods may be an acquired taste, but there will be one to suit your palate.
By Boxing Day you may feel like you can’t face another mouthful, but we have some leftover recipe ideas that will tempt you back into the kitchen for more. In a world grappling with food waste (it is estimated that we waste nearly a quarter of the food we buy), making the most of your leftovers not only reduces your environmental footprint but also adds a bit of variety to your post-Christmas meals.
Strip your leftover roast of the best cuts first. Any leftover beef, lamb, ham or turkey slices can be frozen for up to 3 months with a spoon of leftover gravy for another quick roast dinner.
If you are feeling peckish, turn your leftover roast into satisfying sandwiches. Try turkey with lettuce, mayonnaise and a spoon of cranberry sauce or ham with a red cabbage slaw and dijon mustard.
Next strip the joint or carcass of all remaining meat. These less intact scraps of meat will make an excellent basis for soups, or mixed with rice for risottos and pilafs.
Your turkey or chicken carcass or beef joint bone can now be made into a nourishing bone broth. Place your roast bones in an oven proof lidded pot or slow cooker and cover with water. Add a halved onion, a couple of bay leaves and a handful of peppercorns and cook on low for 4-6 hours. When the cooking time is up, skim and strain the broth, discard the veg and bones and you'll be left with a deeply flavoured nutritious broth for use as a base in soups, casseroles or risottos.
Explore our Recipe Hub for more inspiration, like a Boxing Day Risotto, a Ham Carbonara or a Tikka Turkey Curry.
One of the best things about Christmas leftovers is Bubble & Squeak. This versatile recipe can use up any leftover chopped veg, add in a sauteed onion and leftover mashed potato, and form into patties with your hands. These can now be covered in flour and fried in oil until crisp. Serve with leftover pigs in blankets for a satisfying Boxing Day brunch.
For an irresistible supper, take leftover chopped veg, diced roast potatoes and chunks of sausage meat stuffing and bake in a rich cheese sauce topped with breadcrumbs until golden and bubbling.
Greens, like cooked cabbage and sprouts can be added to curries and pilafs made with your leftover roast.
Turn leftover sweet treats into a festive rocky road fridge cake, by mixing with melted chocolate and butter. Try chopped nuts, crumbled Christmas pudding and broken sweet biscuits.
Leftover Christmas pudding can also be wrapped in buttery filo pastry and baked to make a seasonal strudel. Serve with any leftover brandy butter or cream.
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The sustainability of real Christmas trees has been a topic of ongoing debate. An estimated 8 million will be bought in the UK, and the vast majority will be discarded come early January. However, Christmas tree plantations can play a role in helping the environment. Grown for an average of 7 years before felling, Christmas trees pull carbon from the environment during their lifespan. Additionally, for every Christmas tree cut down, up to 3 new seedlings are planted. When sourcing your tree this year, check for certification by the Forest Stewardship Council, which manages forests to the highest environmental standards. Look out for trees sold with a root ball, which can be kept for years.
When it's time to take the tree down on Twelfth Night, avoid sending it to landfill, which releases planet-damaging methane as the tree decomposes. According to the Carbon Trust, burning it on a bonfire or chipping it for your garden is the most environmentally friendly way to dispose of your tree if it can't be replanted.
The most sustainable decorations are the ones you already own, so don't get rid of your vintage fairy lights or the tinsel acquired over many years. If you're looking to add to your collection, consider sustainable decorations for a unique charm.
Not all of us are natural crafters, so don’t worry if the most you have made up to this point is a paper chain. There are some simple ideas you can try, or keep the kids entertained whilst you get on with Christmas preparations.
Slice oranges thinly and bake the slices in a low oven (120C) on a lined baking sheet for up to an hour until completely dried out. Turn the slices once during cooking to get an even finish. Once completely cooled, thread onto Christmassy twine or ribbon.
Leftover wrapping paper can be fashioned into hanging stars that can be strung individually or as a garland or scattered on your festive table. Simple to make, they make an eco friendly statement.
Every year, people in the UK throw away £42m of unwanted gifts, most of which end up in landfill. Consider gifting consumable gifts or thoughtful experiences to create lasting memories without adding clutter. If you don't know the recipient well, choose a practical, edible gift like a Christmas chutney or chocolate that will be enjoyed long before the decorations come down.
