Hotel Chocolat - Review coming soon!

I was recently contacted by Hotel Chocolat to publish a review of their products.

This is so exciting for me because:-

One - I just looooove chocolate, who doesn't?

Two - I am often contacted by other companies to write a review and then dismissed because I'm based in Spain! "And, the problem is?"

This morning I received my "review" parcel from Hotel Chocolat and I am delighted with it.

The presentation is beautiful and very professional. But what's more (you're dying to know which range I received I can tell) I received a very apt item!

The Ultimate Advent Calendar - Truffles for Two.

Perfect, as there's only two of us in this household and Barry (bless him) still gets excited over his advent calendar each year! This year however, it's specifically produced for the adults. On the back of the beautiful box it says "So grown ups can look forward to Christmas too!". What could be better?

Oh, by the way, I've not decided whether or not to tell Barry about this yet as I may just hide them from him, eat them all and deny ever knowing about it, so keep mum, Sssshhhh.

Pop back very soon, the read the full review.

A big "thank you" goes to Hotel Chocolat for the invitation and not questioning the fact I'm based in Spain!

Becoming a better blogger.

We're making big changes around here - coming soon!

"Don't panic - this is not a masterclass in how to blog (we all know I'm not capable of that don't we?). Quite the opposite in fact!"

3 years ago, whilst having a leisurely drink with friends in a local bar, our good friend Michael mentioned he was thinking of starting a "blog".

I looked at him rather strangely and simply said "What's a blog?".

He did explain, but being totally honest, I still had no idea what a blog was!

A short time later I stumbled upon some food blogs and it all became clear.

I had recently become a member of The BBC Food Messageboard and it became apparent that many of the other members there had their own blogs.

I made many friends on the message board and also became a regular visitor to some of their blogs.

Then, in April 2009 I decided I wanted a blog too.

I have to confess I had know idea how to do this, but found my way to blogger and followed the simple steps. That was the easy bit!

Anyhow, to cut a long story short. As proud of myself as I was in actually managing to create a blog, it was a little confusing navigating my way around the features etc.

As time went on I learnt to be more creative and less frightened of pressing buttons too.

However, at some point during my enthusiasm I realise I've lost the way and my blog has become a bit of a mess. Did you notice? I'm sure you did!

In fact, it's become such a mess that I recently expected my laptop to explode!

I've come to realise that I have made many mistakes along the way (I'm sure you noticed that too, didn't you?).  But equally so, I have also learnt an awful lot too.

Now don't get me wrong, I have not become an expert, far from it.  But I have learnt some very valuable assets, eg. a little about HTML, a little about photography (and I mean a little, but I'm improving, I think, what do you think?) and many other requirements needed to become a successful blogger.

There was a time when I would see something on somebody else's blog and think "how do you do that" or "I want to be as good as them".

There is still so much to learn, but I now feel capable of  greatly improving my blog.  Not just for my benefit, but for my readers too including those who are past, present, old and new alike.

The changes and improvements are going to take some time and I would be extremely grateful for your patience during this process.

I would be interested in any thoughts and suggestions you may have (good or bad), so don't be shy, please leave your comments below.

Restaurante El Jardin, Malaga City

El Jardin is said to be, Malaga’s secret. The best, most authentic Tango and Flamenco show in the Costa Del Sol, every Friday and Saturday starting from 11pm. Also good food and a very friendly service.

see video of tango/flamenco night here courtesy of TV Spain.com

El Jardin was recommended by some friends. As it is just a stones throw away from the hospital where I was unlucky enough to have my operation in January this year, we decided to pop in and check it out.

Unfortunately, on this occasion, we did not have time to stay and sample the food due to an appointment at the hospital, but we will make better plans for a future visit. We did however, have time to pop in for a quick coffee (cafe con leche) and take in the atmosphere of the restaurant.

Coffee is served with a bite size sweet snack and the service was very prompt. Brought to us by a waiter in smart dress with a fabulous smile, despite the fact we only ordered coffees!

