A Beginner's Guide to Grilling and Barbecuing

Summer is upon us, and there's no better way to celebrate than by firing up the grill and hosting a barbecue. 

For those new to the world of grilling and barbecuing, it can seem a bit daunting at first. Fear not! 

This guide will help you get started, ensuring that you can enjoy delicious, perfectly cooked food in no time.

Understanding Grilling vs. Barbecuing

Firstly, it's essential to understand the difference between grilling and barbecuing:

Grilling: This involves cooking food quickly over direct heat, usually at high temperatures. It's perfect for steaks, burgers, sausages, and vegetables.

Barbecuing: This is a slower cooking process over indirect heat, typically using smoke to add flavour. It's ideal for larger cuts of meat like ribs, brisket, and whole chickens.

Choosing Your Grill

There are several types of grills available, each with its pros and cons:

Charcoal Grills: These offer a traditional smoky flavour and high heat. They're affordable but require more time to heat up and can be messier to clean.

Gas Grills: These are convenient and heat up quickly. They offer good temperature control but don't provide the same smoky flavour as charcoal grills.

Electric Grills: These are perfect for indoor use or where open flames are not permitted. They are easy to use but lack the depth of flavour provided by charcoal or gas grills.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To get started, you'll need some basic tools:

Grill: Choose one that suits your needs and space.

Charcoal, Gas, or Electric Supply: Depending on your grill type. Incidentally, although they are generally considered to be not environmentally friendly if this is your first foray into the world if barbecuing, it might be worth buying a disposable barbecue unit to see how you and your family get on with the concept of barbecuing? However, you can find eco-friendly disposable barbecues on Amazon, etc.

Grill Brush: For cleaning the grill grates.

Tongs and Spatula: For handling food on the grill.

Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meat is cooked to the correct temperature.

Aluminium Foil: Useful for wrapping food to keep it moist.

Basting Brush: For applying marinades and sauces.

Getting Started

Preparation: Start by cleaning your grill. For charcoal grills, light the charcoal and wait until it's covered with grey ash (about 20 minutes). For gas grills, preheat for 10-15 minutes. Electric grills need to be preheated according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Marinade and Season: Marinate your meat for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavour and tenderness. Season vegetables with oil, salt, and pepper.

Cooking:

For grilling, place your food directly over the heat source. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, flipping when necessary.

For barbecuing, arrange the coals on one side of the grill or use the indirect heat setting on a gas grill. Place the food away from the direct heat and close the lid to trap the smoke.

Monitoring: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your meat. Here are some guidelines:

Beef: Rare (52°C), Medium (60°C), Well Done (70°C)

Chicken: 75°C

Pork: 70°C

Resting: Allow your meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute. This will make it juicier and more flavourful.

Tips for Success

Keep it Simple: Start with basic recipes and gradually try more complex ones as you gain confidence.

Stay Safe: Always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby, especially when using a charcoal or gas grill.

Experiment with Flavours: Try different marinades, rubs, and wood chips (for charcoal grills) to add unique flavours to your food.

Popular Recipes to Try

Grilled Chicken Breasts: Marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side.

Barbecued Ribs: Rub with a mixture of brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook over indirect heat for 2-3 hours, basting with barbecue sauce during the last hour.

Vegetable Skewers: Thread chunks of bell peppers, courgettes, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.

Grilling and barbecuing can be a fun and rewarding way to cook. With the right equipment, a bit of practice, and a dash of creativity, you'll soon be serving up delicious meals that will impress your family and friends. Happy grilling!

Baking Adventures with B. Dylan Hollis: A Retro Culinary Journey

In the digital age where food blogs and cooking channels are a dime a dozen, few personalities manage to carve out a niche that feels both unique and nostalgically comforting. 

Enter B. Dylan Hollis, a YouTuber whose baking adventures have taken the online world by storm. With a flair for the dramatic and an insatiable curiosity for vintage recipes, Hollis offers viewers a delightful mix of culinary history, humour, and mouth-watering baked goods.

Unearthing Forgotten Treasures

Hollis’ channel is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by culinary history. His videos often feature recipes from bygone eras, bringing to life the forgotten tastes of the past. 

From the Depression-era peanut butter bread to the gelatin salads of the 1950s, Hollis dives headfirst into recipes that many might find peculiar today. Each video is a mini time capsule, shedding light on the food trends and societal norms of different decades.

