Comfort Food Classics: Reinventing Traditional Dishes for Modern Palates

In the realm of culinary delights, there's an enduring charm to comfort food classics. These dishes, often rooted in tradition and nostalgia, evoke warm memories and a sense of home. 

But as tastes evolve and culinary trends shift, chefs and home cooks alike are reimagining these beloved classics, infusing them with innovation and creativity to suit modern palates. 

Join us as we explore the exciting world of reinvented comfort food, where tradition meets innovation on the plate.

Embracing Heritage with a Twist

At the heart of reinventing comfort food lies a deep respect for culinary heritage. Chefs are embracing traditional recipes as a canvas for experimentation, blending flavours and techniques from diverse cultures to breathe new life into old favorites. 

Take, for example, the humble macaroni and cheese. While the classic version holds a special place in many hearts, chefs are elevating this comfort staple by incorporating artisanal cheeses, smoked meats, or unexpected ingredients like truffles or lobster, creating a symphony of flavorus that tantalise the taste buds.

Similarly, dishes like meatloaf and fried chicken are undergoing transformations that pay homage to their roots while embracing contemporary tastes. Chefs are experimenting with different meats, spices, and cooking methods to add depth and complexity to these familiar dishes. Whether it's a Korean-inspired twist on fried chicken with gochujang glaze or a meatloaf infused with Middle Eastern spices and topped with a tangy yogurt sauce, these reinventions offer a fresh perspective on time-honoured classics.

Celebrating Seasonality and Sustainability

In today's culinary landscape, there's a growing emphasis on seasonality and sustainability. Chefs are sourcing local, seasonal ingredients to create comfort food classics that not only taste delicious but also support local farmers and minimize environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability is evident in dishes like farm-to-table pies filled with heirloom vegetables, grass-fed beef stews simmered to perfection, and sustainable seafood chowders bursting with fresh-from-the-ocean flavours.

Moreover, the reinvention of comfort food classics extends beyond the ingredients themselves to encompass the cooking techniques employed. Chefs are embracing slow cooking methods like braising, roasting, and stewing, allowing flavors to develop gradually and creating dishes that are rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. By prioritising quality ingredients and mindful cooking practices, these reinvented classics offer a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes both body and soul.

Global Inspiration, Local Flavours

One of the most exciting aspects of reinventing comfort food classics is the infusion of global flavours into familiar dishes. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, culinary boundaries are blurring, and chefs are drawing inspiration from diverse cuisines to create innovative interpretations of traditional favorites. 

From Mexican-inspired tacos stuffed with slow-cooked barbecue brisket to Italian-inspired lasagna layered with spicy sausage and creamy béchamel, these cross-cultural creations showcase the universal appeal of comfort food.

Furthermore, the use of local flavours and ingredients adds a unique twist to these global-inspired dishes, infusing them with a sense of place and authenticity. Whether it's a Southern-inspired gumbo flavored with Cajun spices and seafood or a Japanese-inspired ramen bowl filled with locally sourced vegetables and humanely raised pork, these fusion dishes celebrate the diversity of culinary traditions while offering a fresh take on comfort food classics.

Conclusion: Tradition Reimagined

In the ever-evolving world of gastronomy, comfort food classics remain a timeless favorite, cherished for their ability to evoke memories of home and hearth. 

Yet, as tastes evolve and culinary boundaries expand, chefs and home cooks are breathing new life into these beloved dishes, reinventing them for modern palates. 

By embracing heritage with a twist, celebrating seasonality and sustainability, drawing inspiration from global cuisines, and infusing dishes with local flavours, these reinvented classics offer a delicious journey that honors tradition while embracing innovation. So the next time you crave a taste of comfort, dare to reimagine the classics and embark on a culinary adventure that's both familiar and exciting.

My wife combines cooking from her Indian heritage with British cookery elevating both to a new, very tasty level. 

Embracing the Magic: Growing and Eating Your Own Microgreens

In a world where the hustle and bustle of everyday life often leave us disconnected from nature's wonders, there exists a magical realm awaiting exploration right in our homes - microgreens. These tiny, vibrant greens hold a universe of flavour, nutrition, and joy within them. 

Growing and consuming microgreens isn't just about cultivating a crop; it's a journey of discovery, mindfulness, and satisfaction. Join me as we embark on this enchanting adventure of growing and savouring our own microgreens.

