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HOW TO CONNECT WITH KIDS LONG DISTANCE AFTER DIVORCE: 6 IDEAL TIPS

Editorial Team
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HOW TO CONNECT WITH KIDS LONG DISTANCE AFTER DIVORCE: 6 IDEAL TIPS

The extended period of self-isolation, lockdown and long distance communication has served to remind so many of the importance of ‘keeping in touch’. And nowhere has this been more keenly felt than in the homes of divorced families, particularly ones with children living with parents separated by distance.

If you or your ex-partner has recently moved to another city, a unique set of communication challenges emerge, particularly for the parent without sole custody. Staying involved in their life, and providing advice, support and love, can be tough for afar. But it’s your duty as a parent to find new ways to do so.

If you’re navigating this new stage in your life, We’ve teamed up with www.wiselaw.co.uk to offer these 6 IDEAL tips on how to connect with kids long distance after divorce.

CONNECT WITH EMAIL, TEXT, CALLS AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Don’t limit your communications to just one channel. By using email, text, calls and social media, you can vary your communication and replicate the feeling of having small talk with your child as best you can from afar. 

Harness the power of technology to vary the levels of formality with which you’re communicating. Send funny pictures (perhaps, heaven forbid, venture a few memes), ask them questions about the serious and silly things equally, and check-in just to say hello with as much devotion as you do when asking about important dates coming up such as exams. By varying your contact methods, you also let your child know that you are always available, on any platform and for any reason.

STAY TUNED IN TO THEIR PASSIONS

Children’s interests can change with the weather, as any dusty box of Peppa Pig toys and sticker albums will attest. And feeling like the out of touch parent can be pretty heartbreaking, when you’ve splashed out on a new toy only to find out that particular character or hobby was sidelined last week for something more fashionable. 

Avoid this poignant event by asking about their interests and making the effort to find out more each and every day. The internet makes it easier than ever before to find out more about your child’s interests and what is keeping them busy. Understanding their passions will make it a lot easier to navigate small talk and keep the conversation going in the future. A small note; you don’t have to actively enjoy or even approve of their hobbies to be interested. 

PLAN SPECIAL TRIPS AND OUTINGS

When your child is coming to stay with you, make the effort to create some new memories. Plan special trips or outings to places that are unfamiliar and new. This doesn’t even need to be major, it can be going to an escape room, the arcade, museums…you name it. Inviting your children on annual holidays can also be a great way to spend some extended time together and assure them that you’re still very much part of their life.

When agreeing on custody arrangements in your divorce, be sure to include an annual holiday as part of the agreement. You will still need to secure written permission from the other parent to be able to take your child out of the country, as well as tackle various bureaucratic aspects, such as a potential change of name on your child’s passport, but this will all be worth it for the quality time you’ll be spending together.

EXPLORE THEIR NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD

If your child has moved to a new place with your ex-partner, they’ll be excited to show you around. And that’s just lovely; a perfect chance to spend time together. Planning a trip to visit them in their new neighbourhood can really help your child to settle in and to enable you to feel more involved in their new life. Don’t avoid this visit because it might present awkwardness or heartache between you and your ex; put your child first, always.

ASK THEM HOW THEY WANT TO KEEP IN TOUCH

The best way to keep in touch with children long distance is to find out which platform they are most likely to use. Some children love the instantaneous nature of social media messaging, while others will prefer the regularity of a scheduled call. Find out what method works best for them and then work hard to meet their needs.

SET A SCHEDULE, BUT BE AVAILABLE

Children respond best to routine and predictability, and their lives being disrupted can be really challenging. Your child needs to know that you will be in touch regularly, so make a schedule and stick to it regarding your contact, both in person and from afar. This might mean arranging a twice weekly Skype video call to check-in, but as a minimum of course. Remember that contact doesn’t need to be totally restrictive (and prescriptive) and a little spontaneity beyond your scheduled hours and within the realms of agreed acceptability will be appreciated. Successful co-parenting relies on fixed schedules and flexibility, equally.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Your relationship will be stronger if your child has some regularity of contact, but also knows that you’re always there when they need you. Even if you’re struggling to keep in touch over long distances, modern technology should make this easier to navigate. 

5 TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR SKIN WHEN EXERCISING OUTSIDE

Editorial Team
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5 TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR SKIN WHEN EXERCISING OUTSIDE
5 TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR SKIN FOR EXERCISING OUTSIDE

Summer’s nearly here and with it, the pleasure of exercising outside, in the fresh air and under the sun. But such a workout comes with added risk; a recent survey by OnBuy.com showed that 67% of Brits do not apply SPF to their skin in prep for their daily outside exercise. What’s more, the British Skin Foundation estimates there are 100,000 new cases of skin cancer each year.

To help Brits stay safe when taking their daily outside exercise, Golfsupport asked for expert advice from personal trainer Sana Shirvani on how to prepare for working out in the sun. And here it is; our 5 tips for protecting your skin when exercising outside.

WEAR SUNSCREEN 

Make sure you are applying 30 SPF sunblock every time you head out to work out. It doesn’t matter whether there are blue skies, it’s overcast, or if it’s raining; you’ll still be exposed to high doses of UV light. According to a study published by the Journal of Clinical Oncology, regular sunscreen use decreased the incidence of melanoma by 50-73% in study participants.

In this guide to getting the most UV protection, it’s suggested that different formulas will last for different amounts of time, the general rule is to reapply every two hours, but when working out you should do it more frequently due to sweating.

exercising outside

AVOID PEAK HOURS

The sun is closer to the horizon before 10AM and after 2-4PM depending on where you are in the world. Conversely, the sun is strongest and most harmful when it’s highest in the sky, roughly between 11am and 3pm in the UK. You want to avoid exercising in these peak hours as this is when you’ll be exposed most and it will dehydrate you faster, especially if you’re trying to get healthy and build your fitness. 

EAT & LIVE WELL

Increasing your immunological defences can also help safeguard your skin from damage. Schedule rest and recovery each week, get at least eight hours of sleep, and fuel up on antioxidants. Focus on eating a balanced diet that is varied in colour. The more colours, the wider the array of damage-fighting antioxidants you’re getting. This will help with your skin and your recovery from exercise, so you are able to do more and get fitter.

tips for exercising outside

CHECK YOURSELF FOR MOLES REGULARLY

No matter how careful you are, check your body for new or changing moles every month, especially if you’re regularly out exercising, and visit a dermatologist once a year or more (depending on your personal risk level) for a skin-cancer screening. It’s never too early to have someone take a look at your skin. If all is well, great. If it isn’t, then it’s essential that it’s caught early.