The Charm of the Unconventional

What sets Hollis apart is not just his choice of recipes, but his engaging and often humorous presentation style. He approaches each baking project with a mixture of scepticism and enthusiasm, making even the most dubious recipes seem worth trying. His candid reactions, whether of pleasant surprise or mild disgust, add an authentic touch that resonates with viewers. Hollis' ability to find joy in the process, regardless of the outcome, is a refreshing reminder that baking is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

A Community of Culinary Explorers

Beyond the recipes and the laughter, Hollis has fostered a community of like-minded individuals who share his passion for exploring the culinary past. His comment sections are filled with viewers reminiscing about their own experiences with similar recipes or offering tips and variations from their family cookbooks. This sense of community is a testament to Hollis’ ability to connect with his audience on a personal level, turning his channel into more than just a source of entertainment, but a space for shared nostalgia and discovery.

Reviving the Lost Art of Home Baking

In an era dominated by convenience foods and instant gratification, Hollis’ dedication to traditional baking methods is a gentle nudge to slow down and appreciate the art of homemade creations. His videos serve as a reminder of the joy that can be found in the simplicity of measuring ingredients, mixing batters, and waiting patiently as the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the kitchen. Through his baking adventures, Hollis encourages viewers to reconnect with the tactile pleasures of cooking from scratch.

Inspiring the Next Generation

B. Dylan Hollis’ influence extends beyond just those who already love to bake. His charismatic and approachable style has inspired many to don an apron and try their hand at baking for the first time. By demystifying vintage recipes and making the process approachable, Hollis has opened up a new world of culinary exploration for his viewers. His videos serve as a reminder that baking doesn’t have to be perfect to be enjoyable; it’s about experimenting, learning, and most importantly, having fun.

Conclusion

B. Dylan Hollis has carved out a unique space in the world of online baking with his whimsical exploration of vintage recipes. His channel is a delightful blend of history, humour, and heartfelt baking that resonates with a diverse audience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newcomer, Hollis’ videos are sure to inspire you to dust off those old cookbooks and embark on your own baking adventures. In a world that’s constantly rushing forward, Hollis’ nostalgic approach is a welcome reminder to savour the flavours of the past.

Bermudan-born B. Dylan Hollis has published a book called "Baking Yesteryear" which we have previously reviewed here https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2023/07/baking-yesteryear-by-b-dylan-hollis.html

Looking Back on Historical Cooking Techniques: A Journey Through Time

In our modern kitchens, filled with gadgets and conveniences, it’s easy to forget the fascinating journey that cooking has taken over the centuries. 

Historical cooking techniques not only tell us about the evolution of cuisine but also provide insights into the daily lives of our ancestors. 

From open fires to early ovens, let’s take a step back in time and explore the culinary practices that have shaped our culinary heritage.

The Age of Open Fires

The earliest cooking methods revolved around open fires. Before the invention of pots and pans, prehistoric humans likely roasted meat directly over flames or on hot stones. This simple yet effective technique imparted a smoky flavour and ensured that food was safe to eat.

Roman Innovations

The Romans were pioneers in many fields, and cooking was no exception. They introduced the focus, an early type of hearth that allowed for more controlled cooking. Roman kitchens, known as culinae, featured brick ovens and were equipped with bronze pots, grills, and even early pressure cookers. They also perfected techniques such as baking and steaming, laying the groundwork for many methods still in use today.

Medieval Cookery

In medieval England, cooking techniques became more refined. Great halls in castles featured massive hearths where meat was roasted on spits, and stews bubbled in cauldrons. The use of spices imported from the East became more common, and recipes were carefully recorded in manuscripts. One notable example is the Forme of Cury, a cookbook compiled by the master cooks of King Richard II, which includes detailed instructions for dishes such as blancmange and pottage.

The Tudor Kitchen

The Tudor period saw significant advancements in cooking technology. Brick ovens became more widespread, allowing for more consistent baking of bread and pastries. The advent of the dovetail construction in fireplaces improved heat distribution, making cooking more efficient. This era also saw the rise of sugar as a popular ingredient, leading to the creation of intricate sugar sculptures and confections.