Unveiling the Magic of Microgreens:

Microgreens, the miniature versions of leafy greens and herbs, are harvested when their first true leaves emerge. Despite their small, or even tiny, size, they pack a powerful punch of flavour, colour, nutrients and taste.

From peppery rocket to delicate basil, each variety offers a unique culinary experience. But the magic of microgreens doesn't stop at their taste; it extends to their cultivation process and the satisfaction derived from nurturing them.

The Joy of Cultivation:

Growing microgreens is a delightfully simple yet rewarding endeavor suitable for seasoned gardeners and novices alike. All it takes is a shallow container, some soil or growing medium, seeds, and a sunny windowsill or a grow light. And your children will love to be involved, too.

Witnessing the transformation from seed to sprout and eventually to lush greens is akin to witnessing a miniature miracle unfold before your eyes. The act of caring for these tiny plants fosters a sense of connection to nature and an appreciation for the cycles of growth.

Mindful Nourishment:

Beyond the act of cultivation lies the true magic of microgreens - their role as a source of nourishment for both body and soul. Incorporating these miniature wonders into our diets introduces a burst of freshness and flavour to our meals. 

Whether sprinkled over salads, sandwiches, or soups, or blended into smoothies, microgreens elevate dishes with their vibrant hues and concentrated taste. Moreover, knowing that these greens were nurtured with our own hands adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every bite.

Nutritional Powerhouses:

Despite their tiny size, microgreens are nutritional powerhouses, often containing higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their mature counterparts. Research suggests hey may possess potent health benefits, including improved immune function, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and enhanced digestion. By incorporating microgreens into our diets, we not only tantalise our taste buds but also support our overall well-being, too.

Cultivating Connection:

In today's fast-paced world, cultivating a connection to the food we consume can feel like a distant luxury. However, growing and eating microgreens offer a tangible way to bridge this gap. By tending to these tiny plants, we rekindle our bond with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the origins of our food. Furthermore, sharing the experience with friends and family fosters a sense of community and joy in the simple act of growing and eating together. Why not set up a microgreen swap club with family members, neighbours or work colleagues? 

In a world inundated with convenience and instant gratification, the magic of growing and eating your own microgreens serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, savour the moment, and reconnect with the natural world. 

From the thrill of watching seeds sprout to the satisfaction of harvesting a bountiful crop, every step of the journey holds its own enchantment. So, why not embark on this magical adventure today? Grow your own microgreens, and let the magic unfold in your greenhouse, your conservatory, your windowsill or your kitchen shelf or counter.

Incidentally, we grown our microgreens in our conservatory.

The Asian Pantry by Dominique Woolf Out 20 June 2024

With in excess of 80 recipes based around accessible ingredients that have big flavours at their heart, The Asian Pantry is the ultimate tool to creating genuinely simple and delicious Asian dishes from scratch, at home. 

By using a simple collection of supermarket store cupboard essentials, most of which you'll probably already have at home, you can create flavour-packed, cost-effective, Asian-inspired dishes.

Dominique has curated quick and easy recipes with the focus on the pantry (whether yours is a shelf, cupboard, drawer or just a collection of bottles and jars on a kitchen surface) as your greatest utensil.

 Combine your bottles, jars, chillis, spices and pastes with fresh produce to whip up gorgeous, mouth-watering meals in less time than it takes to scroll through a takeaway menu. It is stunning food cooked with minimal fuss.

Dominique Woolf was the winner of Channel 4's The Great Cookbook Challenge by Jamie Oliver and is the creator of the award-winning The Woolf's Kitchen chilli oils, sauces and pastes. 

She trained at Leith's School of Food and Wine, and is a food writer, entrepreneur and home cook to her young family. She is inspired by her Thai roots and her love of big, bold flavours. 

Her first book Dominique's Kitchen topped the charts as a #1 Sunday Times bestseller and The Asian Pantry is her much-anticipated second cookbook, which will be published by Penguin Books in June.

https://www.instagram.com/dominiquewoolf/reel/C0CVY9BIugx/

In time for Mother's Day: Introducing the Della Vite Paloma Bellini, in collaboration with Ixchel

Ixchel, named for the Mayan goddess of the moon, is a beautiful Mexican restaurant on the King's Road, Chelsea. 