SOME GENERAL TIPS ON EXERCISING IN THE HEAT HEALTHILY:

More generally, to stay healthy when exercising in the heat you should do the following:

KEEP HYDRATED: In the summer heat, keeping yourself fully hydrated is arguably the most important part of the whole process, so it’s crucial to take a drink with you and also remember that just because you don’t feel thirsty doesn’t mean you don’t need to drink!

DON’T OVER EXERT YOURSELF: It’s incredibly important to be aware of your fitness levels and not to stretch yourself too far. If you try to do too much, especially in hot weather, you will end up causing yourself an injury.

STAY NEAR HOME: If something were to go wrong, like an injury or a sudden illness, you will want to be within a short distance of home, especially if it’s hot, as you will be exposed to the sun and heat for longer, making any injury or illness worse.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR GREEK FETA & WATERMELON SALAD

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR GREEK FETA & WATERMELON SALAD

IDEAL for a summer barbecue or picnic in the park.

Harry Styles was right when he wrote about it. A true summer superfruit sweetheart, nothing beats the refreshing crisp sweetness of a juicy watermelon. We don’t know if we could ever go without, either.

One of the finest uses of this great fruit, we think, is in an otherwise salty, savoury salad. Watermelon with rich olives and salty feta…the fresh, summery ingredients in this salad are just delightful together. Enjoy as a barbecue side dish or package up for a picnic, and bring your speakers along with you for the theme tune. All together now, here’s our IDEAL recipe for Greek feta and watermelon salad.

  • Preparation time:20 minutes
  • Cooking time:0 minutes
  • Total time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

½ red onion, thinly sliced 
½ Waitrose & Partners Watermelon  
1 cucumber 
20 pitted Kalamata olives, torn in half 
100g feta, crumbled 
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 
4 tsp red wine vinegar
5 mint leaves, finely shredded 
¼ tsp dried oregano

Method

1. Put the sliced onion in a bowl of cold water and leave to soak while you prepare the remaining ingredients. Carve the watermelon lengthways into three wedges, then cut away the skin and slice into 1½cm-thick pieces. Halve the cucumber lengthways and scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon, then slice into half-moons about ½cm thick. 

2. Arrange the watermelon and cucumber on 4 plates, then scatter over the olives and feta. Drain the onion and add to the salad. Drizzle each plate with 1 tbsp oil and 1 tsp vinegar; season. Serve immediately, sprinkled with the mint and oregano.

Cook’s tip 

Soaking raw onion in cold water helps to tone down its pungency before it is added to a salad. 

Recipe courtesy of Waitrose & Partners.

4 OF THE BEST DEEP BLUE SEA DIVING SITES IN THE WORLD FOR BEGINNERS

Editorial Team
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4 OF THE BEST DEEP BLUE SEA DIVING SITES IN THE WORLD FOR BEGINNERS

Sure, paddling is great. Yep, a few yards of front crawl before retreating to shore is fun. We get it, snorkelling can even let you see that little bit more. But it’s deep blue sea diving that truly grants the opportunity to see a world of water beyond all three of those tentative strokes. 

And by god is there a world out there. That gorgeous aquatic life along with coral reefs, caverns, caves, and different kinds of fish and mammals will hit you hard. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your tank deep for the very first time, or even you’re more experienced diver with an insatiable thirst to see more, it’s essential you choose the right site to suit your needs. With that in mind, and settling for nothing but the best, here are 4 of the best deep blue sea diving sites in the world for beginners. 

GOZO ISLAND, MALTA

Gozo, not far south of Sicily, is one of the lesser known islands which make up the gorgeous Maltese archipelago. With a population of around 37,000, Gozo has some serious historical clout, boasting one of the world’s oldest religious structures; the Ġgantija Temples. What’s more, the island is believed to be the famous Calypso Isle in Homer’s Odyssey. Yep, for somewhere we’ve just described as ‘lesser known’, it packs one hell of a punch historically. 

The island’s beauty is attributed to its orange-red sands and azure waters that will fascinate those who love diving and snorkeling. If it’s your first deep blue sea diving experience, then you should ”start with the Blue Hole, an underwater chimney passage that will spill you out into the Mediterraean sea. Be prepared to see a lot of fish, such as grouper and damsel fish, and tuna the deeper you go, and delight in the relatively untouched conditions’’. 

For those intent on seeing fish, Crocodile Rock and the Double Arch Reef boast tuna, barracuda, sea urchin and octopus by the barrel load. Because of this, the seafood back on terra firma is also rather good!  

GILI ISLANDS, INDONESIA 

The Gili Islands is Indonesia’s most popular area for scuba diving. Dubbed the “Turtle Capital of the World”, the island is an ideal place not just for experienced divers but for beginners, too, who are looking to dip their toes (and faces) in the water. 

Thanks to its year-round perfect water temperatures that average a warm 28°C, diving occurs all year here, though the best time to do so is in the dry season, beginning May and ending October. Visibility is hampered during the rainy season, but it’s still a great spot for diving.

Another great thing about the Gili Islands is the fact that all the dive centers offer a fixed price for everything, except for the purchase of equipment, due to the official Gili Indah Dive Alliance (GIDA) which operates on the island. This would mean that whichever Gili Island you choose for your first deep blue sea diving, you will be paying the same price, preventing extortionate fees and scams, and offering reassurance to those beginners less confident about navigate common price fluctuation. 

Keep an eye out for night dives around the island’s waters, available on request and a real treat if you can snag a place. 

SIPADAN, MALAYSIA

Located in Sabah, Malaysia, this island is known to be one of the best dive sites globally and is the country’s only oceanic island, formed by living corals and extinct volcano. Beginners and keen divers alike will find the visibility excellent and the waters teeming with life, from bright fish and spiraling schools of barracuda to turtles, schooling reef sharks, dolphins, and precious corals filling the underwater world. 

Note that here, you’ll need to have a permit to be able to dive around the island (just 120 permits are issued per day) and you won’t be able to stay on the island. As such, many tourists here choose to stay on the nearby islands of Kapalai and Mabul so the diving of Sipadan is as accessible as possible for day-to-day diving excursions.

Read: 6 of the best places in the world for a scuba diving holiday

KAS, TURKEY

Kas is the Turquoise coast’s greatest asset, a lovely, laid back place with a lively soul, great cuisine and a globally renowned scuba diving scene. 

Within the radius of just a half hour’s boat ride from the town’s port, you’ll find more than 50 dive sites, and move than 15 accredited diving centres within the area at last count. The diving season here happens approximately from April to November, with the very peak in June, July and August. Water temperatures during this time are pleasant, in their early 20s, and visibility crystal clear. 