If you need inspiration, we've curated a list of sustainably sourced and ethically produced gifts that will delight the foodie in your life.
Swap traditional wrapping paper for sustainable alternatives to further reduce waste. Fabric gift wrap, such as scarves or reusable cloth, not only looks elegant but also serves a dual purpose as an additional gift. Upcycled materials like old maps, newspapers, or even children's artwork can be creatively repurposed into unique and eco-friendly wrapping options. Add a touch of gold to kraft paper and twine wrapping by spray painting foliage gathered on winter walks.
Planning is essential to help you prepare for a Zero Waste Christmas, especially when it comes to food. Seventy percent of us admit to buying far more food than we need over Christmas, resulting in the equivalent of a whole plateful of food per household going to waste on Christmas Day. Plan your festive menu thoughtfully, considering the number of guests you are expecting to minimise leftovers. Cook and freeze meals ahead of time to avoid a last-minute dash to the supermarket where tempting treats may encourage you to overspend and buy unnecessary items. Use leftovers creatively in the days following Christmas, transforming them into new and delicious meals.
Embracing a Zero Waste Christmas is not about sacrificing joy but rather enhancing the festive spirit through thoughtful choices. It encourages us to be mindful consumers, fostering an appreciation for the environment and the impact of our celebrations. By incorporating sustainable practices into our holiday traditions, we contribute to a brighter, greener future for everyone.
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Achieve a stress-free Christmas with our festive checklist, ensuring you have everything you need to avoid a last-minute food shopping panic.
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Our last day for Christmas orders is Friday 15th December, so book your slot now to guarantee a truly organic Christmas this year.
Start the day with a sense of occasion. Try the sophistication of smoked salmon blinis, the heartiness of a full English breakfast, or the convenience of a one-pan kedgeree for a crowd, and set the tone for a day filled with indulgence.
The opening course of your Christmas feast should set the stage for a luxurious feast but not overpower the meal to come. Try a smoked salmon terrine or a rich organic pate to awaken taste buds without overshadowing the main event.
Your Christmas centrepiece will be the star of the show, so don’t miss out on your favourite organic roast. Opt for a traditional turkey or try a modern classic like wild venison with organic vegetables and all the trimmings. Have a premade gravy on standby for unexpected emergencies or to rescue any lumpy gravy disasters on Christmas Day.
The final act of the Christmas feast deserves nothing less than a showstopping, brandy-soaked Christmas Pudding. If you haven't prepared your own, our large organic luxury Christmas pudding is a perfect family-sized option. For those without a sweet tooth, a handpicked assortment of organic cheeses provides a savoury alternative.
Be prepared for unexpected guests or last-minute invites with sweet treats and entertaining platters. A charcuterie board caters to a crowd without keeping you tied to the kitchen all night. Stock up on festive biscuits to accompany mulled wine that can quickly warmed up for carol singers or surprise visitors. And make sure to reserve a mince pie for Father Christmas.
Avoid getting caught empty-handed by getting a few extra Christmas gifts. A festive chocolate treat is a versatile all-rounder, so grab a few extra. If they go unclaimed, even better—you can enjoy them all to yourself. For those who procrastinate until Christmas Eve, an Eversfield online gift voucher makes the perfect last-minute gift.
Our organic Bronze turkeys are slow grown on the edge of Dartmoor, enjoying a free range lifestyle. They are fed a simple traditional cereal and left to forage in the meadows where they enjoy wild herbs and seasonal berries. By Christmas all our turkeys have a traditional ‘finish’ of fat. They are then hung for 10 days to make them extra tender.
Our Norfolk Black turkeys enjoy the same free range lifestyle, but are closer to a wild bird with a more game-like taste and texture after being hung for two weeks.
Our turkeys stand out not just for their taste but for their happy and healthy lifestyle. Unlike conventionally raised turkeys, which are fed on grain-based feeds designed for rapid weight gain in preparation for the festive season, our turkeys grow at a natural pace expressing all their natural behaviours, which helps them develop a more even and healthy layer of fat.
You will find that this slow, natural approach to raising turkeys results in meat that is not only moist but also boasts a deliciously succulent texture and an incredible flavour.
