Cinnamon Macaroons
(Makes 48 or 24 Once Sandwiched Together)
Ingredients: 250g Icing Sugar
250g Ground Almonds
180g Egg Whites
60ml Water
220g Caster Sugar
2 Teaspoons Cinnamon
300ml Double Cream (Whipped)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius and line a large baking tray with baking paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, place the icing sugar, cinnamon, ground almonds and 80g of the egg white and mix on a medium speed in a stand mixer until a paste is formed.
3. Meanwhile, in a small pan pour the caster sugar and water in. Firstly, place on a low heat to melt the sugar and once melted turn the heat up to a high setting. Once the mixture starts to turn to a syrup consistency use a thermometer to check as you need the mix at around 115 degrees Celsius.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk the remaining egg whites to stiff peaks, before pouring the sugar syrup in gradually, whisking as you pour until the mixture becomes stiffer and shiny.
5. Fold the Italian meringue mix into the macaroon paste gently until the mixture becomes stiff and shiny again.
6. Spoon the mixture into the piping bag, piping a small amount of mix in each corner to stick the baking paper to the baking tray. Hold the bag vertically and pipe flat circles (4-5cm wide) on to the tray and pipe them 2cm apart from each other. Once all 48 macaroons are piped, tap the tray a couple of times to get rid of the tip left on each macaroon.
7. Leave to stand for 30 minutes to form a skin before baking in the oven for 12-14 minutes, with the oven door slightly ajar. Bake until firm. Lift the paper off the tray and allow the macaroons to cool on the paper.
8. Once cooled, sandwich each 2 macaroons together with whipped cream and consume within 2 days. If not sandwiched, they can be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 2 weeks.
Saturday, 30 March 2013
Friday, 29 March 2013
Dark Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Dark Chocolate Mousse (Serves 6-8)
An unusual, yet light and airy mousse recipe. Quick to make and great for those who are calorie conscious...
Ingredients: 525g Dark Chocolate
405g Water
Method:
1. In a mixing bowl, place equal quantities of ice and water, for an ice bath. In a small saucepan, boil the water and pour into a separate, smaller bowl.
2. Add the chopped chocolate and stir with a spatula until the chocolate has melted and fully incorporated.
3. Place the bowl of water and chocolate into the ice bath and whisk vigorously until the mixture resembles stiffly whipped cream.
4. Quickly distribute between serving cups and refrigerate immediately. Consume within 3 days.
An unusual, yet light and airy mousse recipe. Quick to make and great for those who are calorie conscious...
Ingredients: 525g Dark Chocolate
405g Water
Method:
1. In a mixing bowl, place equal quantities of ice and water, for an ice bath. In a small saucepan, boil the water and pour into a separate, smaller bowl.
2. Add the chopped chocolate and stir with a spatula until the chocolate has melted and fully incorporated.
3. Place the bowl of water and chocolate into the ice bath and whisk vigorously until the mixture resembles stiffly whipped cream.
4. Quickly distribute between serving cups and refrigerate immediately. Consume within 3 days.
Thursday, 28 March 2013
Pea & Mint Mousse served with Bacon, Parmesan & Fresh Herb Crumble Recipe
1. Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan, then add the peas and mint and boil
for 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat.
2.
Transfer to a blender and blend to a smooth puree, before adding the gelatine add and blend again.
3.
Pass the puree through a sieve or shinois into a bowl, then season to taste with sugar,
salt and ground black pepper. Set aside to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
4. When the puree is set, whip the double cream to soft peaks and fold it into the puree. Cover the top with cling film and place in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours to allow the mousse to set completely.
5. For the bacon, line a tray with greaseproof paper before laying the bacon on the tray. Place another layer of greaseproof paper on top and flatten with another baking tray. Add some weight on top, such as ovenproof bowls or pans, so the bacon stays flat and doesn't curl up (for presentation purposes). Cook at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes until crisp.
6. Place the breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon zest and Parmesan on a separate lined baking tray. Bake for 5 minutes until golden brown.
7. To serve, quenelle the pea mousse on to a cold plate, before adding a rasher of bacon and Parmesan crumble on top. Serve with a pea shoot and rocket salad, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
7. To serve, quenelle the pea mousse on to a cold plate, before adding a rasher of bacon and Parmesan crumble on top. Serve with a pea shoot and rocket salad, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Ossobuco Recipe
Ossobuco (Serves 4)
A Milanese speciality, translates to "bone with a hole"- In reference to the marrow hole at the centre of the veal shanks. Traditionally served with saffron risotto and gremolata...
