The Easiest Way to Make Cottage Cheese and Paneer at Home

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making cheese in your own kitchen. 

While it may sound daunting at first, cottage cheese and paneer are two of the simplest cheeses you can make at home,  requiring only a few ingredients and minimal equipment. 

Best of all, they’re fresher, creamier, and tastier than many shop-bought versions.

Whether you want a creamy scoop of cottage cheese for your breakfast bowl or firm cubes of paneer to drop into a curry, the method is nearly identical.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 litre whole milk (fresh, full-fat milk works best)

2–3 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar

A pinch of salt (optional for cottage cheese)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Heat the Milk

Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Add the Acid

Once the milk starts to bubble, reduce the heat and stir in the lemon juice or vinegar slowly. You’ll notice the milk separating almost immediately into curds (the solids) and whey (the liquid).

3. Let It Curdle

Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes. The curds should fully separate from the whey, leaving a yellowish liquid.

4. Strain the Curds

Line a colander with a clean muslin cloth or clean plain tea towel and place it over a large bowl. Carefully pour the mixture through to catch the curds.

For Cottage Cheese

Gather the cloth and gently squeeze out excess whey, but don’t press too hard.

Transfer the curds into a bowl and break them up with a fork.

Stir in a pinch of salt, or even a little cream for extra richness.

Enjoy it fresh with fruit, salads, or on toast.

For Paneer

Gather the cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Shape the curds into a flat block while still in the cloth, then place it on a plate.

Weigh it down with a heavy pan or tin for 30–60 minutes.

Once firm, unwrap and cut into cubes. Your homemade paneer is ready for curries, stir-fries, or grilling.

Tips for Success

Use fresh full-fat milk – low-fat milk won’t give you the same creamy result.

Don’t throw away the whey – it’s packed with protein and can be added to smoothies, soups, or bread dough.

Adjust the texture – for softer paneer, reduce pressing time; for firmer cubes, press longer.

Why Make It at Home?

Homemade cottage cheese and paneer are preservative-free, fresher than anything you’ll find on supermarket shelves, and surprisingly quick to prepare. With just milk and an acidic agent, you can turn an everyday ingredient into a versatile cheese that elevates your cooking.

Next time you have a spare litre of milk, try making a batch of cottage cheese or paneer, you’ll be amazed at how easy (and delicious) it is!

Incidentally as I write this my wife and I have enjoyed some freshly made cottage cheese and are waiting for our paneer to be ready! Paneer is ideal in a vegetarian curry.

Kitchen Design Experts next125 Opens First UK Concept Store

Premium German kitchen brand, next125, has officially opened the doors to its first UK concept store on Great Western Road, Glasgow, bringing its signature blend of contemporary design and cutting-edge craftsmanship to the city's iconic West End.

Created in partnership with highly respected local retailer, Gideon Robinson, the new space goes beyond a traditional showroom. 

Thoughtfully curated, like a gallery, next125 Glasgow presents an inspiring, design-led environment where every kitchen is displayed with room to breathe. 

The result is a calm, immersive setting that sparks imagination and allows customers to truly envisage how next125's timeless designs might transform their own homes. 

“When designing a kitchen, people are aspirational,” studio founder, Gideon Robinson told That's Food and Drink.

Gideon and Susan Robinson

“We've created a stunning visual environment that feels luxurious and uplifting. It's a true celebration of innovative design.”

Renowned for its award-winning work, next125 has built a reputation for designing kitchens that combine timeless elegance with the practicalities of modern living. Every detail is carefully considered from sleek finishes and modern fittings to innovative storage solutions and ergonomically designed layouts.

Beyond beauty and function, longevity and sustainability sit at the heart of the brand. next125 kitchens are designed to be eco-friendly and built to last, crafted with durable, responsibly sourced materials.

“People are becoming more mindful about choosing designs that not only look stunning but are also designed to stand the test of time,” says Robinson.

 “A well-made kitchen is a valuable long-term investment.”

With over two decades experience in kitchen design, Robinson has long been one of Scotland's leading premium retailers. 

