Burn's Night Smash Haggis Burger Recipe

Photograph by Nick Hook

Kamado Joe have asked us to share this special recipe for a Burn's Night smash haggis burger.

Celebrate Burns Night with a burger that's as bold as the Bard himself! 

Haggis-spiked beef patties are steamed with a dram of whisky for the ideal tribute for Burns night.

Recipe commissioned by Kamado Joe, shot by Nick Hook

Serves 4

Ingredients

500g beef mince (125g per burger)

100g haggis

2 rashers of smoked streaky bacon per patty

Emmental Cheese

Splash of whisky

Brown Sauce

Watercress

Brioche Burger Buns

Method

Combine the beef mince and haggis in a bowl.

Shape the mince into meat balls. 

Fire up your BBQ (or use a hot frying pan) to around 200C. Use a flat surface or heat up a cast iron frying pan.

Place the meat balls on the griddle and then smash them into a burger shape. You can do this with your hand, using a steak press or a spatula.

At the same time, grill the bacon rashers until crispy.

After the patty has cooked around 3 minutes, flip them over.

After 2 minutes, place a slice of cheese onto each patty then pour a splash of whisky next to it, before covering with a burger dome. This will accelerate the melted cheese and infuse the patty with a whisky steamed flavour.

To build the burgers, lightly grill each side of the brioche buns, before adding brown sauce and a handful of watercress. Place a patty on top, followed by the crispy bacon. Finally, place the remaining bun on top of the burger and enjoy.

Recipe: Ultimate Pancakes from Matthews Cotswold Flour

As part of our offering we like to bring our readers some interesting recipes. 

And we are pleased to be able to bring you this Matthews Cotswold Flour Ultimate Pancake Recipe.

Transform your mornings with Matthews Cotswold Flour's favourite pancake recipe. Made with regeneratively farmed flour, these pancakes are not only fluffy and delicious but also contribute to healthier soils and ecosystems, too. 

They're light and fluffy, with an extra egg yolk for added richness. Top with your favourite fruits, syrup, or a dollop of cream, or plain Greek yogurt. 

Makes: 12 pancakes 

Prep time: 15 minutes

Bake time: 15 minutes 

Ingredients

120g Matthews Regenerative All Purpose Flour 

1 Egg

1 Egg Yolk

300ml Milk

2tbsp Clarified butter, plus extra for cooking *see note for instructions on this

2tbsp Baking powder

2tbsp Sugar

1tsp Salt

Method

NOTE: Clarified butter - 

Clarified butter is essentially the fat that is left after you remove the milk solids from butter - it has a high smoking point and doesn't burn or go brown in the pan when cooking at high heats and it is crucial to get the delicious crispy edges on these pancakes. 

You can buy Ghee in the supermarket which is the same thing, or you can melt a block of butter and allow it to cool in a bowl or container - once it cools you can skim off the clarified butter from the top leaving behind the milk solids which can be discarded. You also could strain the melted butter through cheesecloth which will also work to separate the milk solids out. 

In a large bowl, combine the egg and egg yolk with the baking powder and whisk vigorously until light and frothy - this should take about 2 minutes

Add in the salt and sugar and whisk again 

Alternating, add the flour and milk in four parts. Whisk until no lumps are left in between each addition

Pour in two tablespoons of your clarified butter and give a final whisk 

Heat a frying pan (I like to use a cast iron skillet) over a medium heat and grease generously with clarified butter 

Add spoonfuls of the pancake batter to the pan and cook for a few minutes on each side, or until golden brown

Make sure to replenish the butter in the pan in between each pancake, and repeat until all the mixture is used

Keep warm until ready to serve - and enjoy with your favourite pancake toppings!

https://cotswoldflour.com.

We are SHORE you'll love these vegan treats!

SHORE, The Scottish Seaweed Co., has secured a major deal to have its multi-award-winning Seaweed Chips stocked in Aldi stores across the whole of the UK this month

Following a series of successful promotions in Aldi Scotland, SHORE Chips will feature in Aldi’s middle aisle across the UK as part of the Veganuary month-long celebration. 

