tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90363497044680173172024-03-06T08:31:07.468+00:00The Feel-good FoodbookA diary of taste sensations...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-26409231444038436222013-09-15T15:52:00.000+01:002013-09-15T15:52:12.873+01:00Authentic Chinese Flavours at the School of Wok - worth a shout instead of just a whisper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYnKXTJxGt/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/d11f84b00c7f11e3a73822000aaa08a0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510525.4824" class="aligncenter" alt="School of Wok's Sichuan Aubergine, Fujian Fried Rice and Crispy Pork Belly " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>As the name suggests, the <a href="http://www.schoolofwok.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="School of Wok">School of Wok</a> is an Asian and Oriental cookery workshop tucked away in Chandos Place, just behind the Strand and only a few doors down from my favourite fast Mexican food joint <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/mexican-street-feasting-at-wahaca.html?m=0" target="_blank" title="Mexican street feasting at Wahaca ">Wahaca</a>. I'd visited their dining room previously as the location for a few <a href="http://www.edibleexperiences.com/" target="_blank" title="Edible Experiences ">Edible Experiences</a> pop-up events, and certainly heard whispers about their expert tutorials amongst London's food-loving community. </p>
<a name='more'></a><p>As I explored their state of the art facilities at their first anniversary party in June, I marvelled at the wide variety of culinary techniques on display; guests were learning how to build their own spring rolls in one room, whilst freshly steamed dim sum were being served in the Spice Kitchen, and Head Chef Jeremy Pang was stretching out giant strands of hand-pulled noodles downstairs in the Wok Kitchen.</p>
<p>So accepting the School's kind offer to attend a complimentary cooking class was simple...the difficult part was deciding which session to choose, as they all sounded so appealing! Eventually I settled on the Authentic Chinese course, as this is the one style of Asian cuisine that my boyfriend has never enjoyed. Hopefully the School of Wok could show me the secrets to producing flavourful Chinese food at home, free from the dreaded MSG?</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dXb9U_JxIh/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/03f465100c2411e38ee022000aeb412d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510560.9277" class="aligncenter" alt="Authentic Chinese Flavours at School of Wok" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>During the evening we would learn three authentically Chinese dishes, which fortuitously contained some of my favourite ingredients. After a quick background introduction to the School of Wok by Jeremy, we set to work on our crispy pork belly. Whilst 3 hours might sound like (more than enough!) time to cook your dinner, he explained that this meat really benefits from slow cooking on a low temperature; the longer we could leave our piggies in the oven, the better they would ultimately taste. This visually striking dish is often the centrepiece of celebratory banquets, when the belly joint can be left in the oven for up to 5 hours! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dXb-VkpxIl/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/08e5210e0c2411e3bd6022000aa80383_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510579.5637" class="aligncenter" alt="Head Chef Jeremy Pang School of Wok" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The clever Chinese formula for ultra crispy pork skin and totally tender belly meat is a "double cooking" process, where the joint is briefly braised in boiling water before roasting. We could immediately see and feel the difference once the belly pieces exited the pot, as the skin had constricted and taken on a dry paper-like texture. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dXb-0ZpxIn/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/0b3f40920c2411e38a7622000ae80ee0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510630.9868" class="aligncenter" alt="Braising pork belly " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Braising the belly also removes excess fat and impurities, so the resulting lean joint only contains the marbling that's so vital for a juicy roast. Grey and scummy water is the sign of a very fatty belly...I just hope this doesn't happen the next time I get in the bath!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dXb_8uJxIp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/10c488f60c2411e3b74e22000a9e07d7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510623.8833" class="aligncenter" alt="Scoring pork belly skin " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>To give the skin a kickstart in its transformation into crunchy crackling, we scored a cross-hatch pattern on the top and rubbed salt into the grooves. Keeping the scoremarks close together whilst avoiding cutting into the soft flesh was a challenge! We then coated the meat in a heady mix of spices to add an authentic Chinese taste to our belly, before it was whisked off to the oven for a 2.5 hour sauna session to follow its quick dip in the jacuzzi. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dXb9tJJxIi/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/05cf60240c2411e383b822000a9f124c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510634.3708" class="aligncenter" alt="Fujian Fried Rice ingredients " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>One recipe done, and next on the list was the Fujian fried rice. Demystifying that mixture of semi-scrambled-semi-fried egg and flavourful rice had been one of my key reasons for selecting this particular course. I was even more pleased to discover that we'd also be taught how to make a bonus seafood stir-fry to top the classic side dish, involving my beloved scallops and king prawns, plus (somewhat more intimidating!) squid.</p>
<p>The vast array of vegetables, herbs and sauces on the bench was certainly intriguing, so I wondered what was coming next...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX0lVHpxDG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/134a84ea0c4211e388fe22000ae81dec_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510617.4238" class="aligncenter" alt="Chef Jeremy Pang knife skills " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>...the answer: a lot of chopping! It turns out that the rumours are true, and Chinese cooking <em>really is</em> 90% preparation! Jeremy shared his tricks for successfully peeling garlic and ginger, then demonstrated the traditional technique for finely "slicing and dicing". The main things to focus on were to move the knife in a steady forward rocking motion, to always make sure that the end of the knife made firm contact with the wooden board, and to form a "claw" with the other hand to keep whatever we were chopping secure.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX1LvjpxEH/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/cedaefd80c4211e3bf8b22000a1fb004_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510579.8027" class="aligncenter" alt="School of Wok knife skills " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>He made it look so easy. But the cleaver in front of me was <em>very </em>large and <em>very </em>sharp, and the garlic and ginger were both <em>very </em>small in comparison! Suddenly any coordination skills I had went out the window; it was like my brain and my chopping hand were completely disconnected...I knew what I was supposed to be doing but just couldn't quite make it happen properly!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX005TJxDe/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/5f49bfe60c4211e3a58e22000aa801d9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510557.0813" class="aligncenter" alt="Finely diced ginger and garlic " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Thankfully with some extra guidance from our mentor I completed the first task with all of my fingers still intact. I'm sure Jeremy could have sliced and diced a whole bulb of garlic in the time it had taken me to chop one clove! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX1Z87pxEb/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/143b03060c4311e382a622000aeb4361_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510622.44" class="aligncenter" alt="Chopped coriander " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>For the next hour and a half we were like martial arts novices practising our routine, with one victim after another surrendering before us; coriander, spring onion, carrots, mushrooms, asparagus, and finally the slippery squid (which required a full dismembering!).</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX1hMxJxEq/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/379fe5dc0c4311e3bc7922000ae90d97_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510614.3372" class="aligncenter" alt="Sliced asparagus " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Clearly I still had a long way to go before earning my black belt, but I was pleased with my initial efforts. I'd been longing to learn knife skills in-depth for years, so I was truly delighted that so much of the class was dedicated to this. I'm definitely going to continue training at home with <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/7-things-for-7-days7.html" target="_blank" title="Flint and Flame knives on #7thingsfor7days">my own Flint and Flame cleaver</a>! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX1sLmpxFJ/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/6d3e4b5c0c4311e3a42522000a1f96b3_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510593.6663" class="aligncenter" alt="Fujian Fried Rice seafood and vegetables " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The scallops and prawns had kindly been prepared for us in advance by the School's chefs, so all of our Fujian fried-rice ingredients were now good to go. This dish would take mere minutes to stir-fry, so we organised our vegetables and aromatics into the order in which they'd hit the wok before heading to the "Spice Kitchen" in pairs to cook our feast!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dX1_7YJxFk/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/cda9a4640c4311e38b6c22000a9e17e9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510580.8547" class="aligncenter" alt="Sichuan Aubergine frying " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>During our chopping marathon we'd also portioned up our aubergine coins for our third dish. We fried these in oil until golden brown and then coated them in the spicy viscous concoction that made up our Sichuan sauce, to be left to simmer in the saucepan whilst we finished our Fujian fried-rice. It's a staggering testament to the speedy nature of Chinese cuisine that excluding the preparation (which could all be done in advance), the actual cooking time for both these two dishes combined was only 20 minutes!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYlLDhpxE0/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/637f18820c7d11e3ade722000a1faea4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510579.1865" class="aligncenter" alt="Chinese egg-fried rice " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Now for the moment I had been waiting for all evening...learning how to make authentic egg-fried rice. We watched in earnest as Jeremy worked his magic with the wok, keeping the semi-scrambled egg and cold pre-cooked rice in constant motion with a rhythmic routine of "cutting and folding" to ensure nothing burned in the scorching hot oil. My 5 fellow students and I were clearly in awe of Jeremy's skill at such fast-paced cooking, and exchanged nervous laughter about our ability to replicate this...!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYm4-GJxGd/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/7c3188cc0c7f11e3a85d22000aeb2247_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510647.1882" class="aligncenter" alt="School of Wok Authentic Chinese Flavours dinner with wine " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The rest of the cooking session seemed to fly by in seconds, as we threw one ingredient after another into the wok, frantically flipping our stir-fry as the vegetable slivers wilted and the translucent seafood transformed in the heat.</p>
<p>Finally, it was time to relax with a glass of wine to admire our handiwork...and even better, to find out how our three dishes tasted! Overall the balance of flavours and textures in the meal worked perfectly, and after many large helpings of our supper selection I decided that the surprise highlight for me was the moreish Sichuan aubergine.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYldOEJxFH/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/bc3126a00c7d11e3bba622000a1fbc9c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510625.1494" class="aligncenter" alt="Fujian egg-fried rice " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Jeremy's perfect egg-fried rice, tastier than any takeaway!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYmAc1JxFj/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/6836b9b00c7e11e3b4ea22000a1fbdb0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510627.513" class="aligncenter" alt="Fujian Fried Rice seafood vegetable sauce " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Beautifully vibrant Fujian stir-fry of soft seafood and toothsome vegetables in a delicately balanced gravy </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYmjfRJxGG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/134c2a2e0c7f11e3a0c022000a1f918d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510569.4138" class="aligncenter" alt="Sichuan Aubergine served " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Sichuan aubergines that melted in the mouth; the powerful sauce started with a spicy kick before mellowing to a sweet finish to leave you wanting more</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYmQBIpxFx/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/b439ac960c7e11e3abd122000ae907cd_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1379256510638.0063" class="aligncenter" alt="Crispy Pork Belly " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Aromatic pork belly with a skin so crispy it was impossible to resist returning for just one more bite-sized piece!</p>
<p>Leaving the School with a very satisfied stomach, I felt proud of how much I had learnt in just three hours. Jeremy is incredibly knowledgable about the history and tradition behind Asian cuisine, and taught us a huge range of skills that will be useful for many different aspects of our home-cooking. Normally this session would cost £90; whilst I appreciate this is a lot of money, it is very good value given that the class was totally interactive including a lot of individual tuition, plus we enjoyed a delicious authentic Chinese meal made using top-quality ingredients.</p>
<p>These courses make the ideal gift for any amateur chefs or gastronomes, and with the School of Wok's current <a href="http://www.schoolofwok.co.uk/jeremy-pang-asian-cooking-blog/356-come-celebrate-the-moon-festival-at-school-of-wok" target="_blank" title="School of Wok's Moon Festival multi-buy offer ">multi-buy offer</a> to celebrate the Moon Festival there couldn't be a better time to book...I'm already eyeing up the expansive list to plan my next visit!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-35755983849585244662013-08-28T08:30:00.000+01:002013-08-28T08:30:05.424+01:007 things for 7 days...#9<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">A montage of my favourite foodie moments and other random musings from the past week...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dSmIWeJxCk/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/cecb6ff80aa911e3999722000a1fcf03_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1377644844902.7612" class="aligncenter" alt="Pintxos at Pix Bar" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 1. When I <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/rambling-through-la-boqueria.html" target="_blank" title="Rambling through La Boqueria">visited Spain last summer</a> I fell in love with the traditional pintxos bars, and was amazed to discover an impressively authentic replica much closer to home in the form of <a href="http://pix-bar.com/welcome.html" target="_blank" title="Pix Pintxos Bar ">Pix Bar</a>. Last week I visited with fellow food lovers Selina from <a href="http://yummychooeats.com/" target="_blank" title="Yummy Choo ">Yummy Choo</a> and Laura from <a href="http://digestmag.com/" target="_blank" title="Digest Mag">Digest Magazine</a>, and as I predicted they were equally taken with the stunning display of tapas on offer.</p>
<p>With items priced at either £1.95 or £2.95, Pix is very friendly on the purse, but because everything looks so appetising you still need to keep an eye on your growing stack of skewers. Thankfully for greedy folks like me, Pix have introduced <a href="http://pix-bar.com/infinity.html" target="_blank" title="Infinity Sundays at Pix">"infinity Sundays"</a> where you can enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited pintxos and cava for only £29.95. There's a tray of churros and chocolate sauce ready with my name on it for my next trip...!</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>2. Ashley from <a href="http://www.neverhomemaker.com/" target="_blank" title="(Never home)maker ">(never)home maker</a>'s exercise posts constantly inspire me, and I'll confess that this article on <a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/neverHomemaker/~3/2Z1h66yIm9M/more-than-5k.html" target="_blank" title="More than 5k - (never home)maker">her first 5k race after turning 30</a> got me a little choked up. In the last one of these posts I discussed<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/7-things-for-7-days8.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #8"> my own gym motivation</a>, and I do think that I might also be turning a corner mentally when it comes to running. Honestly, if I'm still training half as hard as Ashley when I'm at her stage in life I'll be a very happy lady.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dYnKXTJxGt/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/d11f84b00c7f11e3a73822000aaa08a0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1377644844917.8928" class="aligncenter" alt="School of Wok Authentic Chinese Flavours class " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 3.Another week where I've done hardly any cooking of note (apart from <a href="http://instagram.com/p/deGJp4JxOp/" target="_blank" title="Double chocolate chip cookies ">whip up a batch of double chocolate cookies</a>). I've realised that I probably eat out an average of 10 times per month (plus weekend lunches at markets and street food events)...is that really awful?! As someone who enjoys cooking I don't ever plan for it to be this way...it's just a combination of social commitments plus <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feel-good Foodbook on Twitter ">Twitter</a>-induced FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out).</p>
<p>That said, I took a giant leap back towards my kitchen this week by attending a fascinating masterclass on Authentic Chinese Flavours, courtesy of the generous team at the <a href="http://www.schoolofwok.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="School of Wok">School of Wok</a>. During the 3 hour session Chef Jeremy Pang taught us how to make Crispy Pork Belly, Sichuan Aubergine, and Fujian Fried Rice, which we then gladly sampled. Rest assured, this was my first plate of many! I was the annoying girl constantly taking photos whilst attempting to avoid chopping any digits off with the huge cleaver, which I'll be sharing in full shortly.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dboWVwpxHq/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/a419111a0d6b11e3a39822000a9e0344_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1377644844913.0417" class="aligncenter" alt="Superheroes in Shoreditch " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 4. What's the collective noun for a group of superheroes?! Bumping into this Lycra-clan team in Shoreditch certainly brightened up my morning...though clearly my Peter Parker-esque paparazzi skills need improving, as they totally clocked my unsubtle snapshot...</p>
<p>5. I've a little s'mores obsession going on right now, after being introduced to these moreish American campfire treats from Masterchef winner <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/ChefTimAnderson" target="_blank" title="Chef Tim Anderson on Twitter ">Tim Anderson</a> at fellow meaty-maestro <a href="http://instagram.com/p/dILaRPpxDy/" target="_blank" title="#JDsBBQ">Jonathan Dale's immense barbecue</a> (I know, I know...name-drop!). Can you imagine how sickly sweet and delicious this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119869494666/" target="_blank" title="S'mores wedding cake on Pinterest ">s'mores wedding cake</a> would be?! Plus I love how the bride and groom blow-torched the marshmallow topping instead of the classic ceremonial cake-cutting!</p>
<p>6. Speaking of both FOMO and s'mores, the next new restaurant on my hitlist is <a href="http://www.fleshandbuns.com/" target="_blank" title="Flesh and Buns ">Flesh and Buns</a>...the steady stream of tempting images appearing on my <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feel-good Foodbook on Instagram ">Instagram</a>-feed during the past fortnight has become too much to handle! Having recently enjoyed the pork belly steamed hirata buns being served up at <a href="http://instagram.com/p/b6IcVPJxDK/" target="_blank" title="Yum Bun pork belly hirata bun ">Yum Bun</a>, I'm certainly intrigued to see how the "fleshy" (and fishy!) fillings from <a href="http://bonedaddiesramen.com/" target="_blank" title="Bone Daddies ">Bone Daddies</a>' boy Ross Shonhan compare...</p>
<p>7. I wonder whether <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html" target="_blank" title="#littlecat">#littlecat's</a> dreams are <a href="http://feedly.com/k/16oeysP" target="_blank" title="Dreams Are Real video ">anything like this</a>...? It would certainly be fitting for him to follow in my boyfriend's footsteps as a drummer! Thanks to Tracy from <a href="http://feedly.com/k/1bZpO4o" target="_blank" title="Shutterbean - I Love Lists Friday ">Shutterbean</a> for sharing this cute and quirky video!</p>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-15050917739134960552013-08-17T20:16:00.001+01:002013-08-17T20:16:51.040+01:00Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread to put you in the tropical spirit <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/beVIkSJxCL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/8f58f30ce72e11e2813a22000a1f8f34_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1376766973673.5862" class="aligncenter" alt="Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread sliced " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>If, like me, you're a novice when it comes to baking, I'd recommend starting out with a loaf cake. Also described as a "bread", these look great without the need for complicated frosting or multiple layers, and can be filled with pretty much anything you fancy: <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119867512375/" target="_blank" title="Fig and olive oil cake">fresh fruits</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119868223265/" target="_blank" title="Apricot tea loaf ">dried fruits and nuts</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119866423576/" target="_blank" title="Cocoa coffee bread with raspberries ">chocolate and coffee</a>...even <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119866890626/" target="_blank" title="Bacon peanut butter banana bread ">bacon</a>!</p>
<p>Whereas previously my cookies have crumbled and my brownies have burnt, my lovely <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/blueberry-cake-for-day-of-loafing.html" target="_blank" title="Blueberry loaf cake ">fruity loaf cakes</a> have never let me down. Indeed, I was so stunned by <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/use-your-chocolate-and-banana-loaf.html" target="_blank" title="Chocolate and banana bread ">my first beautifully risen bread</a> that I even let its memory live on in the logo for this blog.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Now I have my shiny<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/kitchenaid-mixer-to-beat-this-bad-baker.html" target="_blank" title="Ice Blue Kitchen Aid Mixer "> Ice Blue Kitchen-Aid mixer</a> these loaves can be made at lightning speed...which I keep telling myself is surely proof that this purchase was totally justified and not just incredibly expensive and frivolous...?!</p>
<p>My go-to loaf filling is banana; I'll only eat the raw fruit when firm and practically green, so particularly in the summer we'll often end up with a browning overripe bunch that are only good for <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/going-nuts-at-breakfast-for-blue.html" target="_blank" title="Banana and almond smoothie and muffins ">cakes or smoothies</a>.</p>
<p>On this occasion I decided to add a tropical twist with shredded coconut, plus a cheeky splash of Malibu coconut rum to make the bread just that little bit boozy. After a vote via <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feel-good Foodbook on Twitter ">twitter</a> it was decreed that chocolate makes any baked good taste even better, so a generous helping of Green & Blacks 70% dark chocolate was also added to the mix at the last minute.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/beGmu9JxHc/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/d325773ee71c11e2b30622000a9f15f0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1376766973670.8303" class="aligncenter" alt="Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread out of the oven " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Without wishing to come across all Paul Hollywood "Star Baker" on you, I think this was my best loaf cake yet! As the bread cooked the scent of the coconut wafted through the kitchen like a summer breeze, inspiring memories of beachside holidays; on the first bite I was transported to a tropical paradise. The banana gave a background sweetness and satisfying gooey consistency (there is no other suitable word to describe it!), and occasionally I'd be surprised by a chunk of bitter chocolate that melted in the mouth.</p>
