How to stage coffee and cake events to raise funds for good causes

Organising a coffee and cake event to raise funds for a good cause can be both enjoyable and effective. 

Here's a step-by-step guide:

Planning the Event

Set Clear Goals

Decide on the fundraising target.

Choose a specific cause to support and clearly communicate this to participants.

Pick a Date and Venue

Choose a date that gives you enough time to prepare.

Select a venue such as a community hall, church, school, or even a garden.

Create a Budget

Include costs for venue hire, ingredients, decorations, and promotional materials.

Aim to get as many items donated as possible to maximize funds raised.

Recruit Helpers

Gather volunteers to help with baking, setting up, serving, and cleaning up.

Plan the Menu

Offer a variety of cakes and coffee options (e.g., decaf, tea, hot chocolate).

Include gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options to cater to dietary needs.

Promoting the Event

Spread the Word

Use social media platforms to create an event page.

Distribute flyers in local shops, libraries, and schools.

Contact local newspapers or community groups for additional coverage.

Offer Pre-Orders

Allow people to pre-order cakes if they cannot attend.

Partner with Local Businesses

Ask local bakeries or coffee shops to donate items or sponsor the event in exchange for advertising.

Setting Up the Event

Decorate the Venue

Use banners, tablecloths, and signs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Display information about the cause you're supporting.

Create Stations

Set up separate areas for serving coffee, displaying cakes, and accepting donations.

Include Entertainment

Add a raffle, quiz, or live music to keep attendees engaged.

Use a Payment System

Provide cash boxes and card readers to make payments easy.

Offer a “pay what you can” option for accessibility.

During the Event

Engage with Attendees

Share stories or information about the cause to encourage donations.

Thank everyone for attending and supporting the event.

Track Donations

Keep a record of funds raised during the event.

Encourage Further Support

Share details on how attendees can continue to support the cause after the event.

Post-Event Follow-Up

Thank Participants

Send thank-you messages to volunteers, donors, and attendees.

Share Results

Announce the total funds raised and how they’ll be used.

Use social media or email updates to keep supporters informed.

Evaluate and Reflect

Discuss what went well and what could be improved for future events.

How to Swap Out Meat for Vegan Substitutes in Your Favourite Recipes for Veganuary

Veganuary is the perfect opportunity to explore plant-based eating and experiment with vegan alternatives to your favourite dishes. 

One of the most straightforward ways to get started is by swapping out meat for vegan substitutes. 

Whether you’re craving a hearty burger, a comforting stew, or a sizzling stir-fry, there’s a plant-based option for you. 

Here’s a guide to help you make the transition seamlessly.

1. Understand Your Recipe’s Needs

Before diving into substitutes, consider what role meat plays in your recipe. Is it providing:

Texture: Does it need to be chewy, crispy, or tender?

Flavour: Is it the star of the dish, or is it there to enhance other ingredients?

Protein: Are you looking for a high-protein alternative?

Understanding these elements will help you choose the best vegan substitute.

2. Explore Vegan Meat Substitutes

Here are some popular options to replace meat in various dishes:

Tofu: A versatile choice that absorbs flavours beautifully. Firm tofu works well in stir-fries, while silken tofu is perfect for soups and creamy dishes.

Tempeh: Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a nutty flavour and firm texture, making it ideal for sautés, sandwiches, and salads.

Seitan: Also known as wheat gluten, seitan is chewy and meat-like, perfect for dishes like fajitas, stir-fries, or even vegan roasts.

Jackfruit: This fruit has a fibrous texture that mimics pulled pork or shredded chicken. Use it in tacos, sandwiches, or BBQ recipes.

Legumes and Lentils: Chickpeas, black beans, and lentils are excellent for making burgers, meatballs, and hearty stews.

Mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms make a great burger patty, while shiitake or oyster mushrooms add a meaty texture to stir-fries and soups.