First timers should head for Assi Island, which is only twenty minutes or so from the Kas port. Here, the curious and the keen will discover a reef replete with barracuda and octopus, as well as the odd sea turtle calling it home. Amazing! But diving’s not only about seeing fish right? Close to Kas there are also several fascinating historical wrecks to peruse, the most popular being amongst the Canyon, where you’ll see the wreckage of the Dmitri, a steel coaster which sank in 1968. And for inexperienced divers, the deliberate sinking of the DAKOTA WWII C-47 plane (to create an artificial reef) is easily accessible at 22 metres deep.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Every underwater adventure is an unforgettable experience, regardless of what you see and who you encounter. But, in addition to planning your destination for your first dive, you have to make sure that you are physically and mentally prepared, too, as well as having the right equipment.

Though we can’t help you psychologically to get ready, we can point you in the direction of our article on 6 IDEAL scuba diving accessory must haves, to ensure you’re equipped for what might turn out to be the greatest experience of your life!

5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST HANOI STYLE PHỞ BÒ (BEEF NOODLE SOUP)

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST HANOI STYLE PHỞ BÒ (BEEF NOODLE SOUP)

Phở bò, the gorgeous, nourishing Vietnamese noodle soup of beef and bone broth, is a crowd-pleaser and a half. Deceptively simple, insanely delicious, a late night snack, a hangover cure for breakfast, a fulfilling lunch and more, all rolled into one and often enjoyed several times day, this truly is one of the world’s greatest bowlfuls. 

It’s said that Vietnam’s capital Hanoi runs on the stuff, with no two establishments serving the same bowl and the best versions closely guarded secrets handed down through the generations.

The Hanoi version (the Northern rendition is arguably the original, reportedly coming out of Nam Dinh Province sixty miles from the capital) of the iconic dish is somewhat different to your UK high street rendition; low on embellishment and frippery, proudly austere, and distinctly savoury, not sweet. It’s almost clinical, and often delivered to the table in fittingly formal fashion. And where pho is concerned, less really is more, the power and poise of the broth given centre billing. We just love it.

This ain’t your average UK high street Pho, nor is this a recipe; we’ll defer to an expert, chef Andrea Nguyen. for that. Instead, these are some suggestions on what makes the Northern version so special. If you’re looking to create a Hanoi version at home, make sure you pay particular attention to these steps in your process; our 5 tips for making the best Hanoi style phở bò (beef noodle soup).

SAVOUR YOUR STOCK

The foundation of the dish, the backbone of the country, even; though the word ‘pho’ refers to the rice noodles, the dish itself is all about the broth. 

This isn’t that type of typical broth which has been bubbling for years until dark, moody and rich. The best Hanoi style phở bò should be a delicate, nuanced affair, with the spices and aromats all present and correct but certainly not overwhelming the collective whole. Vietnamese friends used to often suggest that the cliched description of ‘layers of flavour’ wasn’t appropriate for a pho broth; it should be homogenous, with each ingredient playing their part to create a unified whole, rather than pops of selfish flavour battling for attention. We liked that notion.

The final product should have a few gobules of fat floating on the surface, but not many, and this is achieved through using the right bones from the off; a mixture of knuckle, marrow bone and oxtail is ideal, as these bring a gelatinous yet light mouthfeel. This is achieved by soaking the bones in several changes of cold water prior to starting your stock, and bringing them to the boil then draining a couple of times before the proper simmering begins. 

Diligent skimming of that stock is also crucial so excessive fat doesn’t cloudy the broth or emulsify back into it, and any seasoning (just fish sauce and perhaps a pinch of rock sugar) is done right at the end of the process, just before serving.

5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST HANOI STYLE PHỞ BÒ

CHAR YOUR AROMATS & TOAST YOUR SPICES

The nuance of pho is realised through its aromats and dry spices. You’re going to want to get as much subtle smoky flavour into your broth as possible, and Hanoi’s cooks do this by charring both ginger and shallot prior to adding it the broth. This is best achieved on a barbeque, but you can simulate a similar effect by holding the pieces in a pair of tongs over an open gas flame on your hob. That, or at a push, doing them in the oven under the grill until blackened. There’s no need to peel too scrupulously here (your pho broth will be passed several times), just scrape off the really black bits and pop the charred ingredients into the simmering cauldron.

Another defining feature of the best Hanoi style phở bò broths is the dry spice selection. Star anise, cloves, cinnamon, black cardamon and fennel seed are all ubiquitous, and should be dry toasted to bring out their essential oils and give another nod to smokiness prior to adding them to the broth. Doing so should be done within a tea bag or muslin cloth.

5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST HANOI STYLE PHỞ BÒ

DON’T GO OVERBOARD ON THE ACCOUTREMENTS

Personal preference plays a part here, with bowls on the streets of Saigon, Nha Trang, and other southern cities usually arriving accompanied with a whole host of herbs, beansprouts, and several sauces. In our devotion to a Northern, Hanoi style pho we reject the frivolous extras; mint, coriander, Thai basil, those aforementioned bean sprouts…they all seem to muddy the broth and disrupt that coveted clarity we’ve spent so long nurturing. 

Instead, as a garnish we’re simply using the green part of spring onions – finely sliced – and sliced white onion which has soaked in hot water for around fifteen minutes to remove its pungency and gaseous elements. In the last moments’ preparation stage, these are added to a clean bowl, along with your beef (more of that shortly) and pre cooked, chilled noodles, before hot broth is poured over to warm everything through. 

RAW & BRAISED BEEF

Though phở bò is available in hundreds of iterations on the streets of Hanoi, and everyone has a preference, your main decision when ordering is what meat you’d like in your bowl. We love a mixture of oxtail, brisket and thinly sliced raw sirloin, for what it’s worth. 

The oxtail will have been added to the broth around five hours before serving, lifted out just prior, and the meat picked from it. In many of Hanoi’s definitive street side pho purveyors, you’ll also see large hunks of brisket, already simmered, hanging in front of the shop on hooks. These will have spent around two hours in the simmering broth until semi-tender (the Vietnamese savour a slight chewiness to their meat and definitely plenty of fat still attached) and is sliced to order. 

Raw, thinly sliced sirloin is also often added added to the bowl along with the other veef cuts (which is at room temperature), with the hot broth gently cooking it. Though that’s three types of beef, this is by no means a ‘meat feast’ affair; everything is added with restraint and good taste.

5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST HANOI STYLE PHỞ BÒ

SEASONING SAVVY

No hoisin. No sriracha. No compromise.

