Yesterday my new book ‘Nigella Christmas’ finally arrived. Today the first (and who knows last) snow of the season fell. We immediately got into the Holiday spirit. We lighted the fireplace, put on some festive music and started cooking and baking and drinking hot chocolate with a little extra.

Leafing through the fresh pages of my book, I made myself crazy with all the things I wanted to make on the spot. This Christmas salt gave instant gratification. I had all the ingredients, chilli flakes, red pepper corns and star anise, within reach and 30 seconds later it was already adding to the festive cheer.