A new seaweed vinegar to make seafood, sprouts or gravy shine this Christmas
Orkney Craft Vinegar have released a new product in time for Christmas to add to their already stellar line-up of sustainably produced living vinegars. In collaboration with Mara Seaweed, Orkney Craft Vinegar’s latest offering is a Smoked Dulse Vinegar and is set to be a hit with chefs and home cooks this Christmas.
High-quality vinegar is gaining popularity as an essential ingredient to cook with, adding vital acidity and balance to dishes. Orkney Craft Vinegar are leading the way in the UK with their flavour-driven malt and wine-based vinegars made from scratch, using ingredients only from their surrounding area on the Scottish islands.
Fresh seaweed for the new Smoked Dulse Vinegar is handpicked in season at low tide on the shores of Birsay, Orkney. The nutrient-rich seaweed from crystal clear waters is traditionally fermented into wine, then vinegar, and contains ‘the mother’ of vinegar. Mara Seaweed’s dried Applewood Smoked Dulse is infused at the end to boost the overall flavour profile.
The result is a versatile vinegar with smoky, meaty, umami flavours. As with all the vinegars made by Orkney Craft Vinegar, they are softer and more rounded meaning they can be used sparingly to finish dishes or sauces. A brilliant gravy enhancer, fabulous with seafood instead of citrus – and a winner with pan-fried sprouts.
Sam Britten, Orkney Craft Vinegar director and producer, is excited by the newest addition to his range. “I’ve had the idea for making use of the dulse here in Orkney for a while now,” says ex-chef Sam. “I knew exactly what flavour I wanted – almost like smoked bacon – and the finished product is tasting incredible. Umami works really well to enhance the savouriness of ingredients and the combined smoky, meaty flavour is another level. I’m really pleased that Fiona from Mara Seaweed was happy to help – the dried smoked dulse elevates the finished vinegar perfectly.”
Mara Seaweed’s organic dulse for their Great Taste three-star award-winning Applewood Smoked Dulse is also sustainably hand-harvested in Scotland, in the East Neuk of Fife. Fiona Houston, Mara Seaweed co-founder, said: “It’s great to be collaborating with another producer who cares as passionately as we do about showcasing the flavours of Scotland’s natural larder. Our Smoked Dulse is one of our specialist high taste products that offer chefs and home cooks an incredible new taste to inspire their dishes. We can’t wait to get this product out there!”
This year hotels and restaurants across London have upped their game with a selection of hampers almost too good to be true. From Claridge’s festive hampers, to Oranj Wine’s Christmas wine cases, to Pasta Remoli’s truffled pasta delights, to Brixton-based Guzzl’s hip hampers, there is something for everyone.
Guzzl
Brixton-born Guzzl are offering the coolest and ultra-bespoke hampers this year. You can literally choose item by item for yourself, or a loved one (you can also choose a pre-made hamper if that’s your preferred choice). Championing local artisans, Guzzl offers treats such as Brixton Brewery’s lagers, Bermondsey Street Honey and Ace Tea of London’s variety of teas, amongst a huge range of other foodie gifts. You can also choose an environmentally friendly hamper to package your Christmas feast up. As well as this, vegetarian and vegan options are available. The Guzzl pre-made food and drink hamper costs a modest £50. For more information, visit: https://guzzl.co.uk/collections/hampers
Marlo
Looking for a gift for a budding sommelier or just a wine lover yourself? Marlo Wine is offering an incredibly indulgent hamper. Champagne, a Sancerre and a punchy Tuscan red are the three wines included. As well as this, the team at Marlo have put together an array of tasty snacks. Think Truffle honey, truffle nuts, and chilli and almond biscuits. From £195, for more information visit: https://marlo.wine/collections/gifts/products/marlo-luxury-christmas-hamper
Paxton & Whitfield
London’s most loved and trusted cheesemonger has pulled out the stops with their limited Christmas hamper. Full to the brim with fine artisan cheese, a spiced plum chutney and a selection of Paxton & Whitfield crackers (not to mention a few handbaked gingerbread men thrown in for good measure), this hamper is a must-have for Christmas Day. From £65, for more information visit: https://www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk/shop/cheese-board-collections
Bocca di Lupo
Soho restaurant Bocca di Lupo are offering bespoke hamper boxes filled with products from some of their most favourite suppliers from across Italy. Inside will be an artisan Forno Gentile panettone studded with raisins and candied orange (a showstopper also available to be purchased on its own), cold-pressed chocolate bars from Modica, Sicily as well as the finest Giandujotti from Guido Gobbino, Columbian coffee roasted in Italy and two of Bocca di Lupo’s signature Negronis. From £63, for more information visit: https://boccadilupoathome.com/products/christmas-hamper
Tom Savano
Think of every type of tipple you can dream of, all bundled in with handcrafted sweet and savoury treats to complement the perfect Christmas drinking experience. There you have it: The Tom Savano Boozy Christmas Explorer Hamper. Included in this bundle of joy are various pre-made cocktails, booze infused sweet treats such as whiskey fudge, spirit condiments (think whiskey marmalade and bloody mary ketchup), and more for £140. All hampers are curated by Tom Savano but each item has been carefully selected by multiple artisans. All profits from these hampers are donated to help feed families in need this Christmas. We can’t think of a better reason to buy a hamper this year. For more information, visit https://tomsavano.com/product/the-boozy-explorer/
Manteca
Just in time for Christmas, Chris Leach, chef and co-founder of Manteca, the Soho restaurant focusing on nose to tail cooking, hand rolled pastas and fire cooked cuts to share, will be packing up boxes of his Christmas favourites for delivery nationwide. The perfect gift or for those who want to stock up their larder for the festive season, they come in three sizes. There is the ‘classico’ box, which includes their house made salami selection; smoked cod’s roe; chicken liver parfait and date jam; Christmas pudding and amaretti (£60). The next one up, ‘classico plus’ includes all of the above, with the addition of goose, cranberry and pistachio sausage; grape mostarda and pear and date chutney. For those wanting to go all out, the ‘whole hog’ features everything, plus tortellini in brodo; Porchetta with apple ketchup and four pillowy brioche buns ready to be stuffed the next day with leftover Porchetta trimmings and apple ketchup. At House of Coco, we’re opting for the whole hog. For more information, visit: https://mantecarestaurant.co.uk/shop
Wild Honey
Anthony Demetre’s Modern European restaurant at Sofitel London St James, combines classic French techniques with the finest British produce. Anthony and the team have created two limited edition Christmas hampers, including traditional French delicacies and festive treats produced at the restaurant. Our choice is the Classic Wild Honey Hamper: think Wild Honey’s own pre-made negroni, Béret Basque saucisson and two confit duck legs, amongst other tasty French delicacies. From £175, for more information please visit: https://www.wildhoneystjames.co.uk/
Ottelenghi
Want to do Christmas the Ottelenghi way? Look no further foodies, the brand-new Ottolenghi FLAVOUR hamper is the most unusual, colourful one yet. Selected by Yotam and Ixta Belfrage, the hamper consists of the pair’s ‘FLAVOUR favourites,’ along with a signed copy of the cookbook and tote bag. The hamper is designed for real food fanatics, including the likes of Hibiscus Flowers, Gochujang Paste, Black Garlic and Whole Dried Lime amongst other ingredients. From £95, for more information visit here: https://ottolenghi.co.uk/shop/hampers-and-gifts/flavour-hamper
