Crafting Your Own Gins at Home Using Vodka as a Base

By coincidence when we at That's Food and Drink received  the news about James May's newly released gins, my wife and I were experimenting with a DIY gin making kit.

So, we decided to run a feature on making gin at home and the result is: Crafting Your Own Gins at Home Using Vodka as a Base.

In recent years, the art of craft distilling has surged in popularity, with enthusiasts exploring unique flavors and botanical combinations in their homemade spirits. 

One such endeavor is the creation of homemade gins, a process that allows for endless experimentation and customisation. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a traditional pot still or elaborate equipment to embark on this journey. With a bottle of vodka as your starting point and a selection of botanicals, you can craft your own delicious gin right in your own kitchen. So let's get into the fascinating world of DIY gin-making.

Choosing Your Base:

Vodka serves as the perfect base for crafting homemade gin due to its neutral flavour profile. It provides a clean canvas upon which you can layer your chosen botanicals, allowing their intricate flavours to shine through. 

Opt for a high-quality, unflavoured vodka to ensure the best results. While some purists may insist on using a traditional grain-based vodka, others find success with alternatives such as potato or grape-based vodkas. Ultimately, the choice is yours, so feel free to experiment with different options to discover your preferred base.

Selecting Botanicals:

The magic of gin lies in its botanical blend, typically dominated by juniper berries but complemented by a diverse array of herbs, spices, fruits, and flowers. When selecting botanicals for your homemade gin, let your creativity guide you. Juniper berries are a must-have, providing the classic piney flavour that defines gin. 

Beyond juniper, consider adding botanicals such as coriander seeds, citrus peels, cardamom pods, lavender, or even unconventional choices like rose petals, fresh ginger root or lemongrass. The possibilities are endless, so don't hesitate to experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect blend that suits your taste preferences.

The Infusion Process:

Infusing vodka with botanicals is where the magic truly happens. To begin, gather your chosen botanicals and add them to a clean, airtight container. There's no strict recipe to follow here, feel free to adjust the quantities based on your personal preferences and desired flavour profile. 

Once your botanical blend is assembled, pour your vodka over the botanicals, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Seal the container tightly and place it in a cool, dark place to infuse. The duration of the infusion process can vary depending on the potency of your chosen botanicals and your desired flavour intensity. As a general guideline, aim for anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks, tasting periodically until you achieve the desired flavour profile.

Straining and Bottling:

Once the infusion period is complete, it's time to strain your homemade gin to remove the spent botanicals and sediment. Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and carefully pour the infused vodka through the strainer into a clean container. 

Press gently on the botanicals to extract any remaining liquid, then discard the spent ingredients in your composter 

Your homemade gin is now ready to be bottled and enjoyed. Transfer the strained gin into glass bottles or jars, ensuring that they are clean and airtight to preserve the freshness of your creation. Don't forget to label your bottles with the date of creation and the botanicals used, it's always satisfying to look back on your flavour experiments.

Crafting your own gin at home using vodka as a base is a rewarding and creative endeavor that allows you to tailor your spirits to your exact specifications. Whether you prefer a classic London dry style or a more adventurous botanical blend, the possibilities for experimentation are endless. 

With a bit of patience and a willingness to explore different flavours, you can create unique and delicious gins that rival those found on supermarket shelves or in your pub. 

So gather your botanicals, pour yourself a glass of creativity, and embark on the journey of homemade gin-making. Cheers to the art of craft distilling!

Also, we'll let you know how our first batch of gin goes. Wish us luck!

The Art of Baking: Crafting Your Own Biscuits or Cookies at Home

In the realm of culinary delights, few things evoke the warmth and comfort quite like the aroma of freshly baked biscuits or cookies wafting through the kitchen. 

Whether it's a simple pleasure enjoyed with a cup of tea or a labour of love shared with friends and family, baking these delectable treats at home is an experience that combines creativity, skill, and just a little sprinkling of homemade magic, too.

Join me on a journey into the world of homemade biscuits and cookies, where we'll explore the joys of crafting these irresistible delights from scratch.

