Tuesday, 20 February 2024
That's Gardening: Branded Garden Products Group Achieves Planet Mark...
That's Gardening: Branded Garden Products Group Achieves Planet Mark...: Branded Garden Products (BGP) is pleased to announce it has become a Planet Mark Certified organisation, which is a reward for its commitmen...
Introducing the new Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener
Ask any top chef and they'll tell you knife maintenance and care is one of the most important and vital tasks in a professional kitchen. And the same applies at home, too. After all, what's the point in having excellent knives if you’re not going to invest in their upkeep? If you had a top-of-the-range Maserati car, you'd not try to tinker with it yourself, would you? So why take the same risk with your kitchen knives?
Most conventional methods don't sharpen the knife properly but align a weighted edge or sharpen only parts of the edge. That’s fine for basic maintenance, but after a while you'll notice that you're not getting the same sharpness as previously.
Tormek is introducing the first real knife sharpener for the home chef.
Tormek has 50 years of expertise in tool sharpening for woodworkers. The NEW Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener is the first professional, premium quality kitchen knife sharpener designed for the home.
It's quick to use, easy to operate and is clean and quiet. It precisely sharpens blades 12 - 60mm high and up to 5mm thick, with an unlimited length.
Based on the innovative sharpening system developed for professional kitchens, the Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener effortlessly delivers a razor-sharp cutting edge and a durable angle that won’t dull after every use.
Blades remain sharper for longer
The Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener has a sleek industrial design and comes fully assembled with a solid oak handle, powder-coated zinc body, diamond grinding wheel and a composite honing wheel. The method consists of three steps:
Set preferred bevel angle
You can choose any angle between 8 and 22 degrees. However, 15 degrees is a good angle to start with if you are unsure. A small angle will cut more easily, while a large angle will give a stronger edge.
Sharpens on both sides
The fine-grained diamond grinding wheel sharpens all types of steel including ceramic knives, to professional sharpness levels. The low-speed means there’s minimal steel wear.
Insert the clean, dry knife into the guide. Follow the shape of the knife and apply only gentle pressure. A magnet in the patented guide collects the steel particles keeping the grinding wheel clean.
Hone to an expert, razor-sharp finish
Moisten the honing wheel using a damp paper towel to reduce friction and remove the burr* and polish both sides of the knife on the honing wheel. Ensure the honing wheel rotates away from the edge.
(*After sharpening, a ‘burr’ is created which needs to be honed off to obtain a sharp and durable edge.)
Unlike some alternatives, the Tormek T-1 sharpens the entire bevel of the knife, not just the outer edge, and because the bevels can be sharpened separately, there’s the option to set different edge angles on each side of the blade, or sharpen just one side, which is particularly useful for more advanced knives.
It's designed and built to last, comes with an eight-year warranty. But they do advise that you store it safely in a dry place.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect knife sharpener for yourself or hunting down the ideal gift for a foodie friend or family member, the NEW Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener (RRP £330), is available from https://shop.tormek.com/en-gb
@tormek_culinary | #tormek
2024 Mother’s Day Literally Gift Guide
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, we have the ultimate gift guide for all the book loving mums out there, and for every taste, too. So if your mother likes to nibble on biscuits, sip coffee or enjoy a glass of wine whilst reading a new book, these books are what she'll love! Available on Amazon and via all good bookshops.
Whether your mum loves a gripping page-turner or a laugh-out-loud read, there is literally (and I chose that word deliberately!) something for everyone.
The Mother of Honey by Ana Maria Luisa
This story takes the reader from the harsh conditions of rural Brazil to the concrete jungle of Sao Paulo. Readers follow Iracy's journey which is filled with love, loss, and triumphs.
Along the way, she and her sisters Maria and Ana Maria Luisa are confronted with the harsh realities of the lives of indigenous and African slaves in colonized Brazil and the formation of the first mixed-race families.
