That's Food and Drink

Saturday, 26 October 2024

Here’s a list of 25 practical and fun kitchen hacks to make cooking easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable!

1. Quickly Soften Butter

Forgot to take the butter out of the fridge? Simply grate it or cut it into small pieces to soften it faster.

2. Easy Garlic Peeling

Microwave garlic cloves for 10 seconds, and the skins should slip right off.

3. Fresh Herbs Anytime

Freeze fresh herbs in an ice cube tray with olive oil. Pop out a cube whenever you need fresh herbs for cooking.

4. Chill Wine with Frozen Grapes

Keep grapes in the freezer and add them to your glass of white wine. This keeps your drink cold without diluting it.

5. Store Tomatoes Correctly

Keep tomatoes out of the fridge to preserve their flavour. They last longer and taste better at room temperature.

6. Prevent Boiling Over with a Wooden Spoon

Place a wooden spoon across the top of a boiling pot to stop it from boiling over.

7. Revitalise Stale Bread

Sprinkle water on stale bread and pop it in a 150°C oven for 5-10 minutes to refresh it.

8. Easy Eggshell Removal

Struggling with stray eggshell bits? Wet your fingers before picking out pieces, and they’ll come out more easily.

9. Speed Up Ripening of Bananas

Need ripe bananas for baking? Bake them in a 150°C oven for 15-20 minutes.

10. Make Your Own Buttermilk

Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk, stir, and let sit for 5 minutes. Voilà! Homemade buttermilk.

11. Prevent Brown Sugar from Hardening

Place a slice of bread or a marshmallow in your brown sugar container to keep it soft and ready to use.

12. Keep Your Fridge Smelling Fresh

Place a bowl of coffee grounds or bicarbonate of soda in the fridge to absorb unwanted odours.

13. Reuse Pickle Brine

Don’t toss your pickle brine! Use it to add flavour to potato salads, marinades, or cocktails.

14. Use Ice Cubes for Grease

Skim grease off soups or stews by holding an ice cube on a spoon and running it along the surface. The fat will harden around the ice, making it easier to remove.

15. Microwave Citrus for More Juice

Microwave lemons, limes, or oranges for 15 seconds to make them yield more juice.

16. Cool Drinks Quickly

Wrap bottles in a damp paper towel and place them in the freezer for 15 minutes for an icy-cold drink in record time.

17. Easy-to-Clean Blender Trick

Fill your blender halfway with warm water and a few drops of washing-up liquid, blend for 10 seconds, then rinse. No scrubbing required!

18. Freeze Leftover Sauce

Freeze leftover pasta or curry sauce in ice cube trays for quick, single-serve portions.

19. Use a Muffin Tin for Taco Toppings

Organise taco night by putting toppings in a muffin tin – everything’s in one spot, and there’s less cleanup.

20. Cut Cherry Tomatoes Quickly

Place a handful of tomatoes between two lids and slice through the middle with a sharp knife to halve them in seconds.

21. Keep Potatoes from Sprouting

Store an apple in the bag with your potatoes to keep them from sprouting too quickly.

22. Extend the Life of Fresh Berries

Rinse berries in a mixture of water and vinegar (3:1 ratio) before storing them. This reduces mould growth and extends their shelf life.

23. Perfectly Measure Sticky Ingredients

Coat measuring cups with oil before adding sticky ingredients like honey or syrup, so they slide right out.

24. Prevent Onions from Making You Cry

Chill onions in the freezer for 15 minutes before chopping, or cut them under cold running water to reduce the release of tear-inducing compounds.

25. Regenerate Wilted Greens

Soak wilted greens in ice water for 5–10 minutes to revive their crispness and freshness.

These kitchen hacks will be very useful to help the busy home cook and the commercial chefs of the UK, especially as they cater for Christmas feasting!

Incidentally, why not print this post off and pin it up in your kitchen or put it in your cook's folder? Actually, I'll be posting about your cook's folder and what you can put in it soon.

