Silvana Franco

Heatwaves and drought are threatening Britain’s potato harvest, raising the prospect of smaller crops and shortages. The article suggests using polenta, chickpea flour, courgettes, sweet potatoes, squash, cauliflower, swede, white beans, celeriac, parsnips, cassava, rice, orzo and bread to recreate chips, baked dishes, mash, roast potatoes and comforting soups. It provides preparation techniques and flavor suggestions for each substitute.

Food writer Silvana Franco shares a practical packing guide for UK self-catering holidays. She recommends bringing essential kitchen equipment such as a sharp chef’s knife, tea towels, a chopping board, coffee maker and tin foil, along with arrival-night provisions including drinks, pasta, sauce, bread, butter and eggs. A day-one shopping list focuses on versatile staples such as olive oil, tinned fish, beans, Gruyère, lemons, spring onions and fresh tomatoes. She also suggests freezing sauces or cocktails to keep a cool bag chilled, preparing a small flavor and cleaning kit, arranging an online grocery delivery and packing a few luxury snacks and treats.