Our turkeys take less cooking time than a supermarket bird due to the extra intramuscular fat they develop during their active lives. The following are approximate roasting times:
4kg - 1 hour 45 minutes
5kg - 2 hours
6kg - 2 hour 15 minutes
7-8kg - 2 hour 45 minutes
9-11kg - 3 hours
Roasting times are only a guide, if in doubt, check with a meat thermometer. The temperature should reach between 65c-70c at the thickest part of the bird between the thigh and breast.
Enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey.
For gravy and sides inspiration, check out our recipe hub.
]]>Christmas plans are well underway at Eversfield Organic, preparing the organic centrepieces that will make your feast extra special, ready to arrive on your doorsteps next month.
The key to a stress-free Christmas is planning. Whether that is ordering your organic roast in plenty or getting ahead with your festive cooking.
This Sunday marks the final Sunday before Advent, traditionally the day to mix your Christmas pudding ingredients and officially kick off Christmas preparations. This Victorian custom may have lost its popularity, perhaps with the introduction of more chocolatey dessert options, but we still think that a Christmas pudding can't be beaten.
Christmas Pudding isn’t the only recipe that you can think about now to get-ahead with your festive planning. We've got a few suggestions for you that can be made in advance and frozen before Christmas to help alleviate some of the last-minute pressure that can comes with hosting.
A warming and festive addition to your Christmas dinner, braised red cabbage partners perfectly with roasted meat. It's particularly tasty on Boxing Day when served with your Christmas ham and mustard.
Braised red cabbage freezes well. Make sure to let the cabbage cool completely and freeze in a freezer-safe container. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the hob.
A rich gravy is an essential part of a festive feast, but making gravy can feel like one extra last minute chore on Christmas Day. Luckily you can make a flavourful gravy ahead of time and freeze until needed. Simply stir the defrosted gravy in with the juices in your roasting dish on Christmas Day to finish. Add a spoon of cranberry sauce to the finished gravy for a festive touch.
For unexpected guests or planned parties, always have some treats in the freezer ready to cook. These tasty sausage rolls are easy to prepare, suitable for freezing, and can be baked directly from frozen for serving.
The trimmings might just be the best part of any roast and a good stuffing is not to be missed. Prepare your stuffing now and freeze raw, it can then be defrosted overnight in the fridge and roasted alongside your favourite meat centrepiece.
This festive stuffing recipe includes seasonal chestnuts and bacon and works well with all roast meats.
Guarantee that the kids have gingerbread to decorate on Christmas Eve, without the fuss. Find your favourite ginger biscuit recipe and freeze the cut out dough shapes on a baking tray. The biscuits can then be cooked from frozen when you are ready to bake.
Remember these tips for freezer food safety to ensure that your make-ahead Christmas preparations go smoothly
Label Everything: Clearly label each container or bag with the contents and date of preparation. This stops the risk of playing freezer roulette in the future!
Store Correctly: Use containers and bags that are suitable for freezer use to avoid freezer burn and keep your meals fresh. Airtight seals are essential to protect your food from freezer odours and maintain its flavour.
Cool Before Freezing: Allow hot foods to cool to room temperature before placing them in the freezer. Rapid cooling helps preserve the texture and taste of the dish.
Portioning: Before freezing, divide your meals into smaller servings. This allows for more flexible meal planning and quicker thawing when you only need a portion.
Thaw Safely: Thaw food in the fridge overnight rather than at room temperature. This slow, controlled thawing helps maintain food safety.
Don't refreeze: If food has thawed or begun to thaw, do not refreeze it. Once food has defrosted, harmful bacteria can proliferate quickly, making it unsafe to eat.
]]>If you're looking for a festive option beyond the traditional turkey, why not consider one of our organic, free range ducks.
At Eversfield Organic, we pride ourselves on sourcing the finest ingredients, and our ducks are no exception. Nestled in the picturesque Blackdown Hills, our ducks come from trusted and experienced poultry keepers who raise premium, 100% free-range, organic ducks with care and respect for animal welfare.
One of the standout reasons to opt for duck is its unparalleled flavour and texture. Duck meat boasts a richness and moistness that surpasses traditional turkey. The succulence of duck meat is a result of its higher fat content, creating a roast that is not only juicy but also exceptionally flavourful.
If you're hosting a more intimate Christmas gathering, a duck is the ideal choice. Smaller than a turkey or goose, a duck caters to smaller parties without compromising on a sense of celebration. Our ducks are perfect for a party of 4-6 guests.