Ingredients: 4 Veal Shanks (Seasoned)
1 Onion (Peeled & Roughly Chopped)
2 Celery Sticks (Roughly Chopped)
2 Carrots (Peeled & Roughly Chopped)
2 Bay Leaves
1 Cinnamon Stick
4 Sprigs of Thyme
150ml White Wine
400ml Veal or Chicken Stock
1 Tablespoon Parsley (Finely Chopped)
1 Lemon (Zest Only)
1 Clove of Garlic (Finely Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and on a high heat get the pan to a point of smoking. Once at this stage fry the seasoned veal shanks until they are browned evenly on each side.
2. Remove the shanks, before adding a further tablespoon of oil, to fry the onions, celery, carrots, bay leaves, cinnamon and thyme on a medium heat.
3. After 10 minutes of cooking, add the shanks back in to the casserole pan and add the white wine. Once reduced by half add the passata and stock. Allow the casserole to get up to a simmer, before reducing the heat to low.
4. Braise for 4-5 hours or until the veal starts to fall off the bone.
5. To make the gremolata, combine the parsley, lemon zest and garlic in a bowl.
6. To serve, season the casserole and discard the cinnamon stick, bay leaves and thyme. Distribute 1 veal shank per person and spoon some of the gremolata on top of each shank before pouring some of the braising liquor over the top.
A Milanese speciality, translates to "bone with a hole"- In reference to the marrow hole at the centre of the veal shanks. Traditionally served with saffron risotto and gremolata...
Ingredients: 4 Veal Shanks (Seasoned)
1 Onion (Peeled & Roughly Chopped)
2 Celery Sticks (Roughly Chopped)
2 Carrots (Peeled & Roughly Chopped)
2 Bay Leaves
1 Cinnamon Stick
4 Sprigs of Thyme
150ml White Wine
400ml Veal or Chicken Stock
1 Tablespoon Parsley (Finely Chopped)
1 Lemon (Zest Only)
1 Clove of Garlic (Finely Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and on a high heat get the pan to a point of smoking. Once at this stage fry the seasoned veal shanks until they are browned evenly on each side.
2. Remove the shanks, before adding a further tablespoon of oil, to fry the onions, celery, carrots, bay leaves, cinnamon and thyme on a medium heat.
3. After 10 minutes of cooking, add the shanks back in to the casserole pan and add the white wine. Once reduced by half add the passata and stock. Allow the casserole to get up to a simmer, before reducing the heat to low.
4. Braise for 4-5 hours or until the veal starts to fall off the bone.
5. To make the gremolata, combine the parsley, lemon zest and garlic in a bowl.
6. To serve, season the casserole and discard the cinnamon stick, bay leaves and thyme. Distribute 1 veal shank per person and spoon some of the gremolata on top of each shank before pouring some of the braising liquor over the top.
Tuesday, 26 March 2013
Sparkling Wine & Strawberry Jelly Recipe
Monday, 25 March 2013
Gavin Gregg Restaurant- A Review
Gavin Gregg Restaurant
The commuter town of Sevenoaks proved to be our next gastronomic destination, a stones throw away from London, this affluent Kentish town you'd believe would be an ideal location for an array of up and coming restaurants. The one we found, however, has been a permanent fixture in Sevenoaks for almost fifteen years. Gavin Gregg Restaurant (self-titled after the chef and co-proprietor) look to offer "inspiring and exciting menus combining traditional dishes with a hint of international panache". Also being able to boast about being rated #1 on Trip Advisor in Sevenoaks and the holder of 2 coveted AA rosettes for nine yea, the signs looked promising. Upon arrival at our table the venue proved to be a quaint building with beams and period features ,proving rather cosy and intimate on a late winter night. The menu was very reasonably priced, considering its close proximity to London. A mere £19 for two courses and £23 for three. The wine list also proved to be eclectic, as well as offering value for money. With the house white wine (La Paz, Sauvignon Blanc)at £17.50.
For starters, since looking up the menu in advance I had set my heart on the duck leg pithivier served with a celeriac puree. MBH was torn between the pithivier and roasted white onion soup with crispy shallots. She was, however, swayed by the special- a tiger prawn cocktail served with an avocado mousse, mary rose sauce and bloody mary jelly. The pithivier lived up to all expectations, rich, fatty duck glazed in an intense duck flavoured sauce, with hints of star anise was wonderful combined with the flaky puff pastry. The creamy celeriac puree and sweet, but sharp baby onions rounded the dish off perfectly.
