Cooking guide

Burns' night - and more specifically Burns' supper, where people around the world sit down to a traditional meal of haggis, neeps and tatties - is famed for its unique dining conventions that are staunchly Scottish.

If you are a decent cook, this will be a no brainer, but if you are new to cooking, don't worry, I’ve put together a romantic menu that can be easily be prepared by you and will score you major points in the romance stakes!

It wouldn't really be a Burns supper if the menu didn't include haggis in some shape or form, but with Scottish descendants scattered all over the world, the traditional supper now often incorporates seasonal variations and contemporary twists.

These days, austerity chic is contagious and we’re all loathed to throw anything away but we're equally loathed to eat turkey sandwiches for a week.

I know it may pain all of you traditionalists out there, but sometimes it’s nice to shake things up and serve alternative dishes, like steak, fish or a meat-free feast that’s a break from the norm.

If you want Christmas to be a relaxed, fun festive occasion it pays to plan ahead, so that when the 25th rolls around you can relax and enjoy the day.

Adding unusual ingredients or different herbs and spices to your dishes can help create the perfect alternative Christmas feast that will wow your dinner guests.

Christmas dinner just isn't complete without gravy. Forget about the stuff that comes from granules or packets. I mean the thick, flavoursome rich and real gravy that will add the perfect finishing touch to your festive feast, bringing the whole dish together.