Duck isn't just about the meat; it's about the culinary alchemy that happens during the cooking process. Duck fat, rendered during roasting, is the secret weapon for creating the perfect roast potatoes – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
Duck brings a host of nutritional benefits to your Christmas table. Duck is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats and is a rich source of iron. On top of everything, it's also delicious.
If you are planning an intimate Christmas gathering, there can be no better option than our organic duck. Our ducks come from trusted sources, and their delicious, rich meat ensures a dining experience beyond the ordinary. This Christmas, transform your feast into a celebration of exceptional taste and shared experiences with our organic duck.
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It’s the season for giving, and if you have an organic foodie on your holiday shopping list, you're in for a treat.
We've put together a handy guide to help you find the perfect presents that cater to their love for all things organic, with a selection of organic products that are sure to make their Christmas extra special.
Packed full of festive flavour with organic vine fruits, zesty lemon and orange juice, Christmas spices and (most importantly) lashings of brandy. 100g. £3.15
Lovingly created in our Home Farm Kitchen with local organic ingredients, this savoury jam is as tasty with a lump of cheese as it is spread atop an organic burger. 190g. £3.95
This sweet, spicy, and downright moreish organic chilli ketchup is made from 100% fresh organic tomatoes and chillies. 270ml. £3.95
Cocoaloco chocolate santas made from organic, Fairtrade certified and palm oil free milk chocolate. 100g. £5.85
Moreish organic chocolate truffles with a crisp chocolate shell filled with a gooey, Christmas pudding centre. £7.65
An organic twist on the traditional German festive biscuits, soft, chewy and packed with festive spice. £8.10
Perfect for your Christmas Eve party, our mulled wine is packed full of organic seasonal fruits and spices, and ready to enjoy. £9.95
A selection of organic shortbread in three tasty flavours: All Butter, Ginger and Lemon. £11.75
An organic instant coffee flavoured with nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper and a dash of Reishi for a warming blend £12.95
An organic Benville cheese flavoured with rich truffle, made from Pasture for Life certified milk for an indulgent treat. £21.95
The perfect festive box set for those who love their gin. Includes four X 5cl bottles of Cornish-made boozy treats courtesy of our friends at Atlantic Distillery. £25
Harnessing the cleansing, hydrating, and softening qualities of mandarin & grapefruit, this gift box includes mandarin hand wash & lotion, grapefruit hand lotion, sweet orange soap, and an eco-friendly soap bag. £35
Perfect for last minute gatherings, bring our organic beef wellington handmade with deliciously tender grass-fed beef fillet wrapped in golden puff pastry in our Home Farm Kitchen. £99
Give the gift of effortless Christmas hosting with one of our Eversfield Organic Christmas Banquet Boxes. Choose from turkey, beef, lamb, chicken or veg, our banquet boxes contain everything you need to prepare a seasonal feast. £13.95-£165
This Christmas, make your loved ones feel extra special by gifting them organic delights that cater to their passion for wholesome, sustainable, and delicious food. Whether it's a gourmet feast, sweet treats, or Christmas essentials, our organic Christmas gift guide has something for every foodie on your list.
]]>When it comes to choosing the perfect centrepiece for your Christmas entertaining, the options are as diverse as your holiday traditions. At Eversfield Organic, we offer an outstanding selection of high welfare, organic meats that are sure to make your Christmas celebration one to remember.
The classic Christmas turkey is always a showstopper, and at Eversfield Organic, we take this seasonal tradition to new heights. Our organic heritage Norfolk Black Turkeys are reared with care on a family run farm in Dartmoor National Park. We take the time to hang these turkeys for two weeks, allowing their flavours to mature, resulting in a succulent and flavoursome choice for your Christmas table.
If you're looking to delight your guests with a Christmas feast that leaves a lasting impression, our premium grass-fed organic beef is your ultimate crowd-pleaser. Dry-aged for 28 days, our beef exhibits a depth of flavour that is truly exceptional. We offer a range of cuts to suit all party sizes and budgets, ensuring that you can serve up a mouthwatering masterpiece that is both satisfying and indulgent.
