Showing posts with label herbs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label herbs. Show all posts

Thursday 21 March 2024

Crafting Culinary Magic: Making Your Own Bouquet Garni Bags

In the realm of culinary artistry, the bouquet garni stands as a testament to the elegance of flavour infusion. 

This simple yet potent concoction of herbs tied up in a neat little bundle has the power to transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary gastronomic experiences. 

But what if we told you that the magic of bouquet garni could be further elevated by crafting your own personalised bouquet garni bags? 

Let's embark on a journey into the world of DIY culinary enchantment and learn how to create these aromatic wonders.

Understanding Bouquet Garni:

Before delving into the craft of making bouquet garni bags, it's essential to understand their significance in cooking. Traditionally, bouquet garni is a bundle of herbs, typically including parsley, thyme, and bay leaves, tied together with twine or enclosed in a sachet. This fragrant package is then added to soups, stews, stocks, and sauces to infuse them with subtle herbal notes and depth of flavour.

Why Make Your Own Bouquet Garni Bags?

While pre-packaged bouquet garni bags are readily available in shops, creating your own offers several distinct advantages:

Customisation: Crafting your own bouquet garni allows you to tailor the blend of herbs to suit your taste preferences and the specific requirements of your dish.

Quality Control: By hand-selecting fresh herbs of the highest quality, you ensure superior flavour extraction and avoid any unwanted additives or preservatives.

Creativity: Making your own bouquet garni bags provides an opportunity for culinary creativity, enabling you to experiment with different herb combinations and decorative elements.

Crafting Your Bouquet Garni Bags:

Now that we've established the rationale behind making your own bouquet garni bags, let's get into the details of the process:

Ingredients:

Fresh herbs of your choice (common choices include parsley, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and sage)

Cheesecloth or muslin fabric (My mother used to use fabric saved from old sheets, carefully laundered, beforehand, obviously.)

Kitchen twine or cotton string

Scissors

Instructions:

Prepare your herbs: Wash and thoroughly dry the herbs to remove any dirt or debris. For optimal flavour, ensure the herbs are fresh and aromatic.

Select your herb combination: Consider the flavour profile of your dish and choose herbs that complement its ingredients. Classic combinations like parsley, thyme, and bay leaf work well for many recipes, but don't hesitate to get creative and experiment with unconventional pairings.

Cut the fabric: Cut a square of cheesecloth or muslin fabric large enough to comfortably enclose your chosen herbs.

Arrange the herbs: Place the selected herbs in the center of the fabric square, ensuring an even distribution of flavours.

Bundle the herbs: Gather the edges of the fabric together, forming a pouch around the herbs. Secure the bundle tightly with kitchen twine or cotton string, leaving a long enough tail for easy removal from the pot during cooking.

Tie a knot: Once the herbs are securely bundled, tie a knot with the string to seal the bouquet garni bag.

Optional embellishments: For added visual appeal, consider incorporating decorative elements like fresh bay leaves or sprigs of rosemary into the bouquet garni bundle before tying it off.

Label your creation: To avoid confusion during cooking, label each bouquet garni bag with the date of preparation and the herbs contained within it.

Store or use immediately: Your homemade bouquet garni bags can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer-term preservation. Alternatively, use them immediately to infuse your culinary creations with aromatic goodness.

In the realm of culinary craftsmanship, the bouquet garni stands as a testament to the power of simplicity in flavor enhancement. By mastering the art of making your own bouquet garni bags, you unlock a realm of endless culinary possibilities, where creativity and flavor flourish hand in hand. So, gather your herbs, unleash your imagination, and embark on a journey of gastronomic delight as you craft your own aromatic masterpieces.

Friday 8 March 2024

Spice Up Your Life: A Guide to Cooking with Spices and Herbs

Perhaps you are new to cooking, or you are an experienced cook who wants to expand your cooking repertoire? If this is you, please read our feature on cooking with spices and herbs. 

Spices and herbs are the magical ingredients that can transform a bland dish into a culinary masterpiece. They not only add flavour but also depth, aroma, and even health benefits to your meals. 

