Using Soured Milk in Cooking: A Kitchen Secret Worth Knowing

Soured milk is often seen as a kitchen mishap, but it’s actually a hidden gem for cooking and baking. 

Instead of pouring it down the drain, you can transform soured milk into a versatile ingredient that adds richness and depth to a variety of dishes. Here’s how to make the most of it.

What is Soured Milk?

Soured milk is simply milk that has started to ferment due to natural bacteria, giving it a tangy flavour and thicker consistency. This isn’t the same as spoiled milk, which has an unpleasant smell and is unsafe to consume. Soured milk is still perfectly good to use in recipes, especially if it’s only slightly past its prime.

Why Use Soured Milk?

Natural Acidity: The acidity in soured milk acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda, helping baked goods rise.

Enhanced Flavour: Its tangy taste can add depth to both sweet and savoury dishes.

Sustainability: Using soured milk reduces food waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.

How to Use Soured Milk in Recipes

1. Baking

Soured milk is a fantastic substitute for buttermilk in recipes. Use it in:

Pancakes and Waffles: The acidity creates light, fluffy textures.

Cakes and Muffins: Soured milk adds moisture and a subtle tang.

Scones: It helps achieve that tender crumb and golden crust.

2. Sauces and Soups

Its creamy texture makes soured milk ideal for thickening sauces and soups. Try it in:

Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in a splash of soured milk for a velvety finish.

Cheese Sauce: The acidity complements the richness of cheese, perfect for macaroni or gratins.

3. Marinades

The enzymes in soured milk tenderise meat beautifully. Use it as a base for marinades for chicken, lamb, or pork. Add garlic, herbs, and spices for extra flavour.

4. Salad Dressings

Whisk soured milk with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a tangy, creamy dressing.

5. Homemade Dairy Products

Soured milk can be the starting point for making homemade:

Cottage Cheese: Heat the milk gently and strain the curds.

Yoghurt: Use it as a starter culture for your next batch.

How to Sour Milk Intentionally

If you don’t have naturally soured milk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 250ml of fresh milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it curdles slightly.

Tips for Using Soured Milk

Check the Smell: Soured milk should have a tangy aroma, not a foul odour.

Use Quickly: Once soured, use the milk within a day or two for the best results.

Store Safely: Keep soured milk refrigerated to prevent further spoilage.

A Word of Caution

Always ensure that the milk hasn’t gone rancid. If it smells sour but still has a clean aroma and no signs of mould, it’s good to use.

Final Thoughts

Soured milk is a fantastic example of how creativity in the kitchen can turn potential waste into culinary magic. By incorporating it into your recipes, you not only save money but also add a unique twist to your dishes. So, the next time your milk takes a turn, don’t despair—get cooking!

What’s your favourite recipe using soured milk? Share your ideas in the comments below!

The Sustainable Story of Ibis Rice: Protecting Wildlife Through Ethical Farming

In a world where food production often clashes with environmental conservation, Ibis Rice offers a shining example of how agriculture can coexist harmoniously with nature. 

This unique initiative, which originated in Cambodia, has recently gained attention in the UK through ibisrice.co.uk, bringing its sustainable, wildlife-friendly rice to European tables.

What is Ibis Rice?

Ibis Rice is more than just a premium, organic product; it’s a conservation-driven farming initiative. It began as a response to the alarming decline of the giant ibis, Cambodia's national bird and a critically endangered species. 

The giant ibis thrives in the lush forests and wetlands of northern Cambodia, habitats increasingly threatened by deforestation and unsustainable farming practices.

Ibis Rice partners with local farmers to produce organic, wildlife-friendly rice while protecting these critical ecosystems. Farmers commit to strict conservation agreements, such as avoiding deforestation, hunting, and the use of harmful chemicals, in exchange for a premium price for their rice.

Why It Matters

The success of Ibis Rice highlights the powerful link between ethical farming and wildlife conservation.

By providing farmers with financial incentives to protect their environment, the initiative ensures that both people and wildlife can thrive. 