The Beauty of Homemade Baking:

There's something inherently special about homemade baked goods. Beyond the tantalising flavours and textures, there's a sense of pride and satisfaction that comes from creating something with your own hands. Baking biscuits or cookies at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients, customise flavours to suit your taste preferences, and infuse each batch with a dash of love and care. And you can make sure that you can provide people with allergies biscuits or cookies that they can safely eat without fear of triggering an allergic reaction.

And don't forget, you can also make savoury biscuits, too. For example, I'm rather partial to cheese straws, especially homemade ones!

Getting Started:

The beauty of baking biscuits or cookies lies in its accessibility. With just a few basic ingredients and some kitchen essentials, you can embark on your baking journey with confidence. Flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and leavening agents serve as the foundation for most recipes, while add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit offer endless possibilities for experimentation. Armed with a mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, and a trusty oven, you're ready to unleash your creativity and bring your baking visions to life.

Choosing Your Recipe:

When it comes to selecting a recipe, the options are virtually limitless. From classic chocolate chip cookies to buttery shortbread biscuits, there's a recipe to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you're craving a chewy, indulgent treat or a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth delight, there's no shortage of inspiration to be found in cookbooks, online resources, or family heirlooms passed down through generations. 

Feel free to put your own spin on traditional recipes by incorporating unique flavour combinations or innovative techniques, after all, baking is as much about creativity as it is about following instructions.

The Art of Baking:

Once you've chosen your recipe, it's time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the art of baking. Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that's equal parts science and art. Follow each step with precision, from creaming together butter and sugar to folding in flour and other dry ingredients. Pay attention to texture and consistency, adjusting as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavours and textures. And don't forget the most important ingredient of all, patience. Baking is a labour of love that rewards those who take the time to savour each step of the process.

The Joy of Sharing:

As your biscuits or cookies bake to golden perfection, the anticipation builds, filling your kitchen with warmth and excitement. Finally, the moment of truth arrives as you remove your creations from the oven, their heavenly aroma filling the air and beckoning all who pass by. 

Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a cold glass of milk or packaged up as thoughtful gifts for loved ones, homemade biscuits and cookies have a way of spreading joy and bringing people together. So go ahead, indulge your sweet tooth and share the love, after all, there's no sweeter reward than seeing the smiles on the faces of those who enjoy your homemade treats.

In a world filled with pre-packaged convenience foods, there's something truly special about taking the time to bake your own biscuits or cookies at home. From the therapeutic process of mixing and kneading to the joy of sharing your creations with others, homemade baking is an experience that nourishes both body and soul. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of baking transport you to a world of sweet delights and endless possibilities. Happy baking!

Here are some online resources for biscuit and cookie recipes:-

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/biscuit-recipes

https://www.delish.com/cooking/g1956/best-cookies

Embrace the Warmth: The Joys of Baking Your Own Bread at Home

The genesis of this story? My wife and I were recently enjoying some delicious home baked bread with some real butter and we thought "Why not write about the joys of baking your own bread at home?" So, here we are!

In recent years, the art of bread baking has seen a remarkable resurgence. While the convenience of shop-bought loaves may seem appealing, there's an undeniable charm and satisfaction that comes from creating your own bread at home. 

From the tantalising aroma that fills your kitchen to the pride of slicing into a freshly baked loaf, the joys of baking bread from scratch are unparalleled. 

Let's get into the myriad reasons why more and more people are turning to their kitchens to knead, prove, and bake their own bread.

Therapeutic Ritual:

Bread baking is a therapeutic ritual that allows you to slow down, disconnect from the chaos of the outside world, and immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of the kitchen. The rhythmic process of mixing ingredients, kneading dough, and watching it rise creates a meditative experience that soothes the mind and nourishes the soul. In a fast-paced world, baking bread offers a much-needed respite, a chance to embrace mindfulness and find joy in the present moment.

Creative Expression:

Baking your own bread is a canvas for creativity. With a basic understanding of ingredients and techniques, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer a rustic sourdough boule, a fragrant cinnamon-swirl loaf, or a hearty whole wheat bread studded with seeds and grains, you have the freedom to experiment and tailor recipes to suit your taste preferences. From shaping intricate designs to incorporating unique flavour combinations, each loaf becomes a reflection of your culinary imagination.