Pasta Remoli
Pasta aficionados look no further: this Christmas, Pasta Remoli will be celebrating the season in true Italian style, with an abundance of food and seasonal hampers. The most luxurious hamper of Remoli’s collection is the Truffle Christmas Box (£90) which is a feast for four to six guests and includes everything needed to recreate Pasta Remoli’s enduring best seller; 1kg of handmade Truffle Ravioli, a silky creamy Mushroom Sauce, 24 month aged Vacca Rossa parmesan and White Truffle extra virgin olive oil. Those with a sweet tooth are treated to Chocolate Torrone and the essential Panettone or Pandoro – a certain staple in any household over the festive period. To raise a glass to the season, the box also includes a bottle of Prosecco. From £95, for more information visit: https://pasta-remoli.upmenusite.com/
Oranj Christmas Bottle Shop
Oranj is an innovative platform that not celebrates the combination of natural wine, art and music. For Christmas, Oranj have some treats under the tree in the form of Oranj Christmas Cases, which will offer bundles of two wines for £50, 3 for £65 or 6 for £120. Top picks include Noble Rot’s Chin Chin 2019 Vintage and bottles by Anders Frederik Steen, a small producer from the Ardèche region of Southern France. For more information visit: https://oranj.co.uk/
Brindisa
This festive period, Brindisa Foods is excited to unveil a collection of beautifully curated hampers filled with the finest Spanish fare for all special occasions. Each hamper is carefully hand-picked by founder Monika Linton to celebrate the best of Spain. Reunite with friends and family, toast to new beginnings and tuck into a hearty hamper of delicious, gourmet finery, together with Brindisa’s new celebratory New Year’s Eve Box, the perfect accompaniment to see in the new year. The box includes a selection of charcuterie, soft cheese, olives and Cava Mas Macia Brut to wash it all down (amongst other delicacies). From £100, for more information visit: https://brindisa.com/collections/hampers-and-gifts
Chococo
Calling all chocolate fiends: Chococo has put together a special selection of Christmas chocolates for 2020. These are the ideal choice for sharing with friends and family over the Christmas period and the perfect stocking filler too. Amongst some of the items included in the hamper include limited edition Christmas clusters, assorted mini snowmen and milk chocolate baubles filled with caramelised white chocolate buttons. Hungry yet? Prices start from £50, for more information visit: https://www.chococo.co.uk/assorted-christmas-chocolate-hamper-bag.html
Bolney Wine Estate
You might have thought that all your gifts were unwrapped on Christmas Day – but there’s one further treat you won’t want to miss – the Bolney Boxing Day Hamper, designed especially to complement anything that remains of your Christmas Day feasting.
The turkey may have been eaten, the crackers pulled and the Queen’s speech delivered for the year, but the good food and drink continues with this hamper. The pear piccalilli goes exceptionally well with turkey and other cold meats and sandwiches, as does their very own Bolney Bacchus Chutney. There’s also some delicious Wyfe of Bath and Sinodun English cheeses, with ultra-crisp and nutty water crackers, perfect to enjoy with Lychgate Red and Bacchus wines that they’ve included. And they’ve thrown in a fun wine tasting game too to enjoy with friends and family, to help your Boxing Day be the perfect follow-up to Christmas Day. From £95, for more information visit: https://bolneywineestate.com/collections/hampers-1/
Claridge’s
Claridge’s know how to do a hamper and their Davies Hamper is the ultimate way to bring the Claridge’s festivities home this year. The team have carefully packed this hamper with home-made, exclusive and specially-selected products including delicate and delicious Florentines, their Christmas cake and a selection of chutneys and preserves. From £495, for more information visit: https://shop.claridges.co.uk/collections/christmas
With lockdown in full swing, we certainly don’t need an excuse to try out new cocktail recipes or have a themed evening filled with delicious food. Why not recreate American Thanksgiving at home, held on the fourth Thursday of November every year. From pumpkin pies, puzzles and pre-dinner cocktails, we have rounded up the best ways to celebrate, stateside style, to suit every type of reveller. Thank us later.
Mix up some American-inspired drinks
Lift the spirits this lockdown with some classic USA tipples, inspired by the land of the free. Dazzle with creative cocktail recipes named after famous places in America or simply ‘pimp your prosecco’ with delicious flavours loved by our friends across the Atlantic. While the food and drink focused holiday may be observed primarily in the USA, there’s no reason why we can’t join in the fun too!
Make the ultimate American cocktail, the Manhattan, using J&B Rare Scotch blended whisky with sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, a dash of angostura bitters and a maraschino cherry to garnish. Following the end of Prohibition in the USA, J&B Rare was created to appeal to the American palate, hitting shelves in 1933 – it is the perfect drink to enjoy in the secrecy of your own home
Another classic stateside cocktail is the Long Island Iced Tea, made with five different ingredients. It is a trickier creation to make on your own but the team at Bottle Bar and Shop are a step ahead and have one ready-made and delicious. Simply pour and top up with cola
Apple pie is a longstanding symbol of America. In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, apple pie became a symbol of American influence and prosperity as well as national pride. Zymurgorium My My Apple Pie Gin Liqueur is the perfect autumn accompaniment to any fizz that you have available – it is also utterly fantastic on its own. Be whisked away to a Midwestern home with fresh apple pie ready and wafting flavours of spiced pastry and warm caramelised fruits
What could be more American than serving a cocktail that was declared the official drink of the nation’s capital, Washington DC. The Rickey is gin-based and even has a plaque dedicated to it at the JW Marriott Washington on Pennsylvania Avenue, which stands on the original site of the Shoomaker’s Bar where the cocktail was first created. Simply fill a highball glass with ice, add two ounces of gin and half an ounce of lime juice, top up with soda water and garnish with lime wheels
The aptly-named Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon creates the perfect Old-Fashioned cocktail. The distillery is located in Kentucky, situated on a deep limestone shelf on the Kentucky River and makes for an explosion of vanilla and caramel flavours that progress to bitter orange. This is the perfect premium drink to wash down any Thanksgiving meal
Create a Thanksgiving feast
The first Thanksgiving meal, according to lore, took place in 1621, where a feast of venison, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin and squash was shared. Nowadays, Turkey is a key component with potatoes in abundance and an array of side dishes piled onto plates, with families coming together to share a feast only comparable to Christmas in terms of extravagance. A plethora of well-known restaurants have put on new and exciting Thanksgiving menus year on year from barbecue favourites to fine-dining spots offering sharing menus. Dining out is currently not on the cards, but fear not, we have gathered together different ways to indulge without having to venture too far away.