Store-Bought Vegan Meats: Brands like Beyond Meat, Quorn, and Linda McCartney offer a range of plant-based sausages, burgers, and mince that are easy to use in traditional recipes.

3. Adjust Your Cooking Techniques

Vegan substitutes often require different cooking methods to achieve the desired texture and flavour. Here are some tips:

Marinate: Tofu, tempeh, and seitan absorb marinades well. Use soy sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices to enhance their flavour.

Pre-Cook: For substitutes like jackfruit or mushrooms, sautéing or roasting beforehand can improve their texture and taste.

Season Generously: Vegan substitutes often benefit from extra seasoning to mimic the umami of meat. Use nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, or liquid smoke for depth.

4. Reimagine Your Favourite Dishes

Here’s how to veganise some classic recipes:

Spaghetti Bolognese: Swap out mince for lentils, crumbled tofu, or shop-bought vegan mince. Add tomato paste, garlic, and Italian herbs for a rich sauce.

Tacos: Use spiced black beans, jackfruit, or crumbled tempeh as your filling. Top with avocado, salsa, and vegan sour cream.

Burgers: Replace beef patties with black bean or chickpea patties, or try a store-bought vegan burger.

Curries and Stews: Substitute chicken or beef with tofu, chickpeas, or seitan. Coconut milk, curry paste, and fresh herbs can enhance the flavour.

Stir-Fries: Use tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms as your protein source. Add colourful vegetables and a savoury sauce for a quick, nutritious meal.

5. Embrace Trial and Error

Not every substitute will work perfectly on the first try, and that’s okay. Experiment with different options, cooking methods, and flavour combinations to find what works best for you. Veganuary is all about exploration and discovering delicious new ways to enjoy food.

Conclusion

Swapping out meat for vegan substitutes doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or satisfaction. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can transform your favourite recipes into plant-based delights. Whether you’re committing to Veganuary or just trying to eat more sustainably, these tips will help you on your journey. Happy cooking!

The Wonderful Impact of Marine Collagen on the Human Body

In recent years, marine collagen has become a buzzword in the health and wellness world, and for good reason. 

Derived from the skin, scales, and bones of fish, marine collagen is a natural, sustainable protein source that offers a wealth of benefits for the human body. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, support joint health, or enhance overall well-being, marine collagen is a powerhouse ingredient worth exploring.

What is Marine Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structure to our skin, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. 

However, as we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, joint discomfort, and weaker hair and nails. Marine collagen, rich in type I collagen, is highly bioavailable, meaning it’s easily absorbed and utilised by the body.

The Benefits of Marine Collagen

1. Glowing Skin

Marine collagen is a beauty favourite, and for good reason:

Improved Elasticity: It helps to restore skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydration Boost: Collagen supports the skin’s moisture barrier, leaving it plump and hydrated.

Repair and Regeneration: It promotes the production of new skin cells, aiding in the healing of scars and imperfections.

2. Stronger Hair and Nails

If brittle nails and thinning hair are concerns, marine collagen can help:

Hair Growth: It strengthens hair follicles, promoting thicker, healthier hair.

Nail Health: Marine collagen fortifies nails, reducing breakage and encouraging faster growth.

3. Joint and Bone Support

Marine collagen isn’t just for beauty—it’s a boon for mobility:

Joint Comfort: It supports cartilage health, reducing joint stiffness and discomfort.

Bone Density: Collagen contributes to stronger bones, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

4. Gut Health

The amino acids in marine collagen, such as glycine and proline, are excellent for gut health:

Healing the Gut Lining: It helps repair the intestinal lining, making it beneficial for those with leaky gut syndrome.

Improved Digestion: Collagen supports the production of stomach acid and enzymes, aiding digestion.

5. Muscle Recovery and Strength

For fitness enthusiasts, marine collagen can enhance performance and recovery:

Muscle Repair: It provides the amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth.

Reduced Soreness: Collagen aids in faster recovery after workouts.