If you're looking for a book to keep your Mom on the edge of her seat, this book is a must-read. It's a powerful testament to the human spirit and a celebration of the triumphs that can come from the darkest of places.
Spanning generations from Brazil to England and India, The Mother of Honey makes for the perfect Mother’s Day gift.
Old age. It's something most of us get, whether we want it or not. This book is about the joys and horrors of our old age. Sylvie Boulay writes: "It will show you the uncensored reality of my experience and that of women who confided in me. You will find humour, despair, and some gritty bits but absolutely no euphemisms.
Unflinching, honest, and relatable, this illustrated book is neither a celebration of nor a complaint about old age. It is the simple, unadorned truth of a life. Fully illustrated throughout with cartoons and drawings, this fantastic new title shines the brightest of lights on ageing as a woman."
Beyond Beige is the perfect gift this Mother’s Day for mums with a sense of humour!
Androulla is 24 and recently wed when she discovers she is infertile. In a bid for Cypriot citizenship she is undergoing adoption by her stepfather, and wondering if she will have to adopt a child one day herself?
As the reality of her situation sets in, Androulla's marriage begins to unravel. Between migration departments and doctors' appointments, she learns she must question what it means to be from somewhere, what it means to be a woman and, when an impossible choice presents itself, which of those things means the most to her? It's an unflinching literary novel that explores themes of womanhood, infertility and PCOS, immigration and complex family dynamics. For fans of Conversations With Friends & Breasts and Eggs.
As Amelie finds herself increasingly drawn to Clovis, who is an alluring and mysterious young man who she meets in a dream, who hides a secret, she learns his story, establishes how it intertwines with her own life and finally discovers how to live her life in the real world. Until her own secrets are revealed to the wrong people and that world is turned upside down.
Bright Midnights is the second in the Limerent Series and continues in the thought-provoking and beautiful style of the first as it considers different dimensions, different ways of looking at the world, and the transcendental power of love. This is the described as the paranormal romance to gift this Mother’s Day.
Diane Watson is an award-winning, distinguished financial advisor, entrepreneur, and the passionate founder of 'She Can Prosper.' It's Diane's firmly held view that you can afford to take risks if you stay informed and remain continually aware of what is happening around you.
Through her work as a financial advisor, she witnessed far too many women who she believed were abdicating responsibility for their finances to their partners. The realisation was that women who did not take control of their finances were being left vulnerable and potentially severely impacted later in life.
Their lack of knowledge or input into shaping their financial future was the catalyst to write this book. The book aims to provide women of all backgrounds with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to take control of their financial destinies.
She Can Prosper is the perfect gift for Mother’s Day, whether your mum is super financially savvy or not at all, there’s so much to learn for everyone.
Walker's Shortbread. The sweet way to show your Mother you love her
The team at Walkers's Shortbread has curated a few of their most beloved products to create the ultimate gifting selection.
And what better way could there be to show your appreciation this Mothering Sunday/Mother’s Day than with a delicious treat that can be enjoyed over and over 'til the last crumb is eaten?
Whether it’s your shortbread loving mum or nan, or a treat for that special someone who’s always looked out for you? These are ideal.
The Deluxe Mother's Day Gift Box (RRP: £40), includes 11 of Walker’s delicious shortbread products, including the famous Shortbread Fingers and Shortbread Rounds, as well as Stem Ginger Shortbreads, Orange Royals and White Chocolate & Raspberry biscuits.
The Mother’s Day Gift Bag (RRP: £20), includes a gorgeous 'With Love' tin of Shortbread Rounds, NEW shortbread assortment in Walker's updated packaging, a box of Ginger Royals and our White Chocolate & Raspberry biscuits for an extra indulgent treat.
The keepsake tin is full of scrumptious all-butter thistle shaped shortbread and can be used to keep mementos in long after the shortbread has been enjoyed.
Each gift comes with a Walker's gift card and customised Mother's Day message. Share these special treats with your loved ones – and make them go one step further by re-creating some amazing no-bake shortbread recipes at home!