Quality Ingredients:

When you bake your own bread, you have full control over the ingredients that go into it. Say goodbye to preservatives, additives, and artificial flavourings commonly found in shop-bought bread. Instead, you can opt for higher-quality flour, perhaps even milled in your own area, locally sourced honey, organic grains, and other wholesome ingredients. Not only does this ensure a superior taste and texture, but it also allows you to prioritise your health and well-being by nourishing your body with real, nutrient-rich foods.

Sensory Delight:

Few things compare to the sensory delight of baking bread at home. As the dough transforms from a sticky mass into a smooth, elastic ball, you'll marvel at the tactile sensation beneath your fingertips. The aroma of yeast, flour, and warmth fills the air, signalling the magic unfolding in your oven. And when the timer finally chimes, heralding the arrival of a golden-brown loaf, your senses are rewarded with the sight, smell, and sound of culinary perfection.

Community and Connection:

Bread has a remarkable ability to bring people together. Whether you're sharing a loaf with loved ones over a leisurely brunch or gifting a freshly baked boule to a neighbour in need, the act of sharing bread fosters a sense of community and connection. In a world that often feels divided, breaking bread with others reminds us of our shared humanity and the simple joys that unite us across cultures and generations.

Conclusion:

In an age of instant gratification and pre-packaged convenience, the art of baking bread at home offers a welcome antidote. From the therapeutic ritual of kneading dough to the sensory delight of savouring a warm slice, the joys of bread baking extend far beyond the kitchen. So why not embrace the warmth and magic of homemade bread? Roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let the journey begin. After all, there's nothing quite like the taste of a loaf made with love from your own two hands.

Get creative in your kitchen. Make your own condiments, sauces, and more

In the realm of culinary adventures, there's something uniquely satisfying about crafting your own condiments and sauces. 

Not only does this allow you to tailor flavours to your exact preferences, but it also opens up a world of creativity in the kitchen. From tangy mustard to zesty salsa, the possibilities are endless when you take the DIY route. Let's dive into some exciting DIY kitchen projects that will elevate your dishes to new heights.

Homemade Mustard: A Tangy Triumph

Mustard is a staple condiment that adds a punch of flavour to sandwiches, dressings, marinades and more. 

Making your own mustard is surprisingly simple and allows you to experiment with various flavours and spice levels. Start with a base of mustard seeds, vinegar, and water, then customise with ingredients such as honey, garlic, herbs, or spices to create your own signature blend. Whether you prefer a classic yellow mustard or a spicy Dijon, homemade mustard is sure to impress.

Salsa Fresca: Fresh Flavurs in Every Bite

There's nothing quite like the vibrant flavours of homemade salsa fresca. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice, this versatile condiment adds a burst of freshness to tacos, nachos, grilled meats, and more. 

Experiment with different types of tomatoes, peppers, and herbs to find the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and acidity. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of salsa that rivals your favorite restaurant's.

Infused Oils and Vinegars: A Gourmet Touch

Infused oils and vinegars are an easy way to add depth and complexity to your dishes. Start by selecting high-quality oils and vinegars as your base, then infuse them with herbs, spices, fruits, or aromatics of your choice. 

For infused oils, try combinations like rosemary and garlic, chili and lime, or lemon and thyme. For vinegars, experiment with flavours like raspberry and basil, fig and balsamic, or orange and ginger. Use these infused oils and vinegars in dressings, marinades, or simply drizzle them over roasted vegetables or salads for a special gourmet touch.

Homemade BBQ Sauce: Sweet, Smoky, and Irresistible

No back garden barbecue is complete without a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce to slather on ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. While shop-bought options abound, making your own BBQ sauce allows you to control the sweetness, spice, and depth of flavour. 

Start with a base of ketchup, vinegar, and molasses, then customise with ingredients like brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and smoked paprika.Your homemade BBQ sauce is sure to take your grilling game to the next level.