<p>One minor mistake was the sprinkling of shredded coconut on the top of cake, which toasted to a crisp...but no one would've believed I'd baked it if it'd been 100% perfect! Plus this is an excellent excuse to bake another loaf soon and keep the summer spirit alive as we head towards autumn...</p>
<p><a href="http://instagram.com/p/beVIkSJxCL/" target="_blank"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/8f58f30ce72e11e2813a22000a1f8f34_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1376766973621.2727" class="aligncenter" alt="Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread sliced " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p><strong><u>Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread (makes 1 loaf 9x5 inches)</u></strong><br>
(Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Wilson/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376763062&sr=8-1&keywords=joy+the+baker" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker cookbook ">Joy the Baker's cookbook</a>)</p>
2 cups plain flour<br>
3 tsp baking powder<br>
1/2 tsp salt<br>
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened<br>
1 cup white sugar <br>
2 large eggs <br>
3 ripe bananas, mashed <br>
1 tsp lemon juice<br>
3 tbsp coconut rum<br>
1 cup shredded coconut<br>
1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
<div><br>
<p>1. Preheat the oven to 175C, then grease a 9x5 inch loaf tin and line with baking paper.</p><p>2. Sift together plain flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. </p><p>3. In a separate bowl beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (beat for 3 to 5 minutes if using an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment).</p><p>4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 1 minute between each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the mashed bananas, lemon juice and coconut rum. Beat everything together until well combined.</p><p>5. Pour the flour mixture into the other bowl in one go and beat until almost incorporated (set the mixer to low if using). Add the shredded coconut and chocolate chunks and fold into the rest of the batter using a spatula.</p><p>6. Spoon the mixture into the pre-lined tin, and bake in the centre of the oven for around 45 minutes to 1 hour. The loaf will be ready when a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.</p><p>7. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely...though it's hard to resist testing a cheeky slice when the chocolate chunks are still semi-molten!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="<div" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></a><a href="http://instagram.com/p/beVTtapxCn/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/c5c0bd3ae72e11e2a54722000a9f1597_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1376766973584.9868" class="aligncenter" alt="Boozy banana, coconut and chocolate bread ready to serve " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> </p>
</div><p> </p>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-8647965910804951042013-08-08T14:12:00.000+01:002013-08-08T14:12:54.841+01:00Two little pigs visit Story restaurant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3YW8gpxM2/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/9f0e1eb0b43b11e2ac5122000a9f14f8_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562494.4612" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story beef dripping candle " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p style="text-align: left;">Oh boy...this is another one of those situations where I <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/bank-holiday-weekend-binge.html" target="_blank" title="Bank Holiday Weekend Binge ">include a photo in a round-up</a> and promise that more photos are "coming soon"...and then realise 3 months later that I still haven't shared them...! Apologies, my bad (and note to self, I really must stop doing that!).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">So back in Spring the London food scene was going wild over <a href="http://www.restaurantstory.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Restaurant Story ">Story</a>, an intimate new restaurant near London Bridge from former Noma chef <a href="http://twitter.com/tomsstory" target="_blank" title="Tom Sellers on Twitter ">Tom Sellers</a> (not to be confused with American chef Thomas Keller or moustachioed actor Tom Selleck). <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/may/04/restaurant-story-review-tom-sellers" target="_blank" title="Marina O'Loughlin at Story ">Established food critics</a> and unknown food bloggers alike were fighting for reservations, particularly once word spread about fantastical dishes such as the "beef dripping candle" starter and "Three Bears' porridge" dessert.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Fellow May baby and Mauritian master chef <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/follow?original_referer=http%3A%2F%2Fyummychooeats.com%2F&screen_name=yummychooeats&tw_p=followbutton&variant=2.0">Selina</a> from <a href="http://yummychooeats.com/">Yummychooeats</a> suggested we attempt a booking as a mutual birthday treat to ourselves, and we were stunned that we had no problem in snapping up a table for a weekday lunch. Arriving at what looked from the outside like a futuristic chalet with its vast wall of glass and wood panelling, our stomaches were filled only with butterflies. We were eager to suspend our disbelief and fully immerse ourselves in Tom's magical culinary adventure.</p>
<p>Suspecting that this was the sort of restaurant where a 6 course menu really results in 10 courses, we chose to put the extra £20 towards a celebratory glass of wine. Clearly our powers of intuition are strong (or at least, we'd already seen a lot of photos on <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram ">Instagram</a>), as we were almost immediately presented with an exquisite array of bonus morsels as a prologue. Crispy fish skin was a marvel, and I'd have happily wolfed down another 20 rabbit "sandwiches".</p>
<p>Over the next two hours we were mesmerised as dish after spectacular dish was brought out for us to delight in, plus an epilogue of two tiny chocolate teacakes filled with delicate rose water marshmallow. The entire meal was sensational, with each element demonstrating serious technical ability, an impressive palate and a wild imagination. </p>
<p>They say a picture says a thousand words, so I'll end my narration here and let these snapshots tell the rest of the story...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y2oEdepxPD/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/acca31d2b40011e2890222000a1fb0b2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562513.1047" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story amuse bouche " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3YPKLJxMr/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/79039326b43b11e2852322000ae911da_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562450.8086" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story rabbit sandwiches " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y4iVqmJxCp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/edce628ab49511e28e2c22000a1fb747_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562446.5762" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story 6 course menu " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3YSpIpxMv/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/8a0b6cf2b43b11e2b16122000a1f9e61_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562446.1338" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant story bread and pickles " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3YW8gpxM2/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/9f0e1eb0b43b11e2ac5122000a9f14f8_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562490.2944" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story beef dripping candle " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3YawdpxNC/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/b1aa84beb43b11e2a67b22000a9f188a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562518.4326" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story burnt onion, apple, gin and thyme " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y27aXhpxID/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/4942f6b8b41811e2a12822000a9f18f6_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562494.1562" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story scallop, cucumber & dill ash " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y27T9hpxHz/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/29fad06eb41811e2b68522000a1fb1ee_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562527.8704" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story lamb, salad roots, garlic and sheep's yoghurt" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y27kb4JxIQ/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/7a6c0e0ab41811e2a9de22000a1f92c9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562523.4429" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story "lemon" dessert " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y272FtpxIo/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/d0a0216cb41811e2974122000a9e2969_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562480.2798" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story Three Bears Porridge " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y27-xnJxIz/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/fb08f924b41811e2935222000a1fb825_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562535.206" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story salty porridge " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y4hxnVJxCF/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/3dc6404cb49511e2852722000a1fbd42_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562529.9705" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story sweet porridge " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3BeZuJxOp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/aff6ec28b41f11e2b1f822000a1f9751_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562522.1458" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story "just right" porridge " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y3CfNqpxPo/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/ec6bdf78b42011e28efa22000a1fbd9c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375967562458.5396" class="aligncenter" alt="Restaurant Story chocolate tea cakes " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-35147106108066444912013-08-04T15:37:00.000+01:002013-08-04T15:37:57.021+01:007 things for 7 days...#8<p>It's been months since <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/7-things-for-7-days7.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #7">the last time I posted one of these random montages</a> - even though I like writing them and apparently you like reading them. As ever, there's a whole host of excuses, but I won't bore you with these now. If you follow me on <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk">Twitter</a>, you can probably figure it out. The main thing is that I'm finally BACK with another selection of my favourite foodie moments from the past week, plus some other random musings...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/cjbytrpxOj/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/5024bf6efc4511e295c822000ae80c95_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792506.7925" class="aligncenter" alt="Donostia Social Club duck slider" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>1. Check out this incredible (overflowing!) duck slider courtesy of <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/donostiasc">Donostia Social Club</a> - just looking at it makes my mouth water! I'd heard rumours of great things being produced by these relative newcomers to London's streetfood scene, and decided to check them out for myself at <a href="http://www.kerbfood.com/kerb-saturdays/" target="_blank" title="KERB Saturdays ">KERB Saturdays</a> in Kings Cross. I loved the concept of a pintxos bar attached to a food truck, and would have happily perched there all afternoon sampling their tasty tapas (and perhaps a few Sangrias...!). This duck was rich and tender, with a clever contrast from the sliced apple and Basque cider sauce. Their juicy prawns a la plancha with shallot salsa were also delightful. One to watch...</p>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/cjcBcXpxO1/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/98102282fc4511e2a3eb22000a1fbdaa_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792491.812" class="aligncenter" alt="Donostia Social Club prawns " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>2. So I was going to talk about how "totes amaze" it is that <a href="http://joythebaker.com" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker ">Joy</a> and <a href="http://www.shutterbean.com/" target="_blank" title="Shutterbean ">Tracy</a> have crossed the 100 <a href="http://homefries.com/shows/the-joy-the-baker-podcast/" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker podcast">podcast</a> milestone and how much those two ladies inspire me with their honesty, but then I realised I'd basically <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/7-things-for-7-days4.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #4">said that before</a>.</p>
<p>I often listen to their hilarious podcasts whilst working out, and they help me keep going when my legs want to stop running and my arms want to stop lifting weights. But the other person who inspires me to drag myself out of bed to hit the gym bright and early in the morning is...well, me. I know that sounds like a complete #humblebrag (and yes, it is a bit), but I've realised that the motivation to do exercise <em>can only come from yourself</em>. Once I started feeling the buzz of adrenaline and endorphins, and started seeing the results in my physical and mental wellbeing, then I kept that memory tight; and now I push it to the front of my mind to drive me forward whenever it feels like the treadmill is (literally) going on forever. Admittedly waking up to blue skies and glorious summer sunshine helps, but only I know how far I've come and what's needed to progress even further on my fitness journey.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bwhJYcJxJ-/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/7953a83aecbb11e29c1122000a1fba2c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792534.2483" class="aligncenter" alt="Olive Branch's aubergine and basil paste " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>3. I'm hooked on aubergines after my recent holiday in Egypt and my <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/cookhouse-joe-mountain-of-lebanese-mezze.html" target="_blank" title="Cookhouse Joe's mountain of Lebanese mezze ">Lebanese mezze feast at Cookhouse Joe</a>, so I was thrilled to discover that my friends at <a href="http://myolivebranch.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Olive Branch ">Olive Branch</a> had created this Aubergine and Basil Paste as part of their new mezze range. The even more amazing news is that 100g of this creamy, garlicky sauce is only 54 calories...which means I can indulge in my addiction without worrying about the impact on my waistline! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/b7AHTMJxL6/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/86a9164cefee11e286a022000a9e06e7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792543.4675" class="aligncenter" alt="Grilled vegetable and aubergine paste pasta " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>This paste is wonderfully versatile - use it as a dip with flatbreads, smear it onto roasted meat kebabs, or follow my example here and mix it into pasta and grilled vegetables as an alternative to pesto. And if your spoon just happens to fall into the jar a few times and need licking clean, I promise I won't judge you...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/clseFbpxCc/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/ebe9f3fafcf511e29e3522000a9f18ab_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792547.2917" class="aligncenter" alt="Royal Flush juice " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>4. Can you believe that I won this <a href="http://www.sageappliances.co.uk/nutri-juicer.html" target="_blank" title="Sage by Heston Blumenthal Nutri Juicer ">Sage by Heston Blumenthal Nutri Juicer</a> via a competition from <a href="http://www.mightyspicekitchen.com/" target="_blank" title="Mighty Spice Kitchen ">Mighty Spice Kitchen</a>? No, neither can I! When I finally stopped pinching myself, I decided I had better test it out - not least because my boyfriend was so desperate to use this new gadget that I was starting to fear for the safety of his homeboy <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html" target="_blank" title="Christmas every day for #littlecat">#littlecat</a>. </p>
<p>First up from my big book of juices and smoothies (a very foresightful purchase by my mum!) was the zingy "Royal Flush" combining carrot, apple, beetroot, fresh ginger and lime. I also learnt my first juicing lesson here, that they recommend using raw beetroot for a reason...the cooked version just gets mulched up and generates very little juice! Next up was this refreshing neon watermelon juice, which I mixed with (a bit too much) coconut water. We also concocted a little experiment to see how many apples we'd need to use to make a litre of juice (it's ten, FYI). Keep an eye on my <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook in Instagram ">Instagram</a> for more juice experiments! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/cl5aQMpxNy/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/b7b3ee8cfd0511e2881122000a9f12f2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792538.0806" class="aligncenter" alt="Watermelon and coconut juice " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>5. Thanks to <a href="http://www.thelondoner.me/" target="_blank" title="The Londoner ">Rosie</a> for sharing <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/RosieLondoner/status/363780457978007553/photo/1" target="_blank" title="How to use a bobby pin">this</a> - women everywhere are collectively sighing and shaking their heads, because now it all makes sense!</p>
<p>6. Have you heard about "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cronut" target="_blank" title="Cronut wikipedia ">cronuts</a>" yet? This cross between a croissant and a doughnut has taken New York by storm, and like most culinary crazes it has now swept across the pond to London. I don't think I have the patience to try replicating <a href="http://theboywhobakes.co.uk/2013/06/cronuts/" target="_blank" title="Fauxnuts by The Boy Who Bakes ">Edd Kimber's "fauxnuts"</a> at home, but as a greedy foodie I'm keen to experience this pastry for myself. I'm eagerly awaiting my date with <a href="http://duckandwaffle.com/newsletter/the-dw-dosant/" target="_blank" title="Duck and Waffle's dosant ">Duck and Waffle's "dosant"</a> next month but in the meantime I might try and get my greasy hands (and sticky lips) on <a href="http://instagram.com/p/cTZvTeI9mI/" target="_blank" title="Kooky Bakes dosant">Kooky Bakes' square version</a>.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bwUjcapxPs/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/1a13ec90ecac11e285a622000a1f9e5b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1375626792516.7605" class="aligncenter" alt="#littlecat lounging in the sun " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>7. A warning to anyone hoping to sunbathe in the garden of our little London flat - leaving a towel on your sun lounger doesn't stop <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html" target="_blank" title="Christmas every day for #littlecat" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000">#littlecat</font></a> from pinching it! Having a fur coat is tough when there's a heatwave...</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-61566559139969100832013-07-18T08:30:00.000+01:002013-07-18T08:30:06.847+01:00Cookhouse Joe's mountain of Lebanese mezze <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEk8W5pxBl/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/9bba28d4df5211e2afff22000aa80361_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838062.9849" class="aligncenter" alt="Lamb kofte at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Full disclosure: this meal was a total and utter freebie, hands up. I'd never heard of <a href="http://www.sohojoe.net/mobile/" target="_blank" title="Soho Joe ">Soho Joe</a>, the family-run pizza restaurant on Dean Street, but I was invited to visit their new sister restaurant <a href="http://cookhousejoe.com/" target="_blank" title="Cookhouse Joe ">Cookhouse Joe</a> on Berwick Street, and the promise of a combination of Lebanese dishes and rotisserie chicken enticed me.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p> I arrived hungry, ready for a long overdue catch up with my good friend David from <a href="http://bearslanding.co.uk" target="_blank" title="Bear's Landing ">Bear's Landing</a> - and it was just as well, because for the next three hours an almost constant stream of dishes appeared in front of us, washed down with two complimentary bottles of prosecco (yes, that's one <em>each</em>, which explains why both of us bears had sore heads the next day).</p>
<p>Maybe it was the extremely generous quantity of free food and bubbly talking, but we had a truly enjoyable evening. Personally we both preferred the Lebanese mezze starters to the main course of rotisserie chicken with American-style sides (which I felt you could find decent versions of at any number of reasonable pubs or streetfood markets). Having said that, all of our dishes were cooked well - our rotisserie chicken was very juicy and tender, which was a relief after reading a less-favourable review from a well-respected blogger who'd visited when the restaurant first opened. </p>
<p>Cookhouse Joe also offers some great bargain meal deals if you are in the mood for a quick and easy lunch, with a variety of filled wraps plus fries for only a fiver. The service was ultra friendly and enthusiastic, yet politely understated at the same time - the waiting team didn't seem to mind that we'd been hogging one of their prime upstairs tables for the entire evening! We were even presented with a shot of eye-opening limoncello to warm our bones when we eventually finished gorging ourselves and stumbled out onto the Soho pavement late at night (not that we needed any more alcohol by that stage!).</p>