Whether you're an experienced chef or just starting out in the kitchen, understanding how to utilise spices and herbs can take your cooking to the next level. 

In this guide, we'll explore the wonderful world of spices and herbs, their uses, and how to incorporate them into your cooking effortlessly.

Understanding Spices vs. Herbs:

Spices are derived from seeds, bark, roots, or fruits of plants and are often dried. Examples include cinnamon, cumin, and cloves.

Herbs, on the other hand, come from the leaves of plants and are usually used fresh. Examples include basil, parsley, and coriander, otherwise known as cilantro in the USA.

Both spices and herbs can be used to enhance flavour, but they each bring their own unique characteristics to a dish.

Building Your Spice Rack:

Start with the basics: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Expand your collection with versatile spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder or curry powder, etc.

Experiment with more exotic spices such as saffron, cardamom, fenugreek, and star anise to add depth and complexity to your dishes.

Harnessing the Power of Herbs:

Keep a selection of fresh herbs on hand, such as basil, thyme, rosemary, and mint, for adding brightness and freshness to your meals.

Dried herbs can be a convenient alternative when fresh ones are not available. Just remember to adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones as they are concentrated.

Pairing Spices and Herbs with Foods:

Certain spices and herbs complement specific ingredients and cuisines. For example, cinnamon and nutmeg work well in sweet dishes, while cumin and coriander are staples in Mexican and Indian cuisines.

Experiment with different combinations to discover new flavour profiles. For instance, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to your chili or coriander to your roasted vegetables for a unique twist.

Techniques for Maximising Flavour:

Toasting whole spices before grinding releases their essential oils and enhances their flavour. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then grind using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Infuse oils or liquids with herbs by heating them gently over a low heat. This can be done by adding herbs to olive oil or broth and letting them steep for a few minutes before using.

Balancing Flavours:

Remember to balance the flavours in your dishes by combining spices and herbs with other ingredients like acid (lemon juice or vinegar), sweetness (honey or sugar), and salt.

Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly to achieve the perfect balance of flavours.

Conclusion:

Spices and herbs are the secret weapons in every chef's arsenal, capable of elevating even the simplest of dishes to gourmet status. By understanding their unique characteristics, experimenting with different combinations, and mastering various techniques, you can unleash the full potential of spices and herbs in your cooking. So go ahead, spice up your life, and embark on a flavourful culinary journey!

Thursday 8 February 2024

Embark on a Flavourful Journey: Starting Your Own Culinary Herb Garden

In the realm of culinary delights, there's something special about fresh herbs. They possess the power to transform an ordinary dish into a culinary masterpiece, elevating flavors and tantalsing taste buds.

Imagine plucking a sprig of fragrant basil or snipping some zesty cilantro straight from your own garden to enhance your favorite recipes. 

If you've ever dreamed of cultivating your own culinary herbs but didn't know where to begin, fear not! Starting your own herb garden is a gratifying journey that promises both culinary and aesthetic rewards.

Why Cultivate Your Own Culinary Herb Garden?

Before diving into the practicalities, let's ponder the numerous benefits of nurturing your own herb garden:

Fresher Flavours: Nothing compares to the taste of freshly harvested herbs. Shop-bought herbs, while convenient, often lack the vibrancy and potency of just-picked varieties.

Cost-effective: Growing your own herbs can save you money in the long run. A small investment in seeds or seedlings can yield abundant harvests, providing you with a continuous supply of herbs without the need to frequently purchase expensive packaged varieties.

Health Benefits: Herbs are not only flavoruful but also packed with health-promoting compounds. Incorporating fresh herbs into your diet can enhance the nutritional value of your meals and contribute to overall well-being.

Sustainable Living: By growing your own herbs, you reduce reliance on commercially produced herbs that may involve extensive transportation and packaging. Cultivating herbs at home promotes sustainability and reduces your carbon footprint.