The Hanoian pho table is moderate; so much care has been taken over the broth that to decimate it with various shop bought seasoning sauces would be sacrilige. That said, the broth has only been delicately seasoned up to this point, to allow for personalising at the table with a couple of select condiments.

At Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn (49 Bat Dan Street), which is arguably the greatest pho in the world, the shop owners don’t even serve lime or homemade chilli sauce, such is their faith in the broth they’ve spent generations cultivating. If you’re after piquancy, then it’s to come from chillis soaked in vinegar.

At another revered Hanoi Old Quarter joint, Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư, sliced orange chillis (in keeping with their branding) are offered to bring a bit of pep and vigour to your bowl. They do provide sliced lime, but connoisseurs would add little else.

Alongside, if you have the time, then do endeavour to make the ubiquitous, delicious quẩy, a savoury, deep fried type of doughnut which is just perfect for dunking in the soup.

Serve with iced jasmine tea, not beer, and you’re good to go!

THE DIY GUIDE TO CHECKING YOUR ROOF FOR DAMAGE

Editorial Team
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THE DIY GUIDE TO CHECKING YOUR ROOF FOR DAMAGE
THE DIY GUIDE TO CHECKING YOUR ROOF FOR DAMAGE

A roof completes a house – the proverbial icing on the bricks and mortar cake – which is why a damaged or leaking one can make a home completely uninhabitable. This is the main reason homeowners around the world need to take care of their roofs with regular maintenance or by replacing them when they notice signs of damage. Because, as the old saying goes, the time to fix your roof is when the sun is shining.

There are myriad benefits of keeping your roof in good condition. Not only the obvious, that a sturdy roof keeps you dry from the rain, but also the more overlooked fact that your roof also keeps you warm, saving on energy costs, as well as preventing structural damage in the property as a whole.

When you notice signs of damage, you need to find ways to fix them so that other problems don’t occur. Homeowners need to look out for any signs of damage, no matter how small they may be. With that in mind, here’s a DIY guide to checking your roof for damage.

START BY PERFORMING AN INTERIOR ROOF CHECK

The first thing you need to do in order to evaluate the condition of your roof is to find a torch and venture up into your loft. Nobody’s favourite, task, we realise, but an important one nonetheless. Once you’re up there, bent double and trying not to breathe in too much dust, you will then need to inspect your loft or attic to check if you can see any of the following:

  • Daylight coming through the roof – before turning your torch on, check to see if you can see daylight coming through any parts of the roof. If you can, your roof (or at least, a section of it) will need repairing, as soon as possible, to stop further damage from occurring. Because if sunlight is getting through, then so is water.
  • Stains or dark patches – if you notice dark stains or patches on your roof, then it’s probably leaking. Any water that enters your home will damage your roof and your home’s structural integrity, so it needs to be repaired or replaced as quickly as possible. 
  • A sagging roof – water can make timber sag, so if you see areas of your roof sagging, then you’ll know moisture is present.
  • Water damage – if you notice rotten wood or rising damp, then you’ll need to ask a professional for their advice going forward. If you’re not sure where the water is coming from, then it may be best to engage with a specialist leak detection company such as Pinpoint. In addition to finding the source of the leak, they offer a dedicated water damage repair service. This isn’t a job you want to tackle without sufficient expertise.

EVALUATE THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR ROOF

As Gorilla, considered the best roofers in the Ballwin area, tell us you will need to have a look at the outside of your roof once your internal evaluation is complete. Interior checks will help you notice damage that has already happened, sure, but exterior checks will help you spot damage before it occurs. And prevention is better than cure, as we all know by now. If you notice any of these signs, then there’s a good chance that further action is required:

  • Water damage
  • Leaks
  • Dark patches – if it looks damaged, there’s a good chance it is.
  • Rotting – if you have an asphalt or wooden roof, then rotting is fairly common.
  • Algae or moss – a build up of algae or moss can damage your roof, so if you notice this then it’s a good idea to remove it.
  • Broken or missing tiles – this is one of the main causes of roof leaks. Look for signs of broken tiles in your guttering or scattered around your garden. If you spot missing/broken tiles they will need replacing.
  • Cracked flashing – flashing can crack over time, so it’s important to check it on a regular basis.
  • Valley – the valley is the point in which two roofs meet. If a valley becomes damaged or corrodes over time, then it will need replacing. 

Should you have identified one or more of these signs, then professional intervention is almost certainly required, both in terms of a further, in-depth evaluation and subsequent damage limitation. As the experts at 1-800 Water Damage tell us, such pros have ”state-of-the-art tools to read moisture levels, assess the type of water responsible for the damage, dehumidify, extract excess water, and thoroughly dry out your home.”

Indeed, when dealing with such a threat from erroneous water, it’s best to defer to those with the expertise and the professional tools. Specialised water damage restoration services can help address the issue effectively and prevent further complications.

WHAT TO DO NEXT?

If you are intent on completing your own roof evaluation, then, according to Redland Roofing in Cardiff, you will need to make a list of any damage you’ve found. As we mentioned, you should then contact a professional to come and check the condition of your roof for a more all-encompassing evaluation of the issues. 

When the professional arrives, explain to them what you’ve found so that they can check your findings. A second opinion never hurts, especially from an expert. Make sure you don’t waste time here, as it could cost you even more money in the long run. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

While most people take good care of their homes, particularly in a cosmetic, aesthetic sense, the roof is often overlooked, largely because it can’t be easily looked over. Over time, roof problems can become more severe, causing leaks or further problems like disintegration. Thankfully, you don’t have to wait for that to happen. By inspecting your roof on a regular basis, you will be able to spot potential issues and fix them before they cause an even larger problem in the future. 

Remember, in the words of Dashiell Hammett; ”the roof might fall in, anything could happen”.

5 COMMON CAUSES OF ROOF DAMAGE
5 IDEAL STEPS TO FINDING THE RIGHT ROOFING INSULATION CONTRACTOR

5 IDEAL BEGINNER’S TIPS FOR GROWING APPLE TREES

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL BEGINNER’S TIPS FOR GROWING APPLE TREES

According to the experts at Love Garden, one of the most searched for garden queries online of the last three months was ‘when to prune apple trees’, with 3600 searches in February 2020 and 4800 in March. That number only looks set to rise further, in tandem with the tree’s outward spurt. 

If you’re keen on getting involved and growing your own apples at home, whether that’s for desserts, chutneys, cider, or simply the freshest fruit around, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are 5 IDEAL beginner’s tips for growing apple trees.

CLIMATE 

Climate is important to your tree’s growth. In terms of the divergent conditions in Britain, the East of England is blessed with the ideal climate here – relatively dry and moderate temperatures and sheltered from wine – but you can replicate these effects in other parts of the country by providing shelter from wind, and making sure your tree is planted in an area which is exposed to maximum amounts of sunlight; any less than half a day’s, each day, won’t be good for your apple tree’s growth.