The promotion, which was launched late last month will include a special offer of £1.49 on SHORE’s Great Taste Award-winning 80g Sweet Sriracha flavour, as well as the newly released 80g Salt & Balsamic flavour.

“We’re absolutely thrilled Aldi UK chose to feature our Shore Chips for Veganuary,” Keith Paterson, Co-founder of SHORE told That's Food and Drink. 

He went on to say: “With healthy resolutions in full swing, it’s the perfect time to try something new that supports both a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable world—all while tasting fantastic, too”

SHORE’s mission is to make seaweed a leading sustainable food for the future, offering delicious products that are not only better for you but also better for the planet, too.

The crisps champion local Scottish seaweed, a naturally regenerative food source which is packed with essential nutrients such as iodine, gut-friendly fibre, and antioxidants.

Beyond celebrating this local superfood, SHORE has earned multiple accolades for flavour, including two Great Taste Awards, a Great British Food Award, a World Food Innovation Award, and more recently, two wins at last year’s Scotland Food and Drink Excellence Awards.

https://shoreseaweed.com

Check with your local Aldi store for SHORE seaweed crisps and their other Veganuary offerings.

Porte Noire Kings Cross Awarded Two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence

Porte Noire, the highly acclaimed restaurant co-founded by Idris Elba and David Farber, is thrilled to announce it has been awarded two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence by the AA Restaurant Guide. 

This prestigious recognition celebrates the restaurant's commitment to high-quality food and exceptional dining experiences.

Located in the heart of  London's Kings Cross, since opening its doors Porte Noire has been dedicated to crafting innovative dishes using the finest seasonal ingredients, paired with a carefully curated wide selection of wines. 

The team is constantly working hard to create a menu that reflects both classic Mediterranean dishes with a twist of creativity and innovation.

 "We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from the AA, said David Farber, founder & co-owner of Porte Noire. "This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire team. We strive to create a unique dining experience for the enjoyment of our guests, and this acknowledgment inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of culinary excellence."

The AA Rosette Awards are a benchmark for culinary excellence in the UK, with only a select number of restaurants achieving this notable distinction. The two AA Rosettes signify that Porte Noire is achieving standards that are "excellent cooking, worth a visit."

For reservations and more information, please visit www.portenoire.co.uk or contact us at bookings@portenoirekx.com.

Unlocking Your Potential with Bio-Synergy: A Guide to Their Health Product Range

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging. 

Whether you’re an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, the right health products can make all the difference. 

Enter Bio-Synergy, a UK-based company that has been revolutionising the health and fitness industry since 1997. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and results, Bio-Synergy offers a wide range of products designed to help you achieve your goals. Here’s a closer look at what they have to offer.

1. Protein and Recovery Products

Protein is the cornerstone of muscle repair and growth, and Bio-Synergy’s range of protein products is designed to cater to every need. From whey protein powders to plant-based alternatives, they provide high-quality options for everyone.

Whey Hey Protein: Ideal for those looking to build lean muscle and recover faster, this product is packed with essential amino acids and is low in sugar.

Lean & Green: A vegan protein blend that combines pea, rice, and hemp proteins, perfect for plant-based fitness enthusiasts.

Essential Amino Acids (EAAs): For those looking to optimise muscle recovery, Bio-Synergy’s EAAs provide the building blocks your body needs.

2. Pre-Workout and Energy Boosters

Staying energised and focused during workouts is crucial, and Bio-Synergy’s pre-workout products deliver just that.

Super Charge: A pre-workout formula designed to enhance endurance, strength, and focus, helping you push past your limits.

Energy Boost: A quick and effective way to replenish energy levels, perfect for those mid-day slumps or intense training sessions.

3. Weight Management Solutions

For those aiming to manage their weight effectively, Bio-Synergy offers products to support fat loss and metabolism.

Body Perfect Capsules: Formulated with natural ingredients to boost metabolism and aid fat burning.

Skinny Protein: A low-calorie protein option that supports muscle maintenance while helping you stay within your caloric goals.

4. Hydration and Wellness

Hydration and overall wellness are key to a balanced lifestyle. Bio-Synergy’s products in this category are designed to keep you feeling your best.

