On my way to Ouse Valley Foods I saw an albino squirrel. How advantageous it would have been for that magical little creature when the snow silenced the land. This morning it stood out in frighteningly vulnerable contrast to the murky January morning.

I perceived him or maybe her as a beacon of fortune, a vision  and a privileged symbol of unexpected hope. It made my day and for the rest of the journey I whooped with joy!

When I broke my exciting news to the team they were less impressed and the kitchen conversation degenerated into a discussion on the merits of eating squirrel and other lesser known game.

Each to their own; nevertheless I for one put game at the superior end of meat consumption and often recommend using jellies from our extensive range as the ideal accompaniment or addition to dishes and recipes.

Rowanberry jelly is a perfect balance with the metallic twang of grouse or venison. I love the myths attributed to the tree and its berries. Hebe, goddess of youth, dispensed rejuvenating elixir from her magical chalice. Having lost her vessel, an eagle was sent to recover the cup. A fight developed and the feathers and blood of the bird fell to earth where each turned into a tree. They say the leaves took on the shape of feathers and the drops of blood the bright orange red berries. The tree is often planted near the threshold of homes as it is believed to ward off witch craft and evil spirits.

Cranberry jelly enhances the sweetness of chubby little quail. Juniper jelly, along with a slosh of gin works wonders with braised pigeon. Quince jelly has a significantly scented flavor and goes particularly well with plump and crispy mallard. The owl and the pussy cat clearly loved each other and quince; "They dined on mince and slices of quince!" They were not the only couple to be tempted by this fruit as it is thought that it was not the apple that Eve tempted Adam with but the golden yellow quince. Maybe that is why it is sometime known as the "love apple".

Thyme jelly has a fantastic affinity with wild boar sausage casserole and soft, creamy mashed potatoes.

Last but not least..the squirrel. A delicious comeuppance, after fattening up on your bird seed, would be to serve it cooked to your liking, with a generous spoonful of spiced apple and calvados jelly on the side!

Please don’t get me wrong, my friend the albino squirrel is certainly not destined for the pot! Perhaps if it had a name that would help save the little thing from a succulent end...

As for it’s drab relations, if anyone out there has any tasty suggestions, then do share them in the comments.