For those who long for the charm of Christmases past, our free-range organic geese are a nostalgic treat that embodies tradition. Our geese are rich in flavour and indulgence, making them a perfect pairing for your traditional Christmas feast.
Pork joints or roasted ham are a brilliant option for your Christmas Eve banquet or the big day itself. Our pork comes from free-range, outdoor-bred and reared pigs, ensuring that you can taste the difference in every bite. A pork centrepiece has timeless appeal but it is a modern choice for Christmas lunch, making it a true cracker for your festive spread.
For the adventurous cooks amongst us, wild game is a lean and flavoursome choice that adds a unique twist to your holiday table. Our game options range from venison to pigeon, pheasant, and partridge, offering a variety of bold and robust flavours for a memorable menu.
Our grass-fed organic lamb joints are perfect for gatherings of all sizes. With ready rolled joints that are easy to carve, they are the ideal choice for a melt-in-the-mouth roast that's as convenient as it is delicious. Whether you're hosting a large family dinner or an intimate gathering of friends, our organic lamb takes the guesswork out of your Christmas meal preparation.
If you're looking to take the stress out of Christmas hosting, our beef, chicken and venison wellingtons, handmade in our Home Farm kitchen, are the perfect solution. These prime wild and organic meats are encased in mouth-watering puff pastry, creating a simple centrepiece that leaves you more time for entertaining. They offer an effortless way to serve a gourmet masterpiece without the fuss.
Your Christmas table deserves nothing less than an Eversfield Organic Christmas centrepiece. Our range of exceptional organic meats promises to elevate your festive celebration, offering a delectable array of options that cater to your unique style and preferences. Whether you choose a classic favourite or embrace the allure of the wild side, our organic meats will bring the spirit of the season to your table.
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At Eversfield Organic, we believe in celebrating the best of what each season has to offer. That's why we're thrilled to introduce our new monthly organic British Seasonal Veg Box — a culinary treasure trove that arrives on your doorstep each month, packed with the best seasonal, organic produce that the UK has to offer.
Our British Seasonal Veg Box provides a hassle-free way for you to discover the finest UK grown vegetables, showcasing beloved classics and hidden culinary treasures.
With a spotlight on seasonal stars, the British Seasonal Veg Box will help you eat more sustainably and unearth the joy of locally grown, organic veg harvested at the peak of freshness. With each box, you will discover vegetables that burst with flavour and are brimming with essential nutrients.
The savoy cabbage, a true winter gem, takes centre stage in our veg box. This cabbage, with its deep green colour and mild tasting leaves, is delicious when eaten raw in a winter slaw or served steamed and covered in plenty of butter and black pepper alongside a winter stew.
Parsnips are another seasonal delight, and ideal for roasting or mashing. Their earthy, slightly sweet flavour complements more robust winter flavours and are a must for any winter roast.
Carrots are a classic staple in any kitchen, and they shine in the dark days of winter. Their sweet, sometimes woody taste makes them a versatile ingredient, whether you're roasting them with a touch of honey, or adding them to stews and soups.
Swede, a rather overlooked vegetable, is surprisingly versatile. Its robust and nutty flavour works well alongside carrot and potato and is the perfect accompaniment to beef, lamb or pork.
Red onions with their vibrant colour and mild, sweet flavour are the perfect partner to winter root vegetables. They're wonderful roasted in winter salads, braised alongside cabbage or slow cooked in a winter pie.
Butternut squash is a true winter delicacy and pairs wonderfully with robust spices such as cumin, coriander, and chilli for a hearty winter lamb tagine. Squash is also the star of many plant-based favourites, like a rich risotto or comforting soup.
As a sweet winter treat our December veg box includes UK grown pears. Lend sweetness to your roast pork, or partner with blue cheese for a savoury dessert. Pears also create luxurious winter desserts. Their gentle flavour works nicely with cinnamon, honey, or crushed nuts.
We hope that you are as excited as us to celebrate the best seasonal produce this month.
]]>Long before Guy Fawkes dreamed up his gunpowder plot, bonfires have been used to mark the transition from the abundance of the harvest and the start of the lean months of winter. A symbol of the move from the light to the dark half of the year.
Communities gathered to share stories, sing songs and celebrate their resilience for the season ahead, and act as a beacon of hope for the warmer days to return again.
November 5th, the crisp air filled with woodsmoke and the crackling of bonfires offers a much needed celebration before the long dark nights take over.
