FA Cup Final Burgers and Hot Dogs

2012 is set to be the summer of sport what with t'lympics and the Euros and with it will come the joy of mass catering as we all get together to watch and celebrate with our chums. The FA Cup final brought the chance for an early such gathering with my sister, her fella and my brother joining us three for the match. I'd been preparing throughout the week having visited William's Farm Kitchen in Hornsea to get the meat for the burgers and hotdogs before dropping into the town's new Tesco for the buns, beer and baps. The real pleasure in meals like this is producing a table full of great stuff that everyone can tuck into at will and I take particular pride in the selection of condiments and extra fillings on offer.

We had jalapenos, ketchup, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, salsa and 'plastic' cheese - by that I mean processed cheese slices. Of course, 'real' cheese is also magnificent on burgers, especially something strong like a blue variety, but you really can't beat slices when you're cooking for a crowd. I also did some fried onions, another essential for the full burger and hot dog experience.

The burgers were brilliant - just the right size for the sesame buns - and the sausages, which were hickory smoked, were meaty, tasty and lean.

McCain frozen fries were another side which went down well - much better to have these thin cut delights than wedges when you're having anything with bread. I doubt there was better on offer in even the most expensive Wembley seats and everyone seemed happy.

Sticking to the American theme, I couldn't resist trying a trio of new USA-style desserts when I saw them in Tesco. They had more value in the fun packaging and crazy names which suited the occasion than in actual taste. Each was pleasant enough but too forgettable in taste terms become a favourite. I know this because when faced with the choice of three, my guests and I decided to give each a try - all in the same calorific bowl.