His longstanding collaboration with next125 has evolved into this new concept store, marking a bold step forward and an investment in Glasgow's interior design landscape. 

Highlighting his commitment to the local market, Robinson says, “While other retailers are scaling back, we've made significant investment in next125 Glasgow. The next125 brand allows us to elevate our offering and provide something truly different to the local market.”

The next125 Glasgow concept store is carefully orchestrated to showcase next125's dedication to form and function. Visitors are encouraged to explore, reflect and immerse themselves in a collaborative experience. 

“The space has been designed so that customers can connect with the products on a personal and emotional level, and leave with a lasting impression,” says Robinson. 

“This is a unique destination – one worth travelling for.” The studio offers visitors a space to exchange ideas with highly skilled designers and receive expert guidance and support throughout their entire design journey.

Led by Gideon and Susan Robinson, Gideon Robinson has been designing and installing high-end kitchens across Scotland for in excess of two decades.

Known for its meticulous design process, tailored service and commitment to quality, Gideon Robinson is one of Scotland's most respected names in luxury interiors. www.glasgow.next125.store

Based in Herrieden southern Germany, Schüller Möbelwerk GmbH was founded in 1966 and has evolved over the last five decades into a specialist for custom kitchens and 'Made in Germany' furniture. 

Around 170,000 kitchens are manufactured at the company site annually, which are sold in Germany and on international markets.

'Typical Schüller' is not just about its extraordinary depth of production; it's also about working with partners from retail, a clear focus on sustainability and a deeply embedded responsibility as a company. Since 2003, Markus Schüller, Max Heller and Manfred Niederauer have led the family-run company in its second generation.

Learn more here: next125.com

European Migraine Day of Action: How Food, Drinks, and Supplements Can Help Fight Migraines

Every 12th of September, European Migraine Day of Action shines a spotlight on a condition that affects millions of people across the continent. 

Migraines are far more than “just a headache” – they can be debilitating, causing pain, nausea, light sensitivity, and even visual disturbances.

 As my wife and I are both migraine sufferers we have personal experience of them. 

While medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments are essential, many people also find relief by paying attention to what they eat and drink.

On this awareness day, let’s explore how food, beverages, and supplements can play a role in migraine management.

Foods That Can Help Prevent Migraines

Magnesium-rich foods

Low magnesium levels have been linked to migraines. Foods such as spinach, kale, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and avocados are excellent natural sources.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Found in salmon, sardines, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s help reduce inflammation, which may ease migraine frequency and severity.

Whole grains

Oats, brown rice, and quinoa provide steady energy release and help prevent sudden blood sugar dips that can trigger attacks.

Leafy greens

Rich in folate and other B vitamins, greens like broccoli, kale, and romaine lettuce may support brain health and reduce migraine risk.

Drinks That May Reduce Migraine Frequency

Water

Dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Regular water intake throughout the day is one of the simplest and most effective preventative measures.

Ginger tea

Known for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger tea can be soothing during the early stages of a migraine.

Peppermint tea

Peppermint is often used to relieve tension headaches and may provide comfort for some migraine sufferers.

Caffeine in moderation

For some people, a small amount of caffeine (such as green tea or coffee) can ease early migraine symptoms. However, excessive intake or withdrawal may worsen them, so balance is key. I find a can of chilled Cola really helpful.

Supplements to Consider

Before starting any supplements, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional. However, several have shown promise in migraine prevention:

Magnesium – Often recommended for reducing both frequency and severity of migraines.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) – May help decrease the number of migraine attacks when taken daily.

Coenzyme Q10 – Supports energy production in cells and may lower migraine frequency.

Feverfew – A traditional herbal remedy that some studies suggest can reduce migraine occurrence.

Foods and Drinks Best Avoided

While some foods can help, others may trigger attacks for certain individuals. Common culprits include:

Aged cheeses

Processed meats (containing nitrates/nitrites)

Chocolate

Alcohol (particularly red wine)

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame

Since triggers vary, keeping a migraine diary can help identify personal patterns.