Whole Foods Market is pulling out all the stops this year with delicious Thanksgiving offerings, making it easy to experience a traditional Turkey dinner on the 26th November. Pick up dinner for one or for four people to share – depending on the size of your bubble! The larger meal includes classic Thanksgiving fare: butternut squash with onion and cranberries as well as tasty cranberry sauce. Available to order and pick up in-store throughout November from one of the seven London stores, Whole Foods Market is the one-stop-shop for all things Thanksgiving this year. Showcasing its American roots, it also offers non-alcoholic apple cider, pure pumpkin puree and gluten-free cornbread baking mix to make the celebration a little more authentic and special
With World Vegan Month in full swing, sample the deliciously seasonal ‘Gobble Gobble’ lemon-caper seitan burger with sauteed kale, rosemary gravy, harvest stuffing, fresh cranberry sauce with a potato bun from By Chloe. Founded in New York, By Chloe quickly became a household name before opening in the UK in 2017. It now has three eateries across London: Covent Garden, Oxford circus, and Tower Bridge and offers a 100% vegan and plant-based menu
If you aren’t ready just yet to deck the halls and whip up a Thanksgiving turkey with Christmas just around the corner, why not recreate a simple yet classic American staple – the loaded hot dog. Order the delicious chilli from new kids on the block, Stocked, who provide delicious portionable frozen food direct to your door. The chilli, along with some other easy ingredients that wouldn’t look out of place stateside, creates The Cherry Dog. Stocked have even put together their own recipe for you to follow along
For dessert, look no further than Jack and Beyond, the online cake shop offering home delivery with a bakery and café on Fulham Road. Indulge in homemade American classics including a delicious Pumpkin or Pecan pie. Jack and Beyond also offer peanut butter and chocolate pies and celebrity-inspired treats featuring the Trump and the Barack cookie
Take a moment to reflect
Thanksgiving in America is all about loved ones coming together, taking a moment to pause and to give thanks for the year. Thanksgiving is the start of the festive season, with presents left for Christmas Day. It is more important than ever to take time to switch off from life’s everyday pressures and to reconnect with your nearest and dearest. What better than games or puzzles to enjoy a minute of calm, away from screens, during lockdown.
Piecemeal Puzzles is a new, female-founded, contemporary jigsaw puzzle brand. Carefully curated to evoke the sentiment of the jigsaw design, each puzzle has its own epic Spotify playlist, which is found by scanning a unique code on the back of each box. The 500 piece jigsaw puzzle named California Nights is part of the debut collection and is the perfect accompaniment to any Thanksgiving celebration, instantly transporting you to the Sunshine State as well as to moments of zen.
Set the scene
Put the fire on, get cosy and tuck into a great movie – The Holiday anyone? CK creations candles are hand-poured in London and have been tried and tested so that each scent is just right. Started by two sisters in the first lockdown, this small business helps customers turn their homes into a sweet-smelling haven. The candles are also fantastic presents and can come gift wrapped. Choose from gorgeous scents that are great for a Thanksgiving celebration and create the perfect ambience, including cinnamon & orange, gingerbread house, hot apple pie and mulled wine.
Give thanks
With the theme of this time of year being focused on gratitude and giving thanks, now is the perfect time to write cards to loved ones that you are not able to see face to face, to express how grateful you are for them. There is nothing more personal and thoughtful than a handwritten note – zoom, be gone! The Martha Brooke Personalised Bee Notecards Gift Set is ideal for sending to friends and family to say thank you, to plan an exciting activity in the future or simply as a brilliant gift. The products are beautifully designed to uplift and inspire and come in an exquisite array of colours and patterns, just what is needed in 2020. Being grateful never goes out of style.
It’s safe to say we’ve all travelled a lot less than we thought we might have this year. As 2020 draws to a close, why not travel through food (and drink) this Christmas with these excellent travel-themed stocking filler gifts? So many restaurants have transformed or opened up their delis or larder-style shops for delivery, allowing you to access some authentic ingredients that give you a little taste of around the world.
Think primo parmesan, top notch gnocchi and other ingredients that are essential to your kitchen cupboard but seem a little more special if they don’t come from Tesco. Sure, we might not be actually travelling to where are favourite eats lie this year but that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on the good food. Behold: House of Coco’s gift guide full of stocking fillers that will allow your fellow foodie to travel through eating and drinking this Christmas.
Bar Douro Portuguese Wine
In addition to Bar Douro’s Bottle Shop, the popular Portuguese restaurant has launched its subscription service, The Wine Club. Imagine: quarterly deliveries of some of the best wines around – from regions such as Alentejo and Madeira – and all curated by Bar Douro’s own Max Graham and renowned wine expert, Sarah Ahmed.
This is not only a great gift for any wine lovers out there but it’s also an opportunity to educate recipients on the lesser known grapes and regions of Portugal. Who needs wine tasting with six bottles of wine delivered to your door every few months?
The brainchild of ex-Theo Randall Head Pasta Chef and Restaurant Manager, Vanessa and Valentina, Fidelari offers authentic Italian pasta for you all to enjoy. With various options to order, such as pasta kits, naked pasta, as well as soups and focaccia, the duo are intent on sharing their passion for their Italian heritage and culture, both from Puglia themselves.
We’ll be asking Santa for the Cappelletti Squid Ink with ricotta and salmon pasta kit, while aspiring cooks in the kitchen are sure to love the naked pasta choices which include triangoli egg pasta and vegan spinach and red beetroot farfell.
You know how on Christmas Day, you want to open all your presents and ‘play’ with them straight away? That’s what finding this Greek Meze Party Hamper inside your stocking would be like…except it would be followed by a family fight for devouring vaarious meze dips and dishes, instead of Christmas Day breakfast.
On a serious note, this selection of Greek goodies is the perfect present for any foodie who wishes to stock up on sophisticated nibbles or wants to create the perfect antipasti board. Featuring stuffed vine leaves, kalamata olives and spicy meze dips, this tasty little hamper beats a bath bomb any day of the week.