<p>I'd gladly go back to Cookhouse Joe as a paying guest (their addictive moutabal dip is reason enough to return!) and I'd recommend their mezze to anyone in the mood for Lebanese food and wishing to avoid the giant queues for nearby <a href="http://www.yalla-yalla.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Yalla Yalla ">Yalla Yalla</a>. Judging by the talk on <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter ">twitter</a> about Soho Joe's pizzas, I need to pay big brother a visit next too!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEhWaPpxLk/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/38f07ee6df4e11e29e9622000a9f09f1_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838066.404" class="aligncenter" alt="Lunch menu at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Eyeing up the impressive meal deals whilst nibbling on some Mediterranean olives and pickles </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEhiVCpxL6/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/7321ea1edf4e11e28f8f22000a9e07b9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838043.964" class="aligncenter" alt="Chargrilled halloumi cheese at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>As someone who loves cheeses with powerful flavours I've never been a big fan of halloumi, but its stint on the grill made this mild cheese far more palatable. On reflection, if I'd realised how much more food there was to come I would have paced myself on the warm pitta pockets!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEhv3EpxMO/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/b535826cdf4e11e28c8422000a1f931c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838038.5356" class="aligncenter" alt="Hummus and moutabal at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>It always surprises me how something so simple can taste so delicious - we lapped up this creamy chickpea hummus and smooth smokey puréed aubergine moutabal dip!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEktlGJxBI/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/53933a50df5211e2bc3b22000ae80efa_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838044.4265" class="aligncenter" alt="Grilled chicken wings at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> Chicken wings so tender that the meat fell right off the bone, served with a vampire-repelling garlic mayonnaise that won David's approval. We agreed that the skin still needed to be slightly crispier in order to fully satisfy our inner cavemen (or cavewoman in my case)</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEk0XXpxBV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/74b42dacdf5211e2800122000aeb0c37_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838033.577" class="aligncenter" alt="Tabbouleh and falafel at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Next up came a refreshing tabbouleh salad with soft falafels as big as golf balls. This nutty tahini dressing was actually my favourite sauce of the night, so irresistible that I couldn't stop myself dunking yet more of those soft flatbreads!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEk8W5pxBl/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/9bba28d4df5211e2afff22000aa80361_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838059.9197" class="aligncenter" alt="Lamb koftes at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Our other top dish of the night was the rich lamb kofte, packed with flavour from red chilli and parsley. In comparison, the accompanying chilli sauce wasn't full-bodied enough for our liking, but according to our attentive waiter it has proved very popular with other diners</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bElErcJxBx/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/c45d1c24df5211e2839b22000aa801fc_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838084.6318" class="aligncenter" alt="Rotisserie chicken at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Having had more than our fair share of mezze by this point, we were slightly stunned when half a rotisserie chicken was brought to our table! Served in Cookhouse Joe's trademark tins, the juicy chicken was paired with a portion of classic fries plus three dips (garlic mayonnaise, chilli sauce, and a cucumber and mint yoghurt)</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEprHipxJ8/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/620c6c54df5811e2b6f822000a1f8cdf_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838031.0408" class="aligncenter" alt="Corn on the cob at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Buttery sweet corn on the cob with extra smokey notes thanks to the char grill</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEprO3JxJ9/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/629ce950df5811e2af4222000aa8012b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838083.0022" class="aligncenter" alt="Coleslaw at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>In my eyes no-one can ever come close to my Dad's perfect coleslaw, but this was a pleasant mixture of crunchy vegetables and light dressing that matched the more American elements of the main course </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bEpr1gpxJ_/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/658f972adf5811e2996f22000a1fbc6f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1374105838027.5466" class="aligncenter" alt="Apple pie and icecream at Cookhouse Joe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>By now the light outside had faded, and we were feeling seriously stuffed. But it would have been rude to turn down the homemade apple pie that was presented to us, especially as the stewed fruit had been heavily scented with my beloved cinnamon. Somehow we managed to polish off the whole tin - and I'm hoping to try the baklava on my next visit!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-7130696375957182882013-07-10T08:00:00.000+01:002013-07-10T08:00:01.266+01:00Sweet and spicy roasted chicken and vegetables to solve solo supper times<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/a9IyblpxIV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/5d3c6e56dd0d11e280ba22000a9f1893_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1373405510162.8008" class="aligncenter" alt="Close-up sweet and spicy roasted chicken and vegetables " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> It seems like there's a big difference between the chosen style of cooking when my boyfriend is in our little London flat, and the meals I opt for when I'm home alone.</p>
<p>If I'm making dinner to share with my man, the focus is on hearty, rich dishes such as <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/spicy-sausage-stew-for-sunny-day-in.html" target="_blank" title="Spicy sausage stew ">sausage stews</a> with <a href="http://myolivebranch.co.uk/post/thyme-scented-potato-wedges" target="_blank" title="Thyme scented potato wedges ">potato wedges</a>, spaghetti and <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/magnificent-meatballs-to-leave-him.html" target="_blank" title="Magnificent meatballs ">meatballs</a>, or<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/roasted-piece-of-meat-to-last-all-week.html" target="_blank" title="Coca Cola braised ham "> roast dinners</a> that we can then pick at throughout the rest of the week.</p>
<p>If the situation calls for a solo supper, normally I aim for something lighter and simpler, often incorporating <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/healthy-seafood-suppers-to-get-fit.html" target="_blank" title="Healthy seafood suppers ">healthy seafood</a> with other <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/power-foods-1-spicy-prawn-stir-frystir.html" target="_blank" title="Spicy prawn stir-fry">"power foods"</a> for a nutritional boost and a smugly virtuous glow.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Most of the time I keep these one-woman dinners to myself however (barring the obligatory <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgd_Foodbk on Instagram ">Instagram</a> snapshot), because so little real cooking is involved that to class the dish as a "recipe" would make me feel like a fraud. Generally it's just a collection of random ingredients that have been hiding at the back of my cupboard or wilting in the fridge, hastily chucked together in a pan before I succumb to the temptations of the biscuit barrel or the nearby chippy.</p>
<p>Indeed, this particular dish is no different, but I received a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Feel-good-Foodbook/210061239063764" target="_blank" title="Feel-good Foodbook on Facebook ">Facebook</a> request for the instructions from Mary-Ann of <a href="http://greenfarmfitness.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Green Farm Fitness ">Green Farm Fitness</a> (where I was <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/project366-week-19.html" target="_blank" title="#Project366 - #week19">put through my paces last April</a>), and it seemed rude not to oblige. As with most of my culinary creations, the exact quantities of ingredients aren't important - just use whatever you've got to hand - and feel free to even swap in other root vegetables depending on your personal preference.</p>
<p>When I conjured up this colourful concoction I made use of a lonely leftover roasted chicken thigh, but it would only add an extra 30 minutes maximum to the overall cooking time if you were starting from scratch. Equally, if time wasn't an issue you could simply roast the raw vegetables for 45 minutes - but the sofa was calling me that night, so speed was the name of the game!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bQT2_opxNy/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/410b40b0e2e711e2b30422000aaa0585_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1373405510091.0796" class="aligncenter" alt="Sweet and spicy roasted chicken and vegetables with spinach and pistachios " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p><strong><u>Sweet and spicy roasted chicken and vegetables (serves 1):</u></strong></p>
<p>200g butternut squash </p>
<p>160g carrots</p>
<p>1 roasted chicken thigh (90g approx)</p>
<p>1/2 tbsp cooking oil (I used rapeseed oil)</p>
<p>1/2 tbsp honey (I used agave syrup)</p>
<p>30g pistachio nuts </p>
<p>200g spinach</p>
<p>1/4 tsp chilli flakes</p>
<p>1/2 tsp allspice</p>
<p>Seasoning to taste </p>
<p>1. Peel the butternut squash and carrots, dicing the squash into 2cm chunks and "<a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=preptip&dbid=10" target="_blank" title="Turning carrots">turning"</a> the carrots. Place in a pan of salted boiling water for around 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.</p>
<p>2. Drain the vegetables and pour into a roasting tin or casserole dish lined with foil. Sprinkle over the chilli flakes and allspice, then drizzle over the oil. Mix everything together then fold over the edges of the foil to form a parcel, then pop the dish into the oven at around 200C for 20 minutes.</p>
<p>3. Whilst the vegetables are roasting, shell and pound the pistachio nuts using a pestle and mortar. <strong><u>Note:</u></strong> I used a punnet of chilli and lime pistachios saved from a recent Graze box, my stash of healthy snacks that often featured on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html" target="_blank" title="#Project366">#Project366</a>).</p>
<p>4. When the vegetables have been roasting for around 10 minutes, open up the foil package and drizzle over the honey or agave syrup. Gently mix everything together again to ensure the syrup coats the vegetables then place back in the oven uncovered.</p>
<p>5. Remove any skin and bones from the chicken thigh and shred into fine pieces (though be careful if you've only just roasted it!). Add the chicken to the vegetables and lightly shake around the pan to combine all of the ingredients, before popping the dish back in the oven for the final few minutes.</p>
<p>6. Wilt the spinach in a frying pan with a tiny bit of butter or oil and seasoning. <u style="font-weight: bold; ">Note:</u> I actually used frozen spinach, which I keep in constant supply for these instances and reheat plain in the microwave - it's a total cheat but much cheaper and easier than buying fresh spinach.</p>
<p>7. When the vegetables are slightly caramelised and the shredded chicken is warm, remove the roasting tin from the oven and mix in the spinach. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then sprinkle over the crushed pistachio nuts. You can serve this dish on its own or on a bed of couscous if you can't cope with skipping the carbs completely.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/a9IyblpxIV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/5d3c6e56dd0d11e280ba22000a9f1893_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1373405510116.7397" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-14067931038908794712013-06-22T14:47:00.000+01:002013-06-22T14:47:12.591+01:00Rambling through La Boqueria<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_myTzTeum_A/UZAT8UCJA2I/AAAAAAAACUE/RlTUU0RFfpM/s1600-h/ham-legs7.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--mEPOMr70NI/UZAT9bZk_uI/AAAAAAAACUI/6pR19Fw4J7A/ham-legs_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777906.5894" class="" alt="Ham legs at La Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></a></p>
<p>It's the start of the holiday season, with people jetting off to warmer climes in search of some sunshine after the total washout that has been this year's British Summertime (based on the evidence so far). </p>
<a name='more'></a><p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I've just returned from two weeks in the baking Egyptian heat myself, hence my recent radio silence here. After a hectic start to 2013 it was fantastic for my man and I to finally stop rushing around and just <em>relax; </em>the biggest decision we had to make was how many slices of cake we could manage to squeeze into our day...and into our stomaches!</p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Sadly I don't have any photos of our holiday diet to share, because no matter how delicious the all-inclusive buffet tasted, it didn't lend itself to food styling. So instead I've decided to bring you some vacation inspiration with a host of snapshots of my favourite moment from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/end-of-summer-silence.html" target="_blank" title="End of summer silence ">last year's trip to Spain</a>, which I completely failed to post up at the time. </p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><a href="http://www.boqueria.info/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank" title="La Boqueria ">La Boqueria</a> is Barcelona's answer to <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/devouring-borough-market.html" target="_blank" title="Borough Market ">Borough Market</a>: a cavernous food hall located just off the main shopping street Las Ramblas, filled with the freshest produce for home-cooking and an array of ready-made delights to enjoy immediately. In my view, no trip to this city would be complete without a tour of this sensational market...the vast selection of thirst-quenching fresh fruit smoothies is reason enough to visit!</p>
<p align="center"><font size="2"> </font><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pxql1wFPWR0/UZAT-WJLUPI/AAAAAAAACUU/SCtDQ8y9VpI/s1600-h/hangng%252520ham.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aAZlXT70ik0/UZAT_U4f5lI/AAAAAAAACUY/-_Ryy15piZQ/hangng%252520ham_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777843.8313" class="" alt="Hanging hams at La Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-beokfsGJg4E/UZAUAWQbWjI/AAAAAAAACUk/_Iq5InvDH9Q/s1600-h/slced-ham4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hdCQYcR8xnY/UZAUBmCiz_I/AAAAAAAACUs/cYnEfFeWK6A/slced-ham_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777904.5015" class="" alt="Sliced ham at La Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wpfcs1tSx-4/UZAUCloHt_I/AAAAAAAACU0/i8vqbsZ1ASg/s1600-h/ham-bouquets4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W_6L-9d549c/UZAUDupDyZI/AAAAAAAACU8/1vB7kXWtQjA/ham-bouquets_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777882.6272" class="" alt="ham bouquets at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Gigantic cured ham legs available to buy whole or transformed into mouth-watering meaty bouquets to snack on whilst wandering round the market </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eK-zZ7FodxI/UZAUEtN3HNI/AAAAAAAACVE/buBJHdU20l0/s1600-h/big-fsh5.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZkhMjlu940k/UZAUFnLVRlI/AAAAAAAACVM/1hLyjJxYXxs/big-fsh_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777861.9302" class="" alt="Whole fish at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><font size="2"> </font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hDlmakr1RBY/UZAUGj1BzEI/AAAAAAAACVU/cwt6nBitgxE/s1600-h/fsh4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UYiW0c6C7VQ/UZAUHotlutI/AAAAAAAACVc/C1eLyXCqp_U/fsh_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777860.6677" class="" alt="Small fish at la Boqueria " width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Pm7T1sHJico/UZAUIpCL5II/AAAAAAAACVk/jOBdX2oxTss/s1600-h/calamari4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hnHAcBBLAqU/UZAUJSDeI8I/AAAAAAAACVs/cqM1-KMPEXc/calamari_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777923.129" class="" alt="calamari at la Boqueria " width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Shoals of fresh fish in every size and variety, perfect for grilling on the barbecue or baking in the oven in the traditional Mediterranean style </p>
<p align="center"><font size="2"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-moCF_12ytzM/UZAUKoX_zWI/AAAAAAAACV0/SA4ZPOPv5dA/s1600-h/seafood5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Fj8vSb5Pn1s/UZAULpGc4UI/AAAAAAAACV8/JQrrSekpRXs/seafood_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777893.2788" class="" alt="Crustaceans at la Boqueria " width="480" height="480"></a> </font><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q03aG0yIoRk/UZAUMqd2j4I/AAAAAAAACWE/2wcrklIubVE/s1600-h/crabs4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hA_CtlSZEt4/UZAUNnOTQFI/AAAAAAAACWM/_mb9usIF25M/crabs_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777872.322" class="" alt="crabs at la Boqueria " width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YpF8icG-Ppg/UZAUOgxCevI/AAAAAAAACWU/AZZ325Kshq0/s1600-h/scallops4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5vvq78KYtJw/UZAUPjMZKSI/AAAAAAAACWc/SJweEBTMFoA/scallops_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777855.862" class="" alt="scallop shells at la Boqueria " width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Armoured crustaceans and beautiful decorative scallop shells that I wish I had brought home with me </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tbCOhk9cris/UZAUQ8RJeoI/AAAAAAAACWk/cv18IRTcRwU/s1600-h/tropical%252520fruit%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-am7_6lniNdY/UZAURzhhm9I/AAAAAAAACWo/2ltRF765JNo/tropical%252520fruit_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777871.054" class="" alt="tropical fruit at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NYxsEB6v0IM/UZAUS2e9_xI/AAAAAAAACW0/wCbqHsgpXAM/s1600-h/fgs%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gzqOh6ukF58/UZAUT6cJ7QI/AAAAAAAACW8/rTIY--9FBFo/fgs_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777898.2646" class="" alt="Fresh figs at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DuQpGqrWrcs/UZAUVKobBbI/AAAAAAAACXE/GRnd50F2NsQ/s1600-h/watermelon%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J1uZiPOQK3k/UZAUWGOxJJI/AAAAAAAACXM/t5RoSeaQld0/watermelon_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777872.494" class="" alt="watermelon at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BehINkE6_OU/UZAUXfgXi9I/AAAAAAAACXU/2LsNuFj8Mo0/s1600-h/fresh%252520fruit%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-b1WMM3iQ5Dg/UZAUYDt4JoI/AAAAAAAACXc/kjLM8IqookE/fresh%252520fruit_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777843.9363" class="" alt="fresh fruit at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VNwiHHY4t9E/UZAUZTw1sgI/AAAAAAAACXk/aSdMmNYjV3o/s1600-h/smoothies%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-81zG2wrMH1U/UZAUaLITqsI/AAAAAAAACXs/eYscxTZlDkY/smoothies_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777870.7869" class="" alt="Fruit juice at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0494764fIBg/UZAUbWZgugI/AAAAAAAACX0/A7e1jwxp9oo/s1600-h/fresh%252520veg%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KfMnb7ycrx0/UZAUcTfekRI/AAAAAAAACX8/B43VabJTvqg/fresh%252520veg_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777843.6172" class="" alt="fresh veg at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SlXX3uLGjX0/UZAUdpCJOmI/AAAAAAAACYE/bRjRNdgWxMA/s1600-h/padron%252520peppers%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-57O8A2wMqIE/UZAUesfKBfI/AAAAAAAACYM/-DGE_rqc25o/padron%252520peppers_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777882.7295" class="" alt="padron peppers at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Incredibly vibrant fresh fruit and vegetables, plus the most refreshing and flavoursome smoothies I've ever tasted!</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Syp1nOJRSHg/UZAUfl2-6hI/AAAAAAAACYU/tIcKGgF0iL8/s1600-h/hangng%252520peppers%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sQwOX7a4l_I/UZAUgsGkprI/AAAAAAAACYc/x8e1pVPfjAs/hangng%252520peppers_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777942.4285" class="" alt="Dried peppers at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LqyeT3w37x8/UZAUhxdt8bI/AAAAAAAACYk/NXXXh4aPwDs/s1600-h/antpasti%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RmsZPD5lVKI/UZAUjN8GVKI/AAAAAAAACYs/f2BZQEGWfbs/antpasti_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777848.0784" class="" alt="antipasti at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JCKJ4xb4HNs/UZAUkXN1S0I/AAAAAAAACY0/33KDWIEyo90/s1600-h/olves%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cYl-tnLhXhI/UZAUlbqSt1I/AAAAAAAACY4/E2QaEnUVrhs/olves_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777886.1833" class="" alt="olives at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZftsJ_8CYxI/UZAUmc6n0RI/AAAAAAAACZE/EbBMxwTQe5A/s1600-h/peppercorns%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s2NUwvDQ8tU/UZAUnbTF5jI/AAAAAAAACZM/P47SdCVIi3c/peppercorns_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777942.3755" class="" alt="peppercorns at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuadMpge2N6gBvSVk11kJ8oN80cMCCKuCmMWZ054uLif9L-WNWBy3rP7iOYDw4UO6KRqcq5SzWqd-mXoaKFf-HS6YHFlhwWJMn4Y4_f-DIt1vAPO9qsyXUAk5SCvPA_YIWvss7oFtIoQ8/s1600-h/spices%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UF7RPeYO9WQ/UZAUpSZ9K3I/AAAAAAAACZc/pBVFXBHMVJQ/spices_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777903.2217" class="" alt="spices at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Adv2LFe03sY/UZAUqT05VuI/AAAAAAAACZk/F0W60KPLCYY/s1600-h/sundred%252520tomatoes%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UmDdjYRtQPc/UZAUroxGFQI/AAAAAAAACZs/QMaKI9dV25U/sundred%252520tomatoes_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777904.469" class="" alt="sundried tomatoes at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mJaxZHInQCk/UZAUszq9lpI/AAAAAAAACZ0/OIoBmqXcZxY/s1600-h/nuts%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xpn8hLSuHow/UZAUtw8YC-I/AAAAAAAACZ8/c9sJJYCt8SY/nuts_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777857.646" class="" alt="nuts at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Buckets of peppercorns and spices in every colour, alongside baskets of nuts and trays of antipasti</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bFmvPg46ASw/UZAUvtaR1nI/AAAAAAAACaE/KN2SrwnREXs/s1600-h/seafood-tapas6.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nny4hOjT-Ic/UZAUwq_D-CI/AAAAAAAACaM/bs9RxcGAC-w/seafood-tapas_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777900.1074" class="" alt="seafood tapas at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UYmHL_X6gJE/UZAUxhkvB4I/AAAAAAAACaU/yUxeO5J9bQ4/s1600-h/prawn-skewers8.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KjP4heENk_k/UZAUyp62fXI/AAAAAAAACac/axb1N147ibw/prawn-skewers_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777871.7776" class="" alt="prawn skewers at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-egkxkWjpWZw/UZAUz3kPsXI/AAAAAAAACak/LbnSpITojOs/s1600-h/pizza4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TEaoi4D_uZM/UZAU00jgcSI/AAAAAAAACas/zcOEGsHgKm0/pizza_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777928.9636" class="" alt="pizza at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--vVRSOLqE5Q/UZAU13JiZ0I/AAAAAAAACa0/FRvQyrvN4K0/s1600-h/bagette4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Oq1sCCj9bLw/UZAU2wUIaZI/AAAAAAAACa8/C7cZbeHiWTc/bagette_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777910.9558" class="" alt="bagettes at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qAlTBgQLKKE/UZAU3sEXLcI/AAAAAAAACbE/fsfE13fP1qo/s1600-h/pasties4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dew-yh3_sKM/UZAU4ugRZAI/AAAAAAAACbM/NneC9plRpmg/pasties_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777868.4814" class="" alt="Empanadas at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IPdVjiO9kT4/UZAU6rLnYgI/AAAAAAAACbU/nlrhsvhdtlo/s1600-h/pita4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RsTqAaPQjDE/UZAU7gXj1YI/AAAAAAAACbc/IUqPnj-FM2U/pita_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777906.9087" class="" alt="pita at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tH1-lRKfYDg/UZAU8vKbPuI/AAAAAAAACbk/HAJ-BPgpU-Q/s1600-h/taco4.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IuE_--bkHvw/UZAU9uqckKI/AAAAAAAACbs/eyHfmyV9B_E/taco_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777885.244" class="" alt="taco at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7w5Jm6xlNNw/UZAU-kcmVxI/AAAAAAAACb0/t77_Y1vIg9g/s1600-h/crepes%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GAGlRVxIR_w/UZAU_oj-0AI/AAAAAAAACb8/8EgYU8SP6kI/crepes_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777953.2427" class="" alt="Savoury crepes at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGry-CWZW0UihPTS65J4BxS3X8tueePlFUnxHxuKWTABDjh1wjxxvYnaNKC7TjgAODU4u8hrMTatRHdoVZWZ6YxAUseoI_kWYm5ZveQcnTJrUogGVvlgKgluJTmE7JJOBuoDnzNKJuDo/s1600-h/chocolate%252520walnut%252520crepe%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OA94P5cBwbk/UZAVBVyZICI/AAAAAAAACcM/jJHP9Quwsmc/chocolate%252520walnut%252520crepe_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777870.9028" class="" alt="Chocolate walnut crepe at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Classic Spanish tapas and every type of snack to satisfy us greedy tourists</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GuKpndzDQwo/UZAVCn5A-yI/AAAAAAAACcU/JttgJ4VOM7U/s1600-h/round%252520nougat%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A94vCgNtAEI/UZAVDhQeXzI/AAAAAAAACcc/a6NFr7kDWhE/round%252520nougat_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777921.301" class="" alt="round nougat at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AUvnc967KKs/UZAVEwcHhmI/AAAAAAAACck/2lSOHFGLlqk/s1600-h/nougat%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BRvUN1mOTh8/UZAVFzcjnJI/AAAAAAAACcs/whuy7tHxhTw/nougat_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777909.2593" class="" alt="nougat and marzipan at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ViUF4oSVBTk/UZAVHJCkfWI/AAAAAAAACc0/Y4EcJBH2Lmg/s1600-h/almonds%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IGHT8CsW0So/UZAVH8PljJI/AAAAAAAACc8/5oz57AWZJto/almonds_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777947.5679" class="" alt="almonds at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--KPk2fdOCWo/UZAVJEp1XKI/AAAAAAAACdE/TuC0Qk7btaU/s1600-h/fruit%252520sweets%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YXbJ8cTRoKM/UZAVJ6PlmzI/AAAAAAAACdM/6Xk0wqM1ZpU/fruit%252520sweets_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777952.7961" class="" alt="fruit sweets at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-drKME-ol9Gw/UZAVLMMx66I/AAAAAAAACdU/FteeT1RzgoE/s1600-h/sweets%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0c0dTclLATo/UZAVMBd3FwI/AAAAAAAACdc/iR84SdXzmjg/sweets_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777936.2617" class="" alt="sweets at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>Enormous blocks of nougat and marzipan, plus mountains of neon sweets to keep children (and bored boyfriends!) happy </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VLywopVVH_o/UZAVNIDn3uI/AAAAAAAACdk/fBLB4vFyKv0/s1600-h/bar%252520boquera%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZGvr9J_gBgk/UZAVOYHj5iI/AAAAAAAACds/t4OEZiL4vV0/bar%252520boquera_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777968.782" class="" alt="bar boqueria at la Boqueria" width="480" height="480"></font></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qgtj5FZT8Vs/UZAVPl0Y7lI/AAAAAAAACd0/TqoHf2UthmY/s1600-h/entrance%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VsiFxn-xtPk/UZAVQXr6OuI/AAAAAAAACd8/FlXHGqtvAjs/entrance_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777876.3198" class="" alt="entrance to la Boqueria " width="240" height="240"></font></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-M_et1JziYp0/UZAVRqym-4I/AAAAAAAACeE/DbZNY9wUNy0/s1600-h/slver%252520pig%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font size="2"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Paj7RnIrFbQ/UZAVSZqfH0I/AAAAAAAACeM/WSQWuX5zfYY/slver%252520pig_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" id="blogsy-1371908777949.2031" class="" alt="silver pig at la Boqueria" width="240" height="240"></font></a></p>