Taking Action on Migraine Day

European Migraine Day of Action is not just about awareness – it’s about empowering people to make small changes that can lead to big improvements. Simple dietary shifts, hydration, and supportive supplements, alongside medical advice, may help reduce the burden of migraines.

If you or someone you love suffers from migraines, today is a good day to:

Learn more about dietary triggers and helpers.

Share experiences with friends, family, or support groups.

Speak to a healthcare professional about nutrition and supplements.

Migraines might not be curable yet, but with knowledge and proactive choices, life can be made a little easier.

Celebrate International Literacy Day with Food, Drink, and Community

Every year on 8 September, people across the globe come together to mark International Literacy Day, a day dedicated to promoting reading, writing, and access to education. 

While it is often recognised through school programmes and literacy initiatives, you can also celebrate in your own community or at home by bringing people together with food, drink, and a shared love of books.

Why Celebrate with a Party?

Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write — it opens doors to opportunity, culture, and connection. Hosting a party not only shines a spotlight on this important cause but also makes it fun and memorable. A gathering with food and drink encourages conversation, storytelling, and of course, book sharing.

Themed Party Ideas

Book Club Feast: Ask everyone to bring a dish inspired by their favourite novel. From Harry Potter’s pumpkin pasties to Paddington’s marmalade sandwiches, there’s so much inspiration to be found in literature.

Alphabet Buffet: Create a menu where every dish starts with a different letter of the alphabet. It’s playful, educational, and a great icebreaker.

Literary Tea Party: Brew teas inspired by famous books and pair them with cakes, scones, or biscuits. Guests can read aloud from their favourite authors while enjoying a cosy setting.

Cocktails & Classics: For an adult evening, design a cocktail menu inspired by famous literary works — think “Gatsby Gimlet” or “Sherlock’s Scotch.”

Book-Inspired Food Ideas

Here are some dishes that will delight readers and eaters alike:

Pumpkin Pasties (Harry Potter) – Mini puff pastry parcels filled with spiced pumpkin or squash.

Turkish Delight (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) – Sweet, rose-flavoured squares that tempt Edmund in Narnia.

Marmalade Sandwiches (Paddington Bear) – Fun, nostalgic finger sandwiches perfect for children and adults.

Green Eggs and Ham (Dr Seuss) – A quirky breakfast or appetiser twist using avocado-dyed eggs.

Madeleines (In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust) – Perfect for a literary afternoon tea.

Cocktail & Mocktail Suggestions

The Great Gatsby Gimlet – A refreshing gin, lime, and soda cocktail, served in a coupe glass.

Sherlock’s Pipe – A whisky-based cocktail with a hint of smoked cinnamon for drama.

Anne Shirley’s Raspberry Cordial (Anne of Green Gables) – A non-alcoholic fruity punch that’s sweet and vibrant.

Alice’s Tea Party Punch – A fun mocktail with Earl Grey tea, lemonade, and a dash of elderflower.

Moby-Dick White Whale Martini – A creamy white chocolate martini for adventurous adults.

Food and Drink as Conversation Starters

Sharing food encourages guests to relax, while book-inspired dishes or drinks spark conversation about favourite authors, memorable characters, and personal reading journeys. You could even pair dishes with short readings, encouraging guests to discover new genres and writers.

Adding a Charitable Twist

International Literacy Day is also an opportunity to support those who struggle with reading. Consider asking guests to donate a book, contribute to a local literacy charity, or help fundraise for organisations that promote reading skills worldwide. A table for donated books can easily become the heart of the event.

Making It Personal

For families, a smaller gathering with themed snacks and a storytime session can be a wonderful way to get children excited about reading. For friends, it could be an excuse to revisit old favourites or discover new writers together over drinks.

Closing Thought

Celebrating International Literacy Day with food, drink, and community is a meaningful way to remind ourselves that reading connects us all. Whether with a tea party, a literary feast, or a book-inspired cocktail evening, your party can turn the power of words into shared joy and lasting memories.

Celebrating King Æthelstan: Hold Parties for England’s First King

When we think of great English monarchs, names like Harold, William the Conqueror, Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Victoria often come to mind. 