Getting Started:

Now that we've established the compelling reasons to start your own herb garden, let's delve into the practical steps to kick-start your botanical adventure:

Choose the Right Location: Most culinary herbs thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Select a spot in your garden or balcony that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Select Your Herbs: Consider which herbs you use most frequently in your cooking and start with those. Popular choices for culinary herb gardens include basil, parsley, coriander (also known as cilantro), rosemary, thyme, mint, and chives. Begin with a few varieties to keep things manageable.

Prepare the Soil: Ensure your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. If you're growing herbs in containers, use a high-quality potting mix specifically formulated for herbs or vegetables.

Planting: Whether you opt for seeds or starter plants, follow the instructions on the seed packets or plant labels for proper spacing and depth. Water your newly planted herbs gently but thoroughly.

Care and Maintenance: Regular watering, weeding, and occasional fertilization will keep your herb garden thriving. Monitor your herbs for signs of pests or diseases and address any issues promptly.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Herbs:

As your herbs flourish, it's time to reap the rewards of your efforts:

Harvesting: To encourage bushy growth and ensure a continuous supply of herbs, harvest them frequently. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to snip off the outer leaves or stems, taking care not to damage the plant.

Preserving: Extend the shelf life of your herbs by drying, freezing, or preserving them in oil or vinegar. These methods allow you to enjoy your homegrown herbs even during the offseason.

Culinary Creativity: Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! Experiment with different combinations of herbs to add depth and complexity to your dishes. From fresh pesto and herb-infused oils to flavorful marinades and garnishes, the possibilities are endless.

Embarking on the journey of starting your own culinary herb garden is a rewarding endeavor that enriches both your palate and your soul. With a bit of planning, patience, and tender loving care, you can cultivate a thriving herb garden that enhances your culinary creations and brings joy to your daily life. So roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt, and let the aromatic allure of fresh herbs inspire your culinary adventures!

And don't forget to ask any more experienced gardeners you know for their expertise and guidance. Most are only too happy to offer their help.

Thursday 25 January 2024

Spicing Up Your Culinary Adventure: A Beginner's Guide to Essential Herbs and Spices

Embarking on your culinary journey is an exciting endeavor, and one of the keys to success in the kitchen is mastering the art of herbs and spices. These flavoruful additions can transform a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. 

If you're a new cook looking to elevate your cooking game, let's dive into the basics of herbs and spices that will add depth, aroma, and complexity to your creations.

Basil: The King of Herbs:

Flavour Profile: Fresh and slightly peppery with a hint of sweetness.

Perfect Pairings: Tomatoes, pasta, salads, and Italian dishes.

Usage Tip: Add fresh basil at the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor.

Rosemary: Aromatic and Robust:

Flavour Profile: Woody, pine-like, and slightly citrusy.

Perfect Pairings: Roasted meats, potatoes, bread, and Mediterranean cuisine.

Usage Tip: Use rosemary sparingly, as its flavor can be intense. It complements hearty dishes exceptionally well.

Coriander/Cilantro: Fresh and Zesty:

Flavour Profile: Citrusy, with a hint of earthiness.

Perfect Pairings: Mexican, Thai, and Indian dishes, salsas, and guacamole.

Usage Tip: Add chopped cilantro to dishes just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.

Thyme: Versatile and Savoury:

Flavour Profile: Earthy, slightly sweet, and with a subtle lemony undertone.

Perfect Pairings: Roasted vegetables, poultry, soups, and stews.

Usage Tip: Strip the leaves from the stems before adding to dishes; thyme leaves are tiny and delicate.

Cumin: Warm and Spicy:

Flavour Profile: Earthy, warm, and slightly nutty.

Perfect Pairings: Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern dishes, and spice blends.

Usage Tip: Toast cumin seeds in a dry pan before grinding for a more robust flavor.

Paprika: Sweet or Smoky Heat:

Flavour Profile: Mild, sweet, or smoky, depending on the variety.

Perfect Pairings: Chicken, fish, stews, and a variety of European and Mediterranean dishes.

Usage Tip: Sprinkle on finished dishes for a pop of colour and flavor.