<p>The bar was packed with locals catching up over tapas and tequila, showing that La Boqueria is still at the heart of life in Barcelona</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-58206008079040720042013-05-20T08:30:00.000+01:002013-05-20T08:30:00.244+01:00Fudges' milk chocolate florentines - sharing my delightful Dorset discoveries!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Zfxx5pJxMZ/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/a72a7fa2c08f11e2a8b922000a1f8ac2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1369003844338.5212" class="aligncenter" alt="Fudges milk chocolate florentines " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>At heart I will always be a Dorset girl, no matter where I live in the big wide world or how long I'm separated from the Jurassic coast. </p>
<p>Occasionally the rural twang in the pronunciation of my vowels gives away my heritage (much to the amusement of my trendy urban friends), coupled with my obsession for seeking out the nearest spot of beach as soon as the sun begins to shine. In my eyes there are few things more mesmerising than watching the deep blue sea lapping against the sandy shore, whilst breathing in the salty air - transporting me back to my childhood in an instant.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Needless to say I am proud of my southern roots, and ever eager to support independent producers from my homeland. I've long been a fan of <a href="http://www.fudges.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Fudges Bakery">Fudges Bakery</a>, whose snacks are ideal for impressing guests - whether that's crunchy <a href="http://www.fudges.co.uk/sweet-biscuits-c-26.html" target="_blank" title="Fudges sweet biscuits ">sweet biscuits</a> to accompany coffee, or flaky <a href="http://www.fudges.co.uk/wafers-straws-c-23.html" target="_blank" title="Fudges' wafers and straws ">cheese straws</a> to pack into a picnic. </p>
<p>So when Fudges kindly offered me a free sample of their new <a href="http://www.fudges.co.uk/belgian-milk-choc-florentines-p-58.html" target="_blank" title="Fudges milk chocolate florentines">milk chocolate florentine</a>s, there was obviously only one acceptable answer - yes please! In a piece of perfect timing, I was also due to return to the seaside this weekend to celebrate my birthday - what better place to enjoy my latest delightful Dorset discovery than back home with my family?! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Zfyq4VpxOJ/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/bd655b1ac09011e293a222000a1fb70a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1369003844328.034" class="aligncenter" alt="Milk chocolate florentine by Fudges Bakery " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> These tasty treats are wonderfully indulgent - the rich and creamy Belgian milk chocolate base gives way to sweet and chewy caramelised nuts, then every so often you are jolted from your reverie by a chunk of sharp cranberry. Inducing a moment of bliss alongside a mug of strong tea in the middle of the afternoon, I can imagine these would be equally delicious broken up over vanilla icecream for a decadent dessert at the end of the meal.</p>
<p>Personally I still prefer the contrast between bitterness and butterscotch in their original award-winning <a href="http://www.fudges.co.uk/dark-choc-florentines-p-49.html" target="_blank" title="Fudges' dark chocolate florentines ">dark chocolate florentines</a>, but I know that my obsession with that intense cocoa hit is unusual. I'm sure that this milky version is bound to be more of a crowd-pleaser, so as a special birthday treat I've teamed up with <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/Fudgesbakery">Fudges</a> to give away 2 boxes of their new milk chocolate florentines to my readers!</p>
<p>For the chance to win, all you need to do is <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk">follow Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter</a> and retweet this blogpost. If you're not on Twitter, then you're missing out on all kinds of foodie fun and should sign up today...! The two winners will be selected at random on Wednesday 22nd May and announced via Twitter...good luck! </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-20263135767870814572013-05-07T09:57:00.000+01:002013-05-07T09:57:19.652+01:00Bank Holiday weekend binge<p>One of my favourite blog series' is <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/05/weekend-things-6/" target="_blank" title="Weekend Things - How Sweet It Is">Weekend Things on How Sweet It Is</a> - the photos are always fantastic and it's so clever how your mind fills in the gaps in the story. If anything my love of food photography has grown after completing <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html">Project 366</a> in 2012, so I thought I'd share with you my <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_self" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram ">Instagrammed</a> snapshots from a particularly gluttonous Bank Holiday weekend...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y272FtpxIo/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/d0a0216cb41811e2974122000a9e2969_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961368.0576" class="aligncenter" alt="3 Bears Porridge at Restaurant Story " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Three Bears' Porridge at <a href="http://www.restaurantstory.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Restaurant Story ">Restaurant Story</a>...which one was "just right" for me?! More photos from this fantastic meal coming soon</p>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y4ipQlpxC_/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/4d7a859cb49611e28a5c22000a1f8acf_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961406.6477" class="aligncenter" alt="3BIS Gelateria" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Panne cotta ice-cream from <a href="http://www.gelateria3bis.it/gelateria-artigianale-londra/en/39/il-nostro-gelato/" target="_blank" title="3BIS Gelateria">3BIS Gelateria</a> by <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/devouring-borough-market.html">Borough Market</a> to soak up a few glasses of wine...wish I'd taken a photo of the molten chocolate cascading out of their special tap!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y49J_RpxIq/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/aa49e86ab4b611e2998822000a1fbc5d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961432.243" class="aligncenter" alt="Joe & Seph's gourmet popcorn at Wholefoods High Street Kensington " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Giving out free samples of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/favourite-foodie-finds-from-2011.html">Joe & Seph's gourmet popcorn</a> to lucky shoppers at Wholefoods High Street Kensington </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y5WwbhpxO5/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/ea7e3deab4d511e2ac5122000a9f14f8_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961379.5444" class="aligncenter" alt="Wholefoods healthy smoothies " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>A pair of vibrantly coloured healthy smoothies</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y7huVqJxKP/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/8dc783d6b57f11e292c422000a1fbe6b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961428.2083" class="aligncenter" alt="Sweet Sin crepe from Senzala " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>My favourite Sweet Sin crepe from <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/SenzalaBrixton" target="_blank" title="Senzala creperie on twitter ">Senzala</a> (formerly the Brick Box) in <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/brixton-village-hunting-out-hidden-food.html">Brixton Village</a></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y7h2etJxKZ/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/b588411cb57f11e2867a22000a9f1266_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961364.3665" class="aligncenter" alt="Sweet Sin banana and dark chocolate crepe from Senzala " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Peeking inside my crepe...sweet cooked banana meets gooey bitter dark chocolate</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y77WR5JxOz/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/d54d7db8b59e11e2984e22000a9d0de0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961398.9902" class="aligncenter" alt="The Food Joint's pulled pork bun " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The most incredible barbecue pulled pork bun from Brixton Village vendors <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/thefoodjoint" target="_blank" title="The Food Joint on twitter">The Food Joint</a> served up at <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/RedMarketLondon" target="_blank" title="Red Market in twitter ">Red Market's</a> third birthday party...it's the fig & vanilla sourdough roll that makes it truly exceptional</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y7_RzmJxFV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/a17574beb5a311e2ad1922000a1cbd31_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961377.9944" class="aligncenter" alt="The Orange Buffalo's Woof Woof wings " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>"Woof Woof" wings from <a href="http://www.theorangebuffalo.com/" target="_blank" title="The Orange Buffalo ">The Orange Buffalo</a>...still too spicy for me and my man!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y7_tZrpxGE/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/2833fe12b5a411e2919022000a1f8daa_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961370.4788" class="aligncenter" alt="Deep fried Oreo from When MAC Met CHEESE " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>So wrong, it's right...deep fried Oreo cookie from <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/MacMetCheese" target="_blank" title="When MAC Met CHEESE on twitter">When MAC Met CHEESE</a></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y-V-gGpxJc/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/96b39cc8b65b11e2b51f22000a9f4da7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961369.3193" class="aligncenter" alt="Mr Whippy icecream flake " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Refuelling after a 6k run round the park in the baking sunshine with a classic Mr Whippy 99 Flake (which now costs about £1.50...!)</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/ZAOVbbpxPk/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/82a698f0b6ee11e28d1922000aa8037d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961366.8418" class="aligncenter" alt="Thatcher's Katy cider " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>This cider's (literally!) got my name on it...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/YXpD89JxMg/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/02d0cc9aaa8c11e2a9cf22000aaa0a6f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961458.447" class="aligncenter" alt="Pork chops from Brixton Farmers' Market " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Giant juicy pork chops from <a href="http://brixtonmarket.net/info/farmers-market/" target="_blank" title="Brixton Farmers' Market">Brixton Farmers' Market</a></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y-63BkJxGd/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/9caff428b68811e2900122000a1f932b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961423.1042" class="aligncenter" alt="Pork chops with pears and creamy cider sauce " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Pork chops transformed courtesy of <a href="http://www.nigelslater.com/" target="_blank" title="Nigel Slater">Nigel Slater's</a> culinary wisdom...topped with caramelised pears, coated in a creamy cider sauce and paired with roasted butternut squash and apricot couscous</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y_JkuSJxK1/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/92d3f1e0b69a11e2a6b122000a9f3070_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961415.7085" class="aligncenter" alt="Outsider Tart's Congo bar " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Final treat of the weekend...chocolate chip Congo blondie bar for my boyfriend from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/favourite-foodie-finds-from-2011.html">Outsider Tart</a> at the <a href="http://www.realfoodfestival.co.uk/">Real Food Festival</a>...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y_KCD9JxLn/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/2215c4d2b69b11e2914322000a1f984e_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961405.469" class="aligncenter" alt="Outside Tart's meringue pecan biscuit bar " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>...and a rich mix of coffee meringue, dark chocolate chunks and chopped pecans on a buttery biscuit base for me</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Y8RxuFpxFR/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/36466ac4b5ba11e2877022000a9f1278_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367916961451.9907" class="aligncenter" alt="#littlecat cuddles after a busy weekend " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Wiped out...think my boys need another weekend to recover...!</p>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-10994734097670120532013-05-05T21:44:00.000+01:002013-05-05T21:44:39.740+01:00Beef and chickpea koftes to spice up your supper time <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XGFCBspxCa/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/e768e58491a711e2a1c022000a1fb718_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367786281852.5815" class="aligncenter" alt="Beef and chickpea koftes with Harissa tomato sauce " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>These beef and chickpea koftes with Harissa tomato sauce were included in <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/7-things-for-7-days6.html">a recent "7 things for 7 days" list</a> as further evidence of my current obsession with Middle Eastern cuisine, following my luscious <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/lunch-at-honey-co-sugar-and-spice-and.html">lunch at Honey & Co</a><a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/lunch-at-honey-co-sugar-and-spice-and.html"></a>. As well as a couple a jokers querying whether Ras-el-Hanout was the bad guy from Batman Begins (<em>t</em><em>hat was Ra's al Ghul, FYI</em>), I was surprised that a whole bunch of people asked for the recipe.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Admittedly I've been pretty hopeless at sharing my home-cooking on this blog. During the week I mostly conjure up healthy stir-fries or stews by throwing together the random collection of vegetables and spices sitting in my cupboard at that particular moment - and this style of cooking seems too obvious to require a step-by-step guide. When I have more time to play in my kitchen I'm either replicating dishes from cookery books (where I'm sure you'd prefer listening to Nigella's dulcet tones direct!) or recreating classics like fish pie and spaghetti bolognese. And let's face it, who seriously needs another spag bol recipe?!</p>
<p>But these koftes were a tasty Moorish twist on the traditional <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/magnificent-meatballs-to-leave-him.html">meatballs and sauce</a> combo, so I'm happy to spill the beans (well, chickpeas...!) so that you too can experience the spirit of the souk in your own home.</p>
<p>By the way, if my assumptions are totally incorrect and you would actually love to read more recipes for simple healthy suppers on this blog please <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on twitter ">tweet me</a> to let me know, or comment on my <a href="http://instagram.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram ">instagram</a> snapshots! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XGEJyfJxBC/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/d4cf1d2291a611e2963d22000a1f9cad_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367786281833.1167" class="aligncenter" alt="Ras-el-Hanout beef and chickpea koftes " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p><strong><u>Beef and chickpea koftes (serves 2):</u></strong></p>
<p>160g cooked chickpeas</p>
<p>250g beef (or lamb) mince</p>
<p>2 tbsp milk (I used almond milk)</p>
<p>1tbsp Ras-el-Hanout spice mix</p>
<p>1 garlic clove, crushed</p>
<p>1 tbsp cooking oil (I used rapessed oil)</p>
<p>Seasoning to taste</p>
<p><strong><u>Harissa tomato sauce (serves 2 - 3):</u></strong></p>
<p>400g chopped tomatoes</p>
<p>1tsp Harissa paste</p>
<p>1 white onion, diced</p>
<p>Seasoning to taste</p>
<p><strong><u>Note</u></strong>: I used tinned chickpeas that had already been cooked and simply needed draining of water and rinsing - if using dried chickpeas then you'll need to soak them overnight and boil them before using.</p>
<p>1. Blitz the chickpeas in a food processor or hand-blender until they form a crumbly paste (I mashed mine with a fork, but in hindsight they were too chunky to manipulate so smaller crumbs would work more effectively).</p>
<p>2. In a bowl combine together the puréed chickpeas, minced meat, crushed garlic and Ras-el-Hanout, making sure that all of the spices are spread evenly throughout the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and add a splash of milk to help everything bind together.<br>
</p>
<p>3. Mold the mince and chickpea mixture into small oval-shaped balls (you should have enough to make at least four koftes per person).</p>
<p>4. Heat a dash of oil in a frying pan or a shallow casserole dish. Once the oil is hot add the koftes to the pan and fry to seal the edges, turning them over every couple of minutes until they are browned.</p>
<p>5. Remove the koftes from the pan and add the diced onions, frying them gently in the remaining oil until soft and translucent. Add the chopped tomatoes and Harissa paste - be careful to only add a small amount of Harissa at first as it is very spicy, so you may want to use less than I've suggested!</p>
<p>6. Bring the spicy tomato sauce to the boil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the koftes back into the pan and coat them in the sauce, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 20 minutes (preferably longer) until the sauce has thickened. The koftes should be cooked throughout by this point (you can always slice into one to check).</p>
<p>7. Serve your spicy koftes with plenty of rich Harissa sauce and a drizzle of cooling natural yoghurt. </p>
<p>You can also pimp up your meal by adding Middle Eastern side dishes such as couscous mixed with sundried tomatoes and coriander, grilled aubergines slices and a sprinkling of feta cheese!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XGFCBspxCa/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/e768e58491a711e2a1c022000a1fb718_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1367786281857.133" class="aligncenter" alt="Beef and chickpea koftes with Harissa tomato sauce " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-29358052207554564412013-04-21T17:20:00.001+01:002013-04-21T17:20:44.375+01:007 things for 7 days...#7<p>My favourite foodie moments and other random musings from the last week (or so!)...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/Xw1L62pxJU/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/efb814c69eb311e2bdb622000a1f9860_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1366561197549.4773" class="aligncenter" alt="FishDogs dognuts" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 1. I believe that this is what is known in the industry as "the money shot" (I'm not saying <em>which</em> industry...!) Get your ass down to <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/Fish_dogs" target="_blank" title="Mark Hix's Fishdog on Twitter">FishDog's</a> truck at <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/two-trips-to-brockley-market.html#more">Brockley Market</a> on Saturdays or the <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/redmarketlondon" target="_blank" title="Red Market on Twitter ">Red Market</a> on Fridays to wrap your lips around these bad boy "dognuts", served alongside their sexed-up fish finger sarnies. These hot dognuts are crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, coated in sweet cinnamon sugar and smothered in salted caramel sauce for an added treat...just like all the best bad boys...!</p>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/YS7Yb9JxLf/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/bfd65f66a91b11e2b4ee22000a1fbe6d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1366561197544.3586" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>2. On Friday night I was honoured to witness a seminal moment in the culinary career of my dear friend and fellow food-adventurer Selina Periampillai of Yummy Choo, being one the exclusive group of guests enjoying her <a href="http://yummychooeats.com/supperclub/"> Mauritian Social Supper</a> in the picturesque setting of the <a href="http://www.peytonandbyrne.co.uk/supper-socials/index.html" target="_blank" title="National Cafe's Social Suppers ">National Gallery's Cafe</a>. She transported us straight to the beach with a delightful menu that included these dangerously delicious tropical cocktails, tender Kari poulet, and a rich dessert of <a href="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/e337a460a93e11e292c422000a1fbe6b_7.jpg" target="_blank" title="Yummy Choo rum bananas and coconut icecream "></a><a href="http://instagram.com/p/YTYKsLpxBY/" target="_blank" title="Yummy Choo's caramelised rum bananas with coconut icecream ">caramelised rum bananas with coconut icecream</a>. I've no doubt that her star is on the rise, so be sure to sign yourself up for a seat at her supperclub before her fame becomes stratospheric!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XmJLlRpxA-/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/f811a3089b7011e2b70422000a9d0df6_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1366561197546.6086" class="aligncenter" alt="Flint & Flame 21-piece knife set " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>3. When I was growing up, it sometimes sucked that I was an only child. No-one to play boardgames or Barbie dolls with when my parents were busy. No-one to stick up for me against the mean kids who bullied me for going to the geek school. And it's impossible for me to understand the intense sibling connection where teasing each other mercilessly is actually a sign of affection. But sometimes being an only child can be amazing, like when your Dad decides to buy you an entire 21-piece set of outstanding <a href="http://www.flintandflame.com/" target="_blank" title="Flint and Flame knives">Flint & Flame knives</a> (plus a matching set for himself!). These beauties slice and dice like a dream, so I'm on the look-out for a decent knife-skills course to make sure I treat them with the care and attention they rightly deserve.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XmJ0KHJxBK/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/be308e3c9b7111e29cc922000aaa090c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1366561197542.394" class="aligncenter" alt="Reece's peanut butter eggs " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>4. Easter will never taste the same again, thanks to these uber-sweet chocolate coated peanut butter eggs! Having only <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/project366-week-18.html" target="_blank" title="#Project366 week 18 ">realised the delights of peanut butter during #Project366</a> last year, I'm now completely obsessed with the stuff. Let's not even talk about these <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2013/04/peanut-butter-bacon-pancakes/" target="_blank" title="Peanut butter bacon pancakes">PB bacon pancakes</a> posted by <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/english-afternoon-tea-with-joy-baker.html" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker in London ">Joy the Baker</a> just in time for weekend breakfast...I die!</p>