DIY Pickles: Crunchy, Tangy, and Totally Addictive

There's something irresistible about a crisp, tangy pickle, and making your own at home is easier than you might think. Start with fresh cucumbers and a simple brine of water, vinegar, salt, and spices, then let time work its magic as the flavors meld together. Experiment with different types of cucumbers, brine ratios, and flavorings like dill, garlic, or chili flakes to create your perfect pickle recipe. Enjoy them straight from the jar, sliced on sandwiches, or chopped into salads for a burst of flavor and crunch.

You can also buy special picking onions and make your own pickled onions, too. 

Conclusion: Unleash Your Creativity in the Kitchen

Embarking on DIY kitchen projects like making your own condiments, sauces, and more is not only a fun and rewarding endeavor but also a delicious way to elevate your culinary creations. Whether you're experimenting with new flavors, customising recipes to suit your tastes, or simply enjoying the satisfaction of creating something from scratch, the possibilities are endless. So roll up your sleeves, stock your pantry with ingredients, and let your creativity run wild in the kitchen. Your taste buds and your family members and friends will thank you for it.

Crafting Delicious Cheese in Your Own Kitchen: A Beginner's Guide

Are you a cheese enthusiast who is eager to explore the world of homemade dairy delights? 

Look no further! Cheese making at home is not only a fulfilling culinary adventure but also a delightful journey into the art of craftsmanship. 

With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can transform ordinary milk into delectable cheese right in your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and let's embark on this cheesy endeavor together!

Getting Started

Before we get into the cheese-making process, it's essential to gather the necessary equipment and ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

Equipment:

Stainless steel pot

Thermometer

Cheesecloth or muslin cloth

Colander

Slotted spoon

Cheese mould (optional)

Ingredients:

Fresh, high-quality milk (preferably non-homogenizsd)

Cheese cultures or starter culture (available at specialty stores or online)

Rennet (also available at specialty stores or online). Vegetable rennet is also available)

Salt (optional, for flavouring)

Herbs/spices are an optional extra that you can experiment with

The Cheese-Making Process

Now that you have everything you need, let's get into the cheese-making process:

Step 1: Heating the Milk

Pour the desired amount of milk into the stainless steel pot and heat it gradually over medium heat. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and aim for around 86°F to 90°F (30°C to 32°C).

Step 2: Adding Cultures

Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, sprinkle the cheese cultures or starter culture evenly over the surface of the milk. Allow the cultures to rehydrate for a few minutes, then gently stir them into the milk using an up-and-down motion.

Step 3: Coagulation

Next, it's time to add the rennet. Dilute the rennet in a small amount of water according to the package instructions, then add it to the milk while stirring gently. After adding the rennet, cover the pot and let the milk sit undisturbed for approximately 30 to 60 minutes, or until it forms a curd.

Step 4: Cutting the Curd

Once the curd has formed, use a long knife to cut it into small, uniform cubes. This process helps to release the whey and firm up the curds. Let the curds rest for a few minutes after cutting.

Step 5: Cooking the Curds

Gradually increase the heat under the pot while gently stirring the curds. Aim to raise the temperature to around 102°F to 110°F (39°C to 43°C) over the course of 30 to 45 minutes. This step helps to expel more whey from the curds and develop the desired texture.

Step 6: Draining and Pressing

Once the curds have reached the desired texture, it's time to drain them. Line a colander with cheesecloth or muslin cloth and carefully transfer the curds into the colander. Gather the corners of the cloth and tie them together to form a bundle. Hang the bundle to drain for several hours, or until the desired moisture level is reached. For a firmer cheese, you can place a weight on top of the bundle to press out additional whey.

Step 7: Salting (Optional)

If desired, you can add salt to the cheese for flavouring. Simply sprinkle the salt evenly over the surface of the cheese and gently mix it in.

Step 8: Aging (Optional)

Depending on the type of cheese you're making, you may choose to age it for additional flavor development. Transfer the cheese to a cheese mould (if using) and place it in a cool, humid environment such as a cheese cave or refrigerator. Allow the cheese to age for the recommended time, periodically flipping and inspecting it for proper aging.

