That's Food and Drink: A Wholesome Christmas: Why You Should Eschew Shop-...

That's Food and Drink: A Wholesome Christmas: Why You Should Eschew Shop-...: As the festive season draws closer, many of us are already thinking about the Christmas feast, and for those of us committed to a vegan life...

A Wholesome Christmas: Why You Should Eschew Shop-Bought Vegan Roasts for Home-Cooked Ones

As the festive season draws closer, many of us are already thinking about the Christmas feast, and for those of us committed to a vegan lifestyle, it’s all about finding that perfect centrepiece for the Christmas table. 

With the rise in demand for vegan products, shop-bought vegan Christmas roasts are more accessible than ever. 

However, there’s a lot to be said for skipping the pre-packaged, processed options and instead creating your own wholesome, home-cooked vegan roast. Here's why you should consider making the switch.

1. No Unwanted Additives or Preservatives

Many shop-bought vegan roasts, while convenient, often come with a host of ingredients that you might not necessarily want to consume. Additives, preservatives, and stabilisers, though they serve to prolong shelf life, can make a dish feel far from natural. The festive season is a time for indulgence, but wouldn't it be wonderful to do so without consuming unnecessary chemicals?

When you make your own vegan roast at home, you’re in complete control of what goes into it. You can use fresh, whole ingredients like vegetables, grains, pulses, nuts, and herbs, free from anything artificial. It’s a great way to ensure that the food on your Christmas table is as wholesome as it is delicious.

2. Tailored to Your Taste

Everyone’s taste buds are different, and store-bought roasts often try to appeal to a broad audience, which can leave them feeling bland or overly processed. When you make your own vegan Christmas roast, you can infuse it with the flavours you and your family love. Whether it’s a rich mushroom and walnut loaf, a hearty lentil and vegetable roast, or a chestnut and cranberry wellington, the possibilities are endless.

You can experiment with spices and herbs, creating a roast that’s bursting with festive flavour. Add rosemary, thyme, sage, or a hint of nutmeg to capture that Christmas spirit. Not only will your home smell incredible, but your roast will be a true reflection of your personal tastes.

3. Better for Your Health

A home-cooked vegan roast, packed with whole foods, is naturally healthier. Many shop-bought options are processed, meaning they can be high in sodium, fats, or sugars. By cooking your own, you can opt for nutrient-rich ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and leafy greens. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre to keep you feeling nourished even while you indulge.

Whole ingredients, free from additives, are easier for the body to digest and help maintain energy levels throughout the day, leaving you feeling light and energised for post-dinner festivities, rather than sluggish.

4. Sustainability Matters

Sustainability is a key concern for many, especially during a season often associated with excess and waste. Pre-packaged foods, including vegan roasts, often come wrapped in layers of plastic and non-recyclable packaging. Additionally, mass-produced food items tend to have a larger carbon footprint, especially when ingredients are shipped from far-off places.

By making your own vegan Christmas roast at home, you can use locally-sourced ingredients, reducing food miles and supporting local farmers. Furthermore, by buying fresh, unpackaged ingredients, you can help cut down on plastic waste, making your Christmas dinner both delicious and eco-friendly.

5. The Joy of Cooking

One of the most rewarding aspects of the festive season is the act of preparing and sharing food with loved ones. There’s something special about creating a dish from scratch, knowing the love and care that went into it. By opting for a home-cooked roast, you’re not just making food—you’re creating memories.

Cooking a vegan roast doesn’t have to be intimidating. There are countless recipes that are simple to follow and require only basic ingredients. You can even make the process a communal one, involving family or friends to help with the preparation, making the day even more meaningful.

6. Cost-Effective

Shop-bought vegan roasts, especially during the holiday season, can be pricey. High demand for vegan products during Christmas often leads to inflated prices, and while convenience can sometimes justify the cost, making your own roast can be much more economical. Bulk buying fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes can result in hearty meals at a fraction of the price, leaving more room in the budget for gifts or treats.

Conclusion

This Christmas, why not break away from the pre-packaged vegan roasts and embrace the joy of cooking something homemade, wholesome, and chemical-free? Not only will it be better for your health and the environment, but it will also allow you to create something truly special that your family and friends will love.

With a little creativity, some fresh ingredients, and a sprinkle of festive spirit, you can make a vegan Christmas roast that’s far superior to anything you’ll find on supermarket shelves. So, don your apron, get your hands dirty, and enjoy a Christmas roast made with love.

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Cooking and Baking with Roses: A Fragrant Twist on Classic Recipes

Roses have long been a symbol of beauty, love, and elegance, but did you know that they can also add a unique and aromatic touch to your cooking and baking?

Cooking with roses is a delightful way to bring floral notes into your kitchen, offering both subtle fragrance and delicate flavour.

 From rose water and rose petal jams to candied petals and rose-infused desserts, this versatile flower is as at home on your plate as it is in your garden.

