STAYING ONE STEP AHEAD

Keep calm and prep now for easy festive feasting

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Make-ahead magic can save your sanity over the festive period.

Start with sausage rolls: freeze unbaked and pop in the oven when guests arrive. This rich beef casserole also freezes beautifully while a stash of cookie dough means you're minutes away from warm biscuits and a home that smells like Christmas.

NEXT LEVEL BEEF BOURGUIGNON

1. A day or two ahead, cut the meat into 5cm chunks. Put in a glass bowl with the garlic, star anise, thyme, bay and plenty of seasoning. Mix it all together well.

2. Pour the wine into a large saucepan (keep the lid to hand and turn off any extractor fans). Bring to a boil, then, at arms-length, ignite with a long match. Wait for the flames to burn off, then boil for 5 mins more. If you don't feel comfortable setting the flames alight, just boil the wine. Pour the wine over the meat, then cover and cool slightly before chilling overnight or for up to 36 hours.