The talented team has created the Della Vite Paloma Bellini in honour of the weekend and all the women you choose to spend it with. 

This enticing cocktail is an exciting, zingy mix of the finest Tequila Blanco, fresh lime juice, homemade sugar syrup, zesty grapefruit soda and the smooth, extra bubbly and decadent Della Vite Superiore Prosecco, an award-winning Vegan premium fizz founded by Poppy, Chloe and Cara Delevingne. A delicate dusting of hibiscus salt on the glass adds floral and citrus notes to the finish. Salud!

Lunchtime diners will be offered a complimentary Della Vite Paloma Bellini with their meal. Head Chef Ximena Gayossa Gonzalez has crafted an exquisite menu with 'platos' designed to be shared. 

Why not try a Paloma Bellini alongside the Crab Macha Tostada, Grilled sea bass in pipián verde and sage butter and what is said to be quite possibly the best guacamole in London. Plus - prosecco AND tequila in the same cocktail? Sounds wonderful for all mums!

Friday 8th-Sunday 10th March; Ixchel, 33H King's Road,London, SW3 4LX. 

Visit: https://www.instagram.com/della_vite/?hl=en-gb 

Sustainable Eating: Tips for Reducing Food Waste and Eating Responsibly

In a world facing numerous environmental challenges, sustainable eating has emerged as a crucial aspect of reducing our ecological footprint. 

Food waste is a significant contributor to environmental harm, accounting for a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions and wasted resources. 

Embracing sustainable eating practices not only helps mitigate these issues but also promotes healthier lifestyles and supports more ethical food production systems. Here, we'll explore some practical tips for reducing food waste and eating responsibly.

Plan Your Meals:

One of the most effective ways to reduce food waste is to plan your meals in advance. Take some time each week to create a meal plan, considering what ingredients you already have and what you need to buy. Planning meals not only helps you buy only what you need but also ensures you use up perishable items before they go off.

Check your store cupboard supplies: 

Make sure that items in your store cupboard are fit to eat. Don't necessarily merely rely on the best before or use by dates. Look at them, smell them and taste them. If they seem OK, then they probably are.

Buy Wisely:

When grocery shopping, be mindful of what you buy. Opt for locally sourced, seasonal produce when this is possible, as it typically has a lower environmental impact and supports local farmers. Also, try to avoid overbuying perishable items that may spoil before you can use them. Stick to your shopping list and resist the temptation to purchase more than you need.

Embrace Imperfect Produce:

Many fruits and vegetables are discarded simply because they don't meet aesthetic standards. However, these "imperfect" produce items are often just as nutritious and delicious as their more visually appealing counterparts. By choosing imperfect produce, you not only help reduce food waste but also support efforts to combat food insecurity and promote a more inclusive food system. Morrison's and Tesco are two supermarkets that offer wonky vegetables and fruit. 

Practice Proper Storage:

Properly storing your food can help extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage. Invest in reusable containers and storage bags to keep fruits, vegetables, and leftovers fresh for longer. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the optimal storage conditions for different types of produce to ensure they stay fresh as long as possible.

Get Creative with Leftovers:

Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, get creative and find ways to repurpose them into new meals. Leftover vegetables can be added to soups, stir-fries, or salads, while leftover proteins can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or pasta dishes. Not only does this reduce food waste, but it also adds variety to your meals and saves you money.

Compost Food Scraps:

Despite our best efforts, some food waste is inevitable. Instead of sending it to the landfill where it contributes to methane emissions, consider composting your food scraps. Composting not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also produces nutrient-rich soil that can be used to support healthy plant growth in your own vegetable patch. We intend to cover this subject at a later date.

Sustainable eating is about making conscious choices that minimize our impact on the environment and promote a more ethical and equitable food system. By following these tips for reducing food waste and eating responsibly, you can play a significant role in building a more sustainable future for generations to come. Remember, every small change in our eating habits can make a big difference in the health of our planet.

(Image courtesy of Ben Kerckx from Pixabay)

Empowering Little Chefs: Teaching Your Children to Cook

In today's fast-paced world, where ready meals and takeaway foods and deliveries are easily available, the art of cooking at home is gradually fading away, according to some people. 