Yet before all of them, there was King Æthelstan (894–939), widely regarded as the first King of England. 

Grandson of Alfred the Great, Æthelstan united the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and ruled over a realm that stretched from Cornwall to the Scottish border. His reign marked the birth of England as a nation.

So, why not bring a bit of history into the present and hold a party in his honour? Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of tradition, or just looking for a unique reason to celebrate, here’s how you can toast Æthelstan in true Anglo-Saxon style.

1. A Historical Theme with a Modern Twist

Decorate your party space with banners, shields, and candles to echo a medieval hall. Wooden platters and goblets (plenty of affordable replicas are available online) can add to the effect. You don’t need to be strictly authentic – blend history with fun. Think of it as a nod to the Saxon court rather than full-on re-enactment.

2. Feast Like an Anglo-Saxon

Food was central to communal gatherings in Æthelstan’s day. While medieval banquets featured hearty fare, you can adapt the idea for a modern table:

Roast meats: chicken, pork, or beef joints as centrepieces.

Cheese, bread, and butter: staples of the Anglo-Saxon diet.

Stews and pottages: a warming option if your celebration is in autumn or winter.

Ale and mead: traditional drinks, though cider or beer will do just fine.

Honey cakes or apple tarts: sweet finishes inspired by medieval ingredients.

For fun, you could label the dishes with Anglo-Saxon-inspired names.

3. Music and Entertainment

Æthelstan’s court was known for its love of poetry and song. To honour this, create a playlist of folk music, medieval tunes, or even modern acoustic tracks with a traditional flavour. For entertainment, you could:

Host a storytelling competition (a nod to the skalds and poets).

Stage a light-hearted mock battle with foam swords.

Run a pub quiz on Anglo-Saxon history, with questions about Æthelstan and his era.

4. Toast to the King

Raise a glass to Æthelstan with a short speech, reminding guests that without him, the England we know today might never have existed. A simple toast could be:

“To Æthelstan, the first King of the English, who united the land we call home.”

5. Why Celebrate Him?

Marking Æthelstan’s legacy with parties helps bring history out of the dusty pages of textbooks and into our everyday lives. It’s a chance to celebrate English identity, learn a little history, and enjoy good company – much like our ancestors would have done.

King Æthelstan may not yet have his own national holiday, but that doesn’t mean we can’t create our own traditions. A yearly gathering in his honour – whether small family suppers or bigger themed parties – could grow into a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the roots of England.

After all, birthdays, jubilees, and coronations aren’t the only times to celebrate royalty. Why not raise a tankard this year for Æthelstan, the very first King of England?

Should England have a day dedicated to celebrating Æthelstan? Please let us know in the comments below.

That's Business: National Food Bank Day – How Food and Drink Busine...

That's Business: National Food Bank Day – How Food and Drink Busine...: The first Friday of September is National Food Bank Day , a time to highlight the crucial work food banks do in tackling hunger and support...

National Food Bank Day – Why Supporting Your Local Food Bank Matters

The first Friday of September marks National Food Bank Day, a time to recognise the vital work food banks do in supporting families and individuals facing food insecurity. 

In today’s world, where the cost of living continues to rise and many households struggle to make ends meet, food banks are a lifeline for millions.

The Importance of Food Banks

Food banks collect, store, and distribute food to those in need, often working alongside community groups, schools, and churches. They not only provide immediate relief but also act as a safety net for people in crisis, whether due to job loss, illness, or unexpected financial hardship.

In the UK, organisations such as the Trussell Trust and independent food banks across the country have reported record demand for emergency food parcels. For many families, these donations are the difference between going hungry and having a meal on the table.

How You Can Help

Supporting food banks doesn’t always mean donating money—there are plenty of ways to get involved:

Donate food: Non-perishable items such as tinned vegetables, rice, pasta, long-life milk, and tea are always in demand.

Contribute toiletries and essentials: Items like soap, toothpaste, sanitary products, and nappies are often overlooked but much needed.

Give your time: Volunteers are the backbone of food banks, helping with sorting, packing, and distribution.