Naturally, after two incredible starters, we had anticipated for the food to only get better with the main event. I opted for the rump of lamb, whilst MBH went for the duck breast. The rump of lamb was partnered with Provencal aubergine and courgette, champ mash and braised shoulder. I was slightly nervous about a warm, oily ratatouille partnered with creamy, buttery champ mash, but this proved to be unfounded. These garnishes complemented the lamb beautifully, the rump not being an easy cut to cook was seasoned well, remained pink and the fat was rendered off well, making it incredibly moreish. The dish as a whole, could only be balanced by a chef with bounteous technique and delicate touch, of which this chef obviously did.
Whilst savouring tea, coffee and homemade chocolate truffles we had afterthoughts about the entirety of the meal. There is no question that this an outstanding restaurant, which doesn't rely on modern gimmicks but uses classical techniques to create it's dishes and menus. On the whole, it proved to be a very positive experience- a more fond embrace of modern technology, however, with more contemporary, creative and innovative techniques/dishes (especially in the pastry section) it would turn this restaurant into a gastronomic destination of Kent.
Rating- 7/10
The commuter town of Sevenoaks proved to be our next gastronomic destination, a stones throw away from London, this affluent Kentish town you'd believe would be an ideal location for an array of up and coming restaurants. The one we found, however, has been a permanent fixture in Sevenoaks for almost fifteen years. Gavin Gregg Restaurant (self-titled after the chef and co-proprietor) look to offer "inspiring and exciting menus combining traditional dishes with a hint of international panache". Also being able to boast about being rated #1 on Trip Advisor in Sevenoaks and the holder of 2 coveted AA rosettes for nine yea, the signs looked promising. Upon arrival at our table the venue proved to be a quaint building with beams and period features ,proving rather cosy and intimate on a late winter night. The menu was very reasonably priced, considering its close proximity to London. A mere £19 for two courses and £23 for three. The wine list also proved to be eclectic, as well as offering value for money. With the house white wine (La Paz, Sauvignon Blanc)at £17.50.
For starters, since looking up the menu in advance I had set my heart on the duck leg pithivier served with a celeriac puree. MBH was torn between the pithivier and roasted white onion soup with crispy shallots. She was, however, swayed by the special- a tiger prawn cocktail served with an avocado mousse, mary rose sauce and bloody mary jelly. The pithivier lived up to all expectations, rich, fatty duck glazed in an intense duck flavoured sauce, with hints of star anise was wonderful combined with the flaky puff pastry. The creamy celeriac puree and sweet, but sharp baby onions rounded the dish off perfectly.
The tiger prawn dish tantalised the taste buds with an array of textures and flavours proved to be MBH's favourite dish of the night. The tiger prawns, coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried were succulent and crisp, with a mary rose sauce with a subtle kick of Worcestershire sauce and tabasco was divine in it's own right. An avocado mousse and bloody mary jelly provided the modern twist on a classic prawn cocktail adding freshness along with the crunch of baby gem lettuce received a resounding thumbs up regardless of the £3 supplement.
Naturally, after two incredible starters, we had anticipated for the food to only get better with the main event. I opted for the rump of lamb, whilst MBH went for the duck breast. The rump of lamb was partnered with Provencal aubergine and courgette, champ mash and braised shoulder. I was slightly nervous about a warm, oily ratatouille partnered with creamy, buttery champ mash, but this proved to be unfounded. These garnishes complemented the lamb beautifully, the rump not being an easy cut to cook was seasoned well, remained pink and the fat was rendered off well, making it incredibly moreish. The dish as a whole, could only be balanced by a chef with bounteous technique and delicate touch, of which this chef obviously did.
However, MBH's main, proved slightly overpowering. Presented with real eccentricity and panache, the appearance was inviting and smells enticing. The duck itself was cooked medium rare, with a rose tint and crispy skin which, with such tenderness, melted in the mouth. The buttered cabbage and carrots were the "best vegetables I've ever had" MBH exclaimed, rich with butter and intense, natural sweetness. The gratin, another rich element filled with buttery, nutty notes (again seasoned to perfection) almost made the dish too indulgent. The croquette proved the weakest link of the dish, overpowered with star anise and lacking the garlic, paprika notes of which you'd expect of chorizo and woody, herbal flavour of thyme. An extravagant and filling dish, that needs slight refinement.