Why Choose Marine Collagen?

High Absorption: Marine collagen has smaller peptides, making it more easily absorbed compared to bovine or porcine collagen.

Sustainability: It’s an eco-friendly choice, as it utilises parts of fish that would otherwise go to waste.

Hypoallergenic: Marine collagen is a great option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies to land-based collagen sources.

How to Incorporate Marine Collagen Into Your Routine

Marine collagen is available in powder, capsule, or liquid form, making it easy to add to your daily routine:

Smoothies: Blend a scoop of marine collagen into your morning smoothie for a protein boost.

Coffee or Tea: Stir it into your hot beverages for a seamless addition.

Soups and Stews: Add it to warm dishes for a nourishing touch.

What to Look For in Marine Collagen

When choosing a marine collagen supplement, consider the following:

Purity: Opt for products free from additives, fillers, and artificial ingredients.

Source: Look for sustainably sourced collagen from wild-caught fish.

Certification: Choose products tested for heavy metals and other contaminants.

Final Thoughts

Marine collagen is more than a trend—it’s a transformative addition to your health and beauty routine. Its ability to nourish the skin, strengthen the body, and support overall wellness makes it a must-have for anyone looking to age gracefully and live vibrantly.

Have you tried marine collagen? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

Using Soured Milk in Cooking: A Kitchen Secret Worth Knowing

Soured milk is often seen as a kitchen mishap, but it’s actually a hidden gem for cooking and baking. 

Instead of pouring it down the drain, you can transform soured milk into a versatile ingredient that adds richness and depth to a variety of dishes. Here’s how to make the most of it.

What is Soured Milk?

Soured milk is simply milk that has started to ferment due to natural bacteria, giving it a tangy flavour and thicker consistency. This isn’t the same as spoiled milk, which has an unpleasant smell and is unsafe to consume. Soured milk is still perfectly good to use in recipes, especially if it’s only slightly past its prime.

Why Use Soured Milk?

Natural Acidity: The acidity in soured milk acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda, helping baked goods rise.

Enhanced Flavour: Its tangy taste can add depth to both sweet and savoury dishes.

Sustainability: Using soured milk reduces food waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.

How to Use Soured Milk in Recipes

1. Baking

Soured milk is a fantastic substitute for buttermilk in recipes. Use it in:

Pancakes and Waffles: The acidity creates light, fluffy textures.

Cakes and Muffins: Soured milk adds moisture and a subtle tang.

Scones: It helps achieve that tender crumb and golden crust.

2. Sauces and Soups

Its creamy texture makes soured milk ideal for thickening sauces and soups. Try it in:

Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in a splash of soured milk for a velvety finish.

Cheese Sauce: The acidity complements the richness of cheese, perfect for macaroni or gratins.

3. Marinades

The enzymes in soured milk tenderise meat beautifully. Use it as a base for marinades for chicken, lamb, or pork. Add garlic, herbs, and spices for extra flavour.

4. Salad Dressings

Whisk soured milk with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a tangy, creamy dressing.

5. Homemade Dairy Products

Soured milk can be the starting point for making homemade:

Cottage Cheese: Heat the milk gently and strain the curds.

Yoghurt: Use it as a starter culture for your next batch.

How to Sour Milk Intentionally

If you don’t have naturally soured milk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 250ml of fresh milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it curdles slightly.

Tips for Using Soured Milk

Check the Smell: Soured milk should have a tangy aroma, not a foul odour.

Use Quickly: Once soured, use the milk within a day or two for the best results.

Store Safely: Keep soured milk refrigerated to prevent further spoilage.

A Word of Caution

Always ensure that the milk hasn’t gone rancid. If it smells sour but still has a clean aroma and no signs of mould, it’s good to use.

Final Thoughts

Soured milk is a fantastic example of how creativity in the kitchen can turn potential waste into culinary magic. By incorporating it into your recipes, you not only save money but also add a unique twist to your dishes. So, the next time your milk takes a turn, don’t despair—get cooking!