Food is an integral part of any Bonfire Night celebration, so gather family and friends to share crowd pleasing plates. Traditional recipes like hot dogs and toffee apples are sure to delight the younger members of the family, but we think ginger is the perfect spice for a chilly November evening.
Its warm earthy flavour pairs beautifully with beef for a spicy one pot, like this Beef and Sweet Potato Curry; or savoury Peppered Beef and Squash stew. Additionally, a dash of ginger can elevate sweet treats, like cakes and biscuits.
We know that food always tastes more delicious when eaten outside, so we have two tasty ginger recipes for you to try. Just add cold night air, a pair of mittens and the warm glow of firelight.
This family friendly recipe is a rich and sticky ginger cake robust enough to withstand outdoor eating. Originating from Yorkshire, this traditional cake has a slightly denser consistency and is delightfully chewy due to the addition of oats. It is great eaten fresh but, if you can resist temptation, it will become stickier and more delicious the longer it is left in the cake tin. Make it a week ahead for the perfect parkin.
Ginger Apple Kick: If you prefer to keep things alcohol-free, we've got the perfect ginger-infused drink to try. Combining organic ginger liqueur, organic apple juice and a shot of organic apple cider vinegar for a fiery kick, this drink not only tastes good but does good too.
Enhance your celebrations with a touch of ginger and happy Bonfire Night from our organic kitchen to yours!
]]>More than just a ghoulish accessory, we have some ideas for your Halloween pumpkin to reduce food waste, support local farms and use the veg from seed to stalk.
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The practice of carving pumpkins into spooky Jack O'Lanterns has become an integral part of the Halloween celebration, leading trick or treater’s by flickering candlelight to doorsteps across the UK.
This age-old ritual, rooted in history and folklore, has evolved over the years, from candles placed in hollowed out turnips and mangelwurzels to the import of pumpkins from the US in the 20th century.
More pumpkins are sold in October than at any other time, with more than 30 million pumpkins expected to be bought in the UK this year. Sadly, considering their delicious and nutritious qualities, at least half of those will be destined for the waste bin at the start of November.
Discover how you can make the most of this year’s pumpkin harvest to create your most sustainable Halloween yet.
Most Halloween pumpkins sold in supermarkets for carving are chosen for their uniform size and colour rather than their taste, so it is no wonder that attempts to cook them can be underwhelming.
Locally grown pumpkins from smaller farms are likely to have less fibrous flesh and be much tastier when cooked, as well as having a lower carbon footprint when transported to stores.
Some varieties to look out for that have a traditional orange colour and classic round shape are; Pumpkin Becky and Pumpkin Jack O’Lantern, although you can get creative with all varieties of squash for a colourful, autumnal display.
Pumpkins at our Eversfield Organic Farm Shop in Tavistock
These vibrant gourds are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C making them a wonderful addition to your autumn recipes. They can be turned into a wide array of delectable dishes, from creamy soups and hearty stews to amazing cakes and puddings, which are perfect for getting children to eat their five-a-day.
Our Seasonal Vegetable Stew and Autumn Pumpkin Soup recipes are a great place to start or explore the pumpkin recipes on the BBC Good Food website.
Your Halloween pumpkin is likely to hold approximately 500 seeds. These seeds are not just delicious, but they could also provide a variety of health advantages, including maintaining heart health and lowering the risks of certain cancers.
Start by carefully removing the pumpkin seeds from the pumpkin flesh by hand. Then, rinse them in a colander to remove any remaining pieces of pulp. They are now ready to boil and roast before adding your favourite seasoning and eating.
Some perfect pumpkin seed pairings to try are: spicy chilli flakes and sea salt, warming smoked paprika and thyme, and sweet cinnamon and brown sugar.
Pumpkin seeds make a great garnish for a pumpkin soup
Pumpkins are easy to grow even for beginners and are a great way to introduce children to growing veg. If planted in Spring, you should have your own crop ready for harvesting next Halloween, what could be a more sustainable pumpkin than that?
Prepare your seeds by washing them carefully as above. Once clean, pat dry with a paper towel and lay the seeds on a baking sheet lined with baking parchment. Put in a cool dry spot in your home to fully dry.