Friday, 25 October 2024

Celebrating National Cat Day: Purr-fect Parties and Tasty Treats for Cats and Their Humans

National Cat Day (October 29th) is a delightful occasion to celebrate our feline friends and show them just how much they mean to us.

It’s a day to indulge in cat-themed fun, and what better way to do this than by hosting a party for both cats and their humans?

With purr-fect snacks, games, and drinks, you can create an unforgettable celebration. Here are some tips and ideas to help you throw a fabulous National Cat Day bash!

Invite Your Fellow Cat Lovers

Start by inviting friends and family who share your love for cats. Make it a gathering of cat enthusiasts! Send out cute cat-themed invitations featuring your furry friend. You could even include a little paw print or a photo of your cat for a personal touch.

Set the Scene

Transform your home into a cat wonderland. Use cat-themed decorations like paw print banners, balloons, and tablecloths. Set up cozy corners for the cats to relax, complete with cushions and blankets. If you have a few cat toys, scatter them around to keep the feline guests entertained.

Feline-Friendly Snacks

When it comes to snacks, think of your cats first. Prepare some special treats that are safe and healthy for your furry guests. Here are a few ideas:

Homemade Cat Treats: Whip up some tasty treats using simple ingredients like tuna, chicken, or pumpkin. There are countless recipes available that ensure your cats will love them.

Catnip Poppers: Fill small fabric bags with catnip and watch your kitties go wild. These little pouches are easy to make and sure to delight your guests.

Fishy Delights: Serve some canned fish (in water, not oil) as a special treat. Just be sure to remove any bones and serve in small portions.

For the humans, provide a spread of snacks like cheese platters, crisps, and pastries. Don’t forget to include some delightful cat-themed biscuits—shaped like paws or fish!

Pawsome Drinks: Cocktails and Mocktails

No party is complete without drinks! Here are some cat-themed cocktail and mocktail ideas that both humans and cats can enjoy:

For the Humans:

Cat's Whiskers Cocktail: Mix gin, tonic water, and a splash of lime juice. Garnish with a twist of lime peel to resemble a cat’s whiskers.

Purr-fect Punch: Combine cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a splash of orange juice for a refreshing non-alcoholic punch. Serve it in a bowl with ice, and float some orange slices for a lovely touch.

Meow Mojito: Blend fresh mint leaves, lime juice, and soda water. For a twist, add a splash of elderflower cordial for a floral flavour.

For the Cats:

Catnip Tea: Brew a simple tea using dried catnip leaves and let it cool. Serve in small bowls for your feline guests.

Tuna Water: Save the liquid from a can of tuna (in water, not brine) and serve it as a special drink. Cats will love it!

Fun and Games

To keep the festivities lively, organise some games for both cats and their humans:

Cat Treasure Hunt: Hide treats around your home for the cats to find. It’ll keep them entertained and engaged!

Best Dressed Contest: Encourage guests to dress up their cats in fun costumes or collars, and hold a mini fashion show.

Photo Booth: Set up a corner with props where guests can take silly pictures with their cats. It’s a great way to capture memories from the day.

Capture the Memories

Don’t forget to document the day! Take plenty of photos of the cats enjoying themselves and the humans having fun. You can even create a scrapbook or an online album to share the joy of National Cat Day with others.

Celebrating National Cat Day with a party is a wonderful way to honour our feline companions. By planning fun activities, serving delicious snacks, and creating a cat-themed atmosphere, you’ll ensure that both cats and their humans have a fantastic time.

So gather your friends, raise a paw-tini (or a catnip tea), and toast to the joy that our furry friends bring into our lives. Happy National Cat Day!

Cooking with Ancient Grains at Home: A Guide to Nutritious, Delicious Meals

Image courtesy of wal_172619 from Pixabay

Ancient grains have been making a resurgence in kitchens worldwide, celebrated for their nutritional density, unique flavours, and historical significance.