Seeing as saffron is more expensive than gold, when weighed, we can’t see any aspiring chef having a problem with receiving some quality spice in their stocking this Christmas. Scarlet Saffron’s product is all ISO Grade 1 (the highest and best), originally coming from Iran. Grade 1 saffron has the highest flavouring, colouring and aroma and many saffron brands on the market don’t even make it to Grade 3 standard.
Packed in the UK and ensuring that only premium red strands are in the jar, anyone who’s found they’re having fun in the kitchen is sure to enjoy this gift. Who knows – maybe cooking up some Persian dishes will inspire new travel plans when we’re allowed to fulfil our wanderlust dreams again.
Parmesan is a staple in any non-lactose intolerant’s fridge these days but wouldn’t it be amazing to gift a true cheese lover a something approved by the best in the business? From the team behind Macellaio RC, Casa Costa brings you all the best ingredients from an Italian kitchen, straight to your own.
This particular parmesan producer creates four different types of Parmigiano Reggiano from four different cow breeds, with Casa Costa selecting the best of it. Rest assured, it’s going to be unique and flavoursome and the perfect stocking filler for anyone who’s been getting busy in the kitchen this year and is looking to up their ingredients game.
Get a taste of India via these authentic spicy snacks from Howdah Snacks. The perfect stocking filler, even as individual packs, thanks to the bright and colourful packaging, the brand is also releasing an exclusive Christmas Boxes to help everyone get into the holiday spirit. Box one includes two of each flavour; another option is the selection of snacks with a tea towel and saffron tea bags, while a premium stocking filler present would be the third Christmas Box, which indlues the eight bags of snacks and a classic Indian tea pot with tea bags.
Not only are Howdah Snacks Masala Dippers, Bombay Mix, Onion Bhajis and Bakarwadi Bites vegan, but giving them as a gift also gives another – as the brand operates a 1-for-1 concept, whereby for every pack of Howdah purchased, the brand pledges a free school meal for a child in need in India. If that’s not the spirit of Christmas, I don’t know what is…
Seeing as most of us have sourced staycations for our travelling this year, it makes sense to include a local food offering in this stocking filler gift guide. The Great British Porridge Co. is 100 per cent natural, gluten-free, vegan and has no added sugar – and it’s just launched a new Christmas flavour.
In the run up to the holiday season, why not gift the new, limited edition Apple & Cinnamon festive flavour? Not only is the blend of sweet and fruity flavour with the fragrant and spicy cinnamon taste an excellent combination, it’s also a great option for breakfast time, come January.
Hands up: who’s been to Amsterdam (or anywhere in the Netherlands) and immediately gone to buy a few bars of Tony’s Chocolonely? I know it’s not just me. Aside from the fun and colourful packaging, these chocolate bars are some of the best-tasting around. Did you know that Tony’s Chocolonely was founded by a Dutch company, is made in Belgium, using Ghanian and Ivorian cocoa beans. If that’s not enough travels for you, I don’t know what is.
The brand has introduced a personalisation service so you can have text and a photo of your choice printed on the wrapper. Think Willy Wonka – but better. The perfect stocking filler this Christmas, you can decide what gets printed: selfies, embarrassing moments, family photos – you can choose whether you’re going to be cruel or kind. On top of all of this, you can buy Tony’s Chocolonely guilt-free, knowing that the brand is on a mission to end slavery in the cocoa industry.
Transport yourself to the midwest with this beef jerky from Jack Link’s, a family smoked meats company, based in Wisconsin. The salty snack is made using only select rump beef, cut into thin strips, then seasoned, dried and smoked. Using only 100 per cent lean beef, this snack is a moreish one – and not ridiculously calorific either, with each serving containing less than 80 calories.
I don’t know about you guys but beef jerky reminds me of American TV programs and gas station snacks in the US and now Jack Link’s gives you a taste of that with its Original, Sweet & Hot and Teriyaki beef jerky flavours.
Another excellent thing to come out of lockdown is Hopper’s Cash and Kari online supermarket which offers you a one-stop shop for Sri Lankan and South Asian foods. The restaurant’s Jaffna Mix is a great stocking filler for anyone who’s either a fan of the London-based eatery or partial to Sri Lankan food in general.
Give the gift of a savoury mix of roasted lentils, nuts and spiced gram crisps and let yourself be taken to the streets of Sri Lanka as it’s one of the country’s most popular drinking snacks and you won’t have a beverage served without a bowl of this spicy mix.
Although it does seem that everyone jumped on the Scotland staycation bandwagon – myself included – perhaps you want to return to the Highlands and make your way to the Isle of Skye. Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky has once again partnered with Edinburgh-based chocolatier, COCO, to create a bespoke gift set that will be the perfect stocking filler for both chocolate nad whisky lovers.
The Talisker sea salted caramels contain sea salt from the Isle of Skye – in case you didn’t make it on your road trip or had plans to go that were postponed – and the box also contains a 5cl bottle of 10 year old Talisker Whisky. Don’t underestimate those caramels, by the way, they are such an indulgent treat and the perfect start to Christmas Day.
Not only is this premium coffee liqueur all the way from New Zealand – for anyone who’s missing a taste of it – but its made exclusively from fair-trade and organic roasted coffee from farms across Sumatra, Colombia and Papa New Guinea. A pretty exotic drink to get you travelling to a variety of places in your mind with each sip.
The handcrafted liqueuer is low in sugar and ABV and has no artificial flavours so is a guilt-free treat come Christmas. The coffee beans are specially roasted by hand to slightly darker than espresso, so the complex flavour is ideal for all coffee-lovers out there. Espresso Martinis, come Christmas Day?
Hands up who would rather be in sunny Mexica with tacos in one hand and a shot of tequila in the other? Well, I’m not responsible for you physically being there but, mentally, transport yourself to sunnier climes thanks to PATRÓN. The premium tequila is actually sustainably produced in the brand’s hacienda in Jalisco, Mexico. Get your hands on a custom design bottle this Christmas, which features monarch butterflies, colourful marigolds and the sugar skull, all celebrating Día de Muertos. The limited edition bottle can be further personalised at the INKD online store, if you’re looking to gift an extra special stocking filler this year.
If you know me, it’s no secret that I love Ibiza. As soon as I land on the island, I feel an instant rush of calm and excitement in equal measures. I lose all track of time, ignore my phone at all costs (unless, of course, it’s to take a snap or two) and fully embrace the bohemian way of life for a week or two.
My favourite time to visit is in the quieter autumn, winter and early spring months. The air is crisp but the sun is still warm. And it’s during these times that the real Ibiza emerges and a different sort of hedonism can be explored.
Experience the epitome of Ibiza luxury living with exclusive villas, stunning waterfront views, and unparalleled amenities, making your off-season stay truly unforgettable.
