The Nivens have farmed the land at Gloagburn for over 100 years, rearing cattle and growing oats and barley. During that time the world of agriculture has changed beyond measure, and the family business has diversified along with it. Now, as well as the fields and livestock, the farm includes a thriving free-range egg business and a renowned cafe, deli and butchery. At the heart of it all is Alison Niven’s farmhouse kitchen, always open to the four generations of the family that live close by.

This book tells their story through classic, straightforward recipes straight from Alison’s Aga. Making the most of simple ingredients, including the oats, eggs and beef produced on the farm, Alison shares her secrets for unfussy and delicious home cooking. From one-pot stews and casseroles to be slow-cooked in the oven, to beef stovies, tarts and twice-baked soufflé, these are hearty recipes to sustain busy family life. It also features recipes for the many biscuits, scones, slices and cakes that make the cafe so popular.

Alison Niven grew up in a farming family in Fife, moving to Gloagburn when she married and began her family. She has overseen the growth of Gloagburn Farm Shop from an egg shack by the side of the A9 to the thriving cafe, deli, butchery and lifestyle business it is today.