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Thursday, 20 March 2025

A treat for the coffee-loving mums for Mothering Sunday

For those seeking something a little less traditional than flowers and chocolates for Mothering Sunday  this year, the ideal gift will be a special gift subscription to Tambia’s coffee for Mothering Sunday Day, 30th March.

Tambia is a single origin, speciality coffee brand from Colombia that grows, harvests, and roasts its own coffee, ensuring full traceability and full commitment to quality. 

Tambia oversees each step of the production process guaranteeing a coffee experience that's deeply rooted in origin, sustainability, and community, delivering exceptional flavours straight from farms to cups.

As part of the subscription is a monthly delivery of Finca La Sierra Coffee, a single origin coffee grown on Tambia’s own La Sierra Farm, positioned at a high-altitude on the slopes of the extinct volcano Cerro Bravo. 

The coffee beans are picked, processed and packed by hand before being sent to the UK for roasting to ensure maximum freshness.

Made from Castillo, a resilient and flavourful bean which delivers a smooth, well-balanced cup with notes of chocolate, caramel, red berries, and roasted almonds. Versatile and full-bodied, Tambia Castillo is perfect for espresso, filter, or any brewing method, offering a consistently rich and satisfying experience. Three levels of roasting are available: light, medium and dark. 

Subscription starting from £7.43 a month for 200 g.

To learn more and to order your gift subscription visit https://tambiacoffee.com/collections/gift-subscription

CHIMMY’S - the Authentic Argentinian Chimichurri Sauce Range, Available Here in the UK

CHIMMY’S chimichurri sauces bring the authentic flavour of the hacienda, or Estancia as they say in Argentina, to UK kitchens and gardens.  

Developed by Michelin starred chef, Diego Cardoso and his wife, Sofia, the Argentinian couple were keen to replicate the classic sauce of their homeland and share it with a British audience.

The result? Is a range of rich, russet-coloured sauces made from a delicious all-natural blend of dried herbs and spices, combined with red pepper, tomato and paprika.  

CHIMMY’S sauces use less oil than is usual so they contain less fat and fewer calories, they are free from artificial preservatives, additives, flavourings or colourings, as well as all 14 allergens, and are vegan friendly. 

The CHIMMY’S range comprises:

Classic chimichurri: An everyday sauce to give your dishes an extra kick. Chimichurri is a vibrant and flavourful sauce originating from Argentina, renowned for its rich herbal flavour and for its versatility. The base of classic chimichurri is parsley and coriander while garlic adds a pungent kick and oregano contributes earthy undertones. 

A hint of red pepper introduces a subtle heat, lifting the sauce with a gentle kick of spiciness. Combined oil, vinegar, and a splash of water, the sauce achieves a harmonious balance of tanginess and richness, making it a versatile A bottle of sauce and ingredients on a table

Smoky BBQ chimichurri: Smoky and rich with a little bit of sweetness at the end, at its heart, Smoky BBQ Chimichurri features the familiar parsley and coriander base however, a subtle smoky dimension is introduced through the addition of smoked paprika and chipotle chili.  These smoky notes infuse the sauce with a deep, savoury flavour reminiscent of charred wood and open flames.

The result is a tantalisingly smoky chimichurri sauce that is robust, aromatic, and bursting with complexity. Whether used as a marinade for grilled meats, a bold topping for roasted vegetables or seafood, or a dipping sauce for crusty bread or empanadas, smoky chimichurri adds an irresistible depth of flavour that transports the palate to the smouldering depths of an outdoor grill.

Spicy chimichurri:  Extra heat to tickle your taste buds.  Spicy chimichurri offers a fiery twist on the classic Argentine condiment, infusing it with an extra kick of heat and bold flavours.

At its core, Spicy chimichurri maintains the classic herbal base, however, it introduces an additional layer of intensity with the inclusion of fiery red pepper flakes and different types of chillis such as jalapeno and chipotle.  These infuse the sauce with a fiery heat that lingers on the palate, enhancing the overall flavour profile with a satisfying kick, adding depth to any dish.  

Get ready to spice up your meals with this fiery twist on a beloved classic!

With a growing interest in world and South American flavours, these sauces are a perfect way to impress your friends and be right on trend.  They’re versatile, easy to use and make mouthwatering dips, condiments, marinades and cooking sauces which embolden meat, compliment fish and add zing to vegetables and salads, all in one jar.   Just perfect for BBQ season.