<p>5. When will it finally be flip-flop weather?! Normally I'd be living in sandals by this time of year, but I can <em>still</em> count on the fingers of one hand the number of days when it's been safe to leave the house without the protection of thick opaque tights. My trusty hot pink <a href="http://uk.accessorize.com/?_$ja=cgn:Accessorize%7Ccgid:2140377970%7Ctsid:38202%7Ccn:Accessorize%20-%20UK%20-%20B%20-%20Exa%20-%20Eng%2bLOL%20-%20TA%20-%20SE%7Ccid:61342810%7Cnw:search%7Ccrid:18929824450%7Ckw:accessorize%7Cpm:&gclid=CNelhLGj2rYCFbMQtAodZFYA-Q" target="_blank" title="Accessorize ">Accessorize</a> ballet pumps just reached the fatal leaking stage, so I'm in desperate need of some replacement cute colourful flats. Though at this rate, I might as well just invest in <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days3.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days...#3">another pair of Hunter welly boots</a>!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/YLenwjJxAc/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/c4264808a6d511e29fa922000a1f8feb_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1366561197619.512" class="aligncenter" alt="Shoryu Sappiro Miso ramen" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>6. In London right now if you're not chomping on a "dirty" burger (see my <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/patty-bun-smokey-robinson-burger-it.html" target="_blank" title="Patty & Bun's Smokey Robinson burger ">recent pilgrimage to Patty & Bun</a>), then you're chowing down on noodles. <a href="http://www.shoryuramen.com/" target="_blank" title="Shoryu Ramen ">Shoryu</a> have capitalised on the success of their Regent Street ramen bar by opening up a pop-up space in Soho, with a full-scale restaurant promised at the same site this summer. With 50% off at their pop-up until the end of April, it seemed like the perfect time to swing by and prove how [food] trendy I am. Their Sappiro Miso ramen with sweetcorn sounded intriguing, and made with a mixed miso and pork broth it at least <em>felt</em> healthier than the ultra-rich porky liquor <a href="http://instagram.com/p/W2AGh3pxKu/" target="_blank" title="Tonkotsu's Tokyo ramen ">I sampled at Tonkotsu</a>. Of course I won't be a true hipster until I've visited <a href="http://bonedaddiesramen.com/" target="_blank" title="Bone Daddies Bar ">Bone Daddies Bar</a> as well - watch this space (and <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_blank" title="Feel-good Foodbook on Instagram ">my Instagram feed</a>) for more news on my elevation to the cool crowd...</p>
<p>7. Kodus to <a href="http://www.shutterbean.com/2013/i-love-lists-friday-51/" target="_blank" title="Shutterbean - I Love Lists Friday ">Shutterbean</a> for uncovering this <a href="http://you-just-need-to-shut-up.com/absolute-worst-pictures-of-men-and-cats/" target="_blank" title="Worst pictures of men and cats">hilarious collection of photographs.</a>..whoever said that a dog is a man's best friend had clearly never met these guys! Admittedly <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html" target="_blank" title="#littlecat ">my boyfriend and our #littlecat have a total bromance going on</a>, but thankfully my snapshots pale in comparison to these!</p>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-42230593933274942352013-04-13T20:18:00.001+01:002013-04-13T20:18:45.165+01:00Patty & Bun's Smokey Robinson burger - it's a miracle!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ggX8-XTaXvc/UWmvkLOdMJI/AAAAAAAACTY/LRQ-nzJzT04/s2048/Photo%25252011%252520Apr%2525202013%25252019%25253A51.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ggX8-XTaXvc/UWmvkLOdMJI/AAAAAAAACTY/LRQ-nzJzT04/s500/Photo%25252011%252520Apr%2525202013%25252019%25253A51.jpg" id="blogsy-1365880725742.6238" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p>Not since Elvis was jiving in his blue suede shoes has the humble burger been such a phenomenon.</p>
<p>In London right now it feels like a new diner opens almost every week, promising a beef and bread combo that's bigger, better and dirtier (!) than ever before. Needless to say, with so many options on the table there's a danger of worshipping false idols, and it's hard to know where to begin on the quest for sensory enlightenment.</p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Crowned King of kings at </span><a href="http://youngandfoodish.com/event/londonburgerbash-2/" target="_blank" title="London Burger Bash 2 " style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Burger Monday's latest #LondonBurgerBash</a><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">, Joe Grossman's <a href="http://www.pattyandbun.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Patty & Bun ">Patty & Bun</a> has certainly generated the most evangelistic response from the masses. Disciples flock to this tiny restaurant in a constant stream, waiting with the rest of the outdoor congregation until they can enter the shrine and be charmed by the infamous Ari Gold, or </span><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">experience a whole new level of foodporn courtesy of the Ron Jeremy special. </span></p>
<p>Having <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days2.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #2">harked on for months about taking a trip to Patty & Bun</a>, I decided it was time to discover for myself whether Joe really is the messiah, or just a very naughty boy...</p>
<a name='more'></a><script src="//storify.com/KatyRiddle/patty-and-bun-s-smokey-robinson-burger-it-s-a-mira.js"></script><noscript>[<a href="//storify.com/KatyRiddle/patty-and-bun-s-smokey-robinson-burger-it-s-a-mira" target="_blank">View the story "Patty & Bun's Smokey Robinson burger - it's a miracle!" on Storify</a>]</noscript><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/X-wUf-pxPw/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/bf1c8dc6a2f311e2aeda22000a1f973b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365880725818.1309" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-3934038563868594502013-04-11T14:46:00.000+01:002013-04-11T14:46:21.054+01:00Lunch at Honey & Co - sugar and spice and all things nice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxNNRupxG-/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/425773948b4911e2a9de22000a1f92c9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987139.841" class="aligncenter" alt="Middle Eastern lunch at Honey&Co" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Am I the only one who's obsessed with Middle Eastern cuisine right now? </p>
<p>Perhaps it's <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days2.html">Ottolenghi's beautiful Jerusalem</a> calling out to me from my kitchen bookcase. Perhaps it's this neverending freezing weather making me nostalgic for the humidity of the <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/souk-scented-chicken-tagine-and-fruity.html" target="_blank" title="Souk-scented chicken tagine and fruity couscous ">Moroccan souk</a> (can you believe it's still snowing in <em>April</em>?!). Perhaps it's simply that the classically Arabic combination of sweetness, spice and aromatic scenting appeals to my palate.</p>
<p>Whatever the reason, it's a craving I'm more than willing to satisfy. So a lunch date with fellow food-bloggers <a href="http://yummychooeats.com/2013/03/15/middle-easter-cuisine-at-honey-co/" target="_blank" title="Yummychooeats visits Honey & Co ">Yummychooeats</a> and <a href="http://mondomulia.com/" target="_blank" title="Mondomulia ">Mondomulia</a>, plus bona fide journalist <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/FelicitySpector" target="_blank" title="Felicity Spector on twitter">Felicity Spector</a>, sounded like the ideal opportunity to scratch my itch with a visit to <a href="http://www.honeyandco.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Honey & Co">Honey & Co</a>.</p>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxM4XfpxGs/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/dc3b0a3a8b4811e289dc22000a9f12b0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987103.5237" class="aligncenter" alt="Feta cheese at Honey & Co" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>I'd seen numerous glowing reviews of this intimate cafe, where former NOPI Executive Head Chef Sarit Packer and her husband Itamar Srulovich serve up a taste of their home-cooked Middle Eastern heritage. But nothing could truly prepare me for the full sensory teleportation you experience at Honey & Co - from the smoky scent of grilling meat that fills the air right down to the tiled garden courtyard housing the restrooms, which is so reminiscent of a riad. </p>
<p>As ever when I feel that my words won't do justice to the chef's culinary skill, I'll let my photos do most of the talking. Just looking back on these snapshots makes my mouth water with the memory of these flavourful dishes, and leaves me hungry for more...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxNCjXpxG2/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/0df991f48b4911e2a58122000a9d0ed5_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987177.8345" class="aligncenter" alt="Jerusalem falafel at Honey & Co " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>When we arrived my eye was drawn to the mezze platters being demolished at neighbouring tables, but the main courses sounded so tempting that we agreed the need to restrain ourselves. </p>
<p>To whet our appetites we ordered a side of feta cheese, sprinkled with olive oil and sweet paprika to balance its saltiness and smooth enough to spread inside the accompanying soft pitta pockets. We also gobbled up a portion of chunky Jerusalem-style falafels, heavily scented with cinnamon and sesame seeds which cut through the nutty tahini dipping sauce.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxNXdXpxHL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/740ed15c8b4911e2af7e22000a1f8ae5_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987127.1033" class="aligncenter" alt="Siniya cauliflower at Honey & Co " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Normally I would only pick cauliflower from a menu when coated in a punchy cheese sauce, but I'm so glad that we followed Felicity's advice and ordered this beautiful skillet of siniya. Juicy roasted tomatoes and creamy tahini contrasted perfectly with the charred florets, and occasionally you'd get a surprising burst of sweetness from a pomegranate seed or sudden crunch from a pistachio nut. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxNyIMpxHv/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/f645dda08b4911e2a86422000a1f9839_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987099.6982" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>A cracked wheat salad with pistachios and barberries was light and refreshing, topped with a chicken skewer which was unbelievably tender thanks to its pomegranate molasses marinade. We all feigned nonchalance at splitting up the final few juicy morsels of meat, whilst in reality all desperate to delve our forks in once more for another bite!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxNtUVpxHm/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/deca2e568b4911e28ddc22000a9f15db_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987155.339" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>I had a hunch that Honey & Co's hummus would be worth trying, and we definitely weren't disappointed; rich and velvety, this blended chickpea dip was totally irresistible paired with spicy lamb mince. Thankfully a pile of pitta breads had also sensibly been provided to ensure we could wipe the deep bowl clean!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxOCZAJxH_/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/45af36488b4a11e2a23322000aaa04c3_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987131.893" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>It would have been foolish to leave without sampling the desserts, especially when Felicity had given us advance warning about their impressive range of cakes and pastries. </p>
<p>There was a unanimous verdict that we should split a slice of the chocolate Krantz cake, a fluffy yeasted loaf packed with bitter melted dark chocolate and caramelised pecans. We tore at the sweet folds of this delicious dessert, so moreish that I secretly wished we had ordered another piece. I couldn't believe it when I heard that <a href="http://mondomulia.com/chocolate-krantz-cake-recipe-jerusalem-cookbook" target="_blank" title="Chocolate Krantz Cake on Mondomulia ">Guilia recreated this complex braided cake in her own home last weekend</a> - didn't she do an amazing job?!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WxOGcUpxIG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/5975c35e8b4a11e2b8e822000a1fbcc7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1365686987179.259" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Choosing our other pudding was a much trickier decision, but we eventually settled on the warm marzipan cake. Moist and dense with a crumbly texture thanks to the ground almonds, this sponge was presented on a bed of sharp creme fraiche and crowned with tart and syrupy forced rhubarb; amalgamating sharp and sweet flavours in every spoonful.</p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">The menu at Honey & Co changes regularly, and their unique take on the classic cheesecake was recently voted in the </span><a href="http://m.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2013/mar/17/50-top-foodie-picks-observer-food-monthly" target="_blank" title="OFM's 50 top foodie picks " style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Observer Food Monthly's "50 top foodie picks"</a> . Surely <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">that's all the excuse I need for a return trip to feed my addiction to Middle Eastern cooking?!</span><br>
</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-11930324307606693122013-03-25T21:08:00.000+00:002013-03-25T21:08:52.468+00:007 things for 7 days...#6<p>Continuing my regular series of blogposts recounting my favourite foodie moments plus other random musings from my past week...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/XDiFtGpxHu/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/ffdee92890e011e2b9c722000a9e07b7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1364245668221.7156" class="aligncenter" alt="Grilled lobster at Burger & Lobster in London" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>1. During the past fortnight I've been enjoying some much-needed downtime from work in an attempt to recover from the exhausting <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/7-things-for-7-days5.html">Eastleigh by-election campaign</a>. As you can see from my <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on instagram">Instagram</a> feed, it's basically been one massive "Eat Week", including trips to <a href="http://www.honeyandco.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Honey & Co">Honey & Co</a>, <a href="http://www.tonkotsu.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Tonkotsu ">Tonkontsu</a>, <a href="http://www.caravankingscross.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Caravan KX">Caravan King's Cross</a> and <a href="http://www.pix-bar.com/" target="_blank" title="Pix-Bar">Pix-Bar</a>...lucky me! </p>
<p>I've definitely polished off more than my fair share of delicious dishes, but I think the <em>plat de résistance </em>was this gigantic grilled lobster served with skinny fries, salad and a jug of garlic butter at <a href="http://www.burgerandlobster.com/" target="_blank" title="Burger & Lobster ">Burger & Lobster</a>. Next time I'm asking for one of their plastic bibs...</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>2. <a href="http://heartifb.com/2013/03/11/16-relatively-simple-tips-to-overcome-blogger-burnout/" target="_blank" title="16 ways to get super-excited about your blog again ">This article</a> sums up perfectly the mental battle I sometimes face when it comes to writing, and provides some useful suggestions for beating "blogger burnout"...does anyone else have any good tips for staying motivated?</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/XGFCBspxCa/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/e768e58491a711e2a1c022000a1fb718_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1364245668238.007" class="aligncenter" alt="Beef and chickpea koftes with Harissa tomato sauce " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>3. All this crazy winter weather we've been experiencing lately is making me crave sunshine, so I've channeling the Middle Eastern vibe with some <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days2.html" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days...#2">more home-cooking inspired by Ottolenghi's beautiful book Jerusalem</a>. My pot of <a href="http://www.tastespice.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Gourmet Soice Company">Gourmet Spice Company</a>'s Ras-el-Hanout has been getting a lot of action this week; the complex Moroccan blend literally translates from Arabic as "head of the shop", so its components can vary between sellers and it may contain as many as 30 different spices! Most versions include ground aromatics like cinnamon, cumin, coriander, cardamom, clove and chilli, so it's perfect for creating deeply scented dishes with an enduring kick of heat. </p>
<p>First up were these spiced <a href="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/d4cf1d2291a611e2963d22000a1f9cad_7.jpg" target="_blank" title="Beef and chickpea koftes ">beef and chickpea koftes</a>, which I served with a super-hot Harissa tomato sauce, sun-dried tomato couscous and roasted aubergines. Then I conjured up a tray of Moorish terracotta roasted vegetables, balancing spicy notes with sweeter tones by sprinkling over a handful of Ras-el-Hanout before cooking and drizzling on a dollop of <a href="http://myolivebranch.co.uk/products/olive-oil-jam" target="_blank" title="Olive Branch apricot jam ">Olive Branch's apricot jam</a> for the final few minutes in the oven.</p>
<p>So if you're looking for ways to recreate the radiance of the riad in your own kitchen, I can recommend these two simple suppers!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/XIsaN9pxLH/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/39078716927411e2a9ed22000a1fb773_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1364245668228.4553" class="aligncenter" alt="Sticky Ras-el-Hanout vegetables" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>4. These <a href="http://pohtpof.tumblr.com/">pictures of hipsters taking pictures of their food</a> really brightened up my week, especially <a href="http://pohtpof.tumblr.com/image/44992572950">this one</a>...I've been to some dinners like that!<br>
</p>
<p>5. I'm on the lookout for a new handbag; my faux Mulberrys are looking more battered than vintage these days and sadly a real Bayswater is way more than my meagre budget will allow. I've always been tempted by a "geek chic" satchel, but then I spotted this <a href="http://www.fossil.co.uk/en_GB/shop/women/categories/handbag_collections/austin_handbags/austin_tote-zb5597p.html?parent_category_rn=331133&departmentCategoryId=331097&beginIndex=0&pageSize=1000&pn=c&cm_vc=339084&imagePath=ZB5597385" target="_blank" title="Austin coral tote by Fossil">cute coral and cream tote from Fossil</a> with the same name as my boyfriend (Austin)...surely a sign that this is fate?!</p>
<p>6. Tonight I attended a fantastic food blogger event organised by <a href="http://www.edibleexperiences.com/" target="_blank" title="Edible Experiences ">Edible Experiences</a> and <a href="http://www.nuffnangx.com/" target="_blank" title="NuffnangX">NuffnangX</a>...is there any better way to survive Monday than with #wineNcanapes?! <a href="http://darjeeling-express.com/" target="_blank" title="Darjeeling Express">Asma Khan'</a>s Calcutta tasters were fantastic, so now I'm even more determined to book my seat at her pop-up lunch at The Cinnamon Club next month. The clever ladies from <a href="http://www.agrapenightin.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="A Grape Night In ">A Grape Night In</a> took us on a wonderful spice route with their innovative wine pairings - I'll definitely be <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on twitter ">tweeting</a> them next time I need tips for which tipple to match with my dinner menu!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/WpFDF6pxH9/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/4c9d2bfa88ce11e29a5722000a9f3079_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1364245668267.4216" class="aligncenter" alt="#littlecat and KitchenAid " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>7. Annoyingly I haven't yet had time to bake anything with <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/kitchenaid-mixer-to-beat-this-bad-baker.html?m=1">my new Ice Blue KitchenAid mixer</a>, but luckily this is a toy that all our household can enjoy...</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-14366514097035363432013-03-17T15:48:00.000+00:002013-03-17T15:48:24.438+00:00Pho frenzy - putting a personal twist on Vietnam's national dish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsKlAOJxEI/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/6cb248b6763711e2adfe22000a1fbd6c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116486.6287" class="aligncenter" alt="Spicy Pho Tai Chin" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>You know that I love eating comforting rich meals like <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/the-factory-house-supperclub-seasonal.html" target="_blank" title="Factory House supperclub">hearty casseroles and crumbles</a> as much as (ok, maybe even more than!) the next person. But I'm keen to make sure that I offset this decadence with a lot of clean living too. The healthy Vietnamese noodle soup at the forefront of <a href="http://www.phocafe.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Pho restaurant">Pho</a>'s menu has always appealed to my inner fitness fan, so it was a serious bit of luck on my part when I was invited along to their Spitalfields branch to test out the menu for free.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>The timing was less fortunate however; no sooner had I set a date for my Pho frenzy when I was summoned to Eastleigh to run the media visits programme for the Liberal Democrats' (victorious) by-election campaign. My arteries and I were grateful for the much-needed break from the inevitable <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/7-things-for-7-days5.html" target="_blank" title="#byelectiondiet">#byelectiondiet of greasy desk-based takeaways</a>, but my extended stint electioneering means I'm only able to share this review now that life's settling back to normal. I really hope the generous people at Pho don't think that I nicked their noodles for no good reason!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsG_n1JxP_/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/0cac6bda763311e2ab6722000a1fb853_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116469.1653" class="aligncenter" alt="Blossoming flower teas at Pho" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>I knew that my friend Jamie from <a href="http://peanutbutterandjblog.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Peanut Butter and J">Peanut Butter and J</a> would be the perfect plus-one for my trip to Pho; she's a proper Bikram yoga bunny and so stylish that she was on trend before anyone had even heard of Shoreditch, so I knew that Vietnamese street food would be right up her alley.</p>
<p>We met on a seemingly freezing February night (little did we know it would still be snowing in March?!), and decided to forgo the appetising array of freshly squeezed juices in favour of a duo of beautiful blossoming flower teas. My Yulan tea was the ideal balance between strength and fragrance, and as someone who has a bad habit of downing their drinks in one go, I was particularly grateful for the unlimited refills.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsH_BnpxBD/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/42424b6a763411e295bf22000a9f390a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116470.161" class="aligncenter" alt="Goi cuon Tom summer rolls at Pho" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Our meal began with a plate of those addictive prawn crackers, and a portion of the <em>Gui C</em><em>uon T</em><em>om - s</em>ummer rolls with prawns and fresh herbs. Normally I'd skip the starters to leave space for dessert, but these rolls were so light and refreshing that we didn't need to worry. Our waitress kindly let us try both the peanut sauce and the <em>nuoc cham </em>(which appeared to be a spicier version of the classic fish sauce) to see which we preferred; the rich peanut lacquer won hands down. </p>
<p>My mouth was also watering imagining the <em>Banh Xeo Tom Ga -</em> a traditional Vietnamese crepe filled with prawns, chicken and beansprouts - so I'm definitely trying that another time!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsKCoTJxDV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/c4db4232763611e2af9822000a1f9331_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116439.4602" class="aligncenter" alt="Pho's beef steak and brisket noodle soup " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>As this was my first trip to <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/PhoRestaurant">Pho</a>, it seemed only right that I try the restaurant's namesake for my main course. There was <a href="http://www.phocafe.co.uk/files/menus/eatin_spitalfields.pdf" target="_blank" title="Pho Spitalfields' menu">a huge variety of "fuh"</a> to tempt me, but eventually I settled on the <em>Pho Tai Chin - </em>thinly sliced beef steak, brisket, rice noodles and spring onions, served in a beef stock that is authentically cooked from scratch for up to 12 hours. </p>
<p>The giant noodle soup placed in front of me looked so restorative that I couldn't help but dive in immediately, and I was struck by the subtly of the broth's flavour. To be honest I had expected the chunks of beef brisket to be slightly thicker to contrast with the steak, but there was so much meat hidden in the depths of the bowl that this didn't matter.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsKSd_JxDp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/1231adaa763711e2948222000a1f9307_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116503.655" class="aligncenter" alt="Aromatics for pho noodle soup " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>You are invited to put your own personal twist on Vietnam's national dish by incorporating any mixture of herbs from the impressive aromatic garnish that is served alongside the noodle; there were so many unknown leaves to choose from that I felt like an instruction manual would have come in handy! </p>