And if like me, it looks like you’ll be working from home for the foreseeable and you fancy a change of scene – most preferably in sunnier climes – I’ve pulled together a list below of my favourite things to do and spots to visit; that are best experienced away from the madding summer crowds.
Sensational Sunsets And while no day is likely ever the same on an island where anything is possible, sunsets are a guaranteed spectacle to behold and their high-season is in the low-season when the celestial light shows take on richer colours of pink, yellow, orange and deep reds.
Such is the fortuitous setting of Hostal La Torre – another Ibiza restaurant-cum-hotel (more on that below) – it makes my list twice. It’s perfectly positioned to see the sunset – centred directly in line with the sun. But you don’t have to pay to drink or dine at La Torre to catch the last rays of the day. Next door, there is a lookout point with a few benches and picnic tables for the general public, so be sure to pack wine, nibbles and maybe a blanket, if you might prefer to edge closer and sit on the rocky cliff edges.
Another favourite sunset spot, and roughly about 40 minutes north from La Torre is Benirass. On Sunday’s the beach comes alive with drummers and musicians performing an eclectic sunset ritual. Part of Ibiza’s charm, the event is marked by the attendance of people from all walks of life gathering to enjoy the show.
Es Vedra, off Cala D’hort beach (also included in my list of best beaches) sits on the south coast of Ibiza and while geologists disagree, it has been said to be the third most magnetic point in the world. Legend also has it, that it has healing powers and that it’s the ancient site of the lost city of Atlantis. What is unquestionable is its beauty at sunset. One of my favourite places to go to is the deserted pirate lookout tower, Torre de Savinar or there is also a great lookout point which is often used by locals to meditate or practice yoga at sunset. Friend and local yoga instructor, Pixie Rath, is renowned for taking some of her yoga classes at the lookout point, a few snaps from her Insta below.
@PixieRath
Best beaches
S’Estanyol In the south of Es Cubells, this unspoiled beach was built around a wooden jetty. It’s a bit of a hike to get to once you’ve parked but it’s totally worth it. Just be sure to pack a pair of trainers for the journey down.
Cala D’Hort, Sant Josep Although a busy spot in the summer due to its fortuitous setting overlooking the magnificent Es Vedra and neighbouring buzzing Cala D’Hort restaurant, this is one of my favourite places to visit and while away the day reading a book and swimming.
Cala Xuclar The north east of the island offers some of the most beautiful and lesser-known beaches – there are plenty to be found and explored which is why renting a car is essential. Cala Xuclar is a tiny horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by old fishing huts and crystal clear water. It is never overcrowded and we often have it to ourselves if we go early enough.
Cala Mastella Still relatively untouched and unspoiled, this beach has retained its special bohemian-like status. This is another gem in the north east of the island and I would advise getting there early (and bring beach shoes as the sea bed is very stony).
A few of my favourite lesser-known beaches Cala Mastella, S’Estanyol and Cala D’Hort
Activities The island has been long-loved by sporting enthusiasts as the terrain is a challenging mix of rocky flat and hilly trails offering some of the best cycling and hiking trails in Spain. In the summer, most would struggle as temperatures soar but in the off-season, the cooler weather offers much-needed respite to help tackle the steep climbs.
If walking is more your thing, Walking Ibiza offers guided and private walks for travellers looking to explore the beautiful island in detail. Runners can join running groups – there are a few on Instagram and Facebook – that are open to anyone. Running Ibiza, for example, offers Ibiza Town running tours, trail runs and (very helpfully) offers training for beginners as part of their Couch to 5K experience, so no need to feel intimidated if you’re a running novice like myself. Active Ibiza is another favourite of mine. They collaborate with an array of fitness instructors who provide guided programs and equipment.
SUP (Stand-Up Paddle) boarding is a must. The waters are calm and easily manageable for all levels of experience. It’s also a great way to explore the different coves and a lot of people have attempted the island in its entirety (a friend of mine included) stopping off at different places to camp for the night. There are plenty of rental places on the island, so best to find one that is near to where you’re staying.
While I’m there, I often try and book a few sessions at my favourite reformer pilates spot on the island, Energii Ibiza in Ibiza Town, which hails from Denmark. It truly is the “ultimate workout” but the helpful and friendly instructors make it a not-so daunting experience for beginners (like me). Classes start from approximately £17 per person.
Under-the-radar restaurants A lot of great restaurants stay open on the island throughout the year. And while it’s not hard to stumble upon great places to dine, drink and dance, below is a list of my firm favourites and definitely worth exploring next time you’re in town.
La Finca Can Sul Dat A former farmhouse hidden well off-the-beaten track on the road to Es Canar, it’s one of my favourite places to visit on the island and was introduced to me by a close friend who lives locally. The Swiss owner, Peter – possibly Ibiza’s answer to Hugh Hefner – is one-of-a-kind and always equipped with colourful stories to regale his guests with. He has often joined us for a drink or a shot of his famous home-made rocket fuel limoncello. The decor throughout is boho chic and his bedroom is actually in the middle of the restaurant complete with red velvet rope and curtains. The spot is equally famous for its live music and it’s not unknown for the evenings to carry on well into the wee hours of the next morning. The food menu is small but tasty. I highly recommend the entrecote for two to share.
Shamarkanda Nestled in a beautiful olive grove near San Juan, in the north of the island, this magical spot – named after a city in Central Asia – offers a blend of cultures and flavours in its dishes. This year was my first time going at the recommendation of a friend and we opted to dine outside under the stars which had a magical Secret Garden Party feel, complete with glowing lanterns and draped light bulbs surrounded by trees. We tried their incredible bao buns, bursting with flavour (and it’s definitely worth ordering one of each). We also ordered the California rolls topped with salmon which was flambéed at the table, adding a touch of drama to the experience. The cocktail and wine list is also extensive and offers a nice mix of international and local flavours.
New favourite: Shamarkanda, San Juan
Hostal La Torre Although no longer much of a hidden gem, there is no way I could write about Ibiza and not include Hostal La Torre. The latest offering from the Anadon family – owners of the infamous Cafe Mambo along with a few other outposts on the island – the restaurant-cum-boutique hotel not only serves up incredible food and spectacular views, but it also falls under the category of boutique listening joint. Be transported there NOW, listen here to Hostal La Torre Volume 1 and 2, selected by DJ’s Pete Gooding and fellow resident Mark Barrott.
It’s open all year and it is a must when on the island. It’s also extremely affordable to stay on site, with room nights starting from £40 per night in low-season.
Insider’s Tip: Other venues offering a heavy dose of eclectic Ibiza spirit includes Petit Pereyra on Talamanca Beach, Nightmares on Wax’s Wax Da Jam and Acid Sundays, both held at the old hippy market Las Dalias (more on that below).
