Sunday, July 8, 2012

Be Back Soon.



I have been quiet the past week.  I've found myself retreating to the couch with magazines, sipping on tea around the clock and hiding under bulky scarves - I'm wanting to do anything except get on a computer.  I feel quite tired.






I start my new job tomorrow and I am so excited to take on a new challenge and tackle what looks to be a great opportunity, but of course I am nervous.  In fact, between us, I appear to be experiencing some general anxiety at the moment; another reason I am focusing on me for a while.

So I just wanted to let you know I am still here and will come back. I am still cooking and eating, and the 50 Days No Sugar challenge is going really well (I feel amazing and I've never been more full).   Just taking a little break from online life - I'd rather this than posting without the passion.

Eat well, stay well & we'll speak soon,
Nat x


Tuesday, July 3, 2012

You MUST try...


Drinking Coconut/Young Coconut! 





I got my first ever today at Coles (on special for a dollar something) and I am so impressed.  Tastes amazing!


I tried coconut water out of a bottle once, too, and it was revolting.  This is completely different.




YUMMO!
(time for a new web cam)


Ohh the possibilities with this water and it's left over flesh are going to be endless...

I am food excited!

(You can read a little about it's nutrients here, or with a quick Google)

Stay well,
Nat x

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Q&A


I got this little questionairre from the gorgeous Dig In blog of which I am a regular reader.  I love reading things like this others have filled out as I am, like I believe most people are, a big sticky nose!  I just love knowing what other people do and think and.. well everything.  I think this is why reality TV and blogs are so popular.  Anyway....




What is the secret to a great recipe?

For me, it should be simple and surprising.  I'm not into 40 ingredients and I love being surprised by the flavour combinations of a few simple ingredients being put together in a way I wouldn't have thought of.  Simplicity is the key! 

How can we cook a restaurant-quality meal at home?

Practice, but having said that I agree with Dig In's answer; why aim for a restaurant quality dish at home?  Enjoy that in the restaurant and keep it simple in your own kitchen.


What is your number one rule in the kitchen?

I don't need help!  I know that sounds silly, but when I am cooking I like to take control.  It's relaxing to me and I get irritated if people jump in and start doing parts of it.  It's alone time, in a way (that or I'm a control freak). From a cooking point of view I'd have three rules; keep in simple, have fun and don't be scared.

What meal best reminds you of your childhood?

Minestrone.  I used to eat it by the bucket loads.  I loved vegetables as a kid.  

Can you give us some inspiration for a quick and easy weeknight meal?

Omelette's are always easy, you can add garlic, onions, herbs and spices for flavour and any vegetables you have around - and they're healthy!  You can even soak some rice noodles or add some left over rice or pasta for a bit more bulk - or a can of tuna!


What’s in your fridge at home right now?

A lot - eggs, milk, bread (yes I keep it in the fridge), butter, cheese (about 5 types, we love cheese), lots of fresh vegetables, green apples, bacon, sparkling mineral water, firm tofu, muesli, nuts, pure maple syrup, seafood for dinner tonight, LSA, chia seeds, loads and loads of lemons (both sets of parents have trees - one Meyer, one traditional), milk (rice and lactose free), natural Vaalia yoghurt, various seeds, sultanas, tahini, various condiments, mountain bread.... you get the idea.

If we asked you what are the essential ingredients in any kitchen, what would be on your list?

Garlic!  Tomatoes, onion, chilli, plenty of fresh fruit & vegetables (preferably what's in season), loads of herbs & spices, olive oil, eggs, cans of tuna, cans of beans, cheeses, flour, rice and rice noodles, pasta.... I could go on forever.  If I had a top 5 - Garlic, tomatoes, legumes, sweet potatoes and eggs are always in my house.


I would love to hear your answers...

In other news, I have decided to integrate my two blogs into the one Facebook page.  Click here to like them now!

What do you think of me merging this blog with my fashion etc blog into one big blog?  I'd love your thoughts.

I hope you all had a great weekend.

Stay well,
Nat x