However, instilling cooking skills in children from a young age can have numerous benefits, ranging from fostering independence to promoting healthier eating habits. 

Teaching your children to cook not only equips them with an important and valuable life skill but also strengthens family bonds and encourages creativity in the kitchen. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider teaching your children to cook, along with practical tips to get started.

Why Teach Children to Cook?

1. Promotes Healthy Eating Habits:

Teaching children to cook empowers them to make healthier food choices. By involving them in meal preparation, you can introduce a variety of nutritious ingredients and educate them about the importance of balanced nutrition.

2. Develops Independence:

Cooking requires a blend of skills like planning, organisation, and problem-solving, all of which contribute to a child's independence. As they learn to follow recipes and experiment with ingredients, they gain confidence in their abilities.

3. Fosters Creativity:

The kitchen can be a canvas for creativity. Encouraging children to experiment with flavours, textures, and cooking techniques can spark their imagination and helps them develop a deeper appreciation for food.

4. Strengthens Family Bonds:

Cooking together offers valuable opportunities for bonding and creating lasting memories. It provides a shared experience where family members can collaborate, communicate, and enjoy each other's company.

Practical Tips for Teaching Children to Cook:

1. Start with Simple Recipes:

Begin with easy-to-follow recipes that match your child's age and skill level. Simple dishes like sandwiches, salads, or scrambled eggs are perfect for introducing basic cooking techniques.

2. Safety First:

Emphasise the importance of kitchen safety rules, such as washing hands, using oven mitts, and handling knives and hot surfaces with caution. Supervise younger children closely and gradually introduce more complex tasks as they demonstrate competence.

3. Make it Fun:

Turn cooking into an enjoyable activity by incorporating games, storytelling, or music. Allow your child to choose recipes that interest them or let them decorate dishes with colourful toppings to unleash their creativity.

4. Encourage Exploration:

Encourage your child to explore different cuisines and ingredients. Take them grocery shopping and involve them in selecting fresh produce and pantry staples. Teach them about the origin and characteristics of various foods to cultivate their culinary curiosity.

5. Be Patient and Supportive:

Remember that learning to cook takes time and practice. Be patient with your child's progress and offer encouragement along the way. Focus on the fun and rewarding aspects of cooking rather than perfection.

6. Celebrate Achievements:

Celebrate your child's cooking milestones, whether it's mastering a new recipe or successfully preparing a meal independently. Praise their efforts and showcase their creations to boost their confidence and sense of accomplishment.

Teaching your children to cook is a gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. By instilling cooking skills from an early age, you empower them to make healthier choices, develop independence, and cultivate a lifelong passion for food. Embrace the journey of cooking together as a family, and savor the joy of creating delicious meals and cherished memories in the heart of your home.

Decoding Wine: A Beginner's Guide to Varietals, Terroir, and Tasting Notes

I an, I will readily admit, not anywhere near being an expert in wines. My wife, however, knows more about wines as she has been enjoying wines for most of her life. 

I, however, am more a connoisseur of IPAs and real ales. As a result, we have decided to commission a special blogpost on taking your first steps into the world of wine.     

Entering the world of wine can be a daunting experience for beginners. With countless varietals, regions, and tasting notes to navigate, it's easy to feel more than a little overwhelmed. 

However, with a basic understanding of key concepts like varietals, terroir, and tasting notes, you can begin to unravel the mysteries of wine and embark on a journey of discovery. In this basic wine guide, we'll break down these fundamental elements to help you develop a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking.

Understanding Varietals:

Varietals refer to the type of grape used to make a particular type of wine. From Cabernet Sauvignon to Chardonnay, each varietal brings its own unique characteristics to the glass. Here are a few popular varietals and their distinct profiles:

Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its bold flavours of blackcurrant, cherry, and cedar, Cabernet Sauvignon is often aged in oak barrels, adding complexity and tannins to the wine.

Chardonnay: This versatile white varietal can range from crisp and unoaked to creamy and buttery, depending on factors such as oak aging and fermentation techniques. Flavours can include green apple, citrus, and vanilla.