Step 9: Enjoying Your Homemade Cheese

Once your cheese has aged to perfection, it's time to savor the fruits of your labor! Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with your favorite crackers, or incorporated into your favorite recipes, homemade cheese is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family.

With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create delicious, artisanal cheese right in your own kitchen. 

Whether you're a seasoned cheese enthusiast or a curious beginner, cheese making at home is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that allows you to unleash your creativity and explore the wonderful world of dairy delights. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a cheesy adventure that's sure to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings!

Incidentally under the guidance of my wife I have made paneer, a type of cheese popular in India.

(Image courtesy of Azlin Bloor from Pixabay)

The Basics of Homemade Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Pasta-Making Skills

Pasta is a beloved staple in many households, but have you ever considered making it from scratch? 

Homemade pasta offers a freshness and flavor that store-bought varieties simply can't match. Plus, the process of making pasta from scratch can be incredibly rewarding and surprisingly simple. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the steps of making homemade pasta, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the art of shaping and cooking.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The beauty of homemade pasta lies in its simplicity. All you need are a few basic ingredients:

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and texture of the pasta.

Eggs: Bind the flour together and add richness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pasta.

Optional: Semolina flour or tipo "00" flour for a finer texture.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by creating a mound of flour on a clean work surface. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add a pinch of salt. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a shaggy dough forms.

Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving the pasta its characteristic chewiness.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

After kneading, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shape.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions for easier handling. Using a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll out each portion of dough into thin sheets. If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually decrease the thickness with each pass until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 5: Shape Your Pasta

Now comes the fun part – shaping your pasta! There are countless shapes and styles to choose from, including spaghetti, fettuccine, ravioli, and more. Experiment with different techniques and tools to create your favorite shapes.

Step 6: Cook and Enjoy

Once your pasta is shaped, it's time to cook it. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully add the pasta. Fresh homemade pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it and toss it with your favorite sauce or toppings. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, creamy Alfredo, or simple olive oil and garlic, homemade pasta is the perfect canvas for your culinary creations.

Making homemade pasta may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, anyone can master the art of pasta-making. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, fresh pasta that will impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, dust off your rolling pin, and get ready to elevate your pasta game to new heights!

(Image courtesy of Miroro from Pixabay)

Homemade or readymade? 4 million Britons cook up little white lies in the kitchen

Kitchen Confessions, a report published by cooking ingredient specialists Very Lazy, uncovers the truth behind the dishes served up on tables across the nation. One finding the research revealed is that four million Britons are prepared to pass off readymade food as their own. So - next time someone tells you the meal in front of you is made from scratch - take it with a pinch of salt.

Lifting the lid on our cooking habits, this latest report shows that many of us rely on smart shortcuts. Nearly three quarters of us (72 per cent) own up to cutting corners in the kitchen, whether that’s cooking everything in one pan or choosing to throw in pre-chopped garlic or ginger. Almost two million (1.8m) people even admit they only cook food from frozen.

BBC commentator and Professor of Psychology at Manchester University, Geoff Beattie, says: “Cutting corners in the kitchen is one coping mechanism that many people use to help their lives run a little bit smoother. We shouldn’t feel guilty about taking a few shortcuts here as long as we are happy and healthy.”

“If these shortcuts free up a little bit of time for the things that really matter, then this can be a very good thing indeed. In our time pressured lives it is sometimes finding time for the small things that matter – like asking your partner or your children how their day went in a quiet catch-up moment, like sharing your feelings with those you care about, like reading to your children – that make all the difference to quality of life and the strength and nature of the bonds that hold us together. Anything that facilitates these sorts of moments, which should be a core part of everyday life, has to be beneficial, even something like taking shortcuts in the kitchen.”

Surprisingly it’s men who dare to experiment the most in Britain's kitchens – with 88 per cent who like to try ingredients they have never used before and 70 per cent bold enough to abandon the cookbooks.