Sofia explains the inspiration behind the sauces: “Our sauces successfully combine cultural influences from Argentina, the US and the UK, all places we have enjoyed living and which have inspired us. 

“Our Classic chimichurri reminds us both of growing up in Buenos Aires, conjuring up the smells and flavours of our childhood.   The Smoky BBQ reflects our time spent in the USA – Diego finished high school there while I did an MBA in Michigan.  

"BBQs were a staple of our lives, even more so than in Argentina, and so our Smoky BBQ sauce brings back happy memories from then.  Finally, the Spicy sauce was inspired by our current life in the UK and the excitement of living in a cosmopolitan city, making new friends from diverse cultures and backgrounds.”

CHIMMY’S sauces are available in 265g glass bottles and retail for around £5.45.  For more information, and to buy, visit www.chimmys.com, Ocado or in store in Selfridges and many independent stores nationwide.

Mothering Sunday Breakfast in Bed With Camp Coffee Butter Milk Pancakes

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 15 minutes

Serves 4

For the pancakes:

100g plain flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tbsp caster sugar 

2 large eggs, separated

284ml tub buttermilk

25g butter, melted

1 tbsp Camp Chicory & Coffee Essence

Oil for frying

2 tbsp condensed milk

3 tbsp Camp Chicory & Coffee Essence

100g blueberries

100g strawberries, quartered

To make the pancakes, mix together the flour, baking powder and sugar in a large bowl.  Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl until stiff.

Mix the egg yolks with the buttermilk, melted butter and 1 tbsp Camp and whisk into the flour until smooth.  Fold in the egg whites gently until evenly distributed.

Heat a little oil in a large frying pan and add 3 large tablespoons of batter, cook for 2 minutes on a medium to low heat until small bubbles form, turn over and cook for a further 1-2 minutes until golden. Repat to make 12 pancakes.

 Mix together the condensed milk and 3 tbsp Camp. Place 3 pancakes on each plate, top with the fruit and drizzle over the syrup mixture to serve.

Cooks' tip Try adding blueberries to the pancake mix too for extra flavour.

For Mothering Sunday prepare your very deserving Mom a Camp Coffee Coffee and Hazelnut Pavolva

Prep: 20 minutes plus cooling time

Cook: 1 hour 

Serves 6

Ingredients

4 medium egg whites

250g caster sugar

1 tsp cornflour

1 tsp white wine vinegar

50g roasted chopped hazelnuts

2 tbsp Camp Chicory & Coffee Essence

300ml double cream

1 tbsp maple syrup

150g raspberries

2 tbsp raspberry coulis

Method

Preheat the oven to 150oC, gas mark 2. Draw a 23cm circle on a sheet of baking parchment on a baking tray.

Whisk the egg whites until soft peaks and whisk in the sugar, a little at a time until glossy and thick. Whisk in the cornflour and vinegar, followed by the hazelnuts. Drizzle over 1 tbsp Camp and gently fold in to give a marbled effect, spoon onto the parchment up to the circle and make a hollow so the edges are higher than the centre.  Bake for 1 hour, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside until cool..

Once cold, transfer the pavlova to a flat serving plate.  Whip the cream to soft peaks and add the maple syrup, stir in the remaining Camp, again to give a marbled effect and spoon into the centre of the pavlova.  

Mix the raspberries and coulis together and spoon on top of the cream to serve.

Cooks' tip

Try using a selection of berries instead of just raspberries. Sprinkle with extra hazelnuts if liked.

This Mother’s Day gift the gift of doughnuts with Donutelier gift vouchers

This Mother’s Day gift the gift of doughnuts with the Donutelier gift vouchers, the perfect treat for any occasion. Choose from a selection of luxury donut boxes, available in sizes from 2 to 12, with prices starting at £12. 

Vouchers can be sent instantly via email or delivered as a beautifully packaged physical gift for an additional £4.95. The sweetest way to share indulgence this Valentine’s season.

Donutelier’s main collection features a selection of delicious doughnuts, each created with premium ingredients and with intricate attention to detail. Highlights include the Vanilla Raspberry, filled with smooth vanilla cream and frutti di bosco variegato, finished with a raspberry sugar crust and fresh raspberry; the Rochers Gianduja, layered with rich chocolate ganache, praline, and hazelnut and chocolate crust, topped with milk chocolate chantilly and gianduja flakes; and the Dulcey Pecan, combining dulcey chocolate cream, salted caramel, caramelised pecans, and almond sable with a caramel glaçage. 