You can learn more here about the recipes and place your orders with Walker's Scottish Shortbread who have been making absolutely delicious Scottish shortbread throughout three centuries, having first began baking in 1898, here: https://www.walkersshortbread.com/product-category/shortbread
Friday, 16 February 2024
Free-from Disruptor brand 'We Love Cake' Gets major Makeover to Kick Off 2024
The rebrand is backed by a new campaign 'Baked in Joy' that will celebrate those who have found We Love Cake after diagnosis of Coeliac disease (such as my wife) or a newfound lifestyle choice, and it'll be deployed through digital channels.
The new-look packs are to be on shelf in supermarkets from later this month and in-foodservice during this year.
To date the free-from bakery, based in Lazonby Cumbria, has been noted for its disruptive and innovative take on the category, recreating iconic, household favourites in vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free varieties.
We Love Cake has seen rapid growth in recent years showing a staggering growth of in excess of 370% since 2020 in value and volume.
Operating in UK Frozen Foodservice, Australian and UK retail, it's on track with its mission to become the biggest brand in value sales in Free From Sweet Bakery in the UK having achieved this already in Australia.
Initially launched in 2012 in UK foodservice, the brand became a success due to its quality, taste credentials and allergen integrity.
Having been a disruptor to UK retail in 2019, We Love Cake was selling under 1,000 packs per week, by the end of 2023 it sold over 25,000 packs in UK retail in one week.
The rebrand aims to be a step change for We Love Cake. In-market sales estimated for 2024 are believed to be worth over 4M Australian Dollars in Australia and over £7M in the UK.
Head of Brand and Marketing, Josh Boydell-Smith, said: “The rebrand and marketing campaign 'Baked in Joy' is the absolutely perfect opportunity to celebrate those who have found the brand through Coeliac disease or lifestyle choice, it aims to normalise free-from sweet bakery and remind people how good it can taste.
“We are rebranding to drive growth and gain further distribution, but mainly to better tell our our story and open ourselves up to younger shoppers. Five years ago we looked bold and new on shelf, since others have followed, we realised that it was time for a refresh and to stand out once again.”
Speaking on the brands rapid growth, Josh added: “Based out of Lazonby in Cumbria, we pride ourselves on being a brand that's punching well above our weight. To date our success has been driven by innovation and strong distribution, we now have 33 lines in our portfolio across the UK and Australia spanning frozen, ambient and chilled foods."
Josh went on to say: “Our branding needed to support our presence in the free-from category, it was time for us to shake things up, and remind our shoppers why they really do love cake.”
Bells of Lazonby will be investing in digital markerting that will reach over five million consumers with the new 'Baked in Joy' campaign. The product rebrand is going to be heaviily supported by PR and social media outreach though all operating channels.
FACTFILE: Back in 202 The We Love Cake journey began when second-generation family business owner, Michael Bell, took the decision to try to live as a coeliac for a week.
Michael was totally dissatisfied with anything he ate, not least the free from cakes he reluctantly attempted.
By only day two of the week-log trial he decided to build a dedicated Gluten, wheat, and milk free bakery. After years of honing gluten free bakery, he introduced We Love Cake to the UK foodservice in 2012.
We Love Cake are registered with Coeliac UK and declared as suitable for those with coeliac disease.
We love Cake is sold across the UK in Major Retail, Cafés and restaurants and Australia. Constantly re-working and revisiting the recipes, in 2019 We Love Cake rebranded and reduced sugar content across its portfolio.
For more information: https://we-love-cake.co.uk/delicious-gluten-free-cakes/ or follow on Instagram @welovecakeuk.
Nourishing the Road to Recovery: Foods, Supplements, Minerals, and Vitamins for Long COVID and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to these complex conditions, incorporating specific foods, supplements, minerals, and vitamins into your diet can play a crucial role in supporting your body's recovery journey.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key nutrients that have shown promise in combating the symptoms of long COVID and CFS.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in walnuts and flaxseeds, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with long COVID and CFS. Incorporating these foods into your diet can support immune function and reduce inflammation, which are often compromised in these conditions.