Georgian and Victorian Innovations

The Georgian and Victorian eras brought about further innovations in the kitchen. The invention of the cast-iron range in the 18th century revolutionised home cooking. These ranges, fuelled by coal or wood, featured multiple ovens and hotplates, allowing for a variety of cooking techniques to be employed simultaneously.

Victorian cooks benefited from the increased availability of kitchen gadgets. The development of mechanical egg beaters, jelly moulds, and other specialised tools made cooking and baking more accessible and efficient. Cookbooks became more detailed and widespread, with Mrs Beeton’s Book of Household Management serving as a quintessential guide for many households.

The 20th Century and Beyond

The 20th century introduced electricity and gas as primary sources of kitchen power, further transforming cooking techniques. Electric ovens, stovetops, and refrigerators changed the way food was prepared and stored. The microwave oven, invented in the 1940s, brought a new level of convenience, allowing for rapid heating and cooking.

Today, we stand on the shoulders of these historical advancements. Modern technology, including induction hobs, sous-vide machines, and high-speed blenders, has revolutionised our culinary capabilities. However, many of us still cherish traditional techniques, from slow-roasting a joint of beef to baking a loaf of sourdough bread.

Embracing the Past

Looking back on historical cooking techniques reminds us of the resourcefulness and creativity of our ancestors. By understanding and appreciating these methods, we can gain a deeper connection to the food we prepare and the heritage we carry forward. Whether you’re trying your hand at medieval pottage or perfecting a Victorian sponge cake, there’s a rich history to explore and enjoy in every dish.

In our fast-paced world, taking the time to delve into historical cooking techniques can be a rewarding experience, offering a taste of the past and a link to the generations that have come before us. So, next time you cook, consider the journey your ingredients have taken and the hands that have prepared them throughout history.

Wok me gently? Mastering Your First Ever Wok: A Guide for Beginners

Cooking with a wok can be an exciting adventure, opening up a world of delicious stir-fries, aromatic curries, and crispy fried treats. 

If you're a beginner, the process might seem daunting, but with a bit of guidance, you'll be mastering your wok in no time. Here’s how to get started.

1. Choosing the Right Wok

When selecting your first wok, consider the following:

Material: Carbon steel is the traditional and preferred material for woks. It heats up quickly, distributes heat evenly, and develops a non-stick surface over time. Avoid non-stick coated woks as they can't withstand high temperatures.

Size: A 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) wok is ideal for home use. It’s large enough to cook for a family but still manageable.

Shape: A flat-bottomed wok is better suited for electric stoves, while a round-bottomed wok is perfect for gas stoves.

2. Seasoning Your Wok

Before you start cooking, it's essential to season your wok. This process prevents rust and creates a natural non-stick surface.

Wash the Wok: Scrub the wok with hot water and a small amount of washing-up liquid to remove the factory oil. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Heat the Wok: Place the wok on the hob over medium heat until it's very hot. This helps to open the pores of the metal.

Oil the Wok: Using a paper towel, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the inside of the wok. Be careful not to burn yourself.

Bake the Wok: Heat the oiled wok over high heat until it starts to smoke. Tilt and rotate the wok to ensure even heating and oil coverage. Allow it to cool, then repeat the oiling and heating process 2-3 times.

3. Mastering Stir-Frying

The most common technique used with a wok is stir-frying. Here are some tips to get it right:

Prep Everything First: Stir-frying happens quickly, so have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking.

High Heat is Key: Woks are designed for high-heat cooking. Make sure your hob is at its highest setting.

Cook in Batches: Overcrowding the wok will lower the temperature, resulting in soggy food. Cook your ingredients in small batches.

Constant Movement: Keep the food moving by stirring and tossing constantly. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

4. Essential Wok Recipes

To get you started, here are two beginner-friendly recipes:

Simple Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

300g chicken breast, sliced thinly

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, sliced

1 carrot, julienned

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 spring onion, chopped

Method:

Heat the wok until smoking, then add 1 tablespoon of oil.

Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the wok.

Add the remaining oil, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.

Return the chicken to the wok. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir well.

Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 egg, beaten (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Heat the wok until smoking, then add the oil.

Add the onion and garlic, stir-frying until fragrant.

Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.

Push the vegetables to the side, pour the egg into the wok (if using), and scramble it.

Add the rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry until everything is well mixed and heated through.

Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

5. Care and Maintenance

To keep your wok in top condition:

Clean Immediately: After cooking, wash the wok with hot water and a soft sponge. Avoid using soap or abrasive cleaners.

Dry Thoroughly: Dry the wok over low heat on the hob to prevent rust.

Re-season Periodically: Apply a thin layer of oil to the inside of the wok after each use to maintain its non-stick surface.

Conclusion

With these tips and recipes, you’re well on your way to becoming a wok master. Embrace the process, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy the flavours of your homemade stir-fries. Happy cooking!

Share the Sparkle, but Not the Headache with Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly, Now Available in the Perfect Sharing Size

Are you hosting a special celebration? A graduation party? A barbecue? A lovely summer picnic? Or just kicking back and relaxing with family or friends, then we have some special news for you.

You need to get in some bottles of delicious Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly.  Available from the end of this month, June, in a exclusive new sharing 74cl bottle, Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly can be ordered from luscombe.co.uk in a case of 6 x 74cl bottles, £24.00 with free UK delivery on all orders over £60. 

It;'s the perfect summer indulgence, adding an extra layer of elegance to any occasion.  And Luscombe has been warded a highly prestigious Royal Warrant in recognition of their products which are enjoyed by the Royal Households, 

What are the ingredients of this drink? It combines Damascene Rose, juice of Muscat grapes, plus some  Sicilian lemons all carefully mixed with sparkling Dartmoor spring water to create this perfect and guaranteed alcohol free alternative to Champagne. 

Pairs well with canapés, light seafood dishes like scallops and white fish.

For further information on Luscombe Drinks please visit www.luscombe.co.uk, follow Luscombe on TikTok @luscombedrinks, Instagram: @luscombedrinks or 'Like' on Facebook.  

How to Make an Economical but Tasty Fish Pie

Fish pie is a classic British dish that combines comforting mashed potatoes with delicious fish in a creamy sauce. 

It’s a great way to serve a hearty meal that doesn't break the bank. 

Here’s how to make an economical but tasty fish pie that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the filling:

500g mixed white fish and smoked haddock (look for frozen or offcuts to save money)

300ml milk

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

1 celery stick, diced

2 tablespoons plain flour

50g butter

100g peas (frozen is fine)

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

For the mash:

1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped

50g butter

100ml milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Cook the Fish: While the potatoes are cooking, place the fish in a large saucepan and cover with the milk. Gently bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is just cooked through. Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve the milk.

Make the Sauce: In another saucepan, melt the butter over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add the reserved milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Fish and Sauce: Flake the cooked fish into bite-sized pieces and add to the sauce along with the peas and parsley. Stir gently to combine.

Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/Gas Mark 6. Spoon the fish mixture into an ovenproof dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a pattern on the surface of the mash.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Serve: Let the fish pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.

Tips for Economical Cooking

Buy Frozen Fish: Frozen fish is often cheaper than fresh and just as nutritious. Look for mixed fish packs or fish pie mixes that are budget-friendly.

Use Offcuts: Fishmongers often sell offcuts of fish at a reduced price. These pieces are perfect for a fish pie where the fish is flaked and mixed into a sauce.

Bulk Out with Vegetables: Adding plenty of vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery not only makes the dish healthier but also stretches the fish further, making the meal more economical.

Batch Cook: Fish pie freezes well, so consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for future meals. This saves time and money in the long run.

Fish pie is a versatile and comforting dish that can be made economically without compromising on taste. By following these tips and the recipe, you’ll be able to serve up a delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family. Enjoy!

How you can help That's Food and Drink go to the next level

Hi, readers of That's Food and Drink! We hope you are all doing well?

You'll notice that we (my co-blogger, aka my wife!) have made some improvements to That's Food and Drink. And we have plans to take our blog to the next level.

We have started including more recipes that you can try for yourself at home, some of them are traditional meals that you will be familiar with, others are new recipes, others are new twists on old traditional recipes.

We absolutely love sharing our passion for good food and drink with you, our readers, but running the blog is not without cost. We have Adsense adverts but we would like to invite you to help us by making whatever donations you can afford. You'll find the Donate button on the top right hand side of the blog.

Also if you have a food or drink-related business that you would like to see featured on That's Food and Drink (Or our sister site That's Christmas) please send us an email to afj_uk@yahoo.com. 