What’s your favourite recipe using soured milk? Share your ideas in the comments below!

The Sustainable Story of Ibis Rice: Protecting Wildlife Through Ethical Farming

In a world where food production often clashes with environmental conservation, Ibis Rice offers a shining example of how agriculture can coexist harmoniously with nature. 

This unique initiative, which originated in Cambodia, has recently gained attention in the UK through ibisrice.co.uk, bringing its sustainable, wildlife-friendly rice to European tables.

What is Ibis Rice?

Ibis Rice is more than just a premium, organic product; it’s a conservation-driven farming initiative. It began as a response to the alarming decline of the giant ibis, Cambodia's national bird and a critically endangered species. 

The giant ibis thrives in the lush forests and wetlands of northern Cambodia, habitats increasingly threatened by deforestation and unsustainable farming practices.

Ibis Rice partners with local farmers to produce organic, wildlife-friendly rice while protecting these critical ecosystems. Farmers commit to strict conservation agreements, such as avoiding deforestation, hunting, and the use of harmful chemicals, in exchange for a premium price for their rice.

Why It Matters

The success of Ibis Rice highlights the powerful link between ethical farming and wildlife conservation.

By providing farmers with financial incentives to protect their environment, the initiative ensures that both people and wildlife can thrive. 

The programme not only safeguards the habitat of the giant ibis but also benefits other endangered species, such as the white-shouldered ibis, Eld’s deer, and the pileated gibbon.

In addition to protecting biodiversity, Ibis Rice contributes to sustainable livelihoods for Cambodian farmers. 

By producing high-quality organic rice, farmers gain access to international markets and higher incomes, breaking the cycle of poverty that often drives environmental degradation.

Ibis Rice in the UK

For those in the UK, Ibis Rice is now available through ibisrice.co.uk. The rice is not only ethically sourced but also boasts exceptional taste and quality. It’s certified organic, non-GMO, and grown using traditional methods that respect the land and its natural cycles.

Whether you're a foodie seeking a delicious, aromatic rice or a conscious consumer looking to support sustainable practices, Ibis Rice is a perfect choice. By purchasing Ibis Rice, you’re directly contributing to the protection of endangered species and the livelihoods of Cambodian farmers.

Cooking with Ibis Rice

Ibis Rice’s nutty flavour and slightly sticky texture make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It’s ideal for dishes like fragrant Thai curries, Vietnamese pho, or even a simple pilaf. Knowing that your meal supports conservation efforts adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every bite.

You'll also love their delicious ricecakes, too, so you can have portable ricey goodness no matter where you go!

And if you want you and your kids to have a good, ethical start to the day, why not try their wholegrain Rice Pops which are gluten free? (Sweetened or original) 

Join the Movement

As consumers, our choices have the power to drive change. 

By supporting initiatives like Ibis Rice, we can encourage sustainable farming practices and help protect our planet’s most vulnerable species.

Visit ibisrice.co.uk to learn more about their mission and discover how you can make a difference—one grain of rice at a time.

Let’s celebrate a future where conservation and agriculture go hand in hand, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.

Incidentally Chris Packham, naturalist and TV presenter and Chhorn Chim, an Ibis rice farmer from  Prey Veng Village are ambassadors for Ibis Rice.

You can buy direct from the UK shop via the Ibis website, above. And you'll also find some very appealing recipes on the website, too. 

Bears Ice Cream, Sweetheart Share Bear, Set to Melt Hearts This Valentine's

Whisk your Valentine off to the seaside town of Whitstable for a romantic food-filled getaway this Valentine's Day.  

Sample Whitstable's oysters – famed as an aphrodisiac - then head to Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium in Whitstable High Street and treat your loved one to a playful sweet treat. 

