It will come as no surprise that I’m quite the cheese fan. I was recently trying to think of which cheese features most heavily on this blog and I actually think it’s probably feta. It’s interesting because I’m not sure that I’d put feta as my favourite cheese - probably more like a crumbly Stilton, … Continue reading Dukkah-Coated Feta Bites
Nettles?! Yes, Nettles. These stinging blighters that we curse on countryside walks and endlessly weed out of our gardens are actually surprisingly nutritious, full of vitamins, and are a great substitute for spinach and other greens. I gathered bag-fulls last spring, washed and trimmed them, blanched them to remove their stings, then shaped them into … Continue reading Nettle and Tofu Curry (vegan)
Tomatoes were the first vegetable that I ever tried to grow, and I’ve always been amazed at how resilient they are. They’re surprisingly easy to grow and with a little T.L.C. and regular watering, you can end up with a lovely little crop of jewel-red (or yellow) beauties. This summer has been great for my … Continue reading Pan Catalan
If you’ve ever had good paratha, you’ll understand the delicious buttery, flaky brilliance of this Indian flatbread. You’ll probably also know the disappointment of ordering it somewhere and being served something dry, or otherwise a poor imitation. A friend of mine, who I'm now forever indebted to, taught me some tricks to making beautiful paratha-style … Continue reading Wild Garlic Paratha
We’ve been enjoying yet more glorious weather in the UK, and it looks set to continue. I’m as guilty as anyone of the typically British attitude of wondering when it’s all going to go back to being grey and dreary, but it seems to be here to stay. I fully intend to make the most … Continue reading Spring Salad with Asparagus and Wild Garlic
I'm a big fan of aubergines in all sorts of forms: babaganoush, curries, moussaka, stuffed, grilled. Their distinctive flavour, the way you can get a real smokiness into them when you grill them, the way they pop in your mouth when you have them in a curry and it's like a juicy bomb of flavour … Continue reading Argentinian Pickled Aubergines
Today is PANCAKE DAY! Traditionally a day of indulgence before the long fast of lent, but nowadays just an excuse for...creative pancake toppings! I've road-tested a few new ideas this year and some of them worked brilliantly so here's a few ideas you can borrow to spice up your pancake day and impress the family … Continue reading Pancake toppings you really should try
Yes!! It’s Saturday 23rd December, and I am officially off work for the holidays! I’m having a blast at my new(ish) job and looking forward to what’s coming in the new year, but it’s a welcome rest. I first made this Christmassy take on crostini (or bruschetta) last year when Mark and I were using … Continue reading Panettone Crostini
This week has been all about quick dinners as we pack for our trip to New York (tomorrow! Eee!) and get everything in order. This whipped feta with honey and a hint of thyme takes minutes to prepare and is perfect with some thinly sliced toast. Feta is generally crumbly, but give it a bit … Continue reading Whipped Feta with Honey and Thyme
I've had the bumper crop to end all bumper crops when it comes to my nasturtiums this year. I've grown them from the seeds I got in this Gourmet Flower Kit by Plant Theatre - my Mum said she has never seen nasturtiums take the way mine have this year. Endless garnishing possibilities!!! Delicate, young nasturtium … Continue reading Nasturtium scones
A Year in Dinners 