Garlic: The Flavour MVP:

Flavour Profile: Pungent, savory, and slightly sweet.

Perfect Pairings: Almost everything – meats, vegetables, pasta, and more.

Usage Tip: Use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor, and sauté it briefly to mellow its intensity.

Cinnamon: Sweet and Warm:

Flavour Profile: Sweet, warm, and slightly spicy.

Perfect Pairings: Baked goods, desserts, oatmeal, and Middle Eastern dishes.

Usage Tip: Balance cinnamon with other spices for a well-rounded flavor in both sweet and savory dishes.

As you embark on your culinary journey, experimenting with these basic herbs and spices will open up a world of flavors and aromas. Don't be afraid to get creative and trust your palate. Over time, you'll develop your own signature spice blends and elevate your dishes to new heights. Happy cooking!

(Image courtesy of Matej Madar from Pixabay)


Thursday 28 December 2023

Herb Gardening in the UK: Essential Culinary and Medicinal Herbs to Grow

Herb gardening is a timeless practice that transcends mere horticulture; it is a culinary and medicinal journey that connects us with nature's bounty. 

Here in the United Kingdom, where gardening is a cherished tradition, cultivating herbs offers a delightful and rewarding experience. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a small balcony, growing your own herbs not only adds freshness to your meals but also provides access to an array of medicinal benefits.

Culinary Herbs:

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):

Flavorful and aromatic, rosemary is a staple in British kitchens. Its versatile nature makes it suitable for a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to baked goods. Known for its antioxidant properties, rosemary also supports digestion.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris):

With a fragrant aroma and earthy taste, thyme is an indispensable herb in British cuisine. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, stews, and soups. Thyme is renowned for its antimicrobial properties and can be used medicinally.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum):

A favorite in Italian dishes, basil adds a sweet and aromatic touch to salads, pastas, and sauces. Rich in vitamins and minerals, basil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum):

As a versatile garnish, parsley enhances the visual appeal of dishes while providing a burst of freshness. High in vitamin K and C, it also supports bone health and boosts the immune system.

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum):

Delicate in flavor, chives are excellent for adding a mild onion taste to salads, soups, and omelets. These slender green stalks contain beneficial compounds that contribute to heart health.

Medicinal Herbs:

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia):

Known for its soothing fragrance, lavender has calming properties that make it ideal for teas or infusions. It promotes relaxation, aids in sleep, and can be used topically for minor skin irritations. Some varieties of lavender are edible and can make delicious cakes or scones. 

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

A classic herbal remedy, chamomile is prized for its ability to calm the nerves and promote better sleep. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it useful for soothing digestive issues.

Mint (Mentha spp.):

The invigorating scent and flavor of mint make it a popular choice for teas, desserts, and cocktails. Mint is known for its digestive benefits, relieving indigestion and nausea.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea):

Boost your immune system with echinacea, a herb renowned for its ability to ward off colds and infections. It is often consumed as a tea or in supplement form.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis):

Calendula, or marigold, is a medicinal herb with anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It's commonly used in ointments and salves to promote skin healing.

Embarking on a herb gardening journey in the UK opens up a world of culinary delights and natural remedies. Whether you're cultivating them for their aromatic flavors or harnessing their medicinal benefits, these essential herbs can transform your garden into a haven of well-being and gastronomic delight. Embrace the rich tradition of herb gardening, and let the fragrance of rosemary, thyme, and lavender fill your kitchen, enhancing both your meals and your health. Happy gardening!

(Image courtesy of OlgaofDG from Pixabay)

Tuesday 26 September 2023

Wormersley. The Heritage Brand That's Set to Become a Household Name

Womersley Foods (established in 1979) is beginning an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Labaika Ashiru, with sampling events seeing products literally flying off the shelves.

Famed for their award-winning ranges of fruit and herb vinegars, Womersley Foods is entering an exciting new chapter after the recent acquisition of the business by Labaika Ashiru. 

With a heritage going back over four decades, this iconic brand is now poised to reach out to new customers and to achieve even greater heights. 