<p>My pho became turbo-charged as I experimented with the chillies and the collection of spicy condiments on offer at the table, blowing away the byelection cobwebs and giving my metabolism a boost.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsJFy8JxCK/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/9bcca8e6763511e29a3e22000a1f90ce_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116434.0847" class="aligncenter" alt="Bun noodles with pork meatballs and vegetable spring roll at Pho " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Jamie opted for the <em>Bun Cha Goi Nem Nuong </em>- cold vermicelli rice noodles with pork and lemongrass meatballs, which was served with a fried vegetable spring roll, a sprinkling of peanuts, and more <em>nuoc cham</em> sauce. Whilst my pho was absolutely delicious, I couldn't help feeling a pang of <em>#foodenvy</em> when this was brought out, so I'm keen to experience one of the many bun noodle dishes for myself on my next visit.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsKwX2JxEY/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/a43539d8763711e2a19522000a9f126b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116424.6128" class="aligncenter" alt="Morning glory at Pho " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The waitress recommended that we order a side of <em>Rau Muong Xao Lai - </em>stir fried morning glory with garlic. We were so glad that we followed her advice, as we both agreed this was probably the best vegetable we had ever eaten!</p>
<p>The water spinach was just on the right side of tender, and no matter how hard we tried we couldn't put our finger on what made the garlic sauce so indescribably delicious. Long after we had finished our noodles we were still dunking our chopsticks into the garlicky liquor with its deep, sweet umami notes - it's just as well my boyfriend wasn't home to suffer my breath afterwards!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsLBlmJxEp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/f843ae2e763711e286b422000a9d0dd8_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116440.3467" class="aligncenter" alt="Pandan pancake with icecream at Pho" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Given that our dinner at Pho coincided with <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/london-best-pancakes-rich-treat-for.html" target="_blank" title="London's best pancakes">Shrove Tuesday</a>, there was only one acceptable option for dessert - a pair of Pandan pancakes, filled with roasted coconut and served with icecream. </p>
<p>Icecream flavours are a serious business for me, so I was completely torn on which would taste better with my pancake; Honey and Ginger, or Coconut?! Thankfully our kind (and by this point, very patient!) waitress came to the rescue yet again, allowing us to each try a scoop of both versions. We were totally blown away by the quality of the icecreams (supplied by <a href="http://www.lamaisondessorbets.com/" target="_blank" title="La Maison des Sorbets">La Maison des Sorbets</a>), and licked our plates clean! Despite loving the tropical coconut with its specks of crunchy nutty flesh, we were mesmirised by the outstanding combination of spicy crystallised ginger and sweet honeyed cream.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Vs-mYCpxJL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/ed656238767611e2b44322000a1f92df_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116434.0356" class="aligncenter" alt="Coconut filling in Pho's pandan pancake " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>A green pancake might not appeal to the eyes, but the rest of my senses were delighted. The pandan flavour itself was very mild and seemed to be masked by the sweet coconut filling; the whole pudding was entirely appetising though, and an attractive Asian alternative to Shrove Tuesday's standard lemon and sugar crepe.</p>
<p>My sweet tooth had also been crying out to try the <em>Chuoi Chien</em> - banana fritters - which I believe have received rave reviews from other diners. So by the end of the evening I knew that it wouldn't be long before I returned to Pho; the quality of our food and the service had been fantastic, and let's face it, I had basically already chosen my next three-course meal from their extensive Vietnamese menu!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsFr-sJxOR/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/74403080763111e2987422000a9e08f2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1363535116514.962" class="aligncenter" alt="Pho Spitalfield" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-31131887863387148422013-03-05T00:08:00.000+00:002013-03-05T00:08:07.752+00:00KitchenAid mixer to beat this bad baker into shape!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WcSye1pxAo/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/72820bd284e711e2bf5922000a1f8cdc_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1362442005279.6824" class="aligncenter" alt="Ice Blue KitchenAid mixer" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Check out the latest addition to my culinary collection, an Ice Blue KitchenAid mixer...isn't it beautiful?! </p>
<p>To be honest I still can't quite believe this gorgeous mixer is mine...every time it catches my eye from across the worktop, my heart skips a beat and my stomach fills with butterflies...it's definitely love at first sight!</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>It's no secret that <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/best-low-fat-blueberry-muffins-made-by.html">I've never been any good at baking</a>; preferring so far to stick to the safety of savoury cooking, where technical errors can be masked by bold flavours. </p>
<p>They say a bad workman blames his tools, and whilst I'm grateful to my boyfriend for having previously performed the role of my personal egg-white whisker, I have felt for a long time that a more heavy-duty helping hand was required to boost my baking skills.</p>
<p>No doubt my man isn't the only one who's relieved that I've finally taken the plunge and bought my own mixer...<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days1.html" target="_blank" title="">I've been drooling over these KitchenAids for so long that my friends and family were becoming fed up</a> of listening to my mental anguish over which colour would look best in my little London flat. But deep down, my heart was always set on one colour: Ice Blue...the same shade as my bedroom walls when I was a teenager!</p>
<p>Clearly a piece of kit as stunning as this deserves to take pride of place on display in the kitchen. So now that I'm the proud owner of the mixer of any food-loving girl's dreams, only one important question remains...what should I bake first?!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/WcTAijJxAy/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/b726063a84e711e2bbed22000a9e28b0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1362442005336.0083" class="aligncenter" alt="Joy the Baker's cookbook and an Ice blue KitchenAid" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Skimming through the recipes in my <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/english-afternoon-tea-with-joy-baker.html">signed copy of Joy the Baker's cookbook</a>, I instinctly feel that whatever I bake should have some form of sweet topping...</p>
<p>...perhaps the quintessentially American <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2009/09/my-favorite-red-velvet-cupcakes/" target="_blank" title="">red velvet cupcakes with cinnamon cream cheese frosting</a>? </p>
<p>...or a chance to experiment with layers, in <a href="http://www.portuguesegirlcooks.com/2012/10/banana-chocolate-cake-with-cream-cheese-dulce-de-leche-frosting/" target="_blank" title="">Portuguese Girl Jessica's banana chocolate cake with dulce de leche frosting</a>? </p>
<p>...or I could convince myself that cakes aren't that unhealthy really...surely a slice of <a href="http://www.shutterbean.com/2010/carrot-pineapple-bundt-cake-sour-cream-frosting/" target="_blank" title="">Shutterbean's carrot and pineapple bundt with sour cream frosting</a> counts as two fruit and veg portions from my five-a-day?!</p>
<p>The verdict on <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter">Twitter</a> was that I should whip up a gigantic fluffy pavlova...whilst <a href="http://twitter.com/joythebaker" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker on Twitter">Joy</a> herself suggested that I roll out a batch of chocolate chip cookies. However, I think I might have stumbled across the ideal recipe that combines all of these delicious flavours and textures, and definitely looks worth a try...Joy's <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2011/05/chocolate-peanut-butter-cookie-dough-toasted-marshmallow-cupcakes/" target="_blank" title="">chocolate, peanut butter cookie, toasted marshmallow cupcakes</a>!</p>
<p>Watch this space (and my <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_blank" title="">Instagram</a> feed) to see how long it takes for me to get to grips with the KitchenAid mixer's magical powers...let's hope this bad baker is beaten into shape soon!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-30908516787264622292013-02-22T08:48:00.000+00:002013-02-22T08:48:46.629+00:007 things for 7 days...#5<p>Apologies for the lack of blogposts over the past couple of weeks - if you follow me on <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk">Twitter</a>, you'll know that I'm currently busy campaigning with the Liberal Democrats in the Eastleigh parliamentary by-election. Normal service will be resumed here shortly, but in the meantime I hope you'll enjoy this flashback of my favourite foodie moments and other random musings from my past week...</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/V1vRXOpxKb/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/574b0064792311e2a7d422000a9e0846_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855571.3738" class="aligncenter" alt="Tamarind duck at Tanoshii Fusion" width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>1. Way back in the mists of time when I first started this blog I lived in Winchester. One of my top places to entertain any visiting friends and relatives was a pan-Asian restaurant called <a href="http://www.tanoshiifusion.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Tanoshii Fusion">Tanoshii Fusion</a>, which my boyfriend and I returned to late last Friday for a romantic dinner after a disastrous Valentine's Day (don't ask!). Their tender roasted duck with a sticky tamarind sauce was the stand-out dish of the night, but everything we ordered was as skilfully cooked and beautifully presented as I'd remembered (see my <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram">Instagram</a> for more). The complimentary plate of icecreams to share was the ideal end to our delicious meal, especially as it included my favourite flavour of rich honeycomb and dark chocolate.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>2. I try to avoid talking about politics on this blog, but I just wanted to share with you <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-21488599" target="_blank" title="Nick Clegg upbeat on Eastleigh campaign visit ">this video</a> from a media visit that I organised last Saturday. Having worked in Hampshire at the 2010 General Election, it's been great to catch up with so many friends during this by-election campaign, plus meet hundreds of other activists who've travelled from right across the country to join us. Everyone's commitment and energy is so inspiring!</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/V1itI5pxIx/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/006ab190791411e2b07922000a1fbd9b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855523.8965" class="aligncenter" alt="Graze box granola and raspberries " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>3. There's a risk that all of your regular eating habits can be thrown out the window during a by-election campaign, when there's a huge temptation to keep up your energy during the long days by munching on mounds of biscuits, and no chance to cook a real meal when you finally finish for the night. To avoid scurvy and keep the #byelection diet in check I'm filling up on healthy fruit and light lunches like this mixture of <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Have+you+seen+graze.com%3F+You+can+get+a+free+box+with+my+feed+your+friends+code%3A+FHQ6RRXT&via=grazedotcom" target="_blank" title="Free Graze box ">Graze</a> cranberry granola and fat-free yoghurt...</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Vz1vt1JxK8/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/fe7fb464788e11e2a61722000a1f9d6d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855508.8643" class="aligncenter" alt="Fish and chip supper " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>...in order to balance out the greasy late evening takeaways such as this mountainous fish and chip supper! Thankfully I've still managed to fit in some early-morning runs as a substitute for my usual gym sessions, clocking up around 37k in 10 days and still counting...let's see if I can total up to a marathon by Polling Day!</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VsLBlmJxEp/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/f843ae2e763711e286b422000a9d0dd8_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855503.3198" class="aligncenter" alt="Pandan pancakes at Pho " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>4. Hopefully your <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/london-best-pancakes-rich-treat-for.html?m=1">Pancake Day</a> was flipping good?! Mine involved a brand new experience...bright green Pandan pancakes, courtesy of the kind people at <a href="http://www.phocafe.co.uk/locations/spitalfields" target="_blank" title="Pho - Spitalfields ">Pho</a>! My trip to their Spitalfields branch for a dinner review was perfectly timed to coincide with Shrove Tuesday, so there was only one acceptable choice for dessert. I couldn't get enough of the crepe's sweet desiccated coconut filling, and instantly fell in love with their creamy honey icecream with chunks of spicy crystallised ginger. Keep your eyes peeled for my full article once I'm properly back in action soon!</p>
<p>5. If only I could afford to own more of the items on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/Katy_Riddle/fabulous-fashion/" target="_blank" title="Katy Riddle on Pinterest">Fabulous Fashion Pinterest board</a>, then I would look really cool...</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Vhn2bEJxGA/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/c83ff09272ff11e2a42522000a1f96b3_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855506.2668" class="aligncenter" alt="Butternut squash and bacon risotto " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>6. Most weeks this slot in "7 things for 7 days" is reserved for the hottest new recommendations on London's restaurant scene, and other exceptional culinary experiences that I have my eye on. But right now all I long for is to get back into the kitchen of my little flat and do some proper cooking! For me there are few things more therapeutic than <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/resorting-to-risotto.html">stirring a deep pan of risotto</a>, so this rich butternut squash, sage and smoked bacon version is top of my home-cooking hit list.</p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/V3Q9DkJxEt/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/9521f9d4799a11e2a9cf22000aaa0a6f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1361522855517.2756" class="aligncenter" alt="#littlecat blocking exit to #littleflat " width="500" height="500"></a></p>
<p>7. Fans of<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html?m=0"> #littlecat</a> need not panic - he is being very well-looked after by a kind friend whilst we are busy electioneering. Needless to say my man and I miss his big eyes and crazy antics dreadfully, so we'll be sure to give him tonnes of extra love and TLC when we return home. If he has his way, we won't be leaving again for a while!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-52979690876316325082013-02-09T17:44:00.000+00:002013-02-09T17:44:22.726+00:00London's best pancakes - a rich treat for Shrove Tuesday or any time of year <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UqsaaWJxG0/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/79fa903c623c11e2952122000a1fbf2e_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1360431782951.6538" class="aligncenter" alt="The Riding House Cafe pancakes" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Shrove Tuesday is just a few days away, so food bloggers across Britain are currently racing to toss their recipe for the perfect pancakes to the top of the stack.</p>
<p>Personally, I'm a sucker for pancakes at any time of year. In fact, they were the subject of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/pancake-perfection.html" target="_blank" title="Camden Bar's pancakes">my first ever post</a>...which I confess was far shorter and sweeter than those you're now accustomed to reading here! </p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Whether as a poorly little girl who needed soothing from her sickbed, or as a fully-grown lady celebrating the weekend's arrival over brunch with friends, I've always seen eating pancakes as a treat.</p>
<p>But the ironic truth is that I'm flipping terrible at making these myself (sorry, as if I could write an entire post about pancakes without using that pun!). No matter how many appetising images I store on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/Katy_Riddle/pancake-perfection/" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Pinterest">Pancake Perfection Pinterest board</a>, my own skills somehow don't seem to improve...</p>
<p>So rather than pretend to be the queen of homemade crepes, I decided to share with you 3 of my favourite places to order pancakes in London:</p>
<p><strong><u><a href="http://www.thebreakfastclubcafes.com/" target="_blank" title="The Breakfast Club cafe">The Breakfast Club</a></u> - branches in North, East and Central London</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/OMeiKRJxEE/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/c8cfe0e6e3d311e18a411231381420b4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1360431782960.8362" class="aligncentre" alt="The Breakfast Club sweet pancakes " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The Breakfast Club's short-stacks are more all-American than a cheerleader; a huge pile of thick and fluffy batter patties, topped with your choice from <a href="http://www.thebreakfastclubcafes.com/brunch/">a range of sweet and savoury fillings</a>. </p>
<p>I was forced to <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/brunching-at-breakfast-club.html" target="_blank" title="Brunching at The Breakfast Club">branch out from my standard order on my first brunch trip here</a>, but I eagerly succumbed to this immense combination of whipped vanilla cream and berries on my second visit.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.ridinghousecafe.co.uk" target="_blank" title="The Riding House Cafe">The Riding House Cafe</a> - Central London</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UqsaPmJxGz/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/79291304623c11e2974222000a1fbdac_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1360431782915.1902" class="aligncenter" alt="The Riding House Cafe buttermilk pancakes and juice" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Shrove Tuesday was first introduced as a method for using up rich fresh ingredients in preparation for Lent's fasting; The Riding House Cafe's giant golden discs would certainly be a seriously decadent final breakfast, as they are made with buttermilk and topped with a generous dollop of vanilla clotted cream! </p>
<p>The best way to ensure this is the ideal balanced breakfast is by cutting through all of that sweetness with a refreshing juice...fearing the <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days3.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #3">imminent onset of a cold</a> during my recent visit, I chose the vibrant flu-busting mix of carrot, apple and ginger.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.thebrickbox.co.uk/brixton-village-market.html" target="_blank" title="The Brick Box at Brixton Village ">The Brick Box (Senzala Creperie)</a> - South London</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Ixa3xjJxPG/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/f059da8a79e911e18bb812313804a181_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1360431782946.8176" class="aligncenter" alt="The Brick Box's sweet sin crepe " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Practically all of my evening trips to <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/brixton-village-hunting-out-hidden-food.html"></a><a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/brixton-village-hunting-out-hidden-food.html">Brixton Village</a> finish with dessert at The Brick Box, so it's little surprise that this creperie featured a couple of times on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html"></a><a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html">#Project366</a>. It's usually a toss-up between this "Sweet Sin" (from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/project366-week-13.html">day #89</a>) stuffed with caramelised bananas or a virgin version of their "Coco Loco" packed with dedicated coconut, both of which are delicious. </p>
<p>My boyfriend and I always argue over which of their luxurious molten Belgian chocolate fillings is best; he opts for the sickly sweet white buttons whereas I'm adamant that the bitter dark chunks are superior...but we inevitably both leave with our faces smeared in our preferred sticky chocolately sauce!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/LsuNfbJxBO/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/ebe240a2b31211e1abb01231382049c1_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1360431782964.683" class="aligncenter" alt="The Brick Box's Goat galette " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>If you don't suffer from my seriously sweet tooth, I'd recommend trying The Brick Box's buckwheat galettes. By now you'll have realised that I'm a creature of habit; <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/project366-week-24.html">day #162</a> was one of many times that I've ordered the "Goat" galette bursting with olives, sundried tomatoes, caramelised onions, fresh spinach and melted goats cheese.</p>
<p>Needless to say this is in no way a definitive list of London's best pancake producers. Indeed, if you can recommend any other eateries that serve up superb pancake platters in the capital please add a comment to this post or <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">tweet me</a>, so that I can test them out for myself. Happy Pancake Day!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-36821455646606966092013-02-03T13:50:00.001+00:002013-02-03T16:27:22.855+00:007 things for 7 days...#4<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">Reflecting on my favourite foodie moments from the past week, plus an exciting announcement...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U9ovaDpxP1/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/5e7f2890680411e2ad9722000a9e2977_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359908478736.4543" class="aligncenter" alt="Fennel, olive and sausage couscous" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 1. Sometimes the most surprisingly impressive meals are the unplanned ones that you concoct in the pan relying merely on your instincts. Last weekend I returned from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/two-trips-to-brockley-market.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Brockley Market in South East London ">Brockley Market</a> with a bulb of aromatic fennel and a punnet of <a href="http://myolivebranch.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Olive Branch olive oil products">Olive Branch's</a> juicy fruits mixed with garlic and rosemary, which I felt certain could be combined to create a dish epitomising the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine. </p>
<p>Sure enough, when fried together with rich sausagemeat and a little lemon juice, these ingredients united to produce a perfect balance of flavours, which were soaked up by fluffy couscous. I've promised to write these notes up properly for <a href="http://myolivebranch.co.uk/get-involved/recipes" target="_blank" title="Olive Branch's Recipe Tree">Olive Branch's Recipe Tree</a> soon, so keep your eyes peeled for the full recipe.</p>
<a name='more'></a>2. Congratulations to <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/joythebaker" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker on Twitter">Joy the Baker</a>, whose fantastic <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2013/01/year-five/" target="_blank" title="Joy the Baker - year 5">blog turned 5 this week</a>! Joy's site is a constant source of inspiration for me, not simply in terms of appetising recipes but also for guidance on how to produce articles that are both informative and entertaining. Each week Joy and her maj Tracy (aka <a href="http://www.shutterbean.com/" target="_blank" title="Shutterbean">Shutterbean</a>) make my gym workouts more enjoyable with their hilarious "real talk" podcasts, and I still can't believe that I was lucky enough to <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/english-afternoon-tea-with-joy-baker.html?m=1">meet Joy in person</a> when she visited London last year. So thank you Joy, for encouraging us budding food writers to keep going, and I look forward to the next five years!