Raise awareness: Share information on social media or encourage friends, colleagues, and neighbours to contribute.

Fundraise: From bake sales to charity runs, community events can raise funds that go directly to supporting food banks.

Food, Dignity, and Community

National Food Bank Day isn’t just about filling cupboards—it’s about showing compassion, solidarity, and respect. Everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and food banks ensure dignity is maintained even during difficult times.

It’s also a day to reflect on the bigger picture. Food banks should not be a permanent solution to hunger, but while they exist, they represent the power of community in action.

Final Thoughts

As we mark National Food Bank Day, consider what small action you could take to support your local food bank. Whether it’s donating a few items on your next supermarket shop, volunteering a couple of hours a month, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes a real difference.

Because when a community comes together to ensure no one goes hungry, everyone benefits.

That's Christmas 365: Bored with Christmas Puddings and Cakes? Delicious...

That's Christmas 365: Bored with Christmas Puddings and Cakes? Delicious...: For many, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the familiar traditions of a rich Christmas pudding or a dense, fruit-laden Christmas cake....

A Taste of Austria: Vienna Soup Recipe

When you think of Austrian cuisine, your mind might go straight to Wiener Schnitzel or a deliciously decadent Sachertorte. 

But tucked away in Viennese kitchens is a hearty, flavourful classic that has comfort written all over it: Vienna Soup (Wiener Suppe). 

Traditionally served as a first course in Austrian households, this rich broth brimming with vegetables and beef is both elegant and nourishing.

What Is Vienna Soup?

Vienna Soup, sometimes called Wiener Rindsuppe, is a clear beef broth enriched with root vegetables and often served with semolina dumplings (Grießnockerl), noodles, or sliced pancakes (Frittaten). It’s a dish that balances simplicity with deep flavour – a reminder of why slow-cooked broths are so beloved across Europe.

Ingredients

For 4–6 servings, you’ll need:

500g beef shank or stewing beef (with some bone if possible)

2 litres cold water

1 onion, halved (charred slightly for depth of flavour)

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

1 parsnip, peeled and chopped

¼ celeriac (celery root), peeled and diced

1 leek, washed and sliced

3–4 parsley stalks

1 bay leaf

5–6 whole black peppercorns

Salt, to taste

Optional garnishes and add-ins:

Chopped fresh chives or parsley

Noodles, sliced pancakes (Frittaten), or semolina dumplings

Method

Prepare the broth

Place the beef in a large pot with the cold water. Slowly bring it to the boil, skimming off any foam that rises.

Add vegetables and seasoning

Add the onion halves (charred side down), carrots, parsnip, celeriac, leek, parsley stalks, bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 2–2.5 hours, uncovered.

Strain the soup

Remove the beef and set aside (you can slice it thinly and serve alongside the soup or keep it for another meal). Strain the broth through a fine sieve to remove the vegetables and spices.

Taste and finish

Return the clear broth to the pot and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

Serve

Ladle the hot Vienna Soup into bowls, adding your chosen garnish – noodles, dumplings, or thin strips of pancake – and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestion

In Vienna, this soup is often served as the elegant start to a meal, but it also makes for a light supper with some crusty bread. If you’re hosting a dinner party, pairing it with a crisp Austrian white wine (like Grüner Veltliner) will delight your guests.

Why Try Vienna Soup?

Vienna Soup is more than just a bowl of broth, it’s a taste of Austrian tradition. Simple, wholesome, and full of layered flavour, it’s proof that sometimes the most comforting meals are born from the humblest ingredients.

Water Poverty Alleviation Charity Starts Fundraising Plan for The Last Quarter of 2025

Herefordshire's water poverty alleviation charity, Hope Spring, unveiled its plan for the last quarter of 2025 recently. 

In a blog post on their website, the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) charity said the last four months of the year tend to be the busiest for fundraising.

The organisation wrote that September is widely recognised as the busiest month for birthdays in the UK, with more people born during this time of year than any other.

 A number of people marking or celebrating their birthday in September tend to send an online birthday card and make a donation to Hope Spring. From this starting point in autumn, the momentum builds steadily towards Christmas and New Year, when greeting eCard exchanges reach their peak and donations provide an even bigger boost to the charity’s projects.