Pinot Noir: Loved for its delicate aromas of red berries, earth, and spice, Pinot Noir offers a lighter-bodied alternative to the heavier reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Exploring Terroir:

Terroir encompasses the environmental factors that influence a wine's character, including soil, climate, and topography. These elements work together to impart distinct flavors and aromas to the grapes, ultimately shaping the final product. For example:

Soil: Different soil types, such as limestone, clay, or gravel, can influence the mineral content of the grapes and contribute to their flavour profile.

Climate: From cool-climate regions like Burgundy to warm regions like California's Napa Valley, climate plays a crucial role in determining the ripeness and acidity of the grapes.

Topography: Factors such as altitude, slope orientation, and proximity to bodies of water can all impact the microclimate of a vineyard, affecting grape ripening and flavour development.

Deciphering Tasting Notes:

Tasting notes provide a detailed description of a wine's aroma, flavour, and texture, helping wine buying consumers make informed decisions about their preferences. While tasting notes can be highly subjective, they often include the following components:

Aroma: Descriptors like fruity, floral, herbal, or spicy are used to characterise the wine's scent, which can vary depending on factors like grape variety and winemaking techniques.

Flavour: Tasting notes may include notes of specific fruits, spices, or other flavor components detected on the palate, along with descriptors like tannic, acidic, or velvety to describe the wine's mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish refers to the lingering aftertaste left on the palate after swallowing the wine. It can range from short and crisp to long and complex, offering insights into the wine's overall quality and balance.

Conclusion:

By understanding the basics of varietals, terroir, and tasting notes, wine drinkers can begin to appreciate the intricacies of wine and develop their palate over time. 

Whether you're exploring different grape varieties, discovering new wine regions, or simply enjoying a glass with family and friends, the world of wine offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. So raise your glass, savor the moment, and let your wine journey begin! Cheers!

Tracklements NEW vegan and gluten free Special Edition Chimichurri Chilli Relish

The latest addition to the Tracklements range of artisan condiments is the NEW Special Edition Chimichurri Chilli  Relish. 

A popular, green sauce originating in Argentina and Uruguay, this is a veritable flavour fiesta of coriander, oregano, parsley, garlic and lemon juice. 

And as if that’s not enough, Bird’s Eye Chillies are introduced to get the party started on pretty much everything this cheeky relish touches. 

Traditionalists may say it should be reserved for complementing the richness of churrasco, grilled or barbecued meat, but, in the opinion of those whjo are in the know, it deserves a seat at any table. 

All at once aromatic, herby, citrusy, tart and garlicky with a delicious chilli kick, this versatile relish makes a wonderful and superb addition to a wide variety of dishes, plus it makes an absolutely excellent cooking ingredient and table condiment, too! When does its  goodness end? 

It doesn’t.

Chimichurri Chilli Relish gives an herbaceous kick both spooned on to a BBQ steak or drizzled over chicken, fish and mixed veg (oven or fire prepped). It’s an exciting dipper for a double-fried chunky chip, ideal for loading into a grilled halloumi wrap, and satisfies all lovers of a Sunday roast leftovers sandwich. It also makes an  elaborate foil for ceviche and adds a burst of fresh zesty flavour to sliced tomatoes or liberally spread (don’t be  shy!) on warm bruschetta. 

It won’t be around for long, so get it while it’s hot! 

Back in 1970, William Tullberg made the first British wholegrain mustard. 50 years on William’s son, Guy, carries  on his legacy. However, that one mustard has matured into eight varieties and over 40 delicious award-winning chutneys, relishes and sauces.  

A store cupboard hero for both celebrity chefs and home cooks, the range is still handmade in the green heart of  Wiltshire, abiding to traditional recipes, with an underpinning principle to buy only the best quality ingredients which they only source locally wherever possible to ensure the products taste as good as, if not better than, homemade. 

B Corp accredited Tracklements believe in business as a force for good, protecting the environment as they go.  They’re committed to make the most planet-friendly condiments you can buy minimising their environmental  footprint through using recyclable packaging, their own water treatment facility, and over 10,000 square feet of  solar panels, supplemented by 100% renewable electricity generated by wind and/or hydro assets. And they don’t shy away from wonky veg either! 

Tracklements Special Edition Chimichurri Chilli Relish RRP £4.10 for 170g, is available from fine food delis and  farm shops nationwide and online at www.tracklements.co.uk.  

Say goodbye to chocolate eggs this Easter and say hell to Butlers Farmhouse Cheese W'egg'dges!