In the shape of a teddy bear with an eye-catching, colourful design, the Bears Ice Cream Sweetheart Share Bear is a decadent, creamy chocolate ice cream, made with real Jersey milk encasing a raspberry jam heart centre.  It's priced at £17.50 (350g) and is made generously for two to share. Available instore from 1st February.

Renowned for their creative, innovative flavours and showstopping designs, Bears Ice Cream Sweetheart Share Bears are also great for Galentine's celebrations or just for showing the love to a special someone.

Not a chocolate ice cream lover?  Why not try one of Bear's romantic fruity and floral ice cream flavours.  Choose from:

- Award-winning Blueberry & Lavender Jam, Meringue Swirl (A Taste of Kent Awards 2024 gold winner)

- Cherry & Hibiscus Sorbet (Suitable for Vegans)

All flavours of ice cream are available instore, priced at £3.50 per scoop, or you can take a 450ml tub home for £9.50.

For more exciting news follow Bears on Instagram and TikTok or visit bearsicecream.co.uk for the full menu.

FACTFILE  on  Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium

Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium is an independent, multi award-winning, family run, innovative ice cream parlour in the Kentish seaside town of Whitstable. Bears craft delicious, premium ice cream in an exciting and playful range of flavours, made with real Jersey milk and quality ingredients.

Please note that Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium is closed during January, reopening on 1st February.

To make a Valentine's holiday of it, why not visit https://www.whitstable.co.uk to learn more, book accommodation, etc?

Burn's Night Smash Haggis Burger Recipe

Photograph by Nick Hook

Kamado Joe have asked us to share this special recipe for a Burn's Night smash haggis burger.

Celebrate Burns Night with a burger that's as bold as the Bard himself! 

Haggis-spiked beef patties are steamed with a dram of whisky for the ideal tribute for Burns night.

Recipe commissioned by Kamado Joe, shot by Nick Hook

Serves 4

Ingredients

500g beef mince (125g per burger)

100g haggis

2 rashers of smoked streaky bacon per patty

Emmental Cheese

Splash of whisky

Brown Sauce

Watercress

Brioche Burger Buns

Method

Combine the beef mince and haggis in a bowl.

Shape the mince into meat balls. 

Fire up your BBQ (or use a hot frying pan) to around 200C. Use a flat surface or heat up a cast iron frying pan.

Place the meat balls on the griddle and then smash them into a burger shape. You can do this with your hand, using a steak press or a spatula.

At the same time, grill the bacon rashers until crispy.

After the patty has cooked around 3 minutes, flip them over.

After 2 minutes, place a slice of cheese onto each patty then pour a splash of whisky next to it, before covering with a burger dome. This will accelerate the melted cheese and infuse the patty with a whisky steamed flavour.

To build the burgers, lightly grill each side of the brioche buns, before adding brown sauce and a handful of watercress. Place a patty on top, followed by the crispy bacon. Finally, place the remaining bun on top of the burger and enjoy.

Recipe: Ultimate Pancakes from Matthews Cotswold Flour

As part of our offering we like to bring our readers some interesting recipes. 

And we are pleased to be able to bring you this Matthews Cotswold Flour Ultimate Pancake Recipe.

Transform your mornings with Matthews Cotswold Flour's favourite pancake recipe. Made with regeneratively farmed flour, these pancakes are not only fluffy and delicious but also contribute to healthier soils and ecosystems, too. 

They're light and fluffy, with an extra egg yolk for added richness. Top with your favourite fruits, syrup, or a dollop of cream, or plain Greek yogurt. 

Makes: 12 pancakes 

Prep time: 15 minutes

Bake time: 15 minutes 

Ingredients

120g Matthews Regenerative All Purpose Flour 

1 Egg

1 Egg Yolk

300ml Milk

2tbsp Clarified butter, plus extra for cooking *see note for instructions on this

2tbsp Baking powder

2tbsp Sugar

1tsp Salt

Method

NOTE: Clarified butter - 

Clarified butter is essentially the fat that is left after you remove the milk solids from butter - it has a high smoking point and doesn't burn or go brown in the pan when cooking at high heats and it is crucial to get the delicious crispy edges on these pancakes. 

