A Cosy Rainy Weekend in the English Countryside | Chicken Pie & Shortbread

If you’re looking for moments of calm and a way to disconnect from the rush of everyday life, this cosy autumn vlog is for you. 🍂☕️

Today I’m preparing a comforting chicken pie with vegetables to surprise and delight my guests — part of a simple, heartfelt menu I wanted to share with you. I’ll show how I set a welcoming table with small, thoughtful touches, pausing to enjoy the sound of the rain.
The next day, before collecting the boys, we stop off at a charming Hampshire countryside village, made even more magical by the autumn rain. Back at home, we finish our day with a cosy tea moment and freshly baked Scottish shortbread.

In this video you’ll also see, step by step, how to make authentic Scottish shortbread at home. With just butter, sugar and flour (or your preferred sweetener mix), this classic biscuit has a rich history dating back to medieval Scotland and was famously enjoyed by Mary, Queen of Scots — perfect for Christmas, Hogmanay or simply a quiet moment with a cup of tea.

If you enjoyed this video, let us know your favourite moment in the comments, give us a like, share it with someone who might enjoy the calm — and don’t forget to subscribe and click the bell so you don’t miss the next one. Thank you so much for watching and being here. ❤️🌿
🐓 Chicken Pie with Vegetables and Tarragon
4 chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
1 medium carrot (or 2 small), diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 leek (optional, works beautifully)
25 g frozen peas
50 g smoked bacon (optional)
1 tablespoon plain flour
300 ml chicken stock
100 ml single cream (in the UK: “double cream” is richer — either works)
1½ teaspoons wholegrain mustard
2 teaspoons dried tarragon
1 teaspoon olive oil (for frying)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 sheet of puff pastry for the lid
1 beaten egg for brushing

🍪 Scottish Shortbread
225 g butter
130 g caster sugar (or your chosen sweetener mix: xylitol, erythritol, stevia)
350 g plain flour
A little extra caster sugar or sweetener to sprinkle on top

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