The dessert menu seemed to lack a certain creativity and innovation, with traditional dishes taking their place such as sticky toffee pudding and creme brulee. To round off the meal, I decided upon a chocolate truffle torte, with black cherry jam and pannacotta. The presentation, tried to be minimal and neat, but at best looked sloppy. The swipe of "jam" was untidy and almost flavourless more resembling a puree than jam. The pannacotta, rich with vanilla seeds was pleasant but nothing to write home about and the fact it wasn't taken out of its mould also seemed a bit of a cop-out. Underwhelming. The torte itself, the main event, was rich with bittersweet cocoa notes and was as indulgent as a dessert can get. This redeemed the dish somewhat. MBH chose a classic vanilla creme brulee, served with mixed berry compote and a cinnamon palmier biscuit. The creme brulee was smooth, sumptuous and rich with vanilla and cream. The crisp, sugar layer added much needed sweetness to the dessert as a whole. The mixed berries cut through the creamy brulee with a pleasant acidity, whilst the cinnamon palmier biscuit was crisp and fragrant with cinnamon. Whilst savouring tea, coffee and homemade chocolate truffles we had afterthoughts about the entirety of the meal. There is no question that this an outstanding restaurant, which doesn't rely on modern gimmicks but uses classical techniques to create it's dishes and menus. On the whole, it proved to be a very positive experience- a more fond embrace of modern technology, however, with more contemporary, creative and innovative techniques/dishes (especially in the pastry section) it would turn this restaurant into a gastronomic destination of Kent.
Rating- 7/10
Sunday, 24 March 2013
Passionfruit Ice Cream Recipe
A zingy, tropical dessert- a wonderful twist from standard ice cream flavours...
Ingredients: 300ml Full-Fat Milk
300ml Double Cream
100g Caster Sugar
6 Egg Yolks
12 Passion Fruits (Pulp Scraped Out)
Method:
1. In a medium sized saucepan, pour in the cream, milk and passion fruit pulp. Simmer on a medium heat and leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl whisk the egg yolks and sugar together.
3. Before pouring over the hot passionfruit mix into the bowl, pass the mix through a sieve to discard the seed. Whisk the hot passionfruit cream into the eggs and sugar to incorporate all the ingredients together and to avoid the egg from scrambling.
3.Pour the ice cream mix back into the saucepan and continually whisk on the heat until the mix starts to thicken.
4. Allow to cool, before churning in an ice cream maker for 25-30 minutes.
5. Store in an airtight container and consume within 1 month.
Saturday, 23 March 2013
Chicken, Chorizo & Butterbean Stew Recipe
Chicken, Chorizo & Butterbean Stew (Serves 4)
A flavoursome, family meal with the essence of Spain...
Ingredients: 500g Chicken Breast (Diced)
150g Chorizo (Diced)
1 Onion (Peeled & Sliced)
1 Bay Leaf
4 Sprigs of Thyme
100g Roasted Red Pepper (Sliced)
1 Tablespoon Paprika
Pinch of Saffron
150g Passata
3 Cloves of Garlic (Peeled & Finely Chopped)
350ml Chicken Stock
200g Butterbeans
A Small Handful of Parsley (Roughly Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan, sweat off the onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme and chorizo in a tablespoon of vegetable oil on a medium heat for 5-10 minutes.
2. Once the onions have softened, add the diced chicken breast and seal off the outside of the chicken.
3. Add the roasted red pepper, paprika, saffron, passata and stock. Bring up to a simmer, than down the hob to a low-medium heat.
4. Leave to cook for 20 minutes, before adding the butterbeans.
5. Cook for a further 20 minutes, so the chicken and butterbeans are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Take the stew off the heat, before seasoning to taste with salt and ground black pepper. Than stir in the chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately.
A flavoursome, family meal with the essence of Spain...
Ingredients: 500g Chicken Breast (Diced)
150g Chorizo (Diced)
1 Onion (Peeled & Sliced)
1 Bay Leaf
4 Sprigs of Thyme
100g Roasted Red Pepper (Sliced)
1 Tablespoon Paprika
Pinch of Saffron
150g Passata
3 Cloves of Garlic (Peeled & Finely Chopped)
350ml Chicken Stock
200g Butterbeans
A Small Handful of Parsley (Roughly Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan, sweat off the onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme and chorizo in a tablespoon of vegetable oil on a medium heat for 5-10 minutes.
