Episodes

  • Mustard

    Mustard
    Sep 12 2025
    That most vibrant of condiments - lavish, yellow and tasty - spread on our ham sandwich or wholegrain in a dressing, it is an unmistakable English traditional condiment found on the shelf next to the salt and pepper! In this edition Bruce Elsworth looks at its uses in the kitchen. It's the surprising hidden ingredient in many casseroles and savoury dishes. Julian proudly delivers his favourite party nibble, only for bruce to trump it by elevating the dish with more mustard - but what is the secret to sausages on sticks? We look at the origins from Roman times and discover where the name comes from, to the French monks of Dijon - and I bet you can't guess what mustard they invented? There are a couple of terrible mustard dad jokes so beware and of course some fun facts.
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    9 mins
  • Vinegar

    Vinegar
    Sep 5 2025
    In this edition of the Dales Chef, Bruce investigates Vinegar. From thousands of years ago when the ancient Egyptians used it to preserve to modern day used. Vinegar can be found in many, many products, but in its simplest form, its a delecacy - Balsamic Vinegar! Bruce tells us about the grading of good Balsamic - and it is treated like a fine wine!! We look at the simplest and best way to make a good vinegarette dressing and dismiss shop-bought balsamic glaze. And as a surprise for your guest at a dinner party, try some of the finest Balsamic drizzled over ice cream! They'll love it!
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    12 mins
  • Salt

    Salt
    Aug 29 2025
    Fish and Chips wouldn't be the same without salt - and vinegar if you choose! It is the world's favourite flavour enhancer, exciting our tastebuds for millenia! Did you know salt was used a currency in Roman times? That's where the word salary comes from - we explore this and other interesting facts from back in time. Bruce talks about the benefits of salt as part of a balanced diet and about the traffic light system on food packaging, to make sure we don't overdo our salt intake. We look at the three main salts we can buy and their differences, plus what best to fill your grinder up with. So, from hidden salt in packaged food to adding salt to your own cooking, the Dales Chef tells us all about what could be seen as the least exciting of all seasoning.
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    11 mins
  • Blueberries

    Blueberries
    Aug 22 2025
    They are at the peak of the season right now - English Blueberries. Sweet little berries packed with greatness and a true superfood. Bruce talks about the difference between Blueberries and Bilberries, their North American origins and did you know it's the only true blue fruit? So versitile are Blueberries - on pancakes, in muffins, as a compot or over a cheesecake, Bruce covers the lot and more! There's a summer treat for the kids in making and enjoying their own Bluebery Lollies! Plus fun facts.
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    9 mins
  • Fermented Foods

    Fermented Foods
    Aug 15 2025
    In this edition of the Dales Chef, Bruce looks at fermented foods - much needed for a healthy gut. We look at probiotics and the good bacteria we all need to maintain our healthy gut. Kimchi and Sauerkraut plus other not so well know fermented products and a simple way to pickle without using vinegar. We look at the probiotics and natural benefits of Greek Yogurt and cottage cheese. Fermented foods really are the best way to a healthy gut!
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    12 mins
  • Seaweed

    Seaweed
    Aug 8 2025
    In this edition we look at sea vegetables - mainly seaweed - a true taste of the sea. How to best forage for it, how to cook it and some top recipe ideas. We look at the differnt varieties found on our British coastlines and whether you need to cook them or eat them raw. All of them are edible! From sushi rolls to seaweed snacks, kelp noodles to coastal traditions, we’ll look at the many ways to enjoy one of Bruce's favourite superfoods. Seaweed lovers are turning tides with this nutrient-packed superfood. Whether you're a foodie, a forager, or just curious about what’s growing beneath the waves, you’re in the right place as the Dales Chef hits the beach!
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    12 mins
  • Yorkshire Strawberries

    Yorkshire Strawberries
    Aug 1 2025
    Such a versitile sweet treat, our Yorkshire strawberries are at their best right now. Bruce Elsworth talks about the adaptability of them - their many uses in a desert and elsewhere. Plus of course everyones favourite - strawberries and cream!!
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    6 mins
  • Puglia - Italy's best kept secret

    Puglia - Italy's best kept secret
    Jul 25 2025
    In this edition of the Dales Chef we are transported to Puglia in Southern Italy. Following the success of a recent Puglian dinner at Bruce's popular establisment, Elsworth at the Mill, it seemed sensible to feature Puglia as an episode of the Dales Chef. Bruce Elsworth looks at the traditional rustic food of the region where nothing goes to waste and dishes are based on whats available and seasonal. We talk through the menu from the evening, which featured traditional dishes from the region and wines to match. We look at Puglian wine - the region is famous for its Primitivo reds and Verdeca whites. Puglia's Mediterranean climate and fertile land contribute to the rich, ripe fruit flavours and full-bodied character of its wines. Did you know that almost half of Italy's durum wheat comes from Puglia? So that means half of all the pasta and bread eaten has Puglian wheat in it. We finish with a chat about Puglia's famous Burrata cheese - Mozzarella and fresh cream - delicious!
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    12 mins