“Every card sent in these months does more than mark a personal milestone or festive occasion,” a spokesperson for Hope Spring told That's Food and Drink.

“It helps provide something as fundamental as safe water. That means a reduced risk of waterborne illness, it means children can stay in school rather than spending hours fetching water, and it means women and girls can reclaim time and dignity. That’s why we say our eCards are the gift that gives twice.”

Hope Spring points to the final quarter as its most impactful period for a reason. The donations raised through eCards during these four months often set the pace for the projects the charity can carry out in the following year. Whether it is drilling boreholes, constructing wells, or providing hygiene and sanitation education, the funding stream opened by September birthdays and strengthened by the festive season makes the difference between scaling back or expanding life-saving interventions.

The September birthday surge provides a unique entry point. With data consistently showing that the latter half of September has the highest number of birthdays in the UK, the charity highlights this as more than a coincidence. For Hope Spring, it becomes a timely opportunity to encourage people to switch from traditional paper birthday cards to eCards. Doing so turns what might otherwise be a fleeting exchange into a meaningful contribution to a clean water project thousands of miles away.

Beyond the human impact, Hope Spring also stresses the environmental argument. Each year, the UK sends and receives hundreds of millions of physical cards, most heavily concentrated around Christmas. While many of these cards are recycled, a significant proportion end up as waste. The production process itself consumes vast quantities of paper, ink, and energy. By contrast, an eCard not only sidesteps this environmental cost but channels the money saved into something tangible, safe drinking water.

“People often underestimate the ripple effect of small choices,” Emmanuel, one of the charity spokespeople added. “When you swap a paper card for a digital one, you are not just cutting down on waste. You are actively helping a rural community that may have struggled with unsafe water for generations. That one decision can spark a chain of positive impact far greater than the sender might imagine.”

As autumn deepens, the charity sees a steady increase in activity on its eCards platform, often tied to seasonal greetings. By December, the trend peaks. The Christmas period has become not only a time of celebration but also the charity’s busiest fundraising window of the year. For many supporters, the decision to send Christmas wishes digitally rather than on paper has become an annual tradition, one that combines thoughtfulness towards the environment with generosity towards vulnerable communities.

The New Year period follows closely behind, extending the cycle of giving into January. For Hope Spring, this creates a continuous wave of support that carries into the early months of the next year, ensuring clean water projects are not just started but sustained.

While the focus is on fundraising, the charity is careful to frame the message in terms of empowerment rather than charity alone. Each donation, no matter how small, contributes to independence for communities who gain the tools and infrastructure to take control of their water needs. Hope Spring’s model emphasises sustainability, training local residents to maintain and repair wells and boreholes, ensuring projects remain viable for years after installation.

The charity believes that this final quarter of 2025 will be especially significant. With growing public awareness of both environmental issues and global inequality, the link between sending greetings and giving back resonates more strongly than ever. A birthday card in September, a Christmas greeting in December, or a New Year’s wish in January, each becomes more than a token of affection. It becomes a way to stand in solidarity with families who are otherwise left behind by global progress.

In a climate where many are seeking meaningful ways to celebrate without excess, the Hope Spring eCards platform has become a symbol of simplicity with purpose. The act of sending a card remains as personal and heartfelt as ever, but now carries with it the weight of making a tangible difference.

“Hope Spring eCards are proof that generosity does not have to be grand to be transformative,” Seun, a spokesperson concluded. “Something as small as a birthday card or a Christmas greeting can be the reason a child drinks clean water for the first time, or the reason a family no longer walks miles under the hot sun to collect unsafe water. That is the scale of impact hidden inside what looks like a simple gesture.”

As the year draws to a close, Hope Spring invites birthday well-wishers, festive celebrants, and New Year greeters alike to consider turning their words into action through digital cards. With every eCard sent, the charity says, joy reaches not just the inbox of a loved one but also the heart of a community waiting for safe, life-changing water. 

https://www.hopespring.org.uk