But are these men adventurous cooks or simply show offs? When asked, 78 per cent believed they had recently impressed someone with their cooking, including their friends, family, partner and even their in-laws. Either way, it seems that men also enjoy the fruits of their efforts, with 96 per cent of the men questioned saying that takeaways don’t taste as good as home cooking.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, women are the most efficient when it comes to food preparation, with over three quarters (76 per cent) writing a shopping list to make sure they buy all the food they need quickly and easily. As for keeping the kitchen tidy, 78 per cent of women clean up as they cook, however the figure is higher for men (84 per cent). For many women though, this does beg the question: “what is a man’s definition of ‘clean’?!”

Chef and Very Lazy's Chief Recipe Maker, Rob Cottam, says: "We all know that men and women generally have different cooking styles but it’s great to get this glimpse into how the kitchens of the UK work! Taking shortcuts is nothing to be ashamed of – good cooking is about eliminating the hassle and having great food at your fingertips."

"What you prepare is still your own, even if you’ve only actually made half of it and there is something really satisfying about giving your partner or family something you’ve cooked yourself!
What we want to encourage is people regaining their confidence in the kitchen. Hopefully we’re realising more and more that using smart shortcuts in the kitchen is a good way to cook great food, fast. We don’t need to slave away for hours to cook - healthy, tasty food is about cooking smarter, not harder.”

The Kitchen Confessions research also revealed the following national and regional statistics:

National:

- Almost a quarter of the UK (24%) cooks a whole meal in one pan
- 84% of men claim to clean up as they cook
- 90,000 women in the UK cook food for less time than they should to save time
- Only 1% of us have recently cooked to impress our boss
- 85% of the UK likes to cook ingredients they have never used before
- 16% of men admit they avoid using too many utensils as it creates too much washing up
- Only a quarter of us remember recipes from memory
- Only one in ten men when asked said they have recently cooked to impress their in-laws
- Over three quarters of the UK (77%) order a takeaway as a night off from cooking
- Men are twice as likely to have recently impressed a date with their cooking as women

Regional breakdown:

- London: Londoners lead the way when it comes to impressing with their cooking skills - 56% use cooking as a way to impress others and 1 million have recently cooked to impress a date. That’s three times the national average
- Wales: People in Wales are the most honest in the UK – only 3% said they would try and pass off readymade or shop bought food as their own, compared to the national average of 7%
-North East: Men in the North East are the most likely to cook to impress their partners – 63% have recently impressed their partner with their cooking (that’s 20% more than the national average)
-East Midlands: People in the East Midlands work the hardest in the kitchen – only 59% cut corners in the kitchen, compared to the national average of 72%
-Northern Ireland: A staggering 18% of the population of Northern Ireland, that’s nearly 800,000 people, admitted they only cook frozen food
-South East: The South East of England is home to the most organised people in the kitchen with 82% writing a shopping list and 85% cleaning up as they cook
-Yorkshire: People in Yorkshire are the messiest cooks, with over a quarter (26%) admitting they don’t clean up as they cook
-West Midlands: Men in the West Midlands are more experimental in the kitchen with 24% more males than females preferring to throw ingredients in to experiment when cooking
-Scotland: Only 4% of Scots said they order a takeaway because it tastes better than home cooking
-East of England: People in the East of England come out on top when it comes to using cookbooks with almost half (46%) following a recipe from a book when cooking
- North West: 88% of people in the North West like to experiment in the kitchen by trying new ingredients
- South West: 49 % of women in the South West prefer to throw in ingredients when they are cooking – this is the highest in the UK

FACTFILE:

Very Lazy, cooking ingredients specialists are part of English Provender Company. The Very Lazy brand, launched in the early 1990s, is aimed at people who have busy lives but still demand good quality, homemade food in a matter of minutes. The Very Lazy range includes chopped ingredients and pastes (garlic, chillies and ginger) and eight 20-minute cooking concentrates with popular British classics updated, such as Posh Sausage to more exotic tastes with Caribbean Chicken proving a best seller.

With the strapline, ‘Great Food at your Fingertips’, Very Lazy is available to buy at supermarkets including Asda, Tesco, Co-op, Morrisons and Sainsburys and online at www.verylazy.com.