Alongside its main collection, guests can also enjoy a range of croissants, Danish pastries, and an array of drinks, from expertly brewed coffee to matcha and speciality lattes, all served in an elegant setting designed to celebrate the theatre of baking. 

With large display windows offering a glimpse into the ‘decoration theatre,’ visitors can witness the intricate finishing touches that make each doughnut a work of art. 

You can download or order the special gift vouchers here:- https://donutelier.co.uk/gift-vouchers

And you can check out their mouthwatering menu here https://donutelier.co.uk

Discover Your Hidden Artisan Talents, With The Help Of Bonne Maman This Mother’s Day

A home-made gift, which has taken time and effort, speaks volumes, it says you’re a special Maman.  Family favourite, French conserve brand, Bonne Maman, not only provides a delicious range of conserves, jams, spreads, cakes and biscuits, but Bonne Maman’s signature jars and distinctive gingham lids make absolutely beautiful accessories to a whole range of handicrafts and gifts - as well as making a perfect upcycled gift without the hefty price-tag! 

You can add an element of luxury with homemade beauty essentials. This spa-at-home gift set of ‘Pomegranate Rose Sugar Body Scrub’, ‘Eucalyptus Fresh Mint Foot Soak’ and ‘Coconut Lemongrass Lip Balm’ is simple to make using easy-to-find all natural products and a great way to recycle pretty, leftover Bonne Maman Compote, Conserve and Mini jars.  

Add a personal touch by tying a thoughtful note to your Mum around the top and present in a gift bag. Joyeuse Fête des Mères…

Back in the kitchen, impress Mum with a box of scrumptious Thumbprint Shortcakes using Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. Stack together, tie together with a ribbon and present in a gift box with a jar of Hazelnut Chocolate Spread.  For an alternative to chocolate, these Zesty Lemon, Thyme & Mirabelle Mini cakes filled with luscious spring-time flavours make a sweet, thoughtful and absolutely delicious Mother’s Day Gift. Tie with a ribbon, attach a gift tag et violà

To set the stage for Mother’s Day and gift-giving, breakfast in bed is a must! A stylish breakfast tray laden with golden croissants, warm sourdough or sweet muffins with Bonne Maman Conserves and a jar of the newly launched Sweet Crunchy Peanut Spread is a decadent indulgence. For an extra special Mother’s Day treat, a glass of champagne never goes a miss! 

For further information, tips and recipes see www.bonnemaman.co.uk, like on Facebook @BonneMamanUK and follow on Instagram @bonnemaman_uk

Bonne Maman is one of Britain’s best-loved conserves, famous for its signature gingham lids, use of simple, traditional methods and high quality, all-natural ingredients. The full Bonne Maman UK range includes:

    • Conserves – Strawberry, Rhubarb & Strawberry, Strawberry & Wild Strawberry, Mirabelle Plum, Wild Blueberry, Black Cherry, Fig, Apricot, Berries & Cherries, Raspberry, Peach, Damson Plum and Blackcurrant 

    • Delicious Spreads – Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, Crunchy Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, Caramelised Apple Spread plus Chocolate & Orange Spread 

    • Curds: Lemon 

    • Intense Range: Apricot, Raspberry and Strawberry 

    • Marmalades - Bitter Orange

    • Caramels – Salted Caramel

    • Compotes – Apricot, Cherry, Rhubarb and Peach

    • Chutneys - Violet Fig with Shallots 

    • Chilled Desserts – Strawberry Mousse, Chocolate Mousse, Clementine & Lemon Mousse, Blackcurrant Mousse, Rhubarb Mousse, Pear and Chocolate Mousse plus Apple and Caramel Mousse; Salted Caramel Crème, Coffee Crème, Dark Chocolate Crème and new Lemon Crème  plus Crème Caramel, Baba au Rhum and Crème Brûlée

    • Layered Yoghurts – Raspberry, Rhubarb, Apricot and Blueberry. 

    • Large Pot Fruit Yoghurts: Morello Cherry, Rhubarb & Strawberry, Violet Fig, Raspberry & Blackberry plus Caramelised Apple

Your Mom deserves to go up in the world. So treat her to Mother's Day at Florattica Rooftop Bar

Canopy by Hilton, a luxury and truly vibrant hotel in the beating heart of London, is home to one of the most incredible rooftop bars, Florattica. 

This exquisite bar is situated in amongst the clouds with views stretching across iconic London landmarks, from St Pauls, to Canary Wharf and the Thames. 