Active H2O: Electrolyte-infused hydration tablets that help maintain optimal fluid balance during and after exercise.

Multivitamins: Comprehensive daily vitamins to support immunity, energy levels, and overall health.

Collagen+: A supplement designed to promote healthy skin, joints, and connective tissues.

5. Strength and Endurance

For those focusing on building strength and improving endurance, Bio-Synergy offers tailored solutions.

Creatine Boost: A scientifically-backed supplement that enhances strength and power output during high-intensity activities.

Beetroot+: Rich in nitrates, this product is perfect for boosting stamina and cardiovascular performance.

6. Snacks and On-the-Go Options

Bio-Synergy understands the importance of convenience, which is why they offer a range of healthy snacks and ready-to-go products.

High-Protein Bars: Delicious and nutritious, these bars are perfect for a post-workout snack or a quick meal replacement.

Superfood Shakes: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, these shakes are a great way to fuel your day.

Why Choose Bio-Synergy?

What sets Bio-Synergy apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. All products are manufactured in the UK, ensuring the highest standards. They use scientifically-proven ingredients and transparent labelling, so you know exactly what you’re putting into your body. Plus, their products are Informed-Sport certified, making them a trusted choice for professional athletes.

Final Thoughts

Whether your goal is to build muscle, lose weight, boost energy, or simply live a healthier life, Bio-Synergy has a product to support you. With their extensive range of health and fitness solutions, achieving your goals has never been easier. Explore their offerings and discover how Bio-Synergy can help you unlock your full potential.

Ready to take the next step? Visit Bio-Synergy’s website to browse their full range and find the perfect products for your journey to better health. https://bio-synergy.uk.

After we had reviewed the products kindly supplied by Bi-Synergy my wife said: "This is about some of the best tasting and most effective products we have ever looked at in 20 years of running these blogs. They have made me feel much better and healthier. Will you be able to put in regular orders for me, online?"

My reply was: "Of course! More than happy to help, there!"

The Wetherspoon January Sale is Now on!

Yes, folks, Christmas is a fading memory, the weather is cold and a bit gloomy. But fear not! Because Tim Martin's Wetherspoon pubs and hotels are holding their January sale!

Fans of 'Spoons can enjoy a January Sale at 770 Wetherspoon pubs until Thursday January 16 inclusive.

Pints of Worthington are 99p, Ruddles is £1.29 a pint and Doombar £1.49 a pint.

There's also price reductions on draught wines Coldwater Creek wine £2.49 (250ml) Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Rosé and Merlot.

And those looking for savings on low or non-alcoholic drinks can enjoy drinks at £1.49 Guinness 0.0% (538ml) 0% cocktails Gordon’s pink gin 0.0% (single measure, served with a mixer) Corona Cero (330ml) BrewDog Punk AF (330ml) Stella Artois Alcohol Free (330ml) Heineken 0.0 (330ml) Erdinger Alkoholfrei (500ml) Thatchers Zero (500ml) Kopparberg Strawberry & Lime Alcohol Free (500ml) Adnams Ghost Ship (500ml) and Beck’s Blue (275ml).

And please look out for special Autumn savers that have been extended for the near future.

Food on sale, too!

Burger meal deal (includes chips and a drink): £4.99 (with soft drink)/£6.52 (with alcoholic drink)

3oz American burger

3oz classic beef burger

Crunchy chicken strip burger

Breakfast deal £2.99 (includes free refills of coffee, tea or hot chocolate OR any soft drink (choose from over 30 drinks))

Any breakfast muffin 

Any breakfast wrap

Any breakfast butty/roll

There are vegetarian options for each of the burger and breakfast deals. Please ask for details.

Why Visit Wetherspoon in January?

Affordable Treats: After the expense of the holiday season, the January Sale provides a much-needed chance to enjoy quality food and drink at a fraction of the usual cost.

Cosy Atmosphere: With their welcoming interiors and friendly service, Wetherspoon pubs are ideal for escaping the winter chill.

Convenient Locations: With hundreds of pubs across the UK, there’s likely a Wetherspoon near you, making it easy to pop in and take advantage of the deals.

Tips for Making the Most of the Sale

Check Your Local Menu: While many deals are consistent across locations, some may vary slightly depending on your local pub.

Plan a Midweek Visit: January is a quieter time, and midweek visits can be especially peaceful, giving you the chance to enjoy your meal or drink without the crowds.

Bring Friends Along: Share the savings and make it a social occasion. After all, good food and drink are even better with great company.

When Does It End?

The January Sale runs until January 16th. Be sure to check with your local Wetherspoon to confirm the details.

So, why not make the most of January and treat yourself to a visit to your nearest Wetherspoon pub? With their unbeatable deals and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to kick off 2025 on a high note. Cheers to that!

T&C apply please check for availability and details.

15 Minute Indian by Anjula Devi Published 13th February 2025

This is fast, fresh & flavoursome, the game-changing way to cook Indian food!

Armed with a treasure-trove of recipes, Anjula Devi passionately believes Indian food should be accessible to everyone and very easy to replicate at home.

Her new book 15-Minute Indian teaches you the game-changing way to eat fresh and flavoursome Indian food. 

Each recipe takes less than 15 minutes to make and is cooked in one pan using minimal steps and ingredients. 

With in excess of 90 fuss-free recipes you'll be amazed at what you can achieve in the time. 

Cook healthy midweek meals from scratch such as:

Salmon with Fenugreek and Ginger

Tangy Chickpeas with Fresh Fennel

Sweet and Tart Aubergines

Garlic and Chilli Paneer

There are chapters for legumes, veggies, fish, potatoes and breads, so you can also combine dishes to create a sumptuous feast without spending a day in the kitchen. You'll find short ingredients lists, straightforward methods and genuinely quick recipes.

What's more, the clever short-sharp-cooking method releases the spices in a way that adds a whole new level of fresh flavours and textures - a completely different, achievable way to enjoy Indian food.

Lighter, fresher and full of goodness, 15-Minute Indian contains no-sweat recipes you'll turn to again and again – a must-have for the modern cook.     

Anjula Devi is a successful content creator, cookery school founder and consultant chef for Manchester United. Her earliest memories are of sitting on the floor at her father's feet, grinding and pounding spices, cooking vegetables on a makeshift tandoor. 

Her father was a culinary genius, creating perfectly balanced dishes that are part of Anjula's DNA and inspire her work every day. This deep love of creating authentic traditional Indian food led Anjula to perfect her own unique, simple method for cooking healthy Indian food in minutes in order to make it as accessible as possible for everyone. 

At over 60 years old, Anjula attributes her youthful appearance to the food that she eats, the spice combinations used and their natural health powers.

Hygiene and Allergy Risks of Dog and Cat-Friendly Restaurants

In recent years, pet-friendly restaurants have become increasingly popular, offering a space where owners can dine without leaving their beloved pets at home. 

While these establishments are a welcome haven for animal lovers, they also raise important questions about hygiene and potential risks for those with allergies or phobias. 

As someone who frequents both traditional and pet-friendly dining spots, I’ve observed a mix of delightful and concerning moments. 

One instance stands out: a dog in a restaurant sniffing and licking a table meant for diners. This episode prompted me to look deeper into the potential risks associated with animals in eating spaces.

Hygiene Concerns

Contamination of Surfaces

Animals, no matter how well-groomed, can carry bacteria and germs. A dog licking a table, for instance, introduces bacteria from its mouth onto a surface that might later be used by diners. While most establishments clean tables between customers, not all sanitisation methods are thorough enough to eliminate these risks.

Shedding and Dander

Cats and dogs naturally shed fur and dander, which can easily settle on tables, chairs, or even food. This is especially concerning in open-plan kitchens or buffet-style setups where airborne particles can travel freely.

Accidents

Even the most well-trained pets can have accidents. A dog urinating on the floor or a cat vomiting can create immediate hygiene hazards, particularly if not promptly and properly cleaned.

Pest Attraction

The presence of animals can attract pests such as flies or rodents, drawn to pet food or waste. This could lead to further contamination risks.

Allergy Risks

Exposure to Allergens

Pet dander, saliva, and fur are common allergens. Even if a person allergic to cats or dogs doesn’t directly interact with the animals, allergens can linger on surfaces, utensils, or in the air.

Cross-Contamination

In shared spaces, allergens can easily transfer from one surface to another. A pet brushing against a chair or a table could inadvertently trigger an allergic reaction in the next diner.

Severity of Reactions

For individuals with severe allergies, even minimal exposure can cause symptoms ranging from sneezing and itching to more serious reactions like asthma attacks or anaphylaxis.

Balancing Inclusion and Safety

While pet-friendly restaurants provide a wonderful opportunity for animal lovers to socialise, they must also consider the health and safety of all patrons. Here are some suggestions for mitigating risks:

Dedicated Pet Areas: Establishing separate zones for diners with pets can help minimise exposure for those with allergies or hygiene concerns.

Strict Hygiene Protocols: Restaurants should enforce rigorous cleaning practices, including sanitising tables, chairs, and floors after each pet-related incident.

Clear Policies: Pet-friendly establishments should have clear rules, such as keeping pets off furniture and away from food preparation areas.

Allergy-Friendly Options: Offering designated pet-free zones or times can help accommodate diners with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

The growing trend of pet-friendly dining reflects a societal shift towards more inclusive spaces. However, this inclusivity must be balanced with responsibility. Observing a dog licking a restaurant table reminded me that while pets bring joy, their presence in dining areas requires careful management to ensure everyone’s health and comfort.

If you’re a pet owner, always be mindful of your furry companion’s behaviour in shared spaces. And if you’re a diner with concerns, don’t hesitate to inquire about a restaurant’s pet policies before booking a table.

Some eating places ban all dogs, except for guide dogs, including the Wetherspoon chain.  

Ultimately, with the right precautions, pet-friendly dining can be a positive experience for all—humans and animals alike.

How Many People Are Allergic to Stevia?

Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, has gained immense popularity as a sugar substitute due to its zero-calorie content and natural origin. 

While it is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated, there is some concern about the potential for allergic reactions. 

But how common are these reactions, and what should you know if you suspect you might be allergic to Stevia?

Understanding Stevia Allergies

Stevia allergies are relatively rare. Most people can consume Stevia without any adverse effects, but as with any natural product, there is a possibility of an allergic reaction. Allergies to Stevia are thought to be linked to its chemical composition, which includes compounds like stevioside and rebaudioside. These compounds can occasionally trigger an immune response in sensitive individuals.

How Common Are Stevia Allergies?

There isn’t a wealth of scientific data quantifying how many people are allergic to Stevia. However, reported cases are extremely rare, and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both classify Stevia as safe for general consumption.

The rarity of Stevia allergies may be attributed to the fact that the plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes other plants like daisies and sunflowers. People allergic to other members of this plant family might have a slightly higher risk of reacting to Stevia, but this remains uncommon.

Symptoms of a Stevia Allergy

For the few who might experience an allergic reaction to Stevia, symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

Skin rashes or hives

Itching or swelling, especially around the mouth or throat

Gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or cramping

Difficulty breathing in severe cases (anaphylaxis)

If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming Stevia, it’s essential to stop using it and consult a healthcare professional.

Cross-Reactivity Concerns

Stevia allergies may also involve cross-reactivity with other plants in the same family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, or marigolds. If you have known allergies to these plants, you may want to exercise caution when trying Stevia for the first time.

What to Do If You’re Allergic

If you suspect a Stevia allergy, it’s crucial to:

Avoid Stevia Products: Check ingredient labels carefully for Stevia or its derivatives.

Consult an Allergist: An allergist can perform tests to confirm whether you are allergic to Stevia or another substance.

Consider Alternatives: Other sweeteners like monk fruit, erythritol, or natural sugar substitutes may be safer options.

Conclusion

While Stevia allergies are rare, they are not impossible. Most people can enjoy this natural sweetener without issue, but those with plant allergies or sensitivities should be cautious. If you experience any unusual symptoms after consuming Stevia, seek medical advice promptly. With proper care and attention, you can find a sweetener that works for you without compromising your health.

Have you had any experiences with Stevia allergies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

That's Christmas: A Guide to Burns Night Feasting: Celebrating Scotl...

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