In this blogpost, we’ll explore some exciting ways to incorporate roses into your cooking and baking, along with tips on how to prepare them safely and get the most out of their floral essence.

Choosing the Right Roses

Before you start cooking with roses, it’s important to choose the right kind. Not all roses are suitable for culinary use. You’ll want to look for organic, unsprayed roses—either grown yourself or purchased from a reputable supplier. Avoid store-bought bouquets as they are often treated with chemicals.

The most fragrant varieties work best in the kitchen, with Damask and Centifolia roses being popular choices for their heady aroma. In general, any edible rose variety will work, but make sure to wash the petals thoroughly to remove any dust or insects.

Preparing Rose Petals for Cooking

Once you’ve selected your roses, gently pluck the petals and give them a good rinse in cold water. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean towel. When preparing rose petals for baking or cooking, it’s also a good idea to remove the white base of each petal, as this can sometimes taste bitter.

Fresh rose petals can be used immediately, or you can dry them to use later. To dry rose petals, spread them out on a clean tray in a warm, dry area for several days until they are crisp.

Rose Water: A Floral Kitchen Staple

One of the easiest and most common ways to cook with roses is to use rose water. This fragrant liquid is made by distilling fresh rose petals in water and is often used in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking. You can buy rose water from speciality shops, or make your own at home by simmering fresh petals in water and straining the mixture.

How to Make Rose Water at Home:

2 large handfuls of fresh rose petals

500ml (about 1 pint) distilled water

Place the rose petals in a saucepan and pour the water over them.

Bring the water to a gentle simmer, then cover the saucepan with a lid.

Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the petals lose their colour and the water takes on a rosy hue.

Strain the liquid into a clean glass bottle and store it in the fridge.

Rose water can be used to flavour cakes, custards, ice creams, and even savoury dishes like rice or couscous. A little goes a long way—just a few drops can transform a dish into something special.

Baking with Roses

When it comes to baking, roses lend themselves beautifully to cakes, biscuits, and pastries. Rose-infused desserts are perfect for afternoon tea, weddings, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of elegance. Here are some delicious ideas to get you started:

1. Rose Petal Jam

A traditional delicacy in Persian and Turkish cuisines, rose petal jam is fragrant, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.

Ingredients:

150g fresh rose petals (from untreated roses)

500g granulated sugar

Juice of 1 lemon

500ml water

Method:

Rinse the rose petals thoroughly and set them aside.

In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and lemon juice, and bring to a boil.

Add the rose petals to the syrup and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens.

Pour the jam into sterilised jars and let it cool before sealing.

This jam can be stored for several weeks and makes a thoughtful, homemade gift.

2. Rose and Almond Shortbread

Rose water adds a delicate flavour to this buttery shortbread, while the ground almonds give it a rich, nutty texture. Perfect with a cup of tea!

Ingredients:

150g plain flour

50g ground almonds

100g unsalted butter, softened

50g caster sugar

1 tsp rose water

Method:

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or Gas Mark 3.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Stir in the flour and ground almonds, mixing until the dough comes together.

Add the rose water and knead the dough gently until evenly combined.

Roll out the dough to about 1cm thick and cut into rounds or shapes of your choice.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden.

Let the shortbread cool before serving, and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed dried rose petals for a decorative touch.

3. Rose Scented Victoria Sponge

Take your classic Victoria sponge cake to the next level with a hint of rose water in the buttercream filling. This recipe is sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients:

225g self-raising flour

225g unsalted butter

225g caster sugar

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the buttercream:

100g unsalted butter, softened

200g icing sugar

1 tsp rose water

2 tbsp rose petal jam (optional)

Method:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm cake tins.

Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold in the flour and vanilla extract.

Divide the mixture between the two tins and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sponges are golden and spring back when touched.

For the buttercream, mix the butter and icing sugar together until smooth, then add the rose water.

Once the cakes have cooled, spread the buttercream on one sponge and top with a layer of rose petal jam if using. Place the second sponge on top and dust with icing sugar.

Candied Rose Petals

Candied rose petals are a beautiful and edible decoration for cakes, cupcakes, and desserts. They’re surprisingly simple to make and add a sweet, crispy texture to any dish.

Ingredients:

Fresh rose petals (washed and dried)

1 egg white (lightly beaten)

Caster sugar

Method:

Brush each rose petal lightly with the beaten egg white.

Sprinkle caster sugar over the petals until they are evenly coated.

Place the petals on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them dry at room temperature for 12-24 hours.

These candied petals will keep for several weeks in an airtight container and make a lovely garnish for cakes or as a sweet snack.

Conclusion: A Rose in Every Dish

Cooking and baking with roses adds a touch of sophistication to your dishes, infusing them with a fragrant aroma and unique flavour. Whether you’re creating rose-infused desserts, jams, or using rose water in savoury dishes, this versatile flower offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. So, next time you want to elevate your cooking, why not give roses a try? After all, the kitchen is just another place where roses can bloom!