2. Once the onions have softened, add the diced chicken breast and seal off the outside of the chicken.
3. Add the roasted red pepper, paprika, saffron, passata and stock. Bring up to a simmer, than down the hob to a low-medium heat.
4. Leave to cook for 20 minutes, before adding the butterbeans.
5. Cook for a further 20 minutes, so the chicken and butterbeans are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Take the stew off the heat, before seasoning to taste with salt and ground black pepper. Than stir in the chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately.
Labels:
Butterbeans.,
Chicken,
Chorizo,
Main Course,
Spanish
Friday, 22 March 2013
Iced Peanut Butter Parfait Recipe
Iced Peanut Butter Parfait (Serves 4)
An easy, yet delicious dessert to make. Looks perfect as a complete dish, if combined with a small slice of dark chocolate brownie and chocolate sauce or caramelised bananas and a salted caramel sauce...
Ingredients: 4 Egg Yolks
80g Caster Sugar
40ml Water
200ml Double Cream
75g Crunchy Peanut Butter
Method:
1. In a small pan, turn the hob up to a high heat adding the sugar and water. Boil until the sugar syrup reaches 118 degrees Celsius (soft ball).
2. Whisk the double cream, until it forms soft peaks.
3. Heat the peanut butter in a small pan, so it becomes more pliable.
4. In a stand mixer, pour the sugar syrup into the egg yolks gradually, whisking on a high speed. Continue to whisk the mix until the sabayon has cooled.
5. Fold the peanut butter, sabayon and cream together thoroughly before decanting into 4 separate moulds. Freeze overnight for the best results.
An easy, yet delicious dessert to make. Looks perfect as a complete dish, if combined with a small slice of dark chocolate brownie and chocolate sauce or caramelised bananas and a salted caramel sauce...
Ingredients: 4 Egg Yolks
80g Caster Sugar
40ml Water
200ml Double Cream
75g Crunchy Peanut Butter
Method:
1. In a small pan, turn the hob up to a high heat adding the sugar and water. Boil until the sugar syrup reaches 118 degrees Celsius (soft ball).
2. Whisk the double cream, until it forms soft peaks.
3. Heat the peanut butter in a small pan, so it becomes more pliable.
4. In a stand mixer, pour the sugar syrup into the egg yolks gradually, whisking on a high speed. Continue to whisk the mix until the sabayon has cooled.
5. Fold the peanut butter, sabayon and cream together thoroughly before decanting into 4 separate moulds. Freeze overnight for the best results.
Thursday, 21 March 2013
Lamb Rump, Wild Garlic Butter, Boulangere Potatoes & Minted Pea Puree Recipe
Lamb Rump, Wild Garlic Butter, Boulangere Potatoes & Minted Pea Puree (Serves 4)
A seasonal, restaurant dish, that would impress any dinner party guests...
Ingredients: 4 Lamb Rumps
125ml White Wine
500ml Lamb Stock
400g Fresh or Frozen Peas
1 Shallot (Peeled & Finely Diced)
1 Clove of Garlic (Peeled & Finely Chopped)
100g Salted Butter (Softened)
100ml Double Cream
8 Sprigs of Thyme (Leaves Only)
A Small Handful of Fresh Mint (Finely Chopped)
1 Onion (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
700g Potatoes (Peeled & Sliced 2mm Thick)
A Small Handful of Wild Garlic (Finely Chopped)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
2. To make the boulangere potatoes, soften the onions and thyme on a low to medium heat for 15 minutes until the onions are softened.
3. In a baking dish layer the potatoes, seasoning each layer alternating with some of the softened onions until the dish is nearly full. Pour over 250ml of the lamb stock and bake in the oven for 1 hour until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, for the pea puree melt 25g of the butter in a small pan on a high heat, frying the shallot and garlic for 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add half the peas, cooking for a further 1 minute before adding the cream. Once the peas are cooked, transfer the contents to a blender with the chopped mint and blitz until smooth. Pass through a fine sieve or shinois to get a better consistency before seasoning to taste.
5. For the wild garlic butter, mash the wild garlic into the remaining softened butter
before rolling butter up into a small sausage in the clingfilm and place in the fridge to firm up.