Notably, Whole Foods Market has welcomed Womersley as a significant new listing this year, and recent sampling events in the London stores proved the demand for the exquisite fruit vinegars and jams.vi

This year the business ownership transferred from the Parsons family to the Ashiru family led by Labaika to continue the legacy of the business and expand it for the next generation. With a background in branding and design working with various large FMCG brands as well as having experienced the heat of a kitchen as a restaurant cook, Labaika brings his passion and enthusiasm for the business and its products to lead it to the next level growth and continue the legacy created by the Parsons family. 

Investment in the Future

Labaika Ashiru has committed to make significant investments in the brand, encompassing PR, marketing, and an extensive Whole Foods sampling programme operating throughout September and even beyond. 

The sampling programme has already made a significant impact, with Whole Foods quickly selling out of their best-selling Raspberry Fruit Vinegar during sampling sessions, with Labaika himself at the forefront of these sampling sessions demonstrating his knowledge and passion for the brand. This commitment underscores Labaika Ashiru's dedication to the brand's future and assures retail buyers of its bright prospects. 

He said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to have taken the baton from the Parsons family and to be able to take this brand to the next level. The taste and versatility of these products speaks for itself and our loyal fanbase proves that once customers have sampled them, they are inspired to make these products key staples in their store cupboard ingredients. 

"My vision is to bring our award-winning products to the masses, meanwhile our commitment to crafting unparalleled flavours remains integral to the brand. This journey is about preserving our heritage while embracing innovation, and I couldn't be more excited about what lies ahead."

Award-winning Flavours

Womersley Foods is renowned for its outstanding and unique flavour profiles. Loyal customers come back time and again for the fruit vinegars which pack a real flavour punch and can be used to elevate salads, drinks or even cakes. 

Adding to a back catalogue of awards, this year the Womersley Raspberry Vinegar has been awarded a coveted 2 Stars in the prestigious Guild of Fine Foods Great Taste Awards. Having long been the 'secret ingredient' of chefs and home cooks alike, this new chapter for Womersley looks to share the 'secret' with foodies far and wide.

An Exciting Future

Looking forward, Womersley Foods will elevate the brand to new heights and attract a fresh audience of brand enthusiasts. Building on its legacy, the brand, now invigorated by Labaika's vision and investment, presents an intriguing marketing story for both the brand and the business, making it an attractive proposition for the retail trade. 

For trade enquiries please contact hello@womersleyfoods.com

For more information about Womersley Foods and to explore their range of premium products, please visit their website at https://womersleyfoods.com.

Thursday 27 July 2023

Sustainable and delicious. New Cocktail ideas

Now, more than ever, sustainability is at the forefront of the minds of many of us, especially in the kitchen, and as the cost of living crisis continues to put a strain on our finances, many of us are looking to reduce our food waste and squeeze out the most of our weekly shopping trips. 

But! There are many tips and tricks for utilising your leftover food scraps including turning them into delicious cocktail ingredients. (What? Cocktail ingredients? Yes, cocktail ingredients. We'll explain more, here.)

The team of top drink experts at online drinks retailer, The Bottle Club, have put together some handy tips for utilising your leftovers and transforming them into tasty summer beverages.

Blend fruit pulp, peels and zest into syrup

Adding a fruity syrup to your homemade cocktails in an ingenious way to add a delightfully delicious extra fruity dimension to your drink, whilst simultaneously reducing your food wastage. 

Leftover fruit pulp, peels, and zest can all be used to create a sweet and delicious syrup. Making the syrup is simple, all you need do is add the fruit pulp, peels, or zest into equal parts water and sugar, simmering in a pan until the solution resembles a syrup-like texture. 

Use your leftover fruit as garnish 

A great alternative to using leftover fruit in syrup is to use them as garnish for your summer cocktails. Dehydrating your leftover fruit is an ideal way to make them last longer, as they can last up to a full year when stored properly in a proper airtight container. 

If you don’t own a dehydrator or an air fryer, this can also be achieved by oven-cooking your fruits for 30 minutes. Leftover orange peels go well in a classic Old Fashioned, whilst grapefruit peel is the perfect addition to the iconic Negroni cocktail.