Read: The ideal beginner’s guide to growing your own produce

DRAINAGE

To thrive, apples need two main things; plenty of sun and decent drainage. Though you can’t dictate the former you have a fair amount of control over the latter. As such, make sure the area around your tree is cleared of grass (a 1 metre radius should be sufficient), since grass will take water and nutrition that your apple tree requires. In general, dessert apples require more diligent drainage than cooking ones.

You should regularly mulch with compost and wood chippings throughout the growing season, particularly in its early stages, and water keenly. Make sure you stick to that 1 metre radius we mentioned when mulching and watering, as apple tree’s roots tend to grow outwards rather than only down.

5 IDEAL BEGINNER’S TIPS FOR GROWING APPLE TREES

WHAT TO PICK

No we don’t mean from the tree just yet. Instead, before you can pick your apples off the tree, you have to pick what apple trees you’re going to grow. Got it? Incredibly, there are thousands of different types of apples. In the UK we have over 2,500 varietes. Crazily, only a handful of varieties are sold in UK supermarkets – some of which are imported. 

Here’s a useful round up of common supermarket apple varieties from the good guys at Orange Pippin Fruit Trees:

Golden DeliciousBraeburnGalaGranny SmithCoxRusset
Sweet, hard and crispTangy and crispSweet, mild, fairly crispAcidic and hardNot hard, tangy, traditionalMild sweet flavour, not hard

But more broadly speaking, apples fall into two categories – dessert and culinary (sometimes differentiated as ‘eating’ or ‘cooking’). If you only have room for one in your garden, then the latter cooks very well, covering both bases.

You should also think about the purpose of your apples. Do you plan to make desserts, cider, juice, or eat them straight from the tree? Or, should you be considering longevity, have a close look at the ripening season of your chosen apple variety. In general, ripening ranges from August to November, and it’s good to choose varieties which ripen at different times for longevity’s sake.

Read: 10 IDEAL grow-your-own herbs and vegetables

CONTINUED CARE

Finally, some good news; apples require little care throughout the year. Simply water your apple trees during long dry spells, if the ground surrounding the tree is bone dry, and also from when the fruit begins to swell. In fact, excessive watering can damage the tree, so hold back if the urge takes you too often. When you do need to, use a lot of the water to ensure it penetrates the ground deeply.

Do make sure that you prune your tree in order to keep it healthy, full and guarantee a yearly crop of the good stuff. Knowing when to prune apple trees is key, and Gardener’s World presenter Monty Don suggests that “if you prune hard in winter, you will get lots of shoots coming back and none of those shoots will have any fruit on them. If you want to reduce the size of the apple tree, do it in summer. If you want to stimulate it to grow bigger, do it in winter. Almost all apples produce their fruit on spurs and the spurs only develop on wood when it gets to two or three years old.”

Heaven forbid your planting doesn’t go to plan, or you find there’s not enough room in your garden after all, then it’s okay to admit defeat.

5 IDEAL BEGINNER’S TIPS FOR GROWING APPLE TREES

WHEN TO HARVEST

Though it depends on your variety, of course, the window for picking apples is relatively small. In Britain, there are early, mid and late varieties, with the variety known as Discovery being the first to emerge, and is usually at its best in mid to late August, though climate change is gradually bringing that earlier. 

On the other end of the spectrum, D’Arcy Spice arrives latest, and is at its most ripe and delicious when picked in November. That said, as a general rule of thumb, the vast majority of apples here in the UK are ready to harvest in October time. 

We can’t wait!

4 BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A CLOUD-BASED POS SYSTEM FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Editorial Team
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4 BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A CLOUD-BASED POS SYSTEM FOR YOUR BUSINESS
4 BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A CLOUD-BASED POS SYSTEM FOR BUSINESSES

Ideal for those looking to streamline their businesses post-COVID.

Cloud computing, over the last decade, has not only changed the lives of the average Janes or Joes, enabling them to retrieve lost, sentimental photos, access music libraries whilst on the move and many more perks besides, but has also revolutionised the way so many do business. 

Gone are the days of filing cabinets taking up valuable floor space and gathering dust. The past is where paper receipts are now confined to. Instead, thanks to advances made in cloud technology, modern-day companies now have the means to unlock their full potential, minimise clutter, file more effectively, and do business in the most efficient way possible. 

With companies looking to change the way they operate and cut down on frippery and excess, now might be the time for yours to consider heading to the clouds to make some room back on terra firma. So, here are 4 benefits of installing a cloud-based POS system for your business.

A SECURE WAY TO CONDUCT BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS

Let’s cut to the chase; locally storing the financial data of customers as well as the financial data of a business is a bad idea.

We’re confident we don’t have to explain why, but we’re going to do anyway.

This is because the chances of the data getting stolen, compromised or lost are high. Hence, irrespective of the size, age, and category of a business, it is a great idea to choose cloud-based POS solutions offered by leading ePOS system vendors, shop floor specialists and those who serve other business categories as well. 

Cloud-based POS solutions do not store business-critical financial data in the local computer of business, increasing security levels from physical danger and malicious attacks related to out of date systems. Instead, this modern tech solutions uploads all of that data on safe off-site servers of the solution’s provider – thus keeping sensitive data out of harm’s way and constantly renewing its security systems to keep in line with modern risks.

MORE MOBILITY

Cloud-based POS solutions allow a business to access critical financial data using any device and from anywhere in the world, allowing for greater mobility and dexterous handling of responsibilities at work. 

Furthermore, a huge amount of data is generated here, providing you with the latest statistics that indicate the overall performance of your business and areas where it can improve available at a few clicks.

Since cloud-based POS solutions are compatible with most devices – running on all known OS platforms – this particular feature enables a business to enjoy the benefits of enhanced mobility. Using a micros mobile system in a restaurant, for example, will enable the manager to optimise their operations in a nimble, dexterous way. And all of this can be done from a sun lounger while you’re vacationing in the tropics! Should you wish to, of course.

AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION

Cloud-based point of sale solutions don’t rely on hardware. As such, they’re not at the mercy of the whims and wants of a neurotic computer. This is one of their primary plus points, since a business doesn’t need to make a large investment to replace its aging POS machines. All they would need to do is receive Over-The-Air updates from its cloud provider and get back to conducting business as usual, all with minimal delay. 

Neat, right?