Unlike modern wheat and rice, these grains remain largely unmodified, retaining a nutrient-rich profile that many contemporary grains lack.

Cooking with ancient grains at home allows you to enjoy meals that are as wholesome as they are flavourful.

Here’s a guide on getting started with ancient grains, their benefits, and some delicious ideas to incorporate them into your daily meals.

Why Choose Ancient Grains?

Ancient grains such as quinoa, spelt, amaranth, and farro are minimally processed and closer to their original forms. This often translates into a higher nutritional content, providing essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre. Here are some key benefits of cooking with ancient grains:

Nutrient-Rich: Ancient grains are packed with protein, fibre, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants. Many are also gluten-free, making them suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.

Sustainability: Ancient grains are often more resilient to pests and climate conditions, requiring fewer chemical interventions and helping reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production.

Cultural and Culinary Diversity: Cooking with ancient grains allows you to explore a variety of flavours and textures, adding depth and interest to your meals.

Getting Started: Common Ancient Grains and Their Uses

Here are some of the most popular ancient grains, along with tips on how to cook them:

Quinoa: Originally from the Andes, quinoa is a complete protein and naturally gluten-free. Rinse it thoroughly before cooking (to remove its bitter coating), and use two cups of water for each cup of quinoa. Quinoa cooks in about 15 minutes, becoming light and fluffy. It's perfect for salads, grain bowls, or as a rice substitute.

Spelt: This ancient form of wheat has a nutty flavour and chewy texture. It’s ideal in baking but can also be used in soups and stews. Spelt flour adds depth to breads, while whole spelt grains can be cooked similarly to rice or barley. Soak spelt for a few hours before cooking to reduce cooking time.

Farro: This Italian grain is a member of the wheat family with a firm, chewy texture. Its slightly nutty taste complements salads, soups, and risottos. Cook farro like pasta, boiling it in salted water for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.

Amaranth: Known for its tiny, protein-rich seeds, amaranth has a distinct, earthy flavour. Boil it with three cups of water per one cup of amaranth, cooking until it resembles a porridge. It works well in porridge, soups, or mixed into energy bars.

Millet: Commonly found in Africa and Asia, millet is a small, yellow grain with a mild flavour. It can be cooked fluffy like rice or creamy like mashed potatoes, depending on the water ratio. Millet is excellent in both savoury and sweet dishes, including casseroles and breakfast bowls.

Tips for Cooking with Ancient Grains

Soaking: Many ancient grains benefit from soaking, which reduces cooking time and improves digestibility. Simply cover them in water and leave them to soak for a few hours, or overnight if possible.

Toasting: Toasting grains in a dry pan before cooking can bring out their natural flavours, adding a depth that is especially lovely in salads and pilafs.

Flavour Infusion: When cooking grains, use stock or add herbs and spices to the cooking water. This infuses the grains with extra flavour, making them even more delicious.

Batch Cooking: Preparing a larger quantity of grains at once can save you time and effort. Cooked grains keep well in the fridge for up to five days, or can be frozen for up to a month.

Recipe Ideas for Cooking with Ancient Grains

If you're looking to experiment with these grains in your meals, here are a few ideas to get you started:

Quinoa Tabbouleh: A twist on the classic Middle Eastern salad, substituting bulgur for quinoa. Toss cooked quinoa with fresh parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon juice.

Farro Risotto: Use farro in place of rice for a nutty and nutritious take on risotto. Add mushrooms, spinach, and a bit of Parmesan for a deliciously hearty meal.

Amaranth Porridge: Start your day with a warm bowl of amaranth porridge. Cook with almond milk and top with honey, nuts, and berries for a breakfast that keeps you full.

Spelt Bread: Bake spelt flour into a homemade loaf. Its unique flavour shines when paired with wholemeal or rye flours, and it's perfect for hearty sandwiches or toast.