6. To cook the lamb rumps, put a large frying pan on a high heat, with a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Season the rumps and once the pan is starting to smoke, add the rumps. Brown evenly on all sides, before transferring to the oven for 10-12 minutes (medium) depending on the size of the rumps. Allow to rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
7. To make the sauce to accompany the lamb, de-glaze the pan of which you fried the lamb in with white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to get the residual lamb essence into the sauce. Once the wine has reduce by two thirds, add the lamb stock and reduce until thickened.
8. In another pan, half fill with water and bring up to the boil. Blanch the peas for 2-3 minutes dependant on if fresh or frozen.
8. To serve, warm the minted pea puree through before swiping on the plate. Portion the boulangere potatoes into 4, placing delicately next to the swipe. Slice a portion of butter on top of the rump of lamb and serve the sauce on the side. Garnish with the cooked peas and wild garlic flowers if available.
Wednesday, 20 March 2013
Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Cream of Mushroom Soup (Serves 4)
A velvety, earthy soup- which can be made even more luxurious by adding a swirl of truffle oil...
Ingredients: 50g Salted Butter
300g Mushrooms
1 Onion
4 Cloves of Garlic
4 Sprigs of Thyme
500ml Chicken/Vegetable Stock
100ml Double Cream
Method:
1. In a medium sized pan, sweat the onions and garlic in the butter for 10 minutes on a medium heat until the onions have softened.
2. Than add the mushrooms and thyme, cooking on a high heat for a further 3 minutes.
3. Add the stock, cook for 5 more minutes. Take of the heat, and stir in the double cream.
4. Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper, before blitzing in a food processor until smooth. If the soup is still not at the desired consistency, pass through a fine sieve or shinois.
5. Serve immediately.
A velvety, earthy soup- which can be made even more luxurious by adding a swirl of truffle oil...
Ingredients: 50g Salted Butter
300g Mushrooms
1 Onion
4 Cloves of Garlic
4 Sprigs of Thyme
500ml Chicken/Vegetable Stock
100ml Double Cream
Method:
1. In a medium sized pan, sweat the onions and garlic in the butter for 10 minutes on a medium heat until the onions have softened.
2. Than add the mushrooms and thyme, cooking on a high heat for a further 3 minutes.
3. Add the stock, cook for 5 more minutes. Take of the heat, and stir in the double cream.
4. Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper, before blitzing in a food processor until smooth. If the soup is still not at the desired consistency, pass through a fine sieve or shinois.
5. Serve immediately.
Tuesday, 19 March 2013
Chicken & Chickpea Curry Recipe
Chicken, Mushroom & Chickpea Curry (Serves 4)
An aromatic and earthy curry, with a large depth of flavour...
Ingredients: 500g Chicken Breast (Diced)
1 Onion (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
1-2 Red Chilli(s) (Finely Sliced)
1 Tablespoon Garam Masala
1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
6 Cardamom Pods (Crushed & Tied in Muslin)
Thumb-Sized Piece of Ginger (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
4 Cloves of Garlic (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
100g Mushrooms (Sliced)
150g Passata
400ml Chicken Stock
400g Canned Chickpeas (Drained)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan, sweat the onions, garlic, ginger, mushrooms and chilli(s) on a medium heat for 5-10 minutes until the onion has softened.
2. Add all your spices and cook for a further 1 minute before adding your diced chicken breast.
3. Once the chicken is evenly cooked (after 3-4 minutes), add the passata and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and turn down the hob to a low heat.
4. Cook for a further 20 minutes before adding the drained chickpeas.
5. After another 25 minutes of cooking, season to taste with salt and ground black pepper. Discard the cardamom pods and serve immediately.
An aromatic and earthy curry, with a large depth of flavour...
Ingredients: 500g Chicken Breast (Diced)
1 Onion (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
1-2 Red Chilli(s) (Finely Sliced)
1 Tablespoon Garam Masala
1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
6 Cardamom Pods (Crushed & Tied in Muslin)
Thumb-Sized Piece of Ginger (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
4 Cloves of Garlic (Peeled & Finely Sliced)
100g Mushrooms (Sliced)
150g Passata
400ml Chicken Stock
400g Canned Chickpeas (Drained)
Method:
1. In a large casserole pan, sweat the onions, garlic, ginger, mushrooms and chilli(s) on a medium heat for 5-10 minutes until the onion has softened.
2. Add all your spices and cook for a further 1 minute before adding your diced chicken breast.
3. Once the chicken is evenly cooked (after 3-4 minutes), add the passata and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and turn down the hob to a low heat.