HIGHLY SCALABLE

Cloud-based POS systems can be set up with minimal delay and without impacting the smooth running of your business. What’s more, the setup process is fairly simple, too. Furthermore, if a business wants to up or downscale the number of POS machines it needs in its premises or across its retail outlets, due to a change in customer traffic or an office relocation, it can do that easily too. 

Irrespective of the number of POS machines within operation, the data and overall performance of the devices remains constant – thus allowing a business to function without facing any difficulties. 

Now you’ve got your POS system sorted, why not check out our insider tips for growing your own business for other tips on optimising your company’s functionality.  

5 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DIVORCE AMICABLY FROM AFAR

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5 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DIVORCE AMICABLY FROM AFAR
5 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DIVORCE AMICABLY FROM AFAR

‘‘What’s there to fight about? This is going to be easy – we’ll take half each and go our separate ways’’. This is exactly the naive assumption at the beginning of last year’s hit film Marriage Story,  a heartbreaking flick about love and divorce which was nominated for several Academy Awards.

However, this idea – as so often seems the case – doesn’t turn out being quite so simple. As the couple lawyer up, ready for divorce, they discover a gruelling, coast-to-coast process with Nicole in LA and Charlie in New York. 

Indeed, trying to finish a divorce process while living in a different state or country isn’t easy. From state jurisdictions, residency requirements to custody arrangements, the laws are different and communication breakdowns common. Different states have different rules, countries have mismatched cultural expectations, from divorce laws in Florida to divergent legislation in Kentucky, this can be one rocky road to traverse.

We’re here to provide a bit of guidance, to be a shoulder to cry on and friendly reminder to keep things cordial. With that in mind, here are 5 tips for dealing with divorce amicably from afar.

FIRST, THINK OF THE CHILDREN

However much it might feel like your world is collapsing around you, it’s your children (should you have any, of course) that have to be front row and centre when any decision making is made. The fact that there’s distance between you and your ex makes these decisions even more crucial and impactful on your child’s welfare. This isn’t just about sharing childcare with a co-parent around the corner; logistics are going to be much more complex.

There will be several legal considerations with long distance travel, child support contributions and sharing the burden of childcare. Do make sure you consult legal advice here; the Children Act 1989 emphasises ‘parental responsibility’ is shared and Child Arrangement Orders (CAO) will always prioritise the child’s needs. Just because you’re moving further away doesn’t mean you’ll be able to renege on your responsibilities. Neither should you be looking to. 

Most importantly, always make sure you’re available, both physically and emotionally, when your child needs you; don’t allow the miles to cause your relationship to suffer.

BEWARE THE RISK OF COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN

We’ve all been there, firing off a text or tweet which is misconstrued, read wrong and results in fireworks. The risk of this happening is amplified when there’s distance between you and your ex. 

As such, we’d implore you to keep communications business like. If you’re able to communicate with your ex in a civil – even friendly – way, then that is ideal, but in the early stages, there are often far too many emotions flying around to make this realistic. Written communication via email can help to keep conversations factual and minimise the temptation to become emotional. They also mean you can keep a record of what has been agreed in terms of arrangements for children and finances. Avoid, at all costs, getting trigger happy with the texting after too much Merlot. You’ll only regret it.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Studies suggest a link between divorce and the development of depression and anxiety, and conducting such a life-affirming process remotely can only serve to emphasise this sense of isolation. 

There’s no stigma in seeking support; consider counselling should the onset of low mood occur. If you’re in a new area without the immediate shoulder of friends and family, try searching for a support group made up of people who are going through the same thing as you, as they can give you real, practical tools to help you cope with your own, unique situation. Divorce support groups exist across the UK, offering advice and counselling as well as a space to meet and converse with others in your situation.

You can also make several lifestyle changes which can help nurture a calm, balanced headspace ideal for coping with the strains of a big change. To keep things composed and rational, consider taking up meditation, giving you insight and clarity into a topsy turvy time, and hopefully enabling you to come out the other side a better person. We’ve written more about that over here; so check it out. 

The mental health benefits of exercise are now firmly established too, so don’t neglect those daily runs or trips to the gym during the divorce process. The release of endorphins and opportunity to focus on some nourishment of body and soul will do you the world of good, there’s no doubt about that.

FIND DISTRACTION IN YOUR NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD

Escapism matters here, and if you’re the one who has relocated, then seek some positive distractions to help you think about something else during the day. Exploring a new part of town, seeking unfamiliar local delicacies to try, new coffee shops to hang out in, parks where you can exercise, and of course, making new friends, can also provide you with that distraction you need during this difficult time.

A word of caution, though, in immediately setting about finding a new partner. There’s a danger, here, in becoming over-reliant on a new lover’s emotional support a little too quickly and excessively, which will only be enhanced by the unfamiliar situation and city you find yourself in. Take things slow if you are intent on finding romance again, as you may well still be finding your feet and learning to cope with your divorce in a composed, healthy way.

EMBRACE THE BENEFITS OF DISTANCE

Though a divorce from afar seems to present a whole host of challenges, there are a couple of positives to take from the long distance nature of things. Firstly, the chance of bumping into your ex is massively reduced! This will be a relief to so many, as this can be a truly traumatic moment in the divorce process. What’s more, the distance between you can help lessen the resentment; granting both actors perspective, hindsight and breathing room. And that’s so important during a bad break up, don’t you think?

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BAKED BEETROOT FALAFEL

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BAKED BEETROOT FALAFEL
IDEAL recipe for baked beetroot falafel

Ideal for National Falafel day and each and every day after .

One of the Middle East’s most beloved fast foods, falafel is amazing as a snack, light lunch inside a pitta or part of a wider spread for dinner. Though it’s traditionally deep fried on the streets of Egypt, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Israel and more, we’ve taken an already healthy dish and made it that little bit more so by adding beetroot and baking our falafel. If you do prefer to deep fry, do so in oil heated to 180°C until crisp, and drain on a paper towel before serving.

These will keep for 2 days in the fridge, and are just as good eaten cold as leftovers as they are hot. They make a great packed lunch, too. Is there anything falafel can’t do? Here’s our IDEAL recipe for baked beetroot falafel.

  • Vegetarian
  • Preparation time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking time: 25 minutes to 30 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes to 35 minutes 
  • Serves: 4

WHAT YOU NEED

1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tsp ground cumin
250g pack Waitrose Duchy Organic Cooked Beetroot
400g can Waitrose Duchy Organic Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
125g fresh white breadcrumbs
1 essential Waitrose Free Range Egg, beaten
200g pot Waitrose Tzatziki, and mixed salad, to serve 

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and cook the onion and garlic for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the cumin and cook for a further minute.

2. Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Pat the beetroot dry on kitchen paper and roughly chop. Place in a food processor with the onion mixture, chickpeas, breadcrumbs and egg. Whizz together to make a firm paste.

