Friday 16 August 2013

Slow Cooked Pig Cheeks


A few years ago I had the pleasure of eating at a delicious family owned and run, Spanish restaurant in Richmond, London. My favourite dish, amongst the many, was their pig cheeks.

So last night I decided to make slow cooked pig cheeks, with a side of roasted butternut and tomato vine. It was so delicious, with  a great balance of flavours. Pig cheeks are so tasty and when slow cooked the meat is soft and tender.




The Pig Cheeks were slow cooked in a garlic, onion, bacon, red wine, pinch of flour, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper and a dash of water, until the meat was soft and tender.

On the side I oven roasted butternut and tomatoes with olive olive and herbs, to balance the salty pig cheeks.



It was a definite success and I plan to make again at my family reunion this month.


Thursday 15 August 2013

Ladder Loving


Ladders are amazing recyclable items, as they can be used in so many different creative ways. They can be used as shoe holders, as shelves storage or hangers, or even for decoration.

I love how ladders are so simple, yet when transformed can be real statement pieces in your home. They can give your apartment a rustic feel, or even if painted they can give your apartment a pop of colour.

So here are a few ideas of how you can transform your old wobbly ladder:


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Wednesday 14 August 2013

Apple and Strawberry Crumble


I love desserts that are simple and rustic looking, yet taste amazing. One such dessert is the famous old fashion apple and strawberry crumble. It is made out sweet and delicious apples and strawberries, topped with a buttery crumble. Heaven on a plate if you ask me.



The only Ingredients needed to make this delicious crumble are:

Crumble:                            Fruit base:
- Butter                              - Apples
-Flour                                 - Strawberries
-Oats                                  - Sprinkle water and sugar on the apples



Before you add the crumbles, it is important to place the apples in a gently heated sauce pan with water and sugar, to ensure that the apples are softened.




Add the crumble on top of the fruits and put in the oven for about 20-30 minutes at 180°C . Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and this crumble is a guarantee hit.


Tuesday 13 August 2013

Outdoor Living Room


Having an outside living room is a great idea, if you are a lover of long summer nights. It also makes your home look bigger, with more space to dine and entertain your guests or even for lovely intimate family dinners.

So here are a few gorgeous outdoor living rooms that may inspire you:


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Monday 12 August 2013

Rustic Sausage and Caramelised Onions Bruschetta


After a long weekend the last thing on my mind is making a large extravagant dinner. Especially since we usually end up having late lunches. One of my favourite things to make is delicious bruschetta with left over food in the fridge.

Last night I made Bruschetta with sausage, caramelised onions, olive oil, herbs and garlic:




A simple and quick rustic dinner, perfect for two.



Friday 9 August 2013

Mint


I recently inherited a beautiful mint plant and I am absolutely loving the delicious aroma that is emitting around my flat. I am so excited to start using the mint leaves, as I have endless mint recipes that I want to make this summer.




Not only does mint taste amazingly fresh, but it also has plenty health benefits. Mint contains beneficial oils that are good for your stomach ailments that help your digestive track. Which is why it is regularly used as a herbal medicine. So you might want to consider starting your day with a delicious cup of Moroccan mint tea, or even end your day with a fresh and cold mojito.

Here are a few of my favourite mint drinks and dishes I plan to make this summer:


Moroccan Mint Tea
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Rhubarb Mojito
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Tabbouleh
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Pesto

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Spring Rolls with Mint, Pork and Green Apple with Spicy Vinegar-Mint Syrup


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Spaghetti with Ramps and Mint


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Hope you have a Minty Week!

Thursday 8 August 2013

Bringing Camping Home

Tents are not just for camping anymore, nowadays you can spot people bringing the camping gear home and sometimes even indoors. After all there is something magical about tents, as they set the mood of natural romance and closeness. They are so cosy and warm and I think they can look great in every corner of the house.

Tents are amazing for kids to play with, for all kinds of events and they even look great in your back yard or living room. After all, whether indoors or outside, camping is fun for all ages. 


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Time to get pitching ladies!