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VH2LCWpxLI/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/03e21f026b2211e2ac3122000a1fb77a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359908478787.6973" class="aligncenter" alt="Powerfood protection with broccoli, prawns, avocado and tomato" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>3. Having finally recovered from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days3.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #3">my cold</a>, I've been filling my plate with turbo charged "<a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/power-foods-1-spicy-prawn-stir-frystir.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Power food stir fry">power foods</a>" this week. Whenever I tuck into a bowl of vibrant vegetables like this I always feel better, but this hunch is now backed up by the latest scientific research. Prawns are said to improve your mood; ginger, tomato and chilli all boost immunity; and creamy avocados tick both of these health boxes plus increase fat burn as well. Broccoli also keeps you trim whilst fending off the flu, and light quinoa ensures you're feeling happy as well as full once you've polished off this bowl of goodies.</p>
<p>4. And now for the exciting announcement...my boyfriend has spent the past year developing a series of music tuition apps for the iPad in his spare time, and the first of these is now available to download! <a href="https://itun.es/gb/ZrPJJ.i" target="_blank" title="Rhythm and Fills by Mike Dolbear">Rhythm and Fills with Mike Dolbear</a> is the definite app for aspiring and experienced drummers, and also includes exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Mike coordinating the spectacular 1000-drummer performance from the control room at London's 2012 Olympics opening ceremony. I'm so proud of my man for this awesome achievement; as if I needed any more proof that he's a total superstar genius!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VM4t-pJxHm/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/bf8227d66cab11e2999e22000a1f8afc_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359908478697.9465" class="aligncenter" alt="Gourmet Burger Kitchen's Oreo cookie milkshake" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>5. Whenever we visit <a href="http://www.gbkapp.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Gourmet Burger Kitchen">Gourmet Burger Kitchen</a> I covet my boyfriend's milkshake order, but never order my own for fear of its calorific content. But I had a TGI Friday moment and decided to treat myself to the Oreo shake before our date night at the movies. Crunchy bitter chocolate biscuit had been blitzed with thick ice-cream into a freezing luxurious elixir that was a halfway house between a drink and a dessert...needless to say that popcorn wasn't required for the movie that evening!</p>
<p>6. The Hairy Bikers are back (and still looking much slimmer), advising us all on how to conjure up <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/programmes/b01qkkjj" target="_blank" title="Hairy Bikers Everyday Gourmet">exquisite restaurant-quality dishes in our own kitchens</a>. For me the highlight of the first episode was their trip to two-Michelin starred pub the <a href="http://www.thehandandflowers.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Hand and Flowers pub ">Hand and Flowers</a> in Marlow, where culinary giant Tom Kerridge taught them how to whip up a spicy cauliflower soup and a tender pork belly roast. Watching Tom whipping up a storm here reminded me of his <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/most-memorable-meal-of-2012-tom.html?m=1">outstanding 6 course tasting menu at The Cube</a>, and made me even more eager to experience his hearty dishes again in the future! I'm also setting my TiVo to record Tom's top tips for the best roast on BBC2's new reincarnation of the classic magazine show <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01qm5n1" target="_blank" title="Food and Drink on BBC 2">Food and Drink</a> this Tuesday.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VH4ZYjpxNe/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/baf54a006b2411e2945c22000a1fb1eb_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359908478726.1028" class="aligncenter" alt="Sad eyes from #littlecat" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>7. Poor <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html?m=0">#littlecat</a> appears to be carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders here! You wouldn't believe from looking at this photograph that he's really the boss of our little flat...</p>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-24719283171005438292013-01-30T01:04:00.000+00:002013-01-30T01:04:57.963+00:00The Factory House supperclub - seasonal British fare to share <div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo4zSFJxPG/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/596af46661af11e29d6822000a9e0849_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693346.4373" class="aligncenter" alt="The Factory House supperclub main course" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Since moving to London I'd dined at a series of supperclubs showcasing a whole host of exotic cuisines - ranging from a <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/sensational-fiesta-at-flavours-of-spain.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Flavous of Spain supperclub">fiesta of Spanish flavours</a>, to a <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/project366-week-15.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Day #104 of #Project366">mouthwatering Mauritian medley</a>, and a <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/project366-week-51.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Day #353 of #Project366">treasure trove of Persian delights</a>. But so far I'd never been served sharing portions of traditional British cooking, so I was attracted to the seasonal fare on offer at <a href="http://www.thefactoryhouse.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank" title="The Factory House">The Factory House</a>'s inaugural supperclub.</p>
<a name='more'></a><p>Somewhat ironically, the other key concept that appealed to me about this event was the fact that this supperclub was actually being held in a restaurant, with bookings taken for groups of four people. Dining in someone else's home can be a daunting experience (no matter how welcoming they are) and especially when you feel obliged to share your meal with a handful of strangers (albeit fellow food-lovers). So in my view The Factory House's Thursday night set menu is ideal for anyone wishing to take their first foray into the world of supperclubs. </p>
<p>Astonishingly, through the magic of <a href="http://twitter.com/Feelgd_Foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter">Twitter</a> I was offered a free table at this event; I swear these things never used to happen to me in the dark days before social media! My prize consisted of a three course supper for four people (my guests were the talented duo behind <a href="http://digestmag.com/" target="_blank" title="Digest magazine">Digest magazine</a> and my ever-patient boyfriend), plus a bottle of rich and fruity 2009 Chateau des Roques Vacqueyras from the Rhone Valley. Altogether this deal would normally cost £100 per table, and considering the quality of the food we enjoyed and the relaxed restaurant setting I think that £25 per person is an absolute steal. </p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo3QntpxNO/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/77aa8ad861ad11e2aeb222000a1f9e7e_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693284.9426" class="aligncenter" alt="British charcuterie platter at the Factory House" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>To start we were presented with a generous platter of English charcuterie, including air dried ham from Oxsprings farm in Suffolk, British 'chorizo' and fennel salami from Lanes farm in Suffolk, salt and pepper salami from Islington, and chewy British pork beer sticks with cayenne and chilli. All of my party were impressed that this flavoursome meat had been sourced from the British Isles, and found it impossible to resist nibbling on the moreish slivers.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo4FabpxOJ/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/7971fa8a61ae11e2aaa822000a1fb0dd_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693341.1787" class="aligncenter" alt="Artisan bread and butter at The Factory House" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Hunks of soft artisan bread and salty butter were offered in addition to the meat platter, just in case any of us fancied knocking up a gourmet sarnie!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo5w37JxAT/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/86248dcc61b011e2ba8122000a1f9262_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693317.1917" class="aligncenter" alt="Venison casserole at The Factory House supperclub" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">As I mentioned in </span><a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days2.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days #2" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">last week's "7 things for 7 days" post</a><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">, the main course of venison casserole was the perfect preparation for the impending snowstorm. This was ideal for sharing and just the sort of comfort food that I like to order when out to dinner; all the joy of home-cooking without any of the hassle (or the washing up!).</span><br>
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo7Dw1pxB6/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/1ae3c3dc61b211e2b44322000a1f92df_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693305.7812" class="aligncenter" alt="The Factory House's venison casserole" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The venison shin and leg had been slow-cooked for 5 hours so that it shredded from our forks and practically melted in the mouth. Carrots, celery, thyme, garlic, red wine and venison stock had all been added to the pot and reduced down to a luxurious gravy, which was permeated by the meat's umami essence and I could feel enveloping me like a warm blanket as I eagerly tucked in.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo6Yg8pxBA/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/47b778b461b111e2b22122000a9f12bd_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693354.1362" class="alignnone" alt="Mashed potato and creamed cabbage at The Factory House" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Providing a wonderful contrast to the hearty venison stew were sides dishes of mashed potato and creamed cabbage. The potatoes had clearly been crushed exceptionally well, as their consistency was completely smooth and fluffy.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo5H85JxPe/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/be565a8261af11e2b74c22000a9f1427_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693289.997" class="alignnone" alt="Creamy cabbage at The Factory House" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The sides were brought to the table in pairs of cute oven-proof pots. The portions were ample enough for two people, though I was so enamoured by this creamy cabbage with subtle scents of nutmeg that the only thing preventing me from eating the entire dish was my desire to save some stomach space for dessert!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo7damJxCW/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/9825276e61b211e2ad1322000a9e28e6_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693386.207" class="alignnone" alt="Pear and apple crumble at The Factory House supperclub" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">A warming winter meal like this one required a proper pudding for the finale, and I can think of no better choice for a cold night than a classic pear and apple crumble. This </span><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">was an extra treat for us as crumble is my boyfriend's favourite dessert, and I appreciated the inclusion of sweet seasonal pears as I normally opt for a mixture of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/heartwarming-apple-and-blackberry.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Apple and blackberry crumble recipe ">sharp apples and juicy berries</a>. </span></p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo8AW0pxC4/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/42c0e8de61b311e29d4222000a9e0706_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359507693359.3481" class="alignnone" alt="Bowlful of The Factory House's pear and apple crumble " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Personally I felt that the apples could have been diced slightly smaller, but the different textures in the filling were pleasant and the oaty topping was delightfully crunchy and caramelised. However, the pièce de résistance in this dish was the accompanying jug of vanilla-flecked crème anglaise, which was so heavenly that I continued to pour myself little spoonfuls of the luscious liquor when we were all incapable of eating any more crumble.</p>
<p>We were the last group of diners to leave The Factory House that evening, which is testament to what a fantastic night we all had. I'd gladly book a table at this supperclub for another Thursday night in future, and am keeping my eyes peeled to see what other British fare is due to be served up sharing-style as the seasons change!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-27092995646091221432013-01-28T08:21:00.000+00:002013-01-28T08:21:44.427+00:007 things for 7 days...#3<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">A collection of favourite moments and random musings from the past week...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uwpl_kpxLE/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/c9082b76640d11e2a97322000a1fb158_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359361125568.185" class="aligncenter" alt="Spicy prawn and noodle broth" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p> 1. I've been suffering from one of those colds that the term "rotten" was created for. Fuzzy head, aching muscles, sore throat and snuffly nose; I felt so lethargic this week that I couldn't even drag myself to the gym (a sure sign that I was really sick!). </p>
<p>In an attempt to KO the flu I bubbled up a vat of this spicy broth packed with prawns, noodles and healthy vegetables - yet another <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/7-things-for-7-days1.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="7 things for 7 days...#1">recipe adapted from Jamie Oliver's 15 Minute Meals.</a> The sour liquor with its chilli kick made a refreshing change from the rich and creamy coconut milk soups I normally make, and went a long way to speeding up my recovery.</p>
<a name='more'></a>2. Food styling has become a source of increasing fascination for me ever since I undertook the <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html?m=1">#Project366</a> challenge last year. I'm constantly trying to improve my own photographic skills, and feel very inspired (and hungry!) by this run-down of <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/rachelysanders/50-best-food-blog-photos-of-2012" target="_blank" title="50 Best Food Blog Photos of 2012">BuzzFeed's 50 Best Food Blog Photos of 2012</a>. It's impossible for me to choose a favourite image from that list...which one do you like the most?
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U7FrRypxK3/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/50d5416a673d11e29c6622000a1f9e4a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359361125613.0913" class="aligncenter" alt="KitKat chunky coconut " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>3. Have you seen all the crazy flavoured Chunky Kit-Kats on sale at the moment? Curiosity got the better of me when I spotted this coconut version whilst waiting for a train and I couldn't resist taking a bite. I'd been fantasising about a thick layer of decadent coconut cream, but sadly the only thing that was thick about this bar was the totally overpowering super-sweet milk chocolate around the wafer's edge. This appeared to be the consensus on <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_self" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram">Instagram</a> aswell...I'm tempted to try their peanut butter bar, but this is probably a lesson that I should just stick to my preferred dark chocolate!</p>
<p>4. There was one fantastic moment to brighten up this week from my sniffly self-pity...the wonderfully warm-hearted and super-talented chef <a href="http://twitter.com/thomasinamiers" target="_blank" title="Thomasina Miers on Twitter ">Thomasina Miers</a> commented on my blogpost about her <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/mexican-street-feasting-at-wahaca.html?m=0">Mexican market diner Wahaca</a>!! Their spicy street food and luxurious tomato soup is the perfect remedy for feverish colds, so I think that's a good-enough excuse for yet another visit?!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QwsXU8pxKL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/2aeb3f6015f111e2b2fe12313810124d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359361125657.7092" class="aligncenter" alt="Purple Hunter welly boots" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>5. During the recent snow flurries I've been so grateful for my vibrant Hunter welly boots, which my boyfriend bought me for my birthday in May (talk about forward-planning...!). But everyone I meet tells me that I now need welly socks to keep my toes toasty, and after a few days walking around on tiny blocks of ice I'm inclined to agree! I'm hoping the wintery weather will thaw out soon, but in the meantime I'm adding these <a href="http://www.hunter-boot.com/new-chunky-cable-cuff-welly-socks/soft-grey" target="_blank" title="Hunter Boots welly socks ">grey chunky cable cuffs</a> to my wish list.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U8xE0opxI1/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/6b0f835a67c011e2a47b22000a1f99e6_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359361125650.3552" class="aligncenter" alt="Mike and Ollie wrap " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>6. By Saturday I couldn't mope around any longer, so I powered through a 5k treadmill run (easier than tackling the icy paths at Crystal Palace park) then treated myself to one of these immense <a href="http://mikeandollie.co.uk/">Mike and Ollie</a> wraps from <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/two-trips-to-brockley-market.html?m=1">Brockley Market</a>. I'm seriously obsessed with their fluffy handmade Lebanese flatbreads filled with healthy humous, seeds, and coriander - on this occasion I swapped <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/project366-week-12.html?m=1">my usual mackerel orde</a>r for tender cinnamon-scented butternut squash and sharp blood orange. I can't wait to tuck in to more of their seasonal fare at their supperclub next month...keep your eyes peeled for photos!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U-5DO7pxH3/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/674d6600686611e2a58122000a9d0ed5_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359361125643.2942" class="alignnone" alt="#littlecat on the bed " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>7. Needless to say the one member of our #littleflat family who is *not* a fan of snow is <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html?m=1"></a>#littlecat...he's spent most of the week keeping warm on the bed or <a href="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/6aca144a686b11e290d522000a1fb852_7.jpg" target="_blank" title="#littlecat in the cupboard">hiding in the cupboard with Henry Hoover</a>. It's easy to tell when he has ventured outside though, because there's a trail of muddy paw prints right across the kitchen counter to his vantage point by the window! I'm nearly out of disinfectant spray now and considering buying him a teeny pair of Hunters too if it doesn't get sunny again soon!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-43859965743740305492013-01-25T01:54:00.000+00:002013-01-25T02:01:52.368+00:00Mexican street feasting at Wahaca<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/I1r4wPpxPv/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/35a205d87b3711e19e4a12313813ffc0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299781.3506" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca Guacamole and tortillas" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Whilst there were many contenders for my most memorable meal of 2012 (such as <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/birthday-dinner-at-wild-garlic.html#more" target="_blank" title="Mat Follas and The Wild Garlic ">my birthday dinner courtesy of Mat Follas at The Wild Garlic</a>, and <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/lickabrick-ben-spalding-dinner-at-john.html" target="_blank" title="Ben Spalding at John Salt">licking chicken off a brick thanks to Ben Spalding at John Salt</a>) it was understandably impossible to beat <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/most-memorable-meal-of-2012-tom.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="">Michelin-starred supremo Tom Kerridge serving up a storm inside a glass Cube overlooking London's legendary landmarks</a>.</p>
<p>But <a href="http://cheesenbiscuits.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/cheese-and-biscuits-restaurant-of-year.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Chris Pople of Cheese and Biscuits blog">Chris Pople of Cheese and Biscuits</a> has highlighted an interesting distinction between a great meal and a great restaurant:</p>
<p><em>"A great restaurant, then, isn't just where you happen to have a great meal, it's a place you look forward to going to more than anywhere else because you always enjoy the time you spend there"</em></p>
<p>This got me thinking...obviously as a gastronome I am always keen to try new culinary experiences, and even when I return to a favourite haunt like <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/two-trips-to-brockley-market.html#more" target="_blank" title="Brockley Market">Brockley Market</a> or <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.com/2012/02/brixton-village-hunting-out-hidden-food.html" target="_blank" title="Brixton Village food hall ">Brixton Village</a> it's usually with the hope of testing out what different vendors have on offer each time.</p>
<p>However, there is one London restaurant that I gladly return to at least once a month if not more...Mexican market diner <a href="http://www.wahaca.co.uk/html/1_restaurants.html" target="_blank" title="Wahaca " style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Wahaca</a><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">, the brainchild of former Masterchef winner </span><a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/thomasinamiers" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Thomasina Miers</a><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">.</span></p>
