While we can be caught up in the hubbub at this time of year, it’s important to find space to breathe and relish those special seasonal moments.
As Editor Donna Duggan shares, “It’s time to let go of expectations and instead give ourselves some time and space just to enjoy what matters most to us.”
The issue provides plenty of food for thought, as well as solving those little challenges like choosing which delicious, fresh and modern dishes to cook and selecting precious and thoughtful gifts to give over Christmas this year.
Cover feature
Our cover star Saoirse Ronan has had perhaps her finest year; one in which she has produced and starred in challenging drama The Outrun, and immersed herself in the historical horror of Sir Steve McQueen’s Blitz. She’s also been gaining headlines for speaking up on the issue of self-defense and the challenges women face.
In our cover feature, she shares that even for her, moments of professional doubt creep in, though pushing forward has been incredibly rewarding. Learn more about the projects she’s starring in and what she thinks about awards season speculation.
Festive cookbook to enjoy
Of course food makes up so many of the wonderful moments we cherish at this time of the year and there is plenty to love in our incredible 55-page Festive Cookbook. There are recipes to enjoy not only on the big day but the many days throughout the season we share with loved ones.
“The MiNDFOOD food team has been working on this Christmas issue since June, and we’re excited to present festive recipes that embrace both the traditional hot lunch and fresh, modern dishes that are more suited to our sunny summer days,” shares food editor Michelle McHugh.
“This year’s Christmas Cookbook is a fusion of time-honoured classics and new flavours designed to inspire.”
Pore over delectable starters (trout, kingfish, salmon, oysters and lavosh) to magnificent mains (roast turkey and glazed ham, salmon and prawns), salads and sides as well as a chocolate heaven selection and a head-turning update on pavlova. There is much to enjoy whipping up and sharing with family and friends.
Health & beauty
In My Story, learn how one woman turned her focus to from pain to purpose, using a health crisis to inspire a new social enterprise providing toys for children.
In the Health section we also look at simple lifestyle changes that may reduce the risk of dementia, navigating the festive season while experiencing hardship, and the causes of burnout and what to do if you think you’re experiencing it.
In Beauty we help with the Christmas shopping, revealing stunning beauty gift sets with makeup, skincare and body products in gorgeous limited edition sets.
In preparation for the season of socialising we ask some key figures about the memorable moments where they felt their best and how they prepare for a special occasion and get some expert advice from hair professionals on how to give your hairdo longevity, keeping it looking great all though the day or night when you’re celebrating.
A dreamy Mallorquin home in the Tramuntana mountains of Spain combines simplicity with tranquility features in our Design section.
Travel inspiration
More getaway inspiration can be found in the POSTCARD section. Read the latest cruise news, including one writer’s experience on the Cities of Antiquity Mediterranean cruise around Greece and Italy as well as exploring Switzerland and Matera, Italy, one of the oldest cities in the world.
Enjoy your month and have a beautiful Christmas with MiNDFOOD.
Perfect gift idea
Can’t think what to get the special people in your life? How about treating them to a copy of MiNDFOOD every month – full of recipes, health and style updates, destinations to run away to or
dream about, and lots more. Select a gift subscription here.
The December issue of MiNDFOOD is on sale 11 December in New Zealand and 14 December in Australia. Available in stores and online at mindfood.com/shop