Using Your Cooking Skills to Raise Funds for Charitable Causes

Cooking is more than just a necessary life skill; it's a wonderful way to bring people together, share cultures, and create lasting memories. 

If you have a passion for cooking, why not use it to make a difference in your community?

Here’s a guide on how to use your culinary talents to raise funds for charitable causes.

1. Host a Charity Bake Sale

A bake sale is a classic fundraising event that never goes out of style. It’s simple to organise and can be held in various locations, such as local churches schools, workplaces, community centres, or even at local events.

Steps to Organise a Bake Sale:

Choose a Date and Venue: Ensure it’s a place with good foot traffic.

Get Volunteers: More hands make light work, and it’s more fun with friends.

Bake a Variety of Goods: Offer a range of items to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.

Set Up a Stall: Make it attractive and welcoming.

Promote Your Event: Use social media, posters, and word of mouth to get the word out.

Price Items Reasonably: Encourage donations as well.

2. Organise a Charity Cook-Off

A cook-off is a fun and engaging way to raise funds. Invite participants to cook their best dishes and compete for a prize, while spectators pay an entry fee to taste and vote.

Steps to Organise a Cook-Off:

Secure a Venue: A community hall or a large outdoor space works well.

Decide on Categories: Appetisers, mains, desserts, or a specific cuisine.

Gather Participants: Chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts.

Enlist Judges: Local celebrities or chefs can draw more attention.

Promote the Event: Use local media and social media platforms.

Sell Tickets: Charge an entry fee for tasters.

3. Hold a Charity Dinner

A charity dinner can be a more formal event, ideal for attracting donations from local businesses and individuals willing to pay a higher price for a special evening.

Steps to Organise a Charity Dinner:

Plan the Menu: Create a multi-course meal that will impress your guests.

Choose a Venue: Consider restaurants, community centres, or private homes.

Sell Tickets: Set a price that covers your costs and raises funds.

Create an Atmosphere: Decorate the venue to make it inviting.

Include Entertainment: Live music, a raffle, or a silent auction can add to the event.

Publicise the Event: Use social media, local press, and community boards.

4. Run a Cooking Class

Sharing your skills through a cooking class can be both educational and profitable. Participants pay to learn how to cook a specific dish or cuisine, with proceeds going to charity.

Steps to Organise a Cooking Class:

Choose a Theme: Decide on the type of cuisine or specific dishes.

Find a Venue: Ensure it has adequate kitchen facilities.

Set a Date and Time: Weekends or evenings might attract more participants.

Promote the Class: Use flyers, social media, and community boards.

Charge a Fee: Ensure it’s enough to cover costs and make a profit for the charity.

Provide Materials: Ingredients, recipes, and any necessary equipment.

5. Host a Potluck Charity Event

A potluck is a great way to involve the community. Each participant brings a dish, and you can charge an entry fee for those who wish to taste and enjoy the spread.

Steps to Organise a Potluck:

Invite Participants: Reach out to friends, family, and community members.

Coordinate Dishes: Ensure a variety of dishes to avoid duplicates.

Choose a Venue: A local park, community centre, or someone's home.

Set Entry Fees: Charge a nominal fee for those not bringing a dish.

Promote the Event: Use social media, local bulletin boards, and word of mouth.

Final Thoughts

Using your cooking skills to raise funds for charity is a rewarding way to give back to the community. Not only do you get to share your passion for food, but you also get to connect with others and make a positive impact. Whether you’re organising a bake sale, a cook-off, a formal dinner, a cooking class, or a potluck, the key is to plan carefully, promote effectively, and create an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Happy cooking and fundraising!

Cooking with Legumes: A British Culinary Adventure

When it comes to versatile, nutritious, and delicious ingredients, legumes are a standout choice for any British kitchen. 

These humble pulses have been a staple in diets across the globe for centuries, offering an excellent source of protein, fibre, and essential vitamins. 

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, incorporating legumes into your meals can elevate your dishes while keeping them healthy and satisfying. Let's jump into the wonderful world of legumes and discover some delightful ways to cook with them.

The Legume Line-Up

Legumes come in a variety of forms, each bringing unique flavours and textures to your cooking. Some of the most popular legumes include:

Chickpeas (Garbanzo beans): Perfect for making hummus, falafel, or adding to stews.