I haven't been able to buy my wife a chocolate Easter egg for many years since she developed an allergy to chocolate. 

I have tried to source non-chocolate eggs with no success. Until now, that is! How so? Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has the answer I need.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses is famed for its range of “Cheester” Easter eggs at this time of year, but this Easter, the rural Lancashire cheesemakers are changing things up a bit.

They are introducing the Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE - the cheese that thinks it’s an Easter egg. 

The fourth-generation family cheesemakers had to, with considerable regret, put their annual Easter egg production on hold after a devastating fire at their offices and packing site last November. 

However, Butlers have put their shoulders to the (cheese) wheel and they are 'crazy busy' handmaking their full range of hard, soft and blue cheeses at the dairy (luckily on a separate site unaffected by the heartbreaking fire), to replenish their lost cheese stocks.

In an egg-cellent twist and in response to Blacksticks’ loyal fanbase flooding Butlers’ inbox asking when the egg will be launched, Butlers have got as close to its most popular Cheester egg flavour, Blacksticks, as it can, with the Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE, meaning cheese lovers can still enjoy Blacksticks on their Easter cheeseboards. 

The Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE (150g) wants to be an egg so much, it has a picture of one on the outside of the pack, but inside you will find the original wedge that is known and loved for its distinct orange colour, delicate blue bite and indulgent and divine creamy texture. The Blacksticks W’EGG’DGE is whatever you want it to be, and it's available to buy now from Butlers’ online cheese store, £4 plus postage. You will find their online cheesemonger's shop here https://butlerscheeses.co.uk/shop

Also returning for Easter is the ever-popular Perfect British Cheeseboard for two (155g). This letterbox cheeseboard includes three showstopping, Great Taste Award winning cheeses; Blacksticks (blue), Button Mill (soft) and Sunday Best (hard). £6 plus postage Butlers’ online cheese store delivered direct from the dairy to your front door. 

Blacksticks fans can also keep their eyes peeled for a range of exciting products coming very soon. Whether it’s a mid-week sandwich, summer BBQ or a cheeky snack, Blacksticks will have you (and your bread or crackers!) covered. 

Putting the 'treat' into Treatment: Innovative New Fortified Ice Cream Range is Set to Improve Recovery for Patients

My Doctor's Recipe® has launched an exciting new product. It's a brand new range of special ice creams fortified with protein and enriched with specially formulated DJK8®; which is a unique blend of minerals and vitamins, specially formulated and designed by Consultant Oncologist Dr Jon Krell, Chef and ice cream Manufacturer Sally Newall, TV Chef Alan Rosenthal and Business Owner Alan Mackenzie, whose personal story inspired the business.

Inspired by Love: Alan Mackenzie's deeply personal quest to transform patient nutrition

My Doctor's Recipe® is much more than just a business venture; it's a deeply personal journey inspired by Alison, the late wife of co-founder Alan. Alison's courageous battle with cancer, illuminated the critical importance of accessible and palatable nutrition during challenging and difficult times.

Alison's struggle with the conventional nutritional supplements available is a poignant reminder of the harsh realities all too often faced by countless individuals in similar circumstances. 

Witnessing Alison's journey firsthand, as she tried to take the ghastly, unpleasant drinks and the difficulty in consumption, compelled Alan to take action to honour Alison's struggles and her memory. Along with his co-founders Dr Jon Krell (who was Alison's consulting doctor) and Chef Alan Rosenthal.

Alan recounts: “The grim reality of choking down unpleasant tasting nutritional drinks is a burden that not only adversely impacts physical health but also takes a toll on the patient's emotional well-being, too. as well. 

"Alison would say to her doctor 'Jon is there nothing else? I try really hard to take these drinks but can't stomach it?' 'Sorry, Alison' was Jon's reply ' we just don't have any alternatives. It's the same for most of my patients, they just can't take these drinks'."

It was during the endless hours when Alan Mackenzie sat patiently at his wife Alison's bedside that he became determined to help improve things for other patients and families, and the idea for My Doctor's Recipe® was born.

Introducing Nutri-Ice Cream®

Designed and approved by doctors, My Doctor's Recipe® Nutri-Ice Cream® comprises a range of high calorie absolutely delicious ice creams that are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, designed to enhance the recovery journey for patients.  