You can buy Ghee in the supermarket which is the same thing, or you can melt a block of butter and allow it to cool in a bowl or container - once it cools you can skim off the clarified butter from the top leaving behind the milk solids which can be discarded. You also could strain the melted butter through cheesecloth which will also work to separate the milk solids out. 

In a large bowl, combine the egg and egg yolk with the baking powder and whisk vigorously until light and frothy - this should take about 2 minutes

Add in the salt and sugar and whisk again 

Alternating, add the flour and milk in four parts. Whisk until no lumps are left in between each addition

Pour in two tablespoons of your clarified butter and give a final whisk 

Heat a frying pan (I like to use a cast iron skillet) over a medium heat and grease generously with clarified butter 

Add spoonfuls of the pancake batter to the pan and cook for a few minutes on each side, or until golden brown

Make sure to replenish the butter in the pan in between each pancake, and repeat until all the mixture is used

Keep warm until ready to serve - and enjoy with your favourite pancake toppings!

https://cotswoldflour.com.

We are SHORE you'll love these vegan treats!

SHORE, The Scottish Seaweed Co., has secured a major deal to have its multi-award-winning Seaweed Chips stocked in Aldi stores across the whole of the UK this month

Following a series of successful promotions in Aldi Scotland, SHORE Chips will feature in Aldi’s middle aisle across the UK as part of the Veganuary month-long celebration. 

The promotion, which was launched late last month will include a special offer of £1.49 on SHORE’s Great Taste Award-winning 80g Sweet Sriracha flavour, as well as the newly released 80g Salt & Balsamic flavour.

“We’re absolutely thrilled Aldi UK chose to feature our Shore Chips for Veganuary,” Keith Paterson, Co-founder of SHORE told That's Food and Drink. 

He went on to say: “With healthy resolutions in full swing, it’s the perfect time to try something new that supports both a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable world—all while tasting fantastic, too”

SHORE’s mission is to make seaweed a leading sustainable food for the future, offering delicious products that are not only better for you but also better for the planet, too.

The crisps champion local Scottish seaweed, a naturally regenerative food source which is packed with essential nutrients such as iodine, gut-friendly fibre, and antioxidants.

Beyond celebrating this local superfood, SHORE has earned multiple accolades for flavour, including two Great Taste Awards, a Great British Food Award, a World Food Innovation Award, and more recently, two wins at last year’s Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards.

https://shoreseaweed.com

Check with your local Aldi store for SHORE seaweed crisps and their other Veganuary offerings.

Porte Noire Kings Cross Awarded Two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence

Porte Noire, the highly acclaimed restaurant co-founded by Idris Elba and David Farber, is thrilled to announce it has been awarded two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence by the AA Restaurant Guide. 

This prestigious recognition celebrates the restaurant's commitment to high-quality food and exceptional dining experiences.

Located in the heart of  London's Kings Cross, since opening its doors Porte Noire has been dedicated to crafting innovative dishes using the finest seasonal ingredients, paired with a carefully curated wide selection of wines. 

The team is constantly working hard to create a menu that reflects both classic Mediterranean dishes with a twist of creativity and innovation.

 "We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from the AA, said David Farber, founder & co-owner of Porte Noire. "This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire team. We strive to create a unique dining experience for the enjoyment of our guests, and this acknowledgment inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of culinary excellence."

The AA Rosette Awards are a benchmark for culinary excellence in the UK, with only a select number of restaurants achieving this notable distinction. The two AA Rosettes signify that Porte Noire is achieving standards that are "excellent cooking, worth a visit."

For reservations and more information, please visit www.portenoire.co.uk or contact us at bookings@portenoirekx.com.