<a name='more'></a><p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Wahaca had already become one of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/finest-dining-experiences-of-2011.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Finest dining experiences of 2011">my preferred places to dine out by the end of 2011</a>, but since then I've come to know and love the menu even more. It's the first place I suggest to family and friends from outside the big smoke because the street food is perfect for sharing whilst catching up, and the speedy service makes it ideal for a midweek meal with my man before our date night at the movies. What's more, it's incredibly cheap for the quality and quantity of the food served up to you.</p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Admittedly there's no pre-booking so you're sometimes forced to loiter at the bar (which is all the excuse I need for ordering one of their Margaritas!), but the fast turnaround time means you're never waiting long. They've also launched a takeaway service from their Mexican Street Kitchen Vans, and my own secret trick for an instant seat is the knowledge that Canary Wharf is very quiet at the weekend...*wink*</p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Reflecting on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="#Project366">#Project366</a> and all the thousands of food photographs I <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on instagram">instagrammed</a> last year, I realised that I had captured snapshots of practically every part of <a href="http://www.wahaca.co.uk/html/ASSETS/Downloads/Wahaca_menu.pdf" target="_blank" title="Wahaca's menu">Wahaca's menu</a>! So I figured that I might as well show you why I still look forward to eating here after so many visits, and hopefully tempt you to test it out for yourself!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/I1r4wPpxPv/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/35a205d87b3711e19e4a12313813ffc0_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299870.345" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca Guacamole and tortillas" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>After my boyfriend's graduation on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/project366-week-13.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Week 13 of #Project366">Day #91</a> of #Project366, we chose to kickstart the celebrations with their crunchy homemade tortilla chips and fresh guacamole packed with zingy chilli and lime. If you're steering clear of their significant tequila collection, then I'd recommend a refreshing glass of Citrus Fizz.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/SYpv5XJxNj/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/f962eb6235aa11e28bf022000a9f139a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299839.5293" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's frijoles " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>I am totally addicted to these creamy black bean frijoles sprinkled with sharp crema and crumbled cheese, and have no shame in dunking my spoon straight into the terracotta pot if I run out of tortilla chips. When I first visited Wahaca they served these topped with chorizo...I'm hoping they might repeat this one day as a special treat (please!)...</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/L86VrzpxA5/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/b9d14f40b80311e1a8761231381b4856_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299796.3088" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's steak tacos" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Their street food can be ordered with meaty, fishy and vegetarian fillings, plus a selection of seasonal specials. I'm always torn on which tender meat to add to my soft corn tortillas, but I really enjoy the contrast between their juicy simply grilled steak and smoky chipotle salsa.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/SYpiShJxNZ/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/b6f2756835aa11e28a7322000a1fa414_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299783.3062" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I confess that I normally avoid ordering the tostadas, just because I find it harder to keep hold of the toppings when biting into the crispy tortillas. But I have no trouble devouring these deep fried tacquitos! This is their sweet potato and feta version, served up on </span><a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/project366-week-47.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Week 47 of #Project366">Day # 328</a> with a chipotle mayonnaise so spicy that it blew away any chance of a winter cold developing.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U2HG_WJxLi/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/70a5b7bc65b811e2a95722000a9f09e9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299811.5874" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's chorizo and potato quesadilla " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Who needs a pizza when you can have a slice of Wahaca's quesadilla, loaded with gooey cheese, minced chorizo and sautéed potato?! </p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/L86713pxBq/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/742bbd6cb80411e1b00112313800c5e4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299815.343" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's sweet potato wedges" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Sweet potato wedges with a soft centre and crispy deep-fried exterior are a fantastic extra to nibble on alongside your street food, especially drizzled with Wahaca's spicy sauces (which can now be purchased from various national supermarket chains). And if you needed proof of my aforementioned frijole addiction, they've now appeared in 3 photos within this post, all from separate dates...!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Sv6sIeJxHn/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/877ec07c3cc411e28b9422000a1f8af5_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299833.3057" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's spicy tomato soup " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>When I'm feeling in need of extra warmth (such as last weekend and on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/project366-week-49.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Week #49 of #Project366">Day #337</a> of <a href="http://pinterest.com/Katy_Riddle/project-366/" target="_blank" title="#Project366 on Pinterest">#Project366</a>) I opt for Wahaca's seriously spicy tomato soup, which has a delightful silken consistency and is so much more than your average bowl of broth thanks to toppings of diced avocado, totopos and sour cream.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/RDrVyaJxEk/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/4ae6c7aa1bbc11e2957722000a1f9a39_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299823.3254" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's steak Sonara salad" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>I *never* order salads in restaurants, but I'd always been intrigued by the giant tortilla bowls that I'd seen skinny girls tucking into on previous trips to Wahaca. So I plumped for this on <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/project366-week-43.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Week #43 of Project366">Day #295</a> when I wanted to feel particularly virtuous, and oh-my-god I was immediately hooked! Delving through this edible salad basket I found chewy spelt grains, creamy avocado, sweet tomato, nutty pumpkin seeds, crunchy beans and lettuce plus a vibrant light dressing and delicious charred meat. I was stunned at how much I loved this salad, and have found it equally enjoyable topped with spicy chicken or with sweetcorn and black bean salsa. Tasty healthy eating FTW!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/MY-HhxJxII/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/d793d442c09311e1be6a12313820455d_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299853.2842" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca burrito " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>The only area where I'm lacking in photos is from Wahaca's selection of platos fuertes (bigger dishes). My boyfriend has (unsurprisingly) given his thumbs up to the steak and the marinated chicken, and we both like their larger portion of slow-cooked shredded pork pibil and green rice. </p>
<p>When I'm feeling ravenous I'll go for an immense burrito, a flour tortilla fully stuffed with spicy meat, delicate rice, Baja cheese and yet more of those frijoles. This image might not look so appealing as it was taken mid-bite, but <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/finest-dining-experiences-of-2011.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Finest dining experiences of 2011">my original post on Wahaca</a> showcases their burritos in a more attractive light. I cook enchiladas a lot in our little London flat so I'm keen to try Tommi's chicken mole parcels this year, as well as their MSC-certified plaice goujons.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/RDrxlxJxE8/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/d2a7e28c1bbc11e2b23022000a1e86a4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299874.894" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's salted caramel and Valrhona chocolate icecream " width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Currently Wahaca is offering a <a href="http://blog.wahaca.co.uk/2012/12/s-o-s-save-our-spoons-the-mexican-spoon-amnesty-returns/" target="_blank" title="Wahaca's spoon amnesty ">#spoonamnesty</a>, because 25,000 of these quirky plastic dessert utensils have been stolen from them in the past 5 years! I can honesty say my kitchen drawers are guilt-free, though I almost wish I had nabbed a spoon if it meant I could get a free plate of tacos for its safe return...! </p>
<p>The combination of salt, caramel and flecks of bitter chocolate in this cooling icecream is the perfect antidote to soothe your senses after all that spicy food. I'm also a fan of their vanilla icecream topped with sugary roasted pumpkin seeds and caramel sauce, and my sweet tooth is aching to try their chocolate tres leches cake (keep an eye on my <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_blank" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Twitter">Twitter</a> feed for that one!)</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UJ4UKtpxPs/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/e1793fdc583811e2bfbf22000a9f1935_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299805.3782" class="aligncenter" alt="Wahaca's churros and chocolate sauce" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>If you fancy a more traditionally Spanish end to your fiesta, then why not settle back for a siesta with these sweetly scented cinnamon sugar churros? These crispy doughnuts are crying out to be torn up and dunked into this luxuriously thick dark chocolate sauce...</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UJ0pQnpxLQ/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/66796a5e583411e283b822000a9f124c_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359079299796.5842" class="alignnone" alt="Wahaca's Mexican hot chocolate" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Unfortunately there are times when I've gobbled up one too many tacos and I can't quite squeeze in a pudding. On those rare occasions, I end my meal with a warming Mexican hot chocolate, <a href="http://www.redonline.co.uk/food/recipes/hot-chocolate" target="_blank" title="Wahaca mexican hot chocolate recipe">made dairy-free by mixing chocolate with water, caster sugar and ground almonds</a>. </p>
<p>All of Wahaca's hot drinks are served with a square of chilli chocolate to remind you of the spicy notes running through their extensive menu, and you're even given a packet of seeds with your bill so that you can grow your own chillies at home and rekindle the memory of your visit!</p>
<p>When I'm craving fresh and flavourful food that's served up fast and won't break the bank, Wahaca is the restaurant I always rely on, and know I'll return to again and again.</p>
<p> </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-81020082969913028932013-01-20T08:30:00.000+00:002013-01-20T08:30:01.779+00:007 things for 7 days...#2<p>I'm stunned by the number of page-views the first instalment of this new series received! Hopefully this is a sign that I should continue regularly sharing my favourite moments and random musings from the past week...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo4zSFJxPG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/596af46661af11e29d6822000a9e0849_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358644194448.7249" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>1. What better way to prepare for the impending #snowmageddon than with a hearty venison stew?! Through the magic of <a href="http://twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk" target="_self" title="Feelgood Foodbook on twitter ">Twitter</a> I was lucky enough to win tickets to <a href="http://www.thefactoryhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="The Factory House">The Factory House</a>'s inaugural supperclub, where this classic winter warmer was the star of the show. The meat shredded easily after 5 hours slow-cooking, and the rich umami gravy contrasted perfectly with creamy cabbage and mashed potatoes. Apparently those cute oven-proof side dishes were for my boyfriend and I to share, but somehow most of their contents ended up in my tummy...!</p>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uj5T6-pxBu/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/58c9ff7a602911e28f2522000a9f148e_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358644194521.8567" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>2. This week I finally found time to delve into <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jerusalem-Yotam-Ottolenghi/dp/0091943744/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356637892&sr=1-1" target="_blank" title="Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi">Yotam Ottolenghi's beautiful new book Jerusalem</a>, and plumped for his "chicken thighs with caramelised onion and cardamom rice" as the first dish to replicate. Having never cooked anything like this before, I was surprised by how easy the recipe was to follow, and <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">was seriously impressed with the results</span> (especially considering this was my initial attempt)! Sour cherries appeared to be an acceptable substitution for his suggested sweetened barberries, and the delightful aromatic scents lingered in the kitchen for days afterwards.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Uo9BGAJxD9/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/7edab08861b411e286a922000a1fb703_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358644194494.3179" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a><div style="text-align: left;">Judging by the number of "likes" on <a href="http://instagram.com/katy_riddle" target="_self" title="Feelgood Foodbook on Instagram ">Instagram</a>, people also seemed to approve of my decision to combine the leftover rice with orange and honey roasted carrots, dried apricots, steamed brocolli and crushed pistachio nuts for a simple and healthy Friday night supper</div>
<d><div style="text-align: left;"><br>
</div>
<p style="text-align: left;">3. I've eaten more <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/power-foods-2-porridge-thats-just-right.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Perfect porridge ">porridge</a> than Goldilocks and all three Bears combined over the past few months, and that addiction has only increased since I spotted this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/137219119868136626/" target="_blank" title="Peanut butter and banana oatmeal by Pastry Affair ">peanut butter and banana version by Pastry Affair</a>. It's the ideal way to refuel after an early morning gym session and is the only breakfast that keeps me feeling full until lunchtime...although these <a href="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/79fa903c623c11e2952122000a1fbf2e_7.jpg" target="_self" title="Buttermilk pancakes with berries, vanilla clotted cream and maple syrup ">buttermilk pancakes</a> from the <a href="http://www.ridinghousecafe.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Riding House Cafe">Riding House Caf</a>e also left me very satisfied!</p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;">4. A totally awesome thing happened this weekend...<a href="https://twitter.com/intent/follow?original_referer=http%3A%2F%2Flifeloveandlivingwithboys.wordpress.com%2F2013%2F01%2F19%2Fsticky-sausages-and-socialpix%2F&screen_name=scattymumofboys&tw_p=followbutton&variant=2.0">Kate</a> from <a href="http://lifeloveandlivingwithboys.wordpress.com/2013/01/19/sticky-sausages-and-socialpix/">Life, Love and Living with Boys</a> tested out my recipe for <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/sticky-sausages-to-warm-you-up-this.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Sticky roasted sausages">sticky roasted sausages and potato wedges with Olive Branch's apricot jam glaze</a>, and enjoyed it so much that she then reviewed it on her own blog! I'm sure this is standard stuff for established bloggers, but it's never happened to me before, so I'm very flattered!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UrqzURJxCV/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/a295bdae628811e2bb0f22000a1fbc94_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358644194489.748" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p style="text-align: left;"> 5. I try to avoid posting photos of myself on this blog (unlike the sisters on <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2013/01/sister-style-diner-date.html" target="_blank" title="A Beautiful Mess">A Beautiful Mess</a>, I haven't perfected my relaxed pose), but I wanted to show you my latest accessory for surviving this arctic weather. I've been daydreaming about this turquoise knitted hat ever since I discovered it in the Accessorize sale a few weeks ago, and it has now been reduced even further, meaning that my remaining restraint was destroyed! Sadly my cream hat (as I modelled in <a href="http://mondomulia.com/2012/02/22/brockley-market/">Mondomulia's article on our trip to Brockley Market</a>) has unravelled itself, so I feel justified that this cute and cosy purchase is really just a necessary replacement...</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">6. Surely the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21054688" target="_blank" title="Horse meat in tesco burgers ">revelation of horse meat found in Tesco's beef burgers</a> is all the proof anyone needs to be <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">convinced of the advantages of purchasing your meat from independent butchers and farmers?! Last year I learnt how easy it is to make your own burgers from scratch at home (see <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/project-366-week-25.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Homemade beef burgers ">Day #172</a> of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html?m=1">#Project366</a>), and living in London I'm also lucky enough to be spoilt for choice when it comes to top-quality burger vendors. In fact, I've promised my man a trip to <a href="http://www.pattyandbun.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Patty and Bun">Patty & Bun</a> in the next few weeks, to see how their rave-reviewed "Ari Gold" compares to his current favourite of <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/MotherFlipperuk" target="_blank" title="Mother Flipper on twitter">Mother Flipper's</a> double-candied bacon burger. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">7. Have you seen <a href="http://instagram.com/nala_cat" target="_blank" title="Nala_cat">Nala cat on Instagram</a>? I couldn't believe the resemblance with our own <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/it-christmas-every-day-for-littlecat.html?m=1">#littlecat</a> when I first saw her picture - the wide eyes, the giant ears, the childlike-expressions...it's like they were separated at birth! My boyfriend adopted Penfold from a shelter when he was just a #littlekitten so we don't know his parentage, but if #littlecat really were part-Siamese too that would explain his affectionate temperament and intelligence, plus his striking features. I'm not suggesting we put him through a Jeremy Kyle-style DNA test any time soon though...!</p>
</div></d></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9036349704468017317.post-61514558018084259952013-01-15T23:59:00.000+00:002013-01-15T23:59:42.201+00:00What the Katys did...lunch at Polpo<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QfwFMHJxIO/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/945a254610c511e28a0c22000a1e9610_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156944.3276" class="alignnone" alt="Polpo Arancini" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Having already <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/storifying-soho-lunch-photo-spread.html?m=1">grazed on tasty tapas at Copita</a> with <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/yummychooeats">Selina</a> from <a href="http://yummychooeats.com/">Yummychooeats</a>, and <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/figgy-pudding-and-figgy-starter-at-10.html?m=1">tucked in to a fig-filled feast at 10 Greek Street</a> with <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/mondomulia">Guilia</a><a href="http://twitter.com/mulia" target="_blank" title=""></a> from <a href="http://mondomulia.com/">Mondomulia</a> and <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/laurafday">Laura</a> from <a href="http://www.digestmag.com/">Digest</a> magazine, I've been keen to continue my tour of Soho's finest dining experiences. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">So when <a href="http://katytruss.com/">BBC Good Food Show's Katy Truss</a> suggested we finally put human faces to our <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/feelgd_foodbk">Twitter</a> icons and meet up in person, I hoped this would be a chance to see whether the positive rumours about <a href="http://www.polpo.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="">Polpo's</a> Italian offerings were true. Plus, it's always a bit of a novelty to find someone who spells their name the same way as me (I wonder whether Miss Truss also feigns nonchalance through gritted teeth when someone mistakenly refers to her as "Katie"...?)!</div>
<a name='more'></a><p>Polpo's website states that it is a bacaro, a Venetian term for "a humble restaurant serving simple food". Admittedly its setting is modest, with rustic wood panelling, soft lighting and thin paper menus that are scrunched up after your meal. But there is clearly a high level of skilful cooking behind every intensely flavoured dish, so in my view this description undersells the impressive dining experience here.</p>
<p>The restaurant was still packed when we arrived late on a Sunday lunchtime, but luckily we didnt have to wait long to grab a couple of seats at the bar. Choosing what to order was proving difficult however, as the entire menu sounded so tempting! We decided that the best solution would be to sample one dish from each of their fish and meat sections, plus one of their signature meatballs, then see whether we had stomach space for anything else...!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QfwFMHJxIO/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/945a254610c511e28a0c22000a1e9610_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156919.118" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>As a huge <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/resorting-to-risotto.html?m=1">risotto</a> fan I'm also obsessed with arancini (see <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/project366-week-13.html?m=1" target="_blank" title="Day #85 Project366">day #85</a> of <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/p/project366.html?m=1">#Project366</a>), so I twisted Katy's arm into starting our lunch with a couple of their crunchy breadcrumb-coated balls filled with gooey nutty cheese and tender rice.<br>
</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QfveSZpxHq/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/d666b7b610c411e2b19422000a1e9dd4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156943.7605" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Normally I avoid ordering squid because it's so difficult to cook correctly, meaning you often end up chewing the seafood equivalent of an elastic band. But my first foray into fristo misto was a refreshing surprise - delicate rings of squid, soft mussels, salty whitebait and sweet prawns all given an added crispy finish from a fine coating of light batter.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QfwP0ApxIU/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/c8393cbc10c511e2bd9022000a1c8857_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156931.5886" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Next came a bowl of bitesized spicy pork and fennel meatballs in a tomato sauce. They had a great depth of flavour from the mixture of rich meat and aniseed, but the sauce was slightly more watery than I expected. This was the only dish that failed to wow me, perhaps because I've spent a lot of time experimenting with <a href="http://thefeelgoodfoodbook.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/magnificent-meatballs-to-leave-him.html?m=1">my own meatball recipe</a> and had assumed Polpo's expert version would teach me some more tips.</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/QfwZkXJxIh/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/f7dc04a410c511e28c261231381b3d45_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156868.1636" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Duck is probably my favourite meat for a classic roast, so I was intrigued to find out whether it would work with Italian cuisine's classic tones of tomato and herbs. Thankfully the bird had been slowcooked until it melted in the mouth and its powerful gamey flavour had blended into the hearty ragu. Green peppercorns gave a satisfying spicy accent to the sauce compared to salty olives, and the toothsome pappardelle reminded me that fresh pasta would be one of my requests if I were ever sent to a desert island!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Qfwk_ipxIp/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/2fa4db5410c611e2b82c22000a1cfdf4_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156871.485" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>For me, the only way to end a good meal is with dessert. I find it impossible to resist a traditional tiramisu, with its perfect combination of sweet cream, strong coffee and bitter cocoa, and Polpo's potted pudding didn't disappoint me. Indeed, my only problem was that it was very tricky to stretch my tongue far enough to lick the glass clean...!</p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;clear: both; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Qfw6pnJxI-/" target="_blank" style=""><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/995bd0de10c611e2ae9122000a1fc2d5_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358294156927.035" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<p>Last, but certainly not least, came the "Nutella" pizzetta. A clever twist on the standard savoury main, I really enjoyed this chewy dough drizzled with a large helping of luxurious dark chocolate sauce and sprinkled with crunchy caramelised hazelnuts. </p>
<p>If Polpo's descripton of itself is true and these superb dishes really are examples of "simple" food, then I for one wish to live the simple life from now on...!</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08434041338704183956noreply@blogger.com5