The entire range of Cappuccino, Banana, Vanilla and Chocolate flavours (with Strawberry coming soon) have been made with taste in mind despite being low in sugar and high in protein. For those who need added fibre to support their gastrointestinal function there's also a Plus Fibre range in the same flavours.

Unlocking The Power of Nutrition: My Doctor's Recipe introduces DJK8®

Developed in House by Dr Jon Krell, My Doctor's Recipe® proudly unveils DJK8®, the exclusive and absolutely revolutionary formulation of encapsulated minerals and vitamins. 

Dr Krell says “At My Doctor's Recipe®, we believe true innovation lies in unlocking the power of nutrition. With DJK8® we have achieved exactly that. It's an unfortunate fact that traditional supplements often fall short in delivering nutrients in an effective way and many are lost in digestion. 

"DJK8® changes the game by encapsulating these vital nutrients, preserving their integrity and potency until they reach their destination in the body. Every tub of Nutri-ice cream includes DJK8 ® and because they are meticulously locked in, they don't impact on or alter the delicious flavour of our ice cream.”

Designed in collaboration with a world class nutritional lab and with the stamp of approval from medical professionals, My Doctor's Recipe® is poised to become a genuine game-changer in patient care.

Transforming patients' lives

Unfortunately many patients find it a struggle to cope with traditional nutritional drinks, finding it hard to finish them due to the synthetic taste and their format. 

Chef Rosenthal says: “During my research I learned that it was abundantly clear when I was speaking to healthcare professionals that they all faced poor ingestion rates with the currently available drinks, and that the lack of palatable options, was not only an inconvenience but also a significant barrier to proper nutrition and recovery in patients.”

Co-Founder Dr. Jon Krell, who works with cancer patients battling with nutritional support added: “Good nutritional intake is absolutely vital for patients who are undergoing treatment but eating three meals a day can be a real challenge for some patients, with certain treatments causing food aversions. The modern science of food should match the science of medicine working symbiotically alongside each other."

Testing within hospital settings has proven the need for this innovative product, with patients receiving treatment reporting much needed beneficial weight gain, improved nutritional intake and a greater enjoyment of food at a time in life when they have found eating to be very challenging indeed. 

During trials across London hospitals, Nutri-Ice Cream® really captured the hearts of patients and healthcare professionals alike, earning some heartfelt, rave reviews. 

One patient summed it all up by saying: "At last medicine that's a treat!" This groundbreaking product line is genuinely set to revolutionise patient nutrition.

Delivering on taste

The My Doctor's Recipe® team was fully aware that taste would be paramount and key to ensuring patient compliance and consuming the product. 

Chef Alan Rosenthal pointed out: “Everybody, especially patients, should have access to an enriched, healthy and delicious snack when they need it. 

2Being a patient shouldn't mean that you can't enjoy tasty foods. We're really pleased and absolutely thrilled to see the impact Nutri-Ice Cream® is having on patient nutrition and satisfaction. This is just the beginning of our journey to revolutionise hospital nutrition, and we're excited to be looking forward to developing many more delicious products, to continue making a difference in the lives of patients across the country.”

Each product is meticulously crafted with encapsulated vitamins and minerals, boasting high protein and calorie content to support patients in their recovery journey.

Sally Newall, a partner in the business and the manufacturer of Nutri-Ice Cream® through her business Simply Ice Cream says: “It's been a really great honour to work on developing this range of ice creams over the last year.  Everything we make at Simply Ice Cream is hand made in small batches using the finest of ingredients. We don't allow any artificial colours and preservatives, our ethos has always been to produce great tasting, natural foods and we will obviously apply the same care and dedication to My Doctors Recipe®.” 

The range has undergone rigorous testing and trials to ensure nutrition never compromises taste and vice versa.

Available now

My Doctor's Recipe® Nutri-Ice Cream® and Nutri-Ice Cream Plus Fibre® is launching across London hospitals this month, February and is scheduled for a national roll out over the coming months. It is also available to buy in 100g single servings for home delivery, available to order at this link https://simplyicecream.co.uk/product/my-doctors-recipe-nutri-ice-cream

To learn more about My Doctor's Recipe and its range of fortified ice creams, please visit www.mydoctorsrecipe.com or email them at hello@mydoctorsrecipe.com.