"The squash-and-lentil filling remains incredibly moist thanks to ripe tomatoes. I like to crumble over some barrel-aged feta for a salty twang; capers or chopped sun-dried tomatoes would work well too," says Gill Meller. This is an edited extract from Root, Stem, Leaf, Flower by Gill Meller (Hardie Grant Books, $49.99) and is available where all good books are sold.

“Farls are traditional Irish fare, sort of leavened fried potato cakes (what’s not to like there?)" - Gill Meller

“Out and out this is the tastiest cauliflower cheese I’ve had the pleasure of eating. In fact, it could be one of my favourite recipes in the book," says Gill Meller. This is an edited extract from Root, Stem, Leaf, Flower by Gill Meller (Hardie Grant Books, $49.99) and is available where all good books are sold.

"Despite the falling leaves, there’s still a place for lighter, fresher meals – although I’ve called this a stew, it is delicate, colourful and brimming with vibrant vegetables," says Gill Meller. This is an edited extract from Root, Stem, Leaf, Flower by Gill Meller (Hardie Grant Books, $49.99) and is available where all good books are sold.

“Made with spelt flour, fresh carrots and a sharp apple purée, this cake is so unbelievably moist that I want to call it a pudding, but I’m going to resist as it’s good to eat at any time," says Gill Meller. This is an edited extract from Root, Stem, Leaf, Flower by Gill Meller (Hardie Grant Books, $49.99) and is available where all good books are sold.

This is an edited extract from Root, Stem, Leaf, Flower by Gill Meller (Hardie Grant Books, $49.99) and is available where all good books are sold.