The rooftop bar boasts seating that flows from the inside to an expansive heated and covered outdoor terrace, providing incredible tasting cocktails and delicious small plates, the perfect spot for after work drinks or a delicious brunch with family and friends. 

The elegant and refined interiors feature ceilings adorned with floral installations inspired by East London’s textile industry and the silk woven floral patterns created by local 17th century French Huguenots. As one of the most exciting new rooftop scenes in London, the bar is tucked away on the 11th floor of the hotel, making it an exclusive, sought-after venue for all celebrations. 

This Mother's Day, you can celebrate in style at Canopy by Hilton's enchanting 11th floor rooftop bar. Enjoy a blissful lunch amidst a stunning floral ceiling and be serenaded by a live saxophonist.

 Elevate your day with panoramic views of the impressive London skyline as your backdrop sweeps from St Paul’s Cathedral to Canary Wharf.

Make this Mother’s Day one to remember at Florattica and bring your daughter, friend, mother, grandmother, or any superwoman who deserves to be celebrated. Reserve your table now for an unforgettable experience she truly deserves. https://floratticalondon.co.uk

Or why not make a weekend of Motherly celebrations by booking a room at the hotel?https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lonpypy-canopy-london-city/?SEO_id=GMB-EMEA-PY-LONPYPY

Tim Tam Gluten Free arrives in the UK – Bringing a taste of Australia to Britain

There's fantastic, wonderful news for biscuit lovers, especially those who are coeliacs, or gluten intolerant, Tim Tam, which is Australia’s most iconic chocolaty biscuit, is now available in a special gluten free recipe at Waitrose stores across the UK and also online. 

Already loved by Aussies (and quickly winning over Brits) Tim Tam is famous for its irresistible combination of crunchy biscuit, smooth cream centre and chocolate flavour coating. 

Now, with Tim Tam Gluten Free, 7 million gluten intolerant or avoiding Brits finally have access to the indulgent treat that Australians have been obsessed with for decades – and it tastes so good, you won’t believe it’s gluten free! 

Talyah Falabella, Tim Tam International Marcomms Manager says: “Tim Tam is Australia’s favourite chocolaty biscuit and we’ve been blown away by how much Brits have embraced it. As we continue our mission to bring a taste of Australia to the UK, we are excited to now offer our delicious Tim Tam Gluten Free, so more Brits can indulge in this much-loved Aussie icon.” 

So, whether you’re searching for a delicious gluten free option to enjoy with your next coffee catch-up, or you’re simply craving a chocolaty sweet treat, Tim Tam Gluten Free has you covered – with no compromise on taste. 

Tim Tam Gluten Free is available in Waitrose stores at RRP £3.50 per 150g pack. 

Wednesday, 19 March 2025

Springtime Soups: Lighter, Brighter Bowls for the Season

As the chill of winter fades and spring awakens with vibrant greens and fresh flavours, it’s the perfect time to transition from the hearty, heavier soups to lighter, brighter bowls. 

Springtime soups celebrate the season’s freshest produce, offering a delicious and nourishing way to embrace the change in weather. 

Whether you’re craving a delicate broth, a zesty chilled soup, or a creamy but healthy blend, there’s a perfect spring soup for everyone.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of spring-inspired soups that highlight seasonal ingredients and bring a touch of sunshine to your bowl.

The Beauty of Springtime Soups

Spring soups differ from their winter counterparts in a few key ways:

Lighter Broths – Instead of thick and heavy bases, spring soups often use clear or lightly creamy broths to keep them refreshing.

Seasonal Vegetables – Spring brings an abundance of fresh produce, such as asparagus, peas, leeks, radishes, and early potatoes.

Zesty & Herbaceous Notes – Fresh herbs like basil, dill, mint, and parsley add a burst of flavour, while citrus zest and vinegar brighten the taste.

Chilled Options – Some spring soups are best served cold, making them perfect for warm days.

Five Refreshing Springtime Soup Recipes

1. Classic Spring Pea & Mint Soup

A celebration of spring in a bowl, this soup is vibrant, naturally sweet, and bursting with freshness.

Ingredients:

500g fresh or frozen peas

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

750ml vegetable stock

A handful of fresh mint leaves

2 tbsp Greek yoghurt (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil until soft.

Add the peas and vegetable stock, bringing to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stir in the fresh mint, then blend until smooth.

