On a chilly Saturday night, with inclement weather forecast the length and breadth of the country, what could be more quintessentially Kiwi than tucking up to cheer on our (still) World Champion All Blacks as they take on our favourite foes, the Wallabies?
Late night sport needs late night snacks – it’s almost as much a part of the tradition!
Footy fodder needs to be three things: basic, plentiful and tasty.
Drinks: Some favour a quiet ale or glass of something grown up whilst cheering on the lads, but if you have small fans staying up late, it’s hard to go past a steaming, warm mug of hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows.
Tip: Froth milk using the wand on your coffee machine, and then put the milk in the microwave for a few seconds – it creates an even frothier result! Sprinkle a little extra chocolate on the top to garnish.
For a top-class mulled wine, which warms the cockles of adults hearts in a similar way, gently heat one bottle of your chosen red wine until it dissolves 2 tbsp brown sugar, and add a cinnamon stick, 5 whole cloves, 1 star anise, 2 bay leaves and some orange or lemon peel. Take care not to let the wine get hotter than 60C, or it may lose some of its other ‘qualities’. Allow the wine to sit afterwards for the flavours to develop.
Nibbles: Cheese on toast has to be number one on the list! Choose the most basic incarnation, with a swipe of marmite and a sprinkling of your favourite cheddar, grilled to golden deliciousness, or get more adventurous; take a slice of sourdough, smear on some fruit paste and melt a tangy blue cheese over the top…slice a croissant, layer on some ham and top with a bechamel sauce and a smear of mustard and grill.
A good old reduced cream chip ‘n’ dip combo is always welcome in front of a sports match (the healthier fans may appreciate some vegetable sticks too).
Keep it simple. Make it about the cheering, the heroes and the flashes of genius. Enjoy Saturday night!
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