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory infections and immune dysfunction, both of which are prevalent in long COVID and CFS. Spending time outdoors in sunlight and consuming vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks can help maintain optimal vitamin D levels. Additionally, supplementation may be necessary, especially for those with limited sun exposure.
Magnesium:
Magnesium plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and muscle function, making it particularly important for individuals experiencing fatigue associated with long COVID and CFS. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Supplementing with magnesium citrate or glycinate may also be beneficial for some individuals, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and neurological function, and deficiency can contribute to fatigue and cognitive impairment, symptoms commonly experienced in long COVID and CFS. Animal products like meat, fish, and dairy are the best dietary sources of vitamin B12. For vegetarians and vegans, fortified foods or supplements may be necessary to ensure adequate intake.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):
CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant and plays a critical role in cellular energy production. Research suggests supplementation with CoQ10 may help alleviate fatigue and improve overall energy levels in individuals with long COVID and CFS. Foods like organ meats, fish, and whole grains contain small amounts of CoQ10, but supplementation may be necessary to achieve therapeutic levels.
Zinc:
Zinc is involved in numerous physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Some studies have suggested that zinc supplementation may help reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections, which are often exacerbated in long COVID. Foods such as oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, and nuts are excellent sources of zinc.
Antioxidants:
Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, selenium, and glutathione, play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of long COVID and CFS. Colourful fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are rich sources of antioxidants and should be included regularly in the diet.
While there is still much to learn about the optimal nutritional strategies for managing long COVID and chronic fatigue syndrome, incorporating nutrient-rich foods and supplements into your diet can support your body's recovery and help alleviate symptoms.
It's essential to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs and addresses any underlying deficiencies or imbalances. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you can empower yourself on the path to improved health and well-being.
Wednesday, 14 February 2024
Unraveling the Delicious Mystery: Cottage Pie vs. Shepherd's Pie
These two culinary delights, while often used interchangeably, actually have distinct origins, ingredients, and flavours. Today, we embark on a savoury journey to unravel the delicious mystery that sets Cottage Pie apart from Shepherd's Pie.
Origin Stories:
To understand the nuances between Cottage Pie and Shepherd's Pie, we must first delve into their histories. Shepherd's Pie, the older of the two, originates from the United Kingdom and is believed to have its roots in Scotland and northern England. Traditionally, it was a thrifty dish made with leftover roasted meat, typically lamb or mutton, topped with mashed potatoes.
Cottage Pie, on the other hand, emerged later and shares a similar concept but with a slight twist. Originating from Ireland and later gaining popularity in England, Cottage Pie was traditionally made with minced beef instead of lamb or mutton. The name "cottage" is said to refer to the rural cottages where farmworkers lived, reflecting its humble origins.
Ingredients:
The primary point of departure between Cottage Pie and Shepherd's Pie lies in their choice of meat. Shepherd's Pie, true to its name, traditionally features lamb or mutton. The rich and slightly gamey flavor of lamb infuses the dish with a distinct taste that is synonymous with traditional British cooking.
Another differentiating factor is the vegetables used in each pie. While both typically include a mix of carrots, onions, and peas, Cottage Pie may incorporate a broader range of vegetables, such as mushrooms or celery, adding depth and complexity to its flavor profile.
Topping:
One of the most iconic elements of both Cottage Pie and Shepherd's Pie is the luscious layer of mashed potatoes that crowns the savory filling. However, subtle differences in the preparation of the topping can distinguish one from the other.
Shepherd's Pie traditionally features a smooth layer of mashed potatoes, often piped or spread evenly over the filling. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the tender lamb or mutton, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
In contrast, Cottage Pie may opt for a rustic mashed potato topping, with chunks of potatoes scattered atop the filling. This variation adds a rustic charm to the dish, enhancing its homely appeal and providing pockets of creamy potato goodness amidst the savory filling.