Millet Pilaf: Use millet as a base for a pilaf by adding sautéed onions, carrots, peas, and your favourite herbs.

Embracing the Versatility of Ancient Grains

Ancient grains can transform even the simplest of dishes into flavourful and nourishing meals. They bring variety to your diet, make meals more sustainable, and pack a punch with their nutrient profiles. Experimenting with these grains is also a wonderful way to connect with traditional food practices, exploring flavours and techniques that have sustained cultures for centuries.

Give ancient grains a go and discover how easy it is to create meals that are delicious, nutritious, and rooted in history. Whether you're baking, cooking, or preparing fresh salads, ancient grains can elevate your home-cooked meals with a taste that’s both timeless and modern. Happy cooking!

Exploring Traditional Scottish Cuisine: A Journey Through Scotland’s Iconic Dishes

Scotland is a land of rugged landscapes, breathtaking castles, and centuries-old traditions.

But aside from the Highland views and historic tales, Scottish cuisine stands as an essential element of its heritage.

Rooted in seasonal produce and hearty meals fit for the country’s often bracing climate, traditional Scottish dishes tell the story of the people and their connection to land and sea.

Here, we’ll get into some beloved dishes that have stood the test of time.

1. Haggis – Scotland’s National Dish

No exploration of Scottish cuisine would be complete without mentioning haggis. This iconic dish consists of sheep’s pluck (heart, liver, and lungs) finely minced with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices. Traditionally, haggis is cooked within a sheep’s stomach, though today it is commonly prepared in artificial casings. While its ingredients might sound surprising to some, haggis is celebrated for its rich, peppery flavour and is the centrepiece of Burns Night suppers, honouring the poet Robert Burns, who famously praised the dish.

For the full experience, haggis is typically served with “neeps and tatties” – mashed swede (turnips) and potatoes. A wee dram of whisky is the perfect pairing for this dish.

2. Cullen Skink – A Hearty Soup from the North

Cullen skink, a soup originating from the town of Cullen in northeast Scotland, is a warming dish made from smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. The smoky, creamy flavour of Cullen skink is distinct, thanks to the unique taste of smoked haddock, which is a local staple. Often enjoyed as a starter, this thick and satisfying soup has a soul-warming quality perfect for a cold Scottish day.

3. Scotch Broth – Comfort in a Bowl

Scotch broth is the Scottish answer to comfort food. Made with mutton or lamb, barley, root vegetables (such as carrots, leeks, and turnips), and sometimes cabbage, it is a thick and hearty soup that has been filling bellies for centuries. Traditionally, Scotch broth is made in large quantities and left to simmer for hours, allowing the flavours to deepen and meld. Like Cullen skink, Scotch broth is ideal for the colder months and is a staple for those seeking a comforting, homemade meal.

4. Arbroath Smokies – A Taste of Scotland’s Fishing Heritage

Hailing from the coastal town of Arbroath, Arbroath smokies are haddocks that have been salted, dried, and then hot-smoked over hardwood fires. The result is a beautifully flaked, smoky fish with a unique, intense flavour that can be eaten on its own, in a salad, or as part of a larger dish. Arbroath smokies have been granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, ensuring that only fish produced in Arbroath are recognised as true smokies.

5. Black Pudding – A Versatile Classic

Similar to English black pudding, the Scottish version is made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal. Its flavour and versatility make it a popular addition to Scottish breakfasts, served alongside bacon, sausages, eggs, and tattie scones. Black pudding can also be sliced, fried, and added to various dishes for an earthy, savoury twist. It’s rich, filling, and often enjoyed with a hearty breakfast or as a savoury addition to other meals.

6. Cranachan – A Traditional Scottish Dessert

For something sweet, cranachan is a delightful Scottish dessert that combines raspberries, whipped cream, honey, toasted oatmeal, and whisky. This dessert is often compared to a Scottish trifle and is traditionally made in the summer when raspberries are in season. It offers a lovely balance of textures and flavours – the freshness of raspberries, the creaminess of the whipped cream, the crunch of oats, and the warm hint of whisky.

