We’re nearly through the longest, darkest month, hooray, so it's definitely time to celebrate! It’s also Chinese New Year, and we’re ushering in the Year of the Dragon, the most auspicious of the 12 signs, they do say. Every Chinese parent hopes for a Dragon child, apparently.
Whatever your sign, it’s a lovely opportunity to go out for a delicious Chinese meal. The Beaufort Chinese Gourmet in Crickhowell has lots of great testimonials on ThebestofAbergavenny site so why not celebrate the Chinese New Year with them? To avoid disappointment, remember to give them a call on 01873 811188 to book your table at this busy time.
Did you venture out to catch a haggis for your Burns’ Night supper this week? I think they’ve been sighted on the Sugarloaf, but Edwards’ butchers and Waitrose still have them in stock if you were unsuccessful. Traditionally haggis is eaten with traditional neeps and tatties , which you can pick up in one of the regular Abergavenny markets.
Whether neeps are swedes or turnips is debatable, but tatties are definitely potatoes. Mash them with some (Welsh!) butter or cream, and have yourself a warming wee dram of whisky too. By rights this should be Scotch, of course, but you can get delicious Welsh whisky from the Penderyn Distillery in the Brecon Beacons. Look up details at www.welsh-whisky.co.uk or consult your local vintner.
It’ll be Valentine’s Day soon , but in Wales we can celebrate early. Santes Dwynwen, Welsh Valentine’s Day, fell midweek on 25th January this year, as did Burns’ Night, but these can be variable feasts. You may decide to celebrate those anniversaries a little late, and no-one’s going to object if you invite them to a special meal over the weekend in honour of these memorable characters.
Whatever you do, have a great weekend.