4. Cook for a further 20 minutes before adding the drained chickpeas.
5. After another 25 minutes of cooking, season to taste with salt and ground black pepper. Discard the cardamom pods and serve immediately.
Monday, 18 March 2013
Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe
Dauphinoise Potatoes (Serves 4)
A wonderful potato dish, can be perfectly partnered with beef, lamb or game...
Ingredients: 350ml Double Cream
8 Sprigs of Thyme
4 Cloves of Garlic
30g Salted Butter (Diced)
700g Potatoes (Peeled & Sliced 2mm Thick)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius.
2. In a baking dish, layer and overlap the potatoes seasoning each layer as you go until 1cm from the top of the dish.
3. In a measuring jug, pour the cream and grate the garlic into the cream. Add the thyme leaves and mix thoroughly.
4. Pour over the potatoes until the cream is just below the top layer of potatoes and distribute the butter evenly over the top of the potatoes.
5. Place in the oven for 1 hour or until the potatoes are fully cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
A wonderful potato dish, can be perfectly partnered with beef, lamb or game...
Ingredients: 350ml Double Cream
8 Sprigs of Thyme
4 Cloves of Garlic
30g Salted Butter (Diced)
700g Potatoes (Peeled & Sliced 2mm Thick)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius.
2. In a baking dish, layer and overlap the potatoes seasoning each layer as you go until 1cm from the top of the dish.
3. In a measuring jug, pour the cream and grate the garlic into the cream. Add the thyme leaves and mix thoroughly.
4. Pour over the potatoes until the cream is just below the top layer of potatoes and distribute the butter evenly over the top of the potatoes.
5. Place in the oven for 1 hour or until the potatoes are fully cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Sunday, 17 March 2013
Lime & Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Lime & Dark Chocolate Cheesecake
An interesting and unusual flavour combination, tastes wonderful in a cheesecake...
Ingredients: 600g Cream Cheese
400g Tin of Condensed Milk
5 Limes (Zest & Juice)
200g Digestive Biscuits
100g Dark Chocolate Chips
50g Unsalted Butter
3 Leaves of Gelatine (Soaked in Cold Water)
Method:
1. Line a 9" springform tin with butter, before covering with greaseproof paper on the bottom and around the sides.
2. For the base, blitz the biscuits, dark chocolate chips and butter in a food processor. Once the mixture comes together, turn it out into the tin and press it into the bottom of the tin and up the sides, using your fingers, to make a crunchy crust. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling.
3. For the filling in a stand mixer, use the paddle to mix the cream cheese, condensed milk and lime zest.
4. In a small saucepan melt the gelatine with the lime juice, once fully melted pour gradually into your cheesecake mix. Mix it thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are incorporated.
5. Spoon your mixture into the top of the cake mould and smooth out. Place in the fridge overnight to set and serve.
An interesting and unusual flavour combination, tastes wonderful in a cheesecake...
Ingredients: 600g Cream Cheese
400g Tin of Condensed Milk
5 Limes (Zest & Juice)
200g Digestive Biscuits
100g Dark Chocolate Chips
50g Unsalted Butter
3 Leaves of Gelatine (Soaked in Cold Water)
Method:
1. Line a 9" springform tin with butter, before covering with greaseproof paper on the bottom and around the sides.
2. For the base, blitz the biscuits, dark chocolate chips and butter in a food processor. Once the mixture comes together, turn it out into the tin and press it into the bottom of the tin and up the sides, using your fingers, to make a crunchy crust. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling.
3. For the filling in a stand mixer, use the paddle to mix the cream cheese, condensed milk and lime zest.
4. In a small saucepan melt the gelatine with the lime juice, once fully melted pour gradually into your cheesecake mix. Mix it thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are incorporated.
5. Spoon your mixture into the top of the cake mould and smooth out. Place in the fridge overnight to set and serve.
Saturday, 16 March 2013
Rhubarb & Orange Jam Recipe
Rhubarb & Orange Jam Recipe
A sharp, but sweet alternative to more traditional jams...
Ingredients: 1kg Rhubarb (Roughly Chopped)
1kg Jam Sugar
2 Oranges (Zest & Juice)
70g Candied Ginger (Finely Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large saucepan place the rhubarb, sugar, candied ginger, orange zest and juice. Place on a low to medium heat, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Increase the heat and boil for 10-15 minutes, skimming the mix as you go. Once the jam mix reaches 105 degrees Celsius on the sugar thermometer, take off the heat and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before storing in sterilised jars and sealing tightly.
