Christmas is around the corner and at Cooking & more we are getting into festive mode! This issue is dedicated to the spirit of the season, and we offer you recipes for fabulous X’mas goodies like plum cake, chocolate truffle cakes, delectable doughnuts, and scrumptious chocolates. Try our innovative bread spreads and make finger snacks that will have your guests marvel at your culinary skills. The easy-to-make chocolate bouquets will make great gifts for friends and family in this season of giving.

If you’re looking for a party menu with a difference try your hand at Malaysian cuisine, with the help of Hema Parekh’s unusual recipes. Black beans are the special ingredient for this issue – learn how versatile this wholesome bean can be!. In this issue we present a thought provoking article on the ‘Glycaemic Index’ of foods and how to modify your lifestyle based on the GI of carbohydrates. After the excesses of recent months it’s also time to engage in physical activity. Deepali Jain provides us with a glimpse into Water Aerobics – if you’re tired of your exercise regime, plunge into a pool instead!

Let me sign off by wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year