In the delightful world of comfort food, Cottage Pie and Shepherd's Pie stand as quintessential examples of hearty, wholesome fare. While they share many similarities, including a comforting layer of mashed potatoes, their differences in ingredients, flavors, and origins offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of culinary traditions.
Whether you prefer the robust flavors of minced beef in Cottage Pie or the classic allure of tender lamb in Shepherd's Pie, one thing is certain, both pies are sure to warm the soul and satisfy the appetite, making them beloved staples on dinner tables around the world. So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of nostalgia and comfort, why not whip up a batch of Cottage Pie or Shepherd's Pie and savor the delicious differences for yourself?
Food and Culture: How Cuisine Reflects the Identity of a Community
The Culinary Tapestry of Culture
Imagine walking through the bustling streets of a multicultural city like New York or Mumbai. The aroma of diverse cuisines fills the air, beckoning you to explore the culinary tapestry woven by different communities. Each dish carries the essence of its origin, passed down through generations, preserving the unique flavours and techniques that define a culture.
Food serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting people to their roots and preserving traditions in an ever-changing world. Whether it's a ceremonial feast or a simple family meal, culinary customs offer a glimpse into the cultural values and social dynamics of a community.
The Influence of History and Geography
The culinary landscape of a region is shaped by its history, geography, and interactions with neighboring cultures. Migration, trade, and colonisation have contributed to the exchange of ingredients, recipes, and cooking methods, enriching culinary traditions and creating fusion cuisines that reflect a blend of influences.
For example, the spice trade routes of ancient times brought flavors from distant lands to the tables of Europe, transforming bland medieval fare into the rich and aromatic dishes of modern-day cuisine. Similarly, the fusion of African, Native American, and European culinary traditions gave rise to the vibrant flavours of Latin American cuisine, with dishes like ceviche and mole showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the region.
Celebrating Diversity Through Food
In today's globalised world, multiculturalism is celebrated and embraced, leading to a rich tapestry of culinary diversity. Immigrant communities bring their culinary traditions to new lands, sharing their heritage with the world and enriching the culinary landscape with new flavors and ingredients.
Food festivals, markets, and restaurants offer a platform for communities to showcase their culinary heritage and celebrate their cultural identity. Whether it's the colourful street food stalls of Thailand or the bustling night markets of Morocco, food becomes a shared language, uniting people across cultural boundaries and fostering understanding and appreciation for diversity.
Preserving Traditions in a Changing World
In the face of globalization and rapid urbanization, traditional culinary practices are at risk of being lost or diluted. However, there is a growing movement to preserve and revitalize culinary traditions, driven by a desire to reconnect with cultural heritage and promote sustainability and authenticity.
From farm-to-table initiatives to indigenous food sovereignty movements, communities are reclaiming control over their food systems and rediscovering traditional ingredients and cooking techniques. By honoring the wisdom of their ancestors and embracing the principles of environmental stewardship, they are ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the rich tapestry of flavours that define their cultural identity.
Food is more than just nourishment; it's a reflection of who we are and where we come from. Whether it's the spicy curries of India, the hearty stews of Ireland, or the savory dumplings of China, every dish tells a story, weaving together the threads of history, geography, and culture.
As we savour and enjoy the diverse flavours of the world, let us celebrate the rich tapestry of culinary traditions that unite us as a global community. By honoring and preserving our culinary heritage, we can ensure future generations inherit a world filled with the sights, smells, and tastes that make each culture unique.
After all, in the words of the renowned chef and food writer James Beard, "Food is our common ground, a universal experience."
Worried about using plastic or metal coffee pods? PAPACKS and EURO-CAPS have the answer!