3. Using damp hands, roll the mixture into 20 even-sized balls and place on a non-stick baking sheet. Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes until crisp and heated through. Serve warm with tzatziki and mixed salad. 

Recipe courtesy of Waitrose & Partners.

 

How To Have A More Mediterranean Diet: 6 Simple Steps

Editorial Team
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How To Have A More Mediterranean Diet: 6 Simple Steps

Ideal for those looking to eat more healthily and wholesomely this summer…

We hear about it in the news so often, and we know that adopting one will likely do us the world of good, but what exactly is the much extolled ‘Mediterranean diet’? 

Well, what we do know is that it’s a scientifically approved approach to eating, and one which can help fight against heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, inflammation and cognitive decline. But how to actually go about adopting one, we hear you ask. Again.

Okay, enough of the frippery, let’s begin. Here’s how to have a more Mediterranean diet in 6 simple steps, IDEAL for those looking to eat more healthily and wholesomely this summer.

Focus On The Fibre Rich

A Mediterranean diet is rich in fibre, which processes sugars gradually, preventing fluctuations in blood sugar, assisting in healthy weight management and maintaining gut health. The British Nutrition Foundation details these items as being high in fibre and incredibly healthy, and they just so happen to feature in the Mediterranean diet heavily:

  • Wholegrain breakfast cereals, wholewheat pasta, wholegrain bread and oats, barley and rye.
  • Fruit such as berries, pears, melon and oranges.
  • Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots and sweetcorn.
  • Peas, beans and pulses.
  • Nuts and seeds.
  • Potatoes with skin.

To mimic the positive effects of the Southern European diet, make sure you include plenty of the above in your meals.

HOW TO HAVE A MORE MEDITERRANEAN DIET: 6 SIMPLE STEPS

Vegetable & Plant Oils

The high levels of antioxidants in the Mediterranean diet can prevent cells from undergoing a damaging process called oxidative stress, thereby cutting the risk of Parkinson’s disease in half amongst many other potential benefits.

Extra virgin olive oil, one of the defining features of the Mediterranean diet, boasts large amounts of antioxidants and healthy fats, without many of the more detrimental aspects of saturated fats. 

Do endeavour, then, to cook with vegetable and plant based oils consistently, and whenever needing oil for dressings or a garnish, using the particularly magic EVOO. 

HOW TO HAVE A MORE MEDITERRANEAN DIET: 6 SIMPLE STEPS

Fish Friendly

Seeing as the Mediterranean is centred around the sea of the same name , the diet of the region features fish until the diners develop gills. Okay, perhaps not that veraciously, but fish is enjoyed with far more regularity here than in most Brit’s diets, particularly the ultra healthy, oily kind. 

So, by including more salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, sardines and anchovies in your diet, you’ll be reaping the benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which research suggests can decrease inflammation and potentially lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

HOW TO HAVE A MORE MEDITERRANEAN DIET: 6 SIMPLE STEPS

Reduce Red Meat

Research recommends that the Mediterranean diet may improve cholesterol, glucose levels, and blood vessel health, which can reduce your chances of getting Alzheimer’s, dementia & heart disease. One way to decrease consumption’s risk to the heart, in particular, is through this diet and its relatively low use of red meat, which can be pretty bad for you when overdone. Instead, Southern Europeans get the majority of their protein from plenty of fish, as we mentioned, and also poultry and eggs. Follow suit!

Supplement Your Diet

If you are someone who likes taking shortcuts and getting the same results, then various supplements are available to mimic some of the positive effects of the Mediterranean diet. If you’re not keen on oily fish, then Omega 3 capsules are available in high street pharmacists. Equally, if you feel like you’re not getting enough iron in your diet because you’ve cut down on red meat, then a moderate amount of iron supplements might also be wise.

Remember supplements are not a substitute for a balanced healthy diet and as the name suggests, food supplements are only intended to ‘supplement’ and not replace healthy foods. For more information on supplements, consult your doctor and visit the NHS website.

IN PRAISE OF THE GRAPE

Finally, a decent excuse for a guilt free glass of grape juice. A Mediterranean diet promotes drinking the odd glass of red wine rather than the hard binge drinking this country is often associated with. And though the benefits are small, wine has been reported to possibly lower the risk of heart disease when enjoyed in moderation. Cin cin!

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE KFC STYLE CHICKEN: 5 IDEAL STEPS

Joseph Gann
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HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE KFC STYLE CHICKEN: 5 IDEAL STEPS

Fried chicken lovers rejoice! KFC is open once again. But, what’s this? Dine in options unavailable. Hours unknown. Queues snaking round the block and drive thrus backed up for actual miles. Hmmm, maybe not.

But these recent months haven’t managed to end our love affair with the Colonel. Oh no. Instead, we’ve been cooking up KFC copycat recipes at home, and they’ve been coming out seriously close to the original. In fact, in blind taste tests carried out by us and our dog (note: don’t actually feed yours fried chicken), participants haven’t been able to tell the difference.

The KFC original recipe for its spice blend is pretty much common knowledge now – it even has its own Wikipedia page! – owing to a 2016 revelation by the Chicago Tribune claiming to have unearthed the formula. Recent sterling work by Brit Dan Fell has further refined the process and we think that, as a combination, they’ve pretty much cracked it.

After many, many delicious versions made in the IDEAL kitchen, let’s cut through the jargon and get straight to the nitty-gritty of replicating this beloved fast-food staple ar home; here’s how to make homemade KFC style chicken in 5 IDEAL steps.

TOOLS

Don’t worry, we’re not about the reel off a list of industrial-scale equipment that’ll set you back several years worth of ordered-in-KFC accruing. Nope, this isn’t a case of ‘all the gear, no idea’, but rather, if you’re to how to make homemade KFC style chicken, it’s ‘three pieces of gear, deliciousness is near’. 

So, in terms of stuff you may not have at home, you’re going to need; a meat thermometer, a packet of MSG and a countertop deep fat fryer. Sure, without those items this can still be accomplished, with guesswork, less seasoning, and hot oil in a frying pan, but if you want to replicate KFC at home perfectly, it’s worth the investment.

You’ll find the thermometer on Amazon, in Argos or at your local John Lewis or Robert Dyas for less than a tenner, and a deep fat fryer from the same places for around £50. MSG (look for the Ajinomoto brand) can be bought in your local Chinese supermarket or from online purveyors of global ingredients, such as Sous Chef. 