Create syrups with leftover herb stems

If you’re a kitchen whizz, you’re probably no stranger to cooking with herbs. But herbs aren’t just used to add a little extra flavour to your dishes, they can also be used in your drinks, too. 

The leftover stems of your everyday herbs like parsley, thyme, and basil can also be brewed into a syrup that will add a nifty extra kick to your summer cocktails. 

Start by simmering your herb stems in equal parts of sugar and water. Simply allow the solution to cool in the fridge and then add to your cocktails. To maximise the flavours, leave the solution to chill in the fridge for several weeks. 

Herbal syrups are particularly effective when used in gin and vodka-based drinks. 

Save coffee grounds to be used in coffee-based cocktails 

If you’re partial to a coffee-flavoured cocktail, try saving your leftover coffee grounds to make a delicious after-dinner drink. From a classic Espresso Martini to a Calypso cocktail, there’s plenty of delicious cocktails for coffee lovers to indulge themselves in. 

To create a coffee liqueur to be used in cocktails, just add 100 grams of coffee grounds, 4 tablespoons of white granulated sugar and 2 parts of spirit (preferably vodka!) to a sealed container. Leave this to mix for around 24 hours before you start crafting your homemade cocktails.

Use leftover mint stems to add a refreshing kick

When using mint leaves to add extra flavour to your cooking, you probably throw out the leftover stems. However, mint stems can be used as the perfect garnish for cocktails like the class Mojito and Mint Julep, to give a real minty kick to these cocktails. 

Spearmint is the most common type of mint used to craft these delicious and refreshing cocktails to be enjoyed on a summer's day. 

Create an infusion with your leftovers 

There is a wealth of possibilities and combinations when it comes to infusing alcohol with leftover fruits, spices, and herbs. Light-coloured spirits like gin and vodka are the most common spirits used, as the mild flavours will infuse more easily than darker spirits like rum and whiskey. 

When you are creating an alcohol infusion at home, add the chosen ingredients to an airtight container along with your chosen alcohol, shake it up and let it sit. Leave the solution to settle for 24 hours to give the flavours time to infuse and strain before drinking.

Popular infusion combinations include: 

Grapefruit, rosemary and vodka

Apples and gin 

Pineapples and whiskey 

Coconut rum 

Lemongrass, ginger and tequila

To learn more visit https://www.thebottleclub.com/blogs/thedrinksjournal/cocktails-to-make-the-most-of-fresh-seasonal-produce

(Image courtesy of Radosław Kulupa from Pixabay)

Sunday 25 March 2012

Brighten Up Your Baking With New Natural Organic Extracts From Steenbergs

Building on the success of their popular Home-Baking extracts and flower waters, Steenbergs has added some essential flavours to the range. Based in sunflower oil rather than alcohol, the aromatic organic Lemon Extract, fruity organic Orange Extract and pungent organic Peppermint Extract are sure to be snapped up by avid home-bakers keen to add a burst of flavour to their cakes, biscuits and puddings.

Steenbergs organic Orange Extract is a lovely smelling extract that uses organic sunflower oil flavoured with organic orange oil. A great complement to desserts like custards and ice cream, or in fruit pies or tarts, and why not try with fish to add a certain sophistication.

Steenbergs organic Lemon Extract has been created particularly for home baking but complements everything from desserts through to chicken especially together with herbs like rosemary and thyme. Another sunflower based extract; this has a glorious lemon citrus aroma and flavour.

How about trying some home made mint choc chip ice-cream with the newly improved organic Peppermint Extract from Steenbergs? Sure to add a real zing to any home baking, this is the perfect complement to chocolate and is, of course, ideal for making your own peppermint creams.

These new organic extracts join the highly acclaimed Almond Extract, which is perfect for marzipan and Bakewell tarts, and the UK and Europe's first organic Fairtrade Vanilla Extract, made from organic Madagascan vanilla.

All extracts come in handy 100ml bottles, which look great in the kitchen whilst tasting and smelling simply divine.