Drying will take a few weeks, so keep a regular eye on your seeds and throw away any that develop mould. Once ready, place the seeds in a paper envelope and store in a cool, dry drawer.
Pumpkins enjoy the sun, so don’t plant your pumpkin seeds outside until the weather starts to warm up in late Spring, although you can start your plants inside on a sunny windowsill.
Discover expert tips for growing the perfect pumpkin patch with the Royal Horticultural Society.
Pumpkins are easy to grow and are fun for kids
Your Halloween pumpkin by now has now been made into a scary Jack O’Lantern, a delicious dinner, a healthy snack and next year’s crop, but there is one last purpose for your pumpkin leftovers.
Cut your pumpkin waste into smaller chunks and add to your home composter to make the perfect fertiliser for your new pumpkin patch. Pumpkins are rich in nitrogen and break down quickly to add lots of nutrients to your soil.
]]>The shorter days that follow create the perfect excuse for slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures in life, like cooking for friends and family. Preparing and enjoying autumnal food is more than just feeding your body; it's about creating a sense of warmth and comfort in your home that balances the changing season outside.
There can be no greater comfort food than soup, and autumn soups, with their rich, earthy flavours take centre stage this month.
Following are three autumn soups to try this October featuring the fresh, seasonal vegetables from our organic vegetable boxes that, quite rightly, are the stars of the autumn table.
As the clocks change and the weather gets colder, enjoy a comforting bowl of soup and embrace the new season.
Leeks are abundant in October and are a staple in our autumn organic vegetable boxes. This warming soup sees the perfect partnership of leeks with our organic chicken thighs and drumsticks.
Both warming and nutritious, this soup will become a firm family favourite.
Pumpkins are the ultimate autumn vegetable and this delicious pumpkin soup is the perfect way to welcome in the season with its vibrant orange colour.
Wholesome, plant-based and packed with immune boosting Vitamin C and potassium, this soup is guaranteed to make you glow from the inside out.
If you don’t have pumpkins available, you can substitute with butternut squash or sweet potato.
Autumn Minestrone or end-of-the-fridge soup
This delicious soup is great for using up leftover vegetables from your Eversfield Organic box. It's a cheap and healthy meal choice that helps reduce waste.
This adapatable recipe is a combination of seasonal vegetables plus a pulse, grain or pasta. You can make endless variations depending on what you have available, and because it is so versatile, you can easily adapt it for those following a plant-based diet.
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Our favourite part of the week has to be the day we receive our organic grocery delivery. Delivered straight to your door, our organic veg boxes are bursting with the freshest local organic produce, ready to be transformed into some delicious dinners by you.
Still need convincing? Here’s 5 reasons why you should opt or an organic vegetable delivery from us:
There’s nothing worse than getting home from a long day at work to an empty fridge, then having to make the trip to the supermarket before you can cook and enjoy your well-deserved dinner.
With our organic vegetable deliveries, you don’t need to worry about making the trip to the supermarket for your fruit and veg ever again, picked and packed for you and delivered on a day of your choosing, the easiest way to get your 5-a-day in.
For even more convenience, choose our subscribe and save delivery option and choose the day and frequency best for you! Subscribing to a regular order also gives you 5% off our entire range of organic groceries.
Image: Organic produce delivered to your door.
Under organic certification, all our organic produce is grown free from nasty artificial pesticides and fertilisers, making them healthier for you and better for our planet.
Pesticides are an extreme pollutant, generating tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in their production, as well as polluting rivers and soils, damaging natural ecosystems and habitats and reducing populations of pollinator species. Supporting organic farming by choosing an organic vegetable delivery furthers the fight against pesticide use in agriculture and our reliance on them for growing food.
Additionally, the best way to ensure pesticides don’t end up on your plate and therefore in our bodies, where they can have potentially harmful effects, is by choosing organic fruit and vegetables.
Our organic vegetable and fruit deliveries help minimise food packaging and waste in your weekly shop, using 100% recyclable or reusable packaging, free from plastic where possible.
Our boxes are made from recycled cardboard, filled with sustainable WoolCool lining to keep your organic food fresh and protected during transit.
All the materials used to package your organic groceries can also be returned to us to be used over and over again in our free packaging return scheme. Find out more about this here.
Image: Our organic veg box deliveries use sustainable, recyclable and reusable packaging.
