M&N

In a week which has seen major UK retail chains such as Jessops, HMV and Blockbusters succumb to the recessions and changing shopping trends, much speculation has been made as to whether the local high street is still viable as a shopping destination
However, if it gives local independent businesses a chance to flourish, that’s a plus in my book
Located in a parade of local shops near to my house, M&N is a proper down to earth butcher. The greeting may be gruff from some of the guys behind the counter but they can advise on what’s good that day
I come here mainly to get marrow bones, something it’s hard to find in supermarkets. I had learned to love bone marrow in fine dining restaurants but then discovered that it’s bone cheap (hehe) to buy and easy to cook — just roast in the oven at high temperature for 30 – 45 minutes
Dig out the bone marrow, season, perhaps a little lemon if you like that and you’ve got a wonderful rich treat best served with some toasted bread
I’m eyeing up some pig trotters I’ve spotted in the chilled cabinet but I’ll have to pick a day that I’m feeling partocularly adventurous in the kitchen!