IVY’S CHRISTMAS TREATS

Creating the recipe for our vintage Cheddar took a lot of things: hard work, persistence, the appliance of science alongside centuries of traditional craft. But one of the main reasons our vintage Cheddar tastes so good is that our grandmother Ivy, who created the recipe, had a very specific talent. As her son John, who began making Cheddar in his early years and later ran the company, says, “She was an excellent cook, and to make cheese properly you have to be a proper cook. The better you are in the kitchen the better cheesemaker you are.”

While also working in the dairy, Ivy was cooking for most of the day, feeding her family and also many of the workers on the farm. As well as recipes made with her own Cheddar, she would use vegetables and herbs grown in the garden, and would also make jams, chutneys and pickles with produce from the farm. Her Sunday roast was a family favourite, but just as popular was her baking: Victoria sponge, meringues and shortbread included.

Ivy also loved to entertain, and was known for her parties. “She loved to laugh and to hear children sing songs,” remembers her daughter Margaret, “and there were always lots of people. There’d be a dining room table and she’d fill it with food and glitter and fun.” This was especially true of Christmas, where even in wartime she’d ensure everyone enjoyed her delicious Christmas cake and puddings “and a good glass of sherry”, Margaret remembers.

To celebrate this side of our grandmother Ivy, we’ve collected lots of her favourite recipes. You can find some of these on our website here, as well as lots of others inspired by her great cooking skills, including Garlic & Butter Roast Potatoes, Cheddar & Rosemary Shortbreads, lots of quiches, puddings and cakes, and a Cauliflower Cheese with an indulgent Cheddar sauce and breadcrumbs. There’s also the Ultimate Cheese Toastie and, for those who want to enjoy their Ivy’s Reserve at its very best, a cheeseboard with all the trimmings. And don’t forget the sherry...

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