Studies have found that organically farmed fruit and veg on average contain more vitamins, minerals, enzymes and micronutrients than that which is conventionally farmed.
This means organic food is much more beneficial for our bodies, farmed with care and attention to natural processes, making it better in quality and taste as a result.
By buying organic produce, you are ensuring that you are getting the most nutrients out of the food you eat, and your body is benefiting from it in the best way possible.
Choosing organic vegetables and organic meat is arguably the most sustainable way to consume your food.
As we’ve touched on in previous points, an organic grocery delivery, reduces waste and supports the move away from using pesticides in farming, but also benefits the planet in many more ways.
Every aspect of certified organic food production has been devised to be as sustainable as possible, to provide you with delicious, quality food without having a negative impact on the planet. From the way our organic produce is grown, in healthy soils, using agroecological methods which protect and utilise the natural processes already happening all around us, to the packaging we put it in and our closed loop approach to food waste, putting it back into compost to be used to grow more in our very own Market Garden.
Find out more about our sustainable ethos here.
]]>From succulent organic roasts to delectable desserts, our range of festive food promises to be a culinary experience like no other. Picture yourself gathered around the table with loved ones, savouring the rich, full-bodied flavours of our grass-fed organic meat and seasonal organic vegetables, all carefully sourced and expertly prepared.
The Main Event
At the heart of every cherished Christmas feast, you'll find a centrepiece that defines the occasion – a beautifully roasted turkey, golden and glistening, ready to take its rightful place at the centre of your festive table.
At Eversfield Organic, we offer a range of 100% organic, free-range turkeys. Our options include Bronze, Norfolk Black, Bronzed Bone & Rolled, Crown, and our new turkey stuffed with chorizo and wrapped in bacon. Organic turkeys are raised with the utmost respect for the environment and animal welfare, they are free from antibiotics and artificial hormones and their nutritious diet builds a healthy marbling of intermuscular fat and results in an unrivalled juicy taste.
If you're looking for an alternative to turkey for Christmas, our Organic Duck or Goose can add excitement to your celebration. We also have a Three-bird roast that is sure to impress. This roast is made by our farm butchers and combines organic cuts of turkey, duck, and pheasant. It creates a delicious centrepiece for your festive meal.
If you’re after a less conventional centrepiece this Christmas, why not let our grass-fed beef and lamb take centre stage at your festive table, a true celebration of British farming at its finest. Choose from 28-day dry-aged Beef Topside, Silverside, Whole Fillet and Trimmed Rib. Go all out with our exceptional Whiskey 45 Day Dry Aged Rib of Beef. Alternatively, select on our divine lamb joints including our Festive Stuffed Shoulder of Lamb. We also have Organic Chicken, Wellingtons, joints of Ham, Gammon and Venison available, ensuring every taste is catered for.
Christmas Trimmings, the silent heroes
Christmas trimmings are not just side dishes; they are the silent heroes of our festive feasts. For wow-worthy trimmings, look no further than our range. From the Christmas classics pigs in blankets and stuffing, to our maple cured bacon and festive baubles, we’ve got everything covered. Try our festive sausages and baubles, a rich and delicious mixture of cranberry and apple stuffing, cranberry sauce, and parsley. Why not make your own pigs in blankets by wrapping our organic sausages in our sweet and smoky Maple Cured Back Bacon? When it comes to the veg, everyone knows roast potatoes are a must-have with your organic turkey. But don't let your other organic vegetable accompaniments fall to the wayside, cook up creamy cauliflower cheese, balsamic red cabbage, and caramelised parsnips for a winner of a Christmas dinner. Keep an eye on our Recipe Hub for some delicious inspiration to ensure you are serving up sublime sides and trimmings.
Sweet Treats & Nibbles
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without endless nibbles and sweet treats to graze on. We’ve got organic Christmas puddings, luxury Christmas cakes, mince pies (with a dollop of Jersey cream), all-butter short bread, sloe gin truffles, Lebkuchen, chocolate bars and our very own mulled wine is also available for your indulgence. Our collection of organic cheese and chutneys also has everything you'll need to create the most festive cheese or grazing board.
This Christmas, join us in celebrating the joy of the season with Eversfield Organic's Christmas Collection for 2023. Discover the magic of Christmas with us, and let's make this festive season memorable, delicious, and…organic!
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