Where can you buy edible roses? Specialist cook's shops and you can buy them from www.amazon.co.uk

World Arthritis Day: Raising Awareness and Exploring Food Supplements for Joint Health

Every year, on the 12th of October, the global community comes together to recognise World Arthritis Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about arthritis, its impact on millions of people worldwide, and the ongoing efforts to find better treatments and care.

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. With over 100 different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, this condition impacts people of all ages and backgrounds, often reducing their quality of life.

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is often thought of as a single condition, but it’s an umbrella term for a range of diseases that cause inflammation in the joints. The two most common forms are:

Osteoarthritis (OA): The most prevalent form, which occurs when the cartilage between bones wears down, causing bones to rub against each other, leading to pain and reduced mobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to chronic inflammation, pain, and possible joint deformity.

Regardless of the type, arthritis can significantly affect daily life, making simple tasks difficult due to pain and reduced mobility. While there is no cure, lifestyle changes, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and medical treatments, can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Food supplements have also gained popularity for their potential to alleviate arthritis symptoms naturally.

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Arthritis

A healthy, balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can be beneficial for people with arthritis. Inflammation is at the root of many arthritis symptoms, so managing it through diet is key. Certain nutrients and supplements can help reduce joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness, providing relief without the need for medication. Here are some food supplements that may offer support:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s can help reduce joint pain and stiffness, especially in people with rheumatoid arthritis. For those who do not consume enough fish, fish oil supplements are a good alternative. Plant-based sources such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts are also rich in omega-3s, and flaxseed oil supplements can be beneficial for vegetarians or vegans.

How it helps: Omega-3s reduce the production of enzymes and inflammatory chemicals that break down cartilage, thus helping to protect the joints from further damage.

2. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Turmeric, a golden spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, contains an active compound called curcumin that has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Several studies suggest that curcumin may help reduce arthritis symptoms by blocking inflammatory pathways and reducing the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body.

How it helps: Curcumin helps to manage pain and inflammation, making it a valuable supplement for those suffering from both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. For better absorption, turmeric supplements should be taken with black pepper or a source of fat, as curcumin alone is not easily absorbed by the body.

3. Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These two compounds are naturally found in the body and are key components of cartilage. Glucosamine helps to repair cartilage and maintain joint function, while chondroitin helps cartilage retain water, improving its shock-absorbing ability. As people age, their natural levels of these compounds decrease, which can lead to joint pain and stiffness. Supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin are often recommended for osteoarthritis, with some studies showing that they can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

How they help: These supplements may help slow cartilage breakdown and support joint repair, offering relief from the wear-and-tear damage typical of osteoarthritis.

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones and joints. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is crucial for bone health. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to increased joint pain and a higher risk of developing arthritis. For people with arthritis, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.

How it helps: By maintaining proper calcium levels, vitamin D helps prevent bone loss and reduces the risk of fractures, which is especially important for those with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis. It also plays a role in regulating the immune system, potentially helping with autoimmune forms of arthritis like RA.

5. Boswellia (Frankincense)

Boswellia is an herbal extract from the resin of the Boswellia tree, commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Research has shown that it has strong anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce symptoms of arthritis, including joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It works by blocking enzymes that cause inflammation, similar to how nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) function, but without the same side effects.

How it helps: Boswellia can help reduce pain and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis by targeting inflammation directly at its source.

6. Ginger

Much like turmeric, ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to relieve pain and inflammation. Studies suggest that ginger can help reduce pain and improve function in people with osteoarthritis.

How it helps: Ginger blocks inflammatory pathways and helps to reduce swelling and stiffness in joints, making it a useful supplement for managing arthritis symptoms naturally.

7. Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is a major component of cartilage. As we age, our natural collagen levels decline, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Taking a collagen supplement, particularly hydrolysed collagen, can help support cartilage regeneration and improve joint health. Some studies suggest that collagen supplements can reduce joint pain and improve overall joint function in people with osteoarthritis.

How it helps: Collagen provides the building blocks for cartilage repair, helping to cushion and protect joints.

Conclusion: Managing Arthritis Through Nutrition and Supplements

World Arthritis Day serves as an important reminder of the daily challenges faced by millions of people living with arthritis. While medication and physical therapy are crucial for managing symptoms, a well-rounded approach that includes proper nutrition and food supplements can significantly improve joint health and quality of life.

If you or someone you know is living with arthritis, consider incorporating some of these food supplements into your daily routine. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, as they can interact with medications or may not be suitable for everyone.

On this World Arthritis Day, let’s raise awareness, support those affected by the condition, and explore the many ways we can make life with arthritis more manageable—one step, and one supplement, at a time.