Can Berri Vell Exuding total charm and authenticity, this small and intimate outdoor-indoor restaurant is one of the most romantic restaurants in Ibiza in the heart of the town Sant Agusti des Vedra. Overlooking a typically Ibizan architecture church, it sits atop a small mountain, seamlessly blending into the rolling hills. The food is traditional Spanish grub with a modern-European twist.
Babylon Beach Although it’s certainly grown in popularity since the first time I went, Babylon Beach is a great place to grab brunch and layout in the sun on the deck chairs provided. It’s still relatively low-key, especially during low-season; and don’t forget to try their insanely good pancakes!
Gare du Nord I was blown away by this unexpected hole in the wall in San Juan, North Ibiza. The small entrance featuring an outdoor seating area and long bar leading into a sprawling yet intimate leafy courtyard. The food is a mix of classic European dishes using locally sourced produce. The wine list is elegant and yet adventurous. It’s also here that I discovered one of my new favourite wines, Black Nose, which is made in Ibiza. Gard du Nord also offers quirky yet modern rooms with prices starting from £50 per night in the low-season.
@GareduNord
Culture trip Artists and craftsmen have flocked to Ibiza over the centuries, so it’s only natural that the island offers the opportunity to get close to some pretty incredible art and crafts to take home.
Hippy Market Las Dalias Every Saturday locals descend upon the world-famous hippy market to uncover the latest trinkets and treasures on display by local craftsmen, artists, food artisans, to the tune of live performances by local musicians and DJs. The market began in 1954 and was the brainchild of farmer and carpenter, Joan Mari. The market is one of my absolute favorites and I go every time I am there. This year, as part of an island-wide initiative to encourage out-of-season travel to Ibiza, the market is staying open throughout winter and early spring, to help encourage trade on the island and make up for lost time and earnings, as a result of the first lockdown earlier this year.
La Nave Salinas in Las Salinas Beach Arguably one of my favourite art spaces in the world, La Nave Salinas launched last year as a space dedicated to “art in all senses”. The space is an old salt warehouse by the neighbouring salt lakes Ibiza is also known for. To date they’ve hosted several big name contemporary artists, including Kaws. The space is open and currently exhibiting works by the artist Albert Pinya, painter and cartoonist including ceramics, animation shorts, sculptures and ephemeral murals.
La Maison D’Éléphant This design concept store is hard to miss, fronted by enormous sculptures of robots, pink elephants and silver skulls making it hard to miss. Inside, visitors can explore five floors of outrageously quirky and contemporary design. Among the incredible art you are able to find and buy decorations, antiques, unique furniture, and even clothing. The founder, Bruno Reymond, is interior stylist to many infamous buildings on the island, including Ushuaia and the Pacha Hotel.
Sluiz. Although it doesn’t stock one-of-a-kind, handmade crafts and art, it does offer a huge collective of outdoor, indoor furniture, cool lighting, clothing and accessories from around the world. Founded by a Dutch couple, the sprawling warehouse-like store, also has a bar and restaurant featuring low-hanging ornate crystal chandeliers and plush armchairs. I often go and spend a few hours there indulging in all of the good food, cocktails and shopping.
@LaNaveSalinas
Please note, all of the aforementioned businesses were still open and operating at the time of writing this article. This might have changed as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve around the world.
Founders and childhood friends, Jasper and Edwin, planned to launch Oranj as a bar dedicated to low intervention wines. Covid scuppered their plans, so they’ve reimagined the concept as a delivery service, allowing people to try some of the best natural wines from lesser known producers at home, in the park, on the beach or anywhere a bottle opener is present.
Oranj is an innovative platform that not celebrates the combination of natural wine, art and music. Ahead of the Christmas season, Oranj welcomes a host of new collaborations including, Dominic Smith’s ‘Winter Warmer’ December Sommelier Box, The New Club Oranj Magnum Membership and the Oranj Christmas Bottle Shop – perfect as gifts or for entertaining at home this festive season.
December ‘Winter Warmers’ Sommelier Box – Dominic Smith, The Clove Club
For December Dominic Smith ‘Dom the Somm’ from one Michelin Star restaurant The Clove Club, has taken the reins with his pick of ‘Winter Warmers’. Dom will be selecting 5 bottles of his favorite low intervention wines from small batch producers, which will be matched by an especially festive edition of sommelier tasting notes, giving recipients the tools to pair their bottles with their Christmas fare. Oranj have commissioned coveted artist Fey Wei Wei, to create a bespoke, limited edition poster plus a link to a specially recorded DJ set.
Club Oranj Magnum Gift Membership
The perfect Christmas gift, will comprise a magnum of natural wine plus all the usual Club Oranj perks for one whole year for a non-recurring £90 cost – the magnum will arrive in the maiden month of the membership and can be purchased in time for Christmas deliveries.
Club Oranj Memberships
The new Club Oranj membership, which comes complete with a Club card, will allow members exclusive access to a 12.5% ‘trade’ discount on all wines from the Oranj bottle shop, as well as a host of other treats.
Oranj Christmas Bottle Shop
For Christmas, Oranj have some treats under the tree in the form of Oranj Christmas Cases, which will offer bundles of two wines for £50, 3 for £65 or 6 for £120. Top picks include Noble Rot’s Chin Chin 2019 Vintage and bottles by Anders Frederik Steen, a small producer from the Ardèche region of Southern France.
All Oranj boxes, subscriptions and wines from the bottle shop will come with a gift tag for a personal message, and are available for nationwide delivery. December 20th is the last day for orders to be guaranteed for delivery by Christmas Eve. @oranjwine /Oranj.co.uk
Is there anything better than fresh, warm, delicious tortillas packed full of your favorite treats? No matter what you fill your tortillas with, these tasty wraps are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.
Not only are they delicious, but it might surprise you to know that making freshly baked tortillas at home is incredibly quick and easy. And once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll never want store-bought again!
What is a tortilla?
Tortillas were first made by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica earlier than 500BC. Most people today, however, would probably think of them as a Mexican staple. They’re flat, round pieces of bread usually made from corn (maize) or wheat flour.
It’s really easy to make homemade tortillas, yet many people avoid it due to a fear that it’s a complicated process they don’t feel comfortable undertaking.
In this article, we’re going to learn how to make homemade flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are just as straightforward.
How do you make tortillas?
Tortillas are incredibly easy to make and require just four ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup of warm water
1/3 cup fat (We think lard works best, but vegetable oil, shortener, and butter are also popular).
To make the tortillas:
Combine the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl and cut in your chosen fat and a splash of water.
Once the ingredients are combined, knead the mixture into a supple dough on a lightly floured surface. (A good tip is to try and get the water as hot as you can to bring the dough together swiftly and not to over-flour.)
