This festive season, Executive Head Chef Stu Deeley of The Warwick at Mallory Court Hotel and Spa shares his expert tips on creating a Christmas dinner that blends fine dining flair with home-cooked warmth.

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As a MasterChef: The Professionals winner and one of Warwickshire’s leading chefs, Stu believes the key to a show-stopping festive feast lies in preparation, precision and a touch of creativity.

“Brining meat in salted water is a great way to enhance flavour and texture.You can go further by adding oranges, lemons and tarragon to the brine. This infuses the meat with subtle citrus notes and aromatic depth, keeping it juicy and full of flavour. For best results, leave overnight.”

Stu’s Top Tips for a Flawless Festive Feast

1. Perfect Your Preparation

Start your prep around two days before Christmas Day. Prepare your vegetables, brines and marinades in advance so you can focus on the joy of cooking rather than rushing.

2. Brine for Flavour

Whether it is turkey, chicken or pork, brining helps lock in moisture. Try adding citrus fruits like oranges and lemons for a festive twist that brightens every bite.

3. Create Rich, Silky Gravy

Use a good-quality stock and wine you would happily drink. Reduce it slowly to intensify the flavour for a luxurious finish.

4. Master the Roast Potatoes

Part-boil your potatoes in salted water, then drain and fluff them with a fork before chilling them in the fridge or freezer. Fry in warm oil for that irresistible crisp exterior and fluffy centre.

5. Try Sous Vide Cooking

For tender, perfectly cooked meat, sous vide removes the guesswork. Once cooked in temperature-controlled water, finish with a quick sear in a hot pan for restaurant-quality results.

6. Keep Everything Warm

Hold side dishes in the oven at 90°C while finishing your main course so everything arrives at the table piping hot.

7. Start with Canapés

Set a celebratory tone by serving canapés on a wooden board before the main meal. Presentation is as important as flavour.

“For me, Christmas Day ends with a takeaway curry,” Stu adds with a smile. “After all the festive dining, it’s nice to relax.”

Experience Festive Dining at The Warwick

Join us at Mallory Court Hotel and Spa this December for an unforgettable season of festive dining. From elegant à la carte experiences to Boxing Day Lunch and a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, each dish celebrates local produce and seasonal flavours.

Plan your visit and discover more about Festive Dining at The Warwick.