These innovative oil-resistant and water-resistant fiber-based coffee capsules ensure coffee freshness and enables smooth use in capsule coffee machines, significantly reducing environmental impact, in line with principles of social responsibility and circular economy.
A spokesman said: "With great pride and joy, we announce that PAPACKS and Euro-Caps have been awarded the esteemed WorldStar Packaging Award 2024 for our innovative fiber-based coffee capsule. This honuor from the World Packaging Organization (WPO) recognises our ongoing commitment to sustainability and high-quality standards."
He went on to say: "With this step and the expansion to other compatible capsule models, Euro Caps, in collaboration with PAPACKS, becomes one of the first industrial-scale suppliers of a functioning fiber-based coffee capsule, which can significantly reduce the current use of plastic and aluminum capsules. According to calculations by DUH (Deutsche Umwelthilfe [https://www.duh.de/]), Germans consumed a total of 3.4 billion coffee capsules in 2019, equating to something in the order of 13,500 tons of waste.
"The joint development with Euro-Caps and PAPACKS challenged numerous experts from both companies to ensure the final product functions flawlessly, especially in its properties of oil resistance and water resistance, completely without plastic and aluminum. This innovation in design and technology has been registered as an international design patent with the World Intellectual Property Organization (DM/230736)."
Tahsin Dag, Founder & CEO of PAPACKS, commented: "Of course, we are proud of our developments in coffee capsules, demonstrating our commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. Transforming rapidly renewable, FSC®-certified raw materials into compostable capsules represents a significant advancement.
"Our innovative and outstanding collaboration with EURO-CAPS has been instrumental in achieving these innovations. This partnership emphasizes our mission to advance eco-friendly packaging solutions and to serve both our customers and the environment."
Anthony Kay, R&D Engineer at EURO-CAPS, added: "The advancements we've made at EURO-CAPS in the development of coffee capsules are a clear indication of our innovative strength and commitment to the environment.
"Through our collaboration with PAPACKS, we have succeeded in developing capsules that are not merely environmentally friendly but also technologically advanced, too. Our focus was on creating a capsule that's entirely compostable without compromising the quality and taste experience of the coffee. This is a significant step forward for sustainability in the coffee capsule industry.
"We thank our dedicated development and production team, as well as all involved partners, for their devoted work. The award will be honoured at the WorldStar Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 15, 2024."
For more information, please visit: https://www.papacks.com
Forgot to buy a Valentine's Day card? It got lost in the post? The Hope Spring water charity has you covered!
If you forgot to buy a card for your Valentine or the one you sent got lost or delayed in the post, you might feel like a bit of a heel.
However, the Hope Spring water charity will be able to get you out of a missing Valentine's Day card sized hole by the end of today, Valentine's Day.
How? Herefordshire based water poverty alleviation charity, Hope Spring, has released a Valentine’s Day 2024 ecard.In a post on the NGO’s website, Hope Spring announced the creation of six new animated and video eCards. The new addition to Hope Spring eCards collection boosted the total number of Valentine’s Day ecards on their ecard platform to just over sixty.
Hope Spring eCard is the charity ecards platform that raises money exclusively for Hope Spring’s clean water projects. The platform manager Seun Olonade said, “we were quite late this year with our Valentine’s Day ecards, our attention was Chinese New Year, which is separated from Valentine’s Day, just by four days.”
She added: "However, I am pleased that we got the Valentine’s day ecards ready in time. I look forward to our supporters and Visitors sending some of the cards we created in 2024."
Hope Spring uses proceeds from its eCards and donations from its supporters to create clean water projects, build boreholes and water wells for water poor communities in West Africa. Since it was founded in 2016, the organisation has impacted thousands of water poor communities in West Africa. It has just completed its first borehole project of 2024 last month.
You can find more information about Hope Spring eCards Valentine’s Day eCards on their website. You can find more information about their water poverty alleviation project on their social media pages as well as their website.
To order your card and to learn more about Hope Spring please visit http://www.hopespring.org.uk.
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