7. Shortbread – A Buttery Delight

No discussion of Scottish cuisine would be complete without shortbread. Beloved around the world, this crumbly, buttery biscuit is a Scottish gift to global sweets lovers. Made from just butter, sugar, and flour, shortbread is known for its rich taste and simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed on its own or dipped into a hot cup of tea, shortbread is a staple of Scottish teatime and is often presented as a gift during the festive season.

8. Tablet – A Sweet Treat with a Serious Sugar Kick

Scottish tablet is a traditional confectionery that might remind you of fudge, but with a firmer and grainier texture. Made from sugar, butter, and condensed milk, tablet has a satisfyingly rich, sweet flavour that can be quite addictive. Although it’s a treat for special occasions, it is often found in bakeries and sweet shops across Scotland.

A True Taste of Scotland

Scotland’s traditional cuisine is a reflection of the country’s landscapes, resources, and culture, with hearty dishes meant to warm and sustain. Whether you’re indulging in the savoury flavours of haggis or the sweetness of cranachan, each dish tells a story. So, when you’re next in Scotland or recreating these recipes at home, take a moment to savour the tastes of a tradition rooted in community and a deep connection to the land.

These dishes, we feel, would be ideal for Christmas dining.

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My Emergency Banana Cream and Butterscotch Cheesecake

This is my My Emergency Banana Cream and Butterscotch Cheesecake. Necessity is, indeed, the mother of invention.

I recently bought a bunch of bananas from a discount supermarket. I ate one and several days later I decided to eat another, only to find that they had ripened to such an extreme extent that they could have worked as extras in the film The Blackness!

My wife and I both despise wasting food (if we really can't make use of something we compost it) so I decided to employ my inventive side to save the day.

I used a combination of ingredients from our pantry plus several others that I bought from Morrisons. (Morrisons is not the supermarket were I bought the bananas from, by the way.)

Ingredients:-

Ripe(!) bananas

Two tubs of Morrisons full fat cream cheese

The rest of a pot of double cream from the fridge

Packet of Butterscotch flavoured Angel Delight

A handful of Pearl Sugar (an Amazon overstock item bought from a local charity shop)

Sufficient milk to soften the mixture

Half a packet of crushed broken biscuits from the pantry

1/4 of a tub of Morrisons spreadable butter

Mix the spreadable butter with the crushed biscuits and place in a combination over in a metal or glass bowl, for 200c for about 10 to 15 minutes. Several times use a wooden spoon to make sure the base is properly mixed together.

Eventually, squash the mix down and then leave to cool.

Whilst it is cooling mash the ripe bananas and when they are fully mashed add the cream cheese, making sure it's all mixed in.

Then add the Angel Delight being careful to make sure all the powder is properly mixed in. At this stage add enough milk to make sure the mixture is not too thick.

Then mix in the Pearl Sugar.

Place the mix into the fridge and when the base is sufficiently cooled top it with the cheesecake mixture and return this to the fridge and allow it to properly chill.

I did think about adding some Bailey's Irish Cream, or Amarula instead of the milk, but after tasting the mixture part way through I decided against this. You could add the liqueurs, though, if you wished.

The result? A really delicious Emergency Banana Cream and Butterscotch Cheesecake!

We mentioned buying Amazon overstocks and the like in a previous post on our sister site, That's Christmas. That was how we bought a number of pots of Pearl Sugar, several boxes of breakfast cereals and some new Christmas decorations!

"Why Charity Shops are a Hidden Gem for Amazon Returns and Overstock Deals at Christmastime"

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2024/10/why-charity-shops-are-hidden-gem-for.html

Actually, nearer to Christmas the above recipe with the addition of traditional Christmas spices would make a reasonably light Christmastime dessert treat.

Wikipedia