Bring a zest to your baking and get set for spring!

Prices from £4.85; available online at www.steenbergs.co.uk and Orange and Lemon extracts also available from Suma.

FACTFILE:
Based in rural North Yorkshire, Steenbergs Organic was established in 2003 by Axel and Sophie Steenberg. Since the outset, they have been centred on sourcing and packing the best organic spices, herbs and teas that they can find. They are one of the leaders in Fairtrade spices. They also blend spices and herbs to our own recipes creating a range of organic seasonings.

What are their differentiating features?

Completely focused on organic and ethical trading -they source most of their spices direct from growers and grower groups, many of whom are in the developing world, e.g. India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Egypt, Vietnam, Indonesia, Turkey. They know down to the region -and often the exact 1 hectare farm- who grew the spices or herbs.

One of the original Fairtrade spices businesses - they worked (and continue to work) with Fairtrade to develop standards for spices, becoming one of the first Fairtrade spices businesses (the other 2 were Italian), launching the first Fairtrade spices range in Europe.

Determined to develop organic and Fairtrade into the quality standard for spices - since the outset, they have been continuously developing the technical side of their spices and herbs.

They work with their producers to improve the quality of their raw materials, as well as having the widest range of low micro spices and herbs in the organic spices/herbs sector. Their new factory is to the highest food technical standard with food grade wall throughout the production and warehouse area and resin floors. At the same time, they brought in new metal detection, check sieving, blending and grinding capability. All staff are trained in food hygiene and safety using external trainers.

Carbon neutral - they are committed to minimising our impact on the environment, so are carbon neutral now. Steenbergs moved into new premises at the start of 2007 that include environmental features, like sun pipes, green energy, low water use toilets and linoleum floors (in changing areas).

Sunday 5 February 2012

Foraging triggers new launches by food trend setters My Secret Kitchen

The UK's first food tasting company are very proud to announce the start of a new range of Secret Spices starting with Wild Garlic.

One of their founding principles is a commitment to creating versatile products with a multitude of uses. The first in a new range is a perfect example. It comprises wild garlic and garden herbs together with a secret dash of wasabi.

Wild garlic is very common throughout the UK and you can often smell it before you see it whilst taking a walk through the woodlands. Unlike your standard garlic, it’s the leaves of the wild garlic plant that are used in this blend. As well as using Wild Garlic seasoning to make a gorgeous garlic butter, a brilliant garlic bread, a delightful dip or a tasty cheese ball just 1/4 tsp of this store-cupboard wonder can replace 1 clove of fresh garlic in other recipes too.

My Secret Kitchen are predicting the rise of North African food in the market place in 2012. Their new Saffron Tagine Paste is an intense concentration of saffron and exotic spices. A heady combination of classic flavours you'd find in a traditional tagine or stew – coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, clove and mint – with a generous helping of the most indulgent of spices, saffron.

The result is a fragrant and aromatic paste that can be used in a tagine or slow-cooked stew (where it is especially good with cheaper cuts of meat) or in marinades and dressings. As is now normal practice at My Secret Kitchen this is an especially intense paste so a very little will go a very long way.

Finally My Secret Kitchen are very proud to announce the long awaited return of Miso dressing with ginger. It is an intensely flavoured salad dressing featuring wheat free soy sauce, white miso paste (a Japanese paste made from fermented beans more commonly used to make miso soup) and fresh ginger. Perfect as an Asian marinade or to add to a quick stir fry, and as it's oil free and has no added salt, it's the perfect thing to splash onto salads for a burst of guilt free flavour.

My Secret Kitchen is the UK’s first nationwide food and drink tasting company, and was started by husband-and wife-team, Clare and Phil Moran. They’ve taken the traditional Tupperware style business concept of home demonstration parties and turned it into a wonderful food tasting evening, where the host and his/her friends have an enjoyable time experiencing unusual and different foods, sharing recipe ideas in a warm relaxed non-pressure environment.