After kneading, quickly divide the dough into bite-sized chunks and roll them out as flat and thin as possible, ensuring they’re the same thickness all the way around.
At this point, you’ll need to let the dough rest for approximately 15 minutes before cooking your tortillas on a pre-heated skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side.
Is it cheaper to make your own tortillas?
Flour tortillas can cost as little as $1 across the USA; however, this can vary between stores and even states.
Making a tortilla from scratch usually comes in at around $0.30 up to $0.40 per batch, so it is cheaper to make your own… Not to mention more fun!
What do I need to make homemade tortillas?
The beauty of a tortilla is in its simplicity, and how few tools are actually essential in the making of them.
As a beginner, you need to start with a minimum of a mixing bowl, rolling pin, and a cast iron skillet.
That said, if you really want to impress with your homemade tortillas, you might want to invest in some more professional items such as a tortilla press like the ones at https://unocasa.com/products/tortilla-press.
You might also want a pastry roller for a bit of extra help in creating truly thin and perfect tortillas, or even a tortilla warmer to keep your homemade tortillas toasty and warm!
Why are my homemade tortillas tough?
There are a few reasons your homemade flour tortillas might not come out quite the way you expected. Usually, this is due to overbaking.
Although such a short cook time might feel uncomfortable, up to a minute is all you need for perfect tortillas that aren’t too tough or chewy.
Another reason your tortillas are tough could be due to over-kneading. You don’t need to battle with tortilla dough the same way you might with bread. Look for a smooth, elastic consistency. You should also use really hot water and don’t add too much flour when kneading.
How long will homemade tortillas last?
Once you’ve made your perfect tortillas from home, if you don’t eat them all immediately, you might want to store some for another day. At room temperature, homemade tortillas can last for up to 12 hours, or you can refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
What can I do with my homemade tortillas?
There are almost no limits to the fillings for your homemade tortillas! From shrimp fajitas to spicy chicken tacos, your tortillas will be the perfect accompaniment to almost any dish. And why stop at dinner? If Taco Bell can serve KitKat-filled tortillas, then why can’t you?!
Perfect for dinner, lunch, breakfast, and even dessert… Once you’ve mastered homemade tortillas, nothing will stop you!
Mediterranean recipes are based on the Mediterranean diet, which advocates for healthy dishes. The Mediterranean diet mainly comprises of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, traditional herbs, and legumes. The diet’s main components are mostly plant-based. Red meat is highly discouraged, but you can take once in a while. Fish is consumed more often, maybe twice per week. Eggs, poultry, and daily products are consumed with moderation. These days, the good thing is you don’t need to go to the market to shop for groceries thanks to the meal delivery service kit. A glass of wine can accompany the dish. There are several Mediterranean recipes for making different Mediterranean dishes, but today we will only focus on the following 3 recipes.
1. Calamari salad recipe
The dish is nutritious, easy, and quick to prepare. It can be served as a main dish or appetizer and, in some cases, a vegetable for rice. It can be served hot or cold, depending on how you love it. The dish is best for people who love something simple to make and a healthy meal, as busy people don’t like baking because it takes more time.
Ingredients 1 clove minced garlic, 15ml extra virgin olive oil, 75 gr of finely diced carrots, celery and onion, 250ml white wine, 500 gr calamari cut into rings, Salt to taste, Worchestershine sauce to taste, and Tabasco to taste.
Procedure Put the virgin oil in a large pan and heat. Add garlic, the diced carrots, celery, and onions. Let it cook for a few minutes until it becomes tender. Add calamari and continue cooking for a few minutes. Keep checking calamari because when sliced in rings, it cooks fast and you don’t want to overcook it. Put the white wine together wine salt, tabasco, and worchestershine. Cover and cook for five minutes with low heat and your dish will be ready. Serve warm or cold. If you love this meal and want to discover more, you can visit themediterraneanfork.com to browse their collection of easy-to-follow Mediterranean recipes.
2. Zucchini blossoms with bulgur recipe
The dish is a healthy meal that can be served as a main vegetarian dish or a side dish. If you wonder how flowers taste, look no more because the Zucchini blossoms are delicious when cooked with herbs and bulgur wheat.
Ingredients 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup olive oil, 1 cup of chopped chives, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 cup grated Zucchini, 1 cup bulgur, 1 teaspoon chili pepper, 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint leaves, 2/3 cup of raisins (optional), ½ cup of pine nuts (optional), 2/3 of chopped parsley, Salt, pepper, 20-25 zucchini blossoms, 3 cups of yogurt.
Procedure Take a large deep pan and put half of the oil, onions, chives garlic. Please put it on medium heat and cook for 5 minutes until they become tender. Add one cup of water, Zucchini, bulgur, raisins, and chili pepper. Cook for another 10minutes, but reduce the heat and continue adding more water if all is absorbed. With the heat turned off, add pine nuts, mint, and salt as you stir. Taste, and if need be, add more salt or pepper. Make sure you stuff each blossom using a spoon. Carefully pour the mixture into an earthenware casserole dish. Add the remaining water and olive oil, then place the covered dish in an oven. In the oven, bake for approximately one hour until the liquid is absorbed. Your dish will be ready and can be served hot or cold with a cup of yogurt. If you don’t have time to cook, you can always order these recipes from meal delivery services like Nutrisystem. Learn more about Nutrisystem here
3. Chickpea and eggplant warm salad recipe
The salad is healthy and nutritious. Several Mediterranean dishes can accompany it, but some people take it as a main dish. It is easy and quick to prepare hence highly recommended for busy people. Remember, some dishes take even 36 hours to prepare, making them not suitable dishes for busy people.
Ingredients 4 tablespoons of extra- virgin olive oil, 1 garlic clove, 1 large eggplant (cut it into 2cm cubes), 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 tin of chickpeas, Salt, pepper, parsley leaves, and nasturtium(to be scattered on top).
Procedure Take a large frying pan and put olive oil. Please put it on medium heat and add garlic. Let it cook for about two minutes. Add the eggplant sliced cubes and stir. Maintaining the medium heat, let it cook for about 15 minutes. Make sure to cover, but don’t forget to stir from time to time. The purpose of stirring is to make sure they don’t stick on the pan. When the eggplant becomes soft, add chickpeas and paprika. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes uncovered and don’t forget to stir. The heat should be maintained at medium. Add Salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with parsley leaves and nasturtium scattered on top.
It’s likely that you are going to need to invest in more of your favourite drinks for home this month if you are in England, as you won’t be going anywhere anytime soon! So, let us help to compile a rather fabulous list for you and your family.