Lentils: Available in various types, such as red, green, and Puy, they are great for soups, curries, and salads. (My wife's Country Dahl. a family recipe from India is delicious! We'll share it one day.) 

Black Beans: A staple in many Mexican dishes, they're ideal for burritos, salads, and chilli.

Kidney Beans: Known for their use in chilli con carne, they're also excellent in salads and casseroles.

Butter Beans (Lima beans): These creamy beans are perfect in casseroles, soups, and as a side dish.

Nutritional Powerhouses

Legumes are packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They're also rich in dietary fibre, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, legumes are low in fat and high in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and folate.

Preparing Legumes

Before cooking with legumes, it's important to prepare them properly to ensure the best texture and flavour. Here are some general tips:

Soaking: Dried beans should be soaked before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Soak them in plenty of water for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Lentils and split peas, however, do not require soaking.

Rinsing: Rinse soaked beans thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.

Cooking: Place the soaked beans in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beans are tender. Cooking times vary depending on the type of bean, but generally, it takes between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Delicious Legume Recipes

1. Classic Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

200g red lentils

1 litre vegetable stock

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 celery sticks, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp cumin

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.

Add the garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute.

Stir in the lentils, vegetable stock, and bay leaf.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

2. Chickpea and Spinach Curry

Ingredients:

400g tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

200g fresh spinach

1 onion, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp grated ginger

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp garam masala

200ml coconut milk

Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

In a large pan, sauté the onion until golden brown.

Add the garlic, ginger, and spices, cooking for a minute until fragrant.

Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down.

Add the chickpeas and coconut milk, simmering for 10-15 minutes.

Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with rice or naan bread.

3. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Salad

Ingredients:

400g tin of black beans, drained and rinsed

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1 red pepper, diced

1 avocado, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

Juice of 1 lime

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/Gas Mark 6.

Toss the sweet potatoes with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

In a large bowl, combine the black beans, red pepper, avocado, and red onion.

Add the roasted sweet potatoes, lime juice, and remaining olive oil.

Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper.

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve.

Final Thoughts

Cooking with legumes is a delightful journey that opens up a world of flavours and health benefits. From hearty soups to vibrant salads, legumes can transform your meals into nutritious and satisfying culinary creations. So, embrace these versatile ingredients and enjoy the wholesome goodness they bring to your table. Happy cooking!

Quick and Healthy Weeknight Dinners: Delicious Meals in Minutes

When the workday winds down and you’re faced with the dilemma of what to cook, the allure of a quick, healthy meal becomes irresistible. 

Here are some delightful recipes that are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time unwinding.

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Ingredients:

1 tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 red onion, finely chopped

100g feta cheese, crumbled

50g black olives, sliced

A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to two days for a quick meal.

2. Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables

Ingredients:

1 block of firm tofu, cubed

1 broccoli head, cut into florets

1 carrot, julienned

1 red bell pepper, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp honey

1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

Add the broccoli, carrot, and bell pepper, stir-frying until tender but still crisp.

Return the tofu to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired and serve over rice or noodles.

3. Grilled Salmon with Quinoa and Veg

Ingredients:

2 salmon fillets

1 cup quinoa

2 cups vegetable broth

1 courgette, sliced

1 bell pepper, sliced

1 red onion, quartered

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the broth is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.

Toss the courgette, bell pepper, and red onion in 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme.

Grill the vegetables until tender and slightly charred.

Brush the salmon fillets with the remaining olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Serve the grilled salmon on a bed of quinoa with the grilled vegetables on the side.

4. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Ingredients:

200g spaghetti

4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain.

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and fragrant.

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, tossing to coat in the oil and garlic mixture. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Stir in the parsley, lemon juice, and salt.

Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Ingredients:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1 tin black beans, drained and rinsed

1 avocado, sliced

8 small corn tortillas

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

A handful of fresh coriander, chopped

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender.

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat.

Fill each tortilla with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and avocado slices.

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with lime wedges.

These recipes are perfect for those evenings when you want something nutritious and flavourful without spending hours in the kitchen. 

They’re designed to be flexible, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, and they all pack a punch in the flavour department. Enjoy your weeknight dinners with these quick and healthy options!