3. The jam will keep for 6 months, if stored in a cool dark place.
A sharp, but sweet alternative to more traditional jams...
Ingredients: 1kg Rhubarb (Roughly Chopped)
1kg Jam Sugar
2 Oranges (Zest & Juice)
70g Candied Ginger (Finely Chopped)
Method:
1. In a large saucepan place the rhubarb, sugar, candied ginger, orange zest and juice. Place on a low to medium heat, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Increase the heat and boil for 10-15 minutes, skimming the mix as you go. Once the jam mix reaches 105 degrees Celsius on the sugar thermometer, take off the heat and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before storing in sterilised jars and sealing tightly.
3. The jam will keep for 6 months, if stored in a cool dark place.
Friday, 15 March 2013
Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus Recipe
An easy dip recipe, brilliant for snacking...
Ingredients: 400g Canned Chickpeas (Drained)
150ml Tahini Paste
75ml Olive Oil
4 Cloves of Garlic
100g Sun-Dried Tomatoes
1 Lemon (Juice Only)
Method:
1. In a food processor add all the ingredients and blitz until smooth.
2. Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
3. Serve with flatbreads, pitta breads or as part of a mezze platter.
Tropical Eton Mess Recipe
Tropical Eton Mess (Serves 6)
An exotic twist, on a Great British Classic...
Ingredients: 4 Egg Whites
200g Caster Sugar
1 Vanilla Pod (Seeds Scraped Out)
400ml Double Cream
Icing Sugar (To Taste)
1 Papaya (Peeled, Seeds Removed & Diced)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven at 150 degrees Celsius.
2. In a stand mixer or using an electric whisk, whisk the egg whites in a clean mixing bowl on a slow speed for 2 minutes. Once at a bubbly consistency, turn up to a medium speed for a further minute and finally to a high speed for a further 2 minutes.
2. Once the meringue starts to form soft peaks gradually add the sugar until the forms stiff, glossy peaks.
3. Spoon onto a lined baking tray with non-stick greaseproof paper and place in the oven, immediately turning the heat down to 140 degrees Celsius. Bake for 2-3 hours until crisp on the outside, but uncoloured. Turn the oven off, and leave the meringues in the oven until it is completely cold.
4. Once the meringue is cool, break into small chunks and keep aside in an airtight container.
5. For the Chantilly cream, whisk the cream and vanilla seeds at a medium to high setting on your electric whisk. Add the icing sugar gradually to taste and stop whisking once the cream forms soft peaks.
6. To assemble the dessert, add all the diced fruit to a large serving bowl, and combine with equal amounts of meringue and cream.
7. Serve immediately- if there is meringue leftover, store in an airtight container and consume within 1 month.
An exotic twist, on a Great British Classic...
Ingredients: 4 Egg Whites
200g Caster Sugar
1 Vanilla Pod (Seeds Scraped Out)
400ml Double Cream
Icing Sugar (To Taste)
1 Papaya (Peeled, Seeds Removed & Diced)
1 Mango (Peeled, Stone Removed & Diced)
1 Pineapple (Peeled and Diced)
2 Passion Fruits (Halved & Flesh/Seeds Scraped Out)
4 Kiwi Fruits (Peeled & Diced)
1. Preheat the oven at 150 degrees Celsius.
2. In a stand mixer or using an electric whisk, whisk the egg whites in a clean mixing bowl on a slow speed for 2 minutes. Once at a bubbly consistency, turn up to a medium speed for a further minute and finally to a high speed for a further 2 minutes.
2. Once the meringue starts to form soft peaks gradually add the sugar until the forms stiff, glossy peaks.
3. Spoon onto a lined baking tray with non-stick greaseproof paper and place in the oven, immediately turning the heat down to 140 degrees Celsius. Bake for 2-3 hours until crisp on the outside, but uncoloured. Turn the oven off, and leave the meringues in the oven until it is completely cold.
4. Once the meringue is cool, break into small chunks and keep aside in an airtight container.
5. For the Chantilly cream, whisk the cream and vanilla seeds at a medium to high setting on your electric whisk. Add the icing sugar gradually to taste and stop whisking once the cream forms soft peaks.
6. To assemble the dessert, add all the diced fruit to a large serving bowl, and combine with equal amounts of meringue and cream.
7. Serve immediately- if there is meringue leftover, store in an airtight container and consume within 1 month.
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