Season with salt and pepper, and serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt. (Pea and mint soup is a favourite with my wife and I.)

2. Asparagus & Lemon Soup

This light and tangy soup is packed with the delicate flavour of fresh asparagus and a hint of citrus.

Ingredients:

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and chopped

1 leek, sliced

750ml vegetable stock

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

100ml cream (or dairy-free alternative)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the leek in a little olive oil until soft.

Add the asparagus and vegetable stock, simmering for 10 minutes.

Blend until smooth, then stir in the lemon juice, zest, and cream.

Season to taste and serve with crusty bread.

3. Chilled Cucumber & Yoghurt Soup

A cooling soup that’s ideal for warmer spring days.

Ingredients:

1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped

250ml Greek yoghurt

1 garlic clove, minced

A handful of fresh dill

Juice of half a lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Blend all ingredients together until smooth.

Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

Garnish with extra dill and a drizzle of olive oil.

4. Light Spring Minestrone

A delicate take on the classic, using fresh spring vegetables.

Ingredients:

1 small leek, sliced

1 courgette, chopped

1 carrot, diced

750ml vegetable stock

100g baby spinach

1 tin of cannellini beans, drained

A handful of fresh basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the leek, courgette, and carrot in a little olive oil.

Add the vegetable stock and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in the beans and spinach, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Finish with fresh basil and season to taste.

5. Carrot, Ginger & Coconut Soup

A warming yet light soup with a hint of spice and creaminess.

Ingredients:

500g carrots, peeled and chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

750ml vegetable stock

200ml coconut milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the onion and ginger until fragrant.

Add the carrots and vegetable stock, simmering for 15 minutes.

Blend until smooth, then stir in the coconut milk.

Season to taste and serve warm.

Final Thoughts

Spring soups are the perfect way to enjoy the season’s fresh ingredients in a light yet satisfying way. Whether you prefer a warm and comforting bowl or a refreshing chilled soup, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Do you have a favourite springtime soup? Let us know in the comments below!

Homemade Dressings and Vinaigrettes That Are Perfect for Spring

As spring arrives, bringing with it an abundance of fresh vegetables and leafy greens, it's the perfect time to elevate your salads with homemade dressings and vinaigrettes. 

Ditch shop-bought versions, which often contain unnecessary preservatives and artificial ingredients, and opt for these fresh, flavourful, and easy-to-make dressings instead. 

Here are some truly delightful homemade recipes to complement your springtime meals.

1. Classic Lemon & Herb Vinaigrette

This light and zesty dressing is perfect for fresh green salads, grilled asparagus, or even drizzled over roasted new potatoes.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) extra virgin olive oil

30ml (2 tbsp) fresh lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (or basil)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Whisk together the lemon juice, mustard, garlic, and honey in a small bowl.

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify.

Stir in the fresh herbs, season to taste, and serve.

2. Balsamic & Honey Vinaigrette

A rich, slightly sweet vinaigrette that pairs beautifully with spring greens, strawberries, or goat’s cheese salads.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) balsamic vinegar

125ml (½ cup) extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 small shallot, finely minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

In a bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, and shallot.

Gradually add the olive oil while whisking until the mixture thickens.

Season to taste and serve over your favourite salad.

3. Creamy Avocado Dressing

Perfect for drizzling over crisp greens or as a dip for raw veggies, this creamy dressing is full of healthy fats and fresh flavour.

Ingredients:

1 ripe avocado

60ml (4 tbsp) Greek yoghurt

30ml (2 tbsp) lime juice

1 clove garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander or parsley

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

If too thick, add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

4. Honey Mustard Dressing

This sweet and tangy dressing is a versatile addition to salads, grain bowls, or even as a marinade for chicken or tofu.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) olive oil

30ml (2 tbsp) apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp honey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.

Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

5. Sesame Ginger Dressing

This Asian-inspired dressing is ideal for drizzling over slaws, noodle salads, or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) toasted sesame oil

30ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 clove garlic, minced

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a small jar and shake well to mix.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Drizzle over your favourite Asian-inspired dishes. (This is our favourite recipe as we both love ginger!)

Final Thoughts

Homemade dressings and vinaigrettes are not only healthier but also more flavourful and customisable to your taste. Experiment with different herbs, oils, and acids to create unique combinations. Whether you're tossing together a quick weekday salad or preparing a beautiful springtime spread, these dressings will add a delicious finishing touch.

Have a favourite homemade dressing? Share your go-to recipe in the comments below!