The business concept has proven to be a great success in the economic downturn for food lovers who are looking for an extra income and have joined My Secret Kitchen as a consultant, earning money from showing all the great foods.

If you're interested in spreading the word about some weird and wonderful foods, or would like more info about the idea of helping people earn an extra income by indulging their love of food or simply looking for a feel good story about a family who are leading the way in innovative food concepts.... or maybe would just like some samples to try then contact Phil Moran at:- philmoran@mysecretkitchen.co.uk
0845 094 5319
www.mysecretkitchen.co.uk

Sunday 15 January 2012

Schwartz Collaborates With Chef Maria Elia To Launch McCormick's Global Flavour Forecast® 2012

Maria Elia creates six tasty recipes to bring top flavour trends to the table all year round.

Herbs and spices experts Schwartz, in partnership with parent company McCormick & Company, Incorporated, a global leader in flavour, uncovers the future of flavour and releases its first ever global Flavour Forecast 2012. Since 2000, the report showcases McCormick and Schwartz leadership in culinary trends and innovations. It pinpoints common trends and flavours driving culinary innovation and reveals a singular set of forces driving what we will eat across the globe in coming years. In the UK, Flavour Forecast was released annually since 2008.

This first global edition of the Flavour Forecast was crafted by an international team of McCormick and Schwartz chefs, sensory scientists, trend trackers, marketing experts and food technologists spanning Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, Latin America and North America. It highlights the six hottest global culinary themes for this year illustrated by 12 regional flavour combinations.

Trends highlighted in the report include honouring a cuisine's traditional roots, seeking the ultimate in sensory stimulation, a focus on vegetables, simplicity, flavourful swaps, and breaking boundaries.

To bring Flavour Forecast 2012 to life in the UK, Schwartz is collaborating with Chef Maria Elia, who has added her twist on Flavour Forecast by developing six contemporary new recipes appealing to the UK palate. A further six recipes have been crafted by Schwartz Concept Development Chef, Steve Love, a member of Schwartz's dedicated team of Development Chefs, who collectively identified these flavours which showcase the trends. In total a selection of twelve inspiring on-trend recipes have been created for flavour enthusiasts to replicate at home.

Maria Elia's Flavour Forecast 2012 recipes include:

Raw Lamb Kibbeh and Asian Pear Salad Honours Roots
Watermelon Cooler Cocktail takes you on a Quest for the Ultimate
Honey, Harissa Marinated Aubergines wrapped in Kataifi brings Veggies back in Vogue
Jerusalem Artichoke and Vanilla Soup with Seared Scallops gives Simplicity the Shine
Red Tea Ganache with a Cinnamon and Plum Compote encourages Flavourful Swaps
Blueberry and Cardamom Glazed Ham reminds that flavour has No Boundaries

"Being on top of culinary and flavour trends is something I'm passionate about as a chef, so it's a pleasure to work with Schwartz on their Flavour Forecast 2012," says Maria Elia. "I get to experiment with my love of flavour combinations and create innovative recipes, applying a fresh perspective on tradition that balances modern tastes and cultural authenticity. It's a fun and exciting challenge; a global adventure to inspire the palate!"

Steve Love adds, "Flavour Forecast 2012 demonstrates six global trends with some inspiring and delicious regional flavour combinations and food experiences, allowing you to eat in many countries without leaving your home nation. Now in its fifth year in the UK, the Flavour Forecast is inspired by the food we eat every day, from supermarket products to restaurant offerings. Trends pinpointed in past editions have moved once-edgy ingredients into mainstream popularity and we have no doubt it will continue to further enlighten the global culinary scene."

Schwartz is McCormick's leading "herbs and spices" brand in the UK, offering the greatest variety of herbs, spices and seasonings. Our spice experts from McCormick have travelled the world in search of the best spices and herbs available. Schwartz's extensive product portfolio spans into different sectors including recipe mixes, wet sauces, gravies and innovative stir fry seasonings.

To learn more about Flavour Forecast 2012 in the UK, visit www.schwartz.co.uk and to explore the future of global flavour, visit www.FlavourForecast.com.