It was surprisingly busy too considering it was almost 4pm. The majority of the other patrons had clearly been enjoying a leisurely lunch (lucky them).

As I am unable to provide a complete review at this time (watch this space) see here what others says

I will most definitely be returning shortly as I hear the food is fabulous!

Wrapping up Christmas 2010

Where has this year gone?  I can honestly say this year has passed by quicker than any other and I haven't got myself organised for Christmas yet, how about you?

This year I'm going to make things easy and do all my shopping online.  I'm really not in the mood for trudging around the shops, carrying bags, getting sore feet, and probably frozen half to death into the bargain.  No, it's not for me this year!  I'm going to stay at home, be relaxed, comfortable & warm and take my time chosing gifts via the internet.

Perfect.

Where to start.  First up a list of everyone for whom we'll be purchasing gifts for.  Then, what would they like/need or be thrilled to receive.  List sorted, now for the fun part - shopping online

Here's a few ideas to get started:-

Looking for something for the kitchen or home? Lakeland providing everything you'll ever need.




Ideal for the partner

Perfume Plus Direct Great prices on all your perfumes/aftershaves & more


Beautiful watches for him and her

Watch Shop Designer watches at affordable prices.


How about something different? Everybody loves a hamper

Virginia Hayward Hampers


Looking for something for the man or men in your life?

Bhs Menswear


Give some Christmas spirit, stock up for yourself too.

Yourfavouritewines.com Get your favourite wine/champagne and more for less.


Don't forget about your pets too!

Zooplus.co.uk For all your pets needs


Your favourite supermarket also provide some fabulous gifts too.

Sainsbury's

What a wonderful idea, a cooking class gift, yes please.

Atelier des Chefs Everybody knows a foodie.


You won't be stuck for ideas here.

Debenhams

Or here

Marks and Spencer for all your favourite products


Looking for something different? or even those that already have everything? This is the place to shop.

Iwantoneofthose.com Gadgets/gizmos galore

It's not just the presents to consider either, remember to order plenty of food and wine, Christmas cards too and don't forget your dining table decorations!

iflorist Flowers and more
Donald Russell Get your turkey, meats and other specialities here
Yourfavouritewines.com Wines, champagnes and more
Sainsbury's Taste the difference this Christmas
Marks and Spencer Personalised Christmas cards

Don't leave it until the last minute and then have to rush around the shops.  Grab yourself a coffee, or a glass of wine.  Sit down, relax and shop till you drop.

Bombay Aloo

Another indian restaurant/take-a-way favourite.  A dish I've been meaning to post for a long time, I just don't know where the time has gone this year!

One of my favourites too and a dish I always order when eating out.  This homemade version is even better though, so next time you want a take-a-way, save some money and make this at home too.

This is a Kris Dhillon, recipe taken from Kris Dhillon's book The Curry Secret

Not got a copy yet, It is available here, via Amazon

Here is my slightly adapted version.  Original recipe states to cut 1 tomato in 8 pieces.  However, I prefer to remove the skin first and cut away any of the core too.

Bombay Aloo (Serves 4)

3 potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces

2 tsp salt

1 tsp turmeric

1/2 onion, finely chopped

2" piece fresh ginger, grated

4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced

1 tsp garam masala (I use homemade)

1 tsp cumin powder

1 tsp chilli powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 onion, sliced

1/2 green capsicum, deseeded & sliced

2 tbsp tomato puree

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tomato, skin & core removed, cut into 8 pieces

4 tbsp chopped coriander

Boil the potatoes in water with a little 2 tsp salt and the turmeric until cooked.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a karahi or deep frying pan and fry the finely chopped onion for about 3 minutes, until translucent.

Add the ginger, garlic, garam masala, cumin and chilli powder, stir fry for 2 minutes.

Add the 1/2 tsp of salt, the sliced onion, capsicum, tomato puree, lemon juice and cut tomato, stir fry for 2 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and add to the pan. Mix well and serve immediately sprinkled with coriander.

Note: This dish can be made ahead and re-heated.

The Curry Secret, available via Amazon, here
Other books by Kris Dhillon:-
The New Curry Secret, available via Amazon, here
Thai Cookery Secrets, available via Amazon, here

A new addition to our family!

I'd like to introduce you to our newest family member.  Her name is Leyla, she's the most beautiful and affectionate cat I've ever come across.

You can read how we became her new parents by clicking here.

We're not sure yet how Leyla and our dog, Beaux are going to get on, watch this space to find out more.....

Welcome Leyla.

Leyla, another foodie in the family LOL

Tea Smoked Duck Breasts

Smoked duck is a recipe I've been wanting to attempt for a long time.  However, I have to admit I had a slight fear of damaging my wok, my kitchen, my home, or something much worse!

Well, I need not have worried, it was a cinch.  Really it was, trust me.  If I can do it, anyone can.

Before we begin I do have one confession "I am a useless photographer".  There I've said it.
 

As I cook mostly of an evening, we all know that's the worst time of day for food photography, my shots were just too bad to publish!

But, all is not lost, as I'm also promoting Donald Russell here as our recommended supplier for your duck breasts so all photo credits and a big "thank you" go to Donald Russell

Recipe adapted from Epicurious

2 Donald Russell Duck breasts with skin

2 tbs Shaoxing wine

1 tbs soy sauce

1 tsp sesame oil

1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger

1 tbs Sichuan peppercorns

2 1/2 tsp sea salt

1/3 cup loose green tea leaves (I used japanese green tea)

1/3 cup rice

3 tbs dark brown sugar

1 cinnamon stick broken into small pieces

1/2 teaspoon vegetabe oil

Wash and pat dry the duck breasts. Score skin about 1/2 inch apart through fat (do not cut into meat) in a crosshatch pattern with a sharp knife.

Combine rice wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger in a sealable plastic bag. Add duck, skin side up, and press out as much air as possible before sealing. Marinate duck (skin side up), chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight. Transfer duck breasts to a plate and pat dry, discarding marinade.

Toast peppercorns and salt in a dry small heavy skillet over moderately low heat, stirring mixture and shaking skillet occasionally, until peppercorns are fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Coarsely grind mixture in grinder. Rub mixture all over duck skin, then let stand, uncovered, at room temperature, 1 hour.

Meanwhile, line bottom of wok and inside of lid with a double layer of heavy-duty foil, leaving a 3-inch overhang along edges. Stir together tea leaves, rice, brown sugar, and cinnamon pieces in a small bowl, then spread in an even layer (1/4 inch thick) on bottom of wok. Invert rack and set in wok. (It will rest 1 1/2 to 2 inches from bottom of wok.)

Heat a heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then swirl in vegetable oil. Add duck breasts, skin sides down, and sear, without turning, until skin is deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

Using tongs, transfer duck breasts, skin sides up, to center of rack in wok, arranging them 1 inch apart. Heat wok, uncovered, over high heat, until steady wisps of smoke begin to appear, 5 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat to moderate, then cover wok and, using oven mitts, fold overhang from wok and lid together, crimping to seal tightly (foil will be very hot). Smoke duck breasts, covered, 8 minutes, then remove wok from heat and let stand, covered, 10 minutes for medium-rare to medium. Carefully unwrap foil (smoke and steam will billow out) and transfer duck to a cutting board. Let stand, loosely covered with foil, 10 minutes. Cut each duck breast across the grain into thin slices. Serve duck warm or at room temperature.

I served the duck breasts with noodles. However, I think a salad would definitely by my choice next time.

If you would like to try this recipe, please come back and let me know your thoughts.

No meat is more tender or delicious than that from Donald Russell, Royal Warrant holder and Britain's leading mail order meat supplier. A pioneering online butcher.