THE DRY INGREDIENTS

In 2016, the Chicago Tribune, and several news outlets subsequently, reported that Sanders’ nephew, 67-year-old Joe Ledington, revealed a recipe for a fried chicken spice blend made up of 11 herbs and spices, found in a scrapbook that had belonged to Ledington’s aunt Claudia, the Colonel’s second wife, who died in 1996.

Here, from the Chicago Tribune, is that recipe, suitable for one whole chicken, cut into KFC sized pieces. 

To be mixed with two cups of white flour:

  • 2/3 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Thyme
  • 1/2 tsp Basil
  • 1/3 tsp Oregano
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Dried Mustard
  • 4 tsp Paprika
  • 2 tsp Garlic Salt
  • 1 tsp Ground Ginger
  • 3 tsp White Pepper

And here are Dan’s KFC ingredients, for comparison:

  • 600g self raising flour
  • 4 tbsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp white pepper
  • 2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp celery
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tbsp of oregano
  • ½ tbsp thyme

THE IDEAL KFC COPYCAT SPICE MIX

If you’re a perfectionist and value precision, and want to know how to make homemade KFC style chicken to the gram, then here’s the original ‘secret’ recipe in grams, scaled up to coat a broken down chicken twice. 

There’s a little extra MSG added for that magic, miraculous lift it brings, and a little less salt, as well as a slight increase in white pepper, because, well, that’s what we’ve found works best and best replicates the taste of original KFC. 

We’ve also added a little baking powder to the plain flour to achieve a lighter crust. Here goes:

Mix with 500 grams of plain flour, with 12 grams (3 tsp) of baking powder 

  • 7.5 g Salt
  • 0.9 g Dried Thyme
  • 0.9 g Dried Basil
  • 0.6 g Oregano
  • 9.5 g Celery Salt
  • 4.66 g Black Pepper
  • 4.66 g Mustard Seeds (ground)
  • 18.4 g Ground Paprika
  • 20 g Garlic Salt
  • 3.5 g Ground Ginger
  • 14.4 g Ground White Pepper
  • 1.5g MSG

THE CHICKEN

We’re using a whole chicken here, giblets removed and fat trimmed, and a cleaver. Simples.

Joint your – preferably free range, locally reared – chicken (or get your butcher to do it) then use a meat cleaver to chop, cleanly and precisely, the chicken into KFC sized pieces. That is; two thighs, two wings, two drumsticks and two breasts.

That, or you could simply buy the pieces already divided by your butcher. We particularly love the drumsticks and thighs, the bones lending flavour and added tenderness, but that’s personal preference.

Read: 7 Tips for the IDEAL Roast Chicken

THE WET ONES

You’re also going to need some wet ingredients, to adhere that beautiful flour and dry spice mixture to your chicken. Dan uses an egg wash mix of milk and egg white, whilst others suggest a mix of buttermilk and egg. We think a combination works best, tenderising the chicken a little prior to cooking and allowing the spices to penetrate, too. 

So, simply mix 250 ml of buttermilk with a beaten egg and sit your chicken pieces in the wet mixture, in the fridge, for a couple of hours before you intend to start cooking. Around half an hour before your chicken is going for its boiling hot oil bath, take the chicken in buttermilk mixture out of the fridge. You want it to be at room temperature when you begin cooking, so the chicken doesn’t reduce the temperature of the frying oil drastically. That would lead to soggy skin, and we don’t want that.

Also prepare a mixture of 250ml of milk and a couple of egg whites for the final fry.

FRYING & DRYING

We’re going to do this thing in batches, so as not to crowd the bubbling oil and cause that dreaded drop in temperature.

Preheat your countertop deep fat fryer to 165°C and your oven to 100°C. Also prepare a wire rack over a tray. Then, in small batches, lift your wet chicken (hmmm, that doesn’t sound too appealing, but you know what we mean) into the flour and spice mixture, making sure all pieces are totally coated, then give them a dunk in the milk and egg white mixture, then back into the flour. 

Next, drop your double coated chicken joints into the fryer. They’ll need around six minutes, depending on the size of the joint, but you can periodically check if the thickest part has reached a internal temperature of 73°C. Once that temperature is reached, use tongs to lift them out of the fryer and onto your wire rack, keeping them warm and letting them dry a little in the oven. Repeat.

And there you have it; KFC style homemade chicken with a side order of a huge sense of accomplishment. Enjoy!

Read: A Trio of Recipes for the IDEAL Stateside Dish: Chicken Maryland

You could, of course, just go our for some of the good stuff; check out our tips on where to find the best fried chicken in London for some pointers on the very finest in the capital.

Or, if you’ve ever thought about trying the original fried chicken, consider taking a trip across the pond to North Corbin, Kentucky. Here, the Kentucky Fried Chicken empire began back in 1940 at Colonel Harland Sanders’ original restaurant, The Harland Sanders Café. The site has now been turned into a museum, with a modern KFC sitting adjacent. Just north of North Corbin, you’ll find Lexington which is the ideal base to explore (and of course, taste!) the state’s glistening and golden fried chicken.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BUTTERNUT, SWEET POTATO & CAULIFLOWER PILAF

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BUTTERNUT, SWEET POTATO & CAULIFLOWER PILAF
THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BUTTERNUT, SWEET POTATO & CAULIFLOWER PILAF

IDEAL for a delicious, nutritious, delicately spiced vegan, gluten free meal.

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-Free
  • Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus resting
  • Cooking time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 55 minutes, plus resting
  • Serves: 4

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

1 small cauliflower (about 500g), cut into small florets
350g pack Waitrose & Partners Diced Butternut and Sweet Potato
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
200g brown basmati rice, rinsed
1 tbsp Cooks’ Ingredients ras el hanout
400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
125g pomegranate seeds
2 tsp Cooks’ Ingredients dukkah
Handful coriander leaves

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Put the cauliflower, butternut and sweet potato and 1 tbsp of the oil on a baking tray and toss to coat. Cover with foil and roast for 20 minutes, then uncover and roast for a further 20 minutes, until very tender and lightly browned. 

2. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of oil in a saucepan, add the onion and garlic and cook for 5 minutes. Add the rice and ras el hanout and cook for a minute; stir in 500ml hot water and bring to the boil. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, then add the chick peas; cover and cook for a further 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. 

3. Combine the rice and roasted vegetables and transfer to a large serving platter. Leave to sit for 5 minutes, then scatter with the pomegranate seeds, dukkah and coriander to serve.

Recipe courtesy of Waitrose & Partners.

THE IDEAL TOMATO CONFIT, CELERIAC & ASPARAGUS TART

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL TOMATO CONFIT, CELERIAC & ASPARAGUS TART

Ideal for wowing guests at summer soirees.

Celeriac might seem like an outlier here, but it’s