Now is the right time to plan your drinks cabinet to see you through Lockdown 2.0. We have put together a few ideas for cosy cocktail evenings, drinks by the roaring fire, a day of indulgence, and a relaxing evening in front of the TV.
Cosy Cocktail Evenings
Buck & Birch and The Botanist Gin, Wild Cocktail Collection
The collaboration between The Botanist Gin and Buck & Birch includes three unique cocktails exploring the flavourful wilds of Scotland. Each is small batch crafted and inspired by shared knowledge, passion and the appreciation of Scotland. Cocktails include The Ramble, The Amagroni, and The Plants & Quincidence. All you need is a mixer and you’re good to go.
Manchester Spirit Vodka was created for use in cocktails in Manchester Gin’s premium cocktail bar in the city. Intended to be smooth, clean and versatile, this vodka is a refreshing, modern spirit designed to work effortlessly in any cocktail menu. This is the perfect vodka to enjoy at home throughout Lockdown 2.0.
Bright, vibrant and zesty, Didsbury’s Raspberry & Elderflower Gin is vegan, made with natural fruits, and has no additives or flavourings. This gin makes an outstanding mood-lifting G&T to enjoy at home as part of your lockdown cocktail evening.
Hailed for its great taste and affordability, start-up CBD brand, Doña Sofía launched three CBD infused ready to drink cocktails earlier this year. So, if a can of Gin & Tonic, Vodka & Lime, or Rum and Cola is what you’re after look no further.
Linden Leaf’s Cocktail Elements, is a revolutionary cocktail atomiser providing a convenient and sustainable way to garnish cocktails. Home cocktail enthusiasts use these organic, molecular essence atomisers to help with a consistent, expert finish to cocktails. Ideal for an Old Fashioned, Martini, or a simple G&T.
If you’re not looking for anything alcoholic, and love a good cup of tea, then this is the drink for you. This pine-smoked blend combines full leaf lapsang souchong with cocoa nibs, coconut & cinnamon to create a slightly sweet, perfectly smoked fireside brew.
You’ve been to the takeaway for fish & chips and fancy a glass of wine to enjoy alongside your haddock. Chapel Down’s Flint Dry is the perfect accompaniment with its green apple, Galia melon and kiwi flavours. What could be better than enjoying a crisp, smooth English wine alongside a traditional British fish and chip supper!
That Boutique-y Rum Company, Diamond Distillery Unconfirmed Still
This 18 year old, delicious mouth-filling heavy rum will stand up perfectly served over ice, and is surprisingly easy to drink for something so robust. The perfect fireside autumn and winter warming rum, to sip and savour.
Start your day with a coffee from The Queer Eye style guru Tan France’s collab with Chimney Fire Coffee and Etsy. Included in the trio of coffee is Ethiopia with a honey like finish, El Salvador with a ‘pic n mix’ sweetness, and Brazil with a full-bodied espresso roasted coffee and snickers bar aftertaste.
A rare combination of sophistication and lightness, Della Vite DOCG wine has a distinct and complex flavour profile, delicate in both colour and taste. This new launch by the Delevigne sisters, Chloe, Poppy and Cara is a wonderfully indulgent Prosecco to be enjoyed at special celebratory moments.
This hamper is a real indulgence for lockdown. Bolney Lychgate Red and Bolney Lychgate Rose are both delicious alongside the Brighton Blue cheese. The Lychgate Bacchus needs to be paired with Sussex Charmer, a special cheese. Plus Sussex Brie works its magic with Flour Pot seasonal chutney and Alsop & Walker The Cheese Companion and Sussex Gourmand’s tasty thins. An indulgence worth investing in.
If you are looking for more vitamins, minerals and botanicals in your drinks, DRGN Superdrink is the answer. Relax in front of the TV knowing that you are drinking between 30% and 50% of your daily essential vitamins and superfoods in this one citrus drink. It’s alcohol free, caffeine free, low in sugar, contains no nasties, and is only 53 calories per serve.
Hiver’s flagship Honey Blonde Beer is brewed with the finest British honey from urban and rural beehives. Hiver delivers an incredibly fresh, smooth and easy drinking beer, which means it’s a great beer to sup whilst enjoying lockdown TV.
Camper van tours have taken a hit in one of the most top-tourist destinations – Peru.
This South American country is home to some of the most breath-taking sights, experiences, and food offerings. Fortunately, touring this part of the world is now made more affordable as camper vans and trucker campsites have opened up for tourists.
If you are exploring this hot continent, you should never miss out on an in-depth exploration of Lima, Manchu Picchu, and the Nazca Lines. You can document your adventures with AV rentals,so you have something to show your friends and family or post on your travel website.
Apart from these unique sites, Peru also has a wild offering of gastronomic delights that you should try out. Here are some must-have and must-try delicacies while you are in the country.
Ceviche
This is Peru’s national dish and it is made out of the freshest, healthiest and tastiest marinated fish around. There are fine dining as well as street food versions of the recipe and it can be exhilarating to try out. The word ceviche is from the Quechua indigenous language which means fish.;
Causa
Another traditional dish that you must try out is the “Causa” or the cause. Stories about this dish tell the story of the war between Chile and Peru in the frontier. Due to this war, all that was left for food is potatoes. The wives of the Peruvian army prepared the best dish they can do using some other available ingredients and served a cold mash potato salad. It was referred to as the causa. Causa Lima may also have tuna, tomato, and avocado apart from the main ingredient which is the potato.
Lomo Saltado
This is probably the most popular meat dish that Peru can offer. It is a mixed influenced cuisine that blends Chinese and Peruvian cooking influences. When the Chinese arrived in the country in 1850, they brought in various cooking techniques. Thus, this dish involves flame-cooked beef in a wok with mixed Peruvian native ingredients like tomatoes, amarillo chilies, and red onions. What you get is a smoky-flavored dish with lots of character. The saucy combination of the Chinese and Peruvian ingredients make this special dish truly unforgettable.
Suspiro a La Limena
The name basically translates to “sigh of the Lima lady” and it was coined by the Peruvian poet, Jose Galves, when his wife Amparo made it for him for the first time. It is a popular sweet dish that you can take with you back home. It has a heavenly combination of dulce de leche and smooth meringue.;
Anticuchos de Corazon
Last on our list is another traditional Peruvian dish that is influenced by the Afro-Peruvian culture. When African slaves were first brought to Peru, they were only given offal to eat. They disguised this by marinating the meat with smoky chilies and spices. This created the anticuchos. It is now a well-loved street food and late-night dish you can munch on after enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.
Peru is truly a country with lots of surprises. It remains to be one of the world’s top destinations for the many wonders that it offers.
Visiting some of these sites is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, thus you should make the most of it during your tour. Don’t forget to sample various traditional dishes to know more about the city or town you are visiting.