The programme not only safeguards the habitat of the giant ibis but also benefits other endangered species, such as the white-shouldered ibis, Eld’s deer, and the pileated gibbon.

In addition to protecting biodiversity, Ibis Rice contributes to sustainable livelihoods for Cambodian farmers. 

By producing high-quality organic rice, farmers gain access to international markets and higher incomes, breaking the cycle of poverty that often drives environmental degradation.

Ibis Rice in the UK

For those in the UK, Ibis Rice is now available through ibisrice.co.uk. The rice is not only ethically sourced but also boasts exceptional taste and quality. It’s certified organic, non-GMO, and grown using traditional methods that respect the land and its natural cycles.

Whether you're a foodie seeking a delicious, aromatic rice or a conscious consumer looking to support sustainable practices, Ibis Rice is a perfect choice. By purchasing Ibis Rice, you’re directly contributing to the protection of endangered species and the livelihoods of Cambodian farmers.

Cooking with Ibis Rice

Ibis Rice’s nutty flavour and slightly sticky texture make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It’s ideal for dishes like fragrant Thai curries, Vietnamese pho, or even a simple pilaf. Knowing that your meal supports conservation efforts adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every bite.

You'll also love their delicious ricecakes, too, so you can have portable ricey goodness no matter where you go!

And if you want you and your kids to have a good, ethical start to the day, why not try their wholegrain Rice Pops which are gluten free? (Sweetened or original) 

Join the Movement

As consumers, our choices have the power to drive change. 

By supporting initiatives like Ibis Rice, we can encourage sustainable farming practices and help protect our planet’s most vulnerable species.

Visit ibisrice.co.uk to learn more about their mission and discover how you can make a difference—one grain of rice at a time.

Let’s celebrate a future where conservation and agriculture go hand in hand, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.

Incidentally Chris Packham, naturalist and TV presenter and Chhorn Chim, an Ibis rice farmer from  Prey Veng Village are ambassadors for Ibis Rice.

You can buy direct from the UK shop via the Ibis website, above. And you'll also find some very appealing recipes on the website, too. 

Bears Ice Cream, Sweetheart Share Bear, Set to Melt Hearts This Valentine's

Whisk your Valentine off to the seaside town of Whitstable for a romantic food-filled getaway this Valentine's Day.  

Sample Whitstable's oysters – famed as an aphrodisiac - then head to Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium in Whitstable High Street and treat your loved one to a playful sweet treat. 

In the shape of a teddy bear with an eye-catching, colourful design, the Bears Ice Cream Sweetheart Share Bear is a decadent, creamy chocolate ice cream, made with real Jersey milk encasing a raspberry jam heart centre.  It's priced at £17.50 (350g) and is made generously for two to share. Available instore from 1st February.

Renowned for their creative, innovative flavours and showstopping designs, Bears Ice Cream Sweetheart Share Bears are also great for Galentine's celebrations or just for showing the love to a special someone.

Not a chocolate ice cream lover?  Why not try one of Bear's romantic fruity and floral ice cream flavours.  Choose from:

- Award-winning Blueberry & Lavender Jam, Meringue Swirl (A Taste of Kent Awards 2024 gold winner)

- Cherry & Hibiscus Sorbet (Suitable for Vegans)

All flavours of ice cream are available instore, priced at £3.50 per scoop, or you can take a 450ml tub home for £9.50.

For more exciting news follow Bears on Instagram and TikTok or visit bearsicecream.co.uk for the full menu.

FACTFILE  on  Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium

Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium is an independent, multi award-winning, family run, innovative ice cream parlour in the Kentish seaside town of Whitstable. Bears craft delicious, premium ice cream in an exciting and playful range of flavours, made with real Jersey milk and quality ingredients.

Please note that Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium is closed during January, reopening on 1st February.

To make a Valentine's holiday of it, why not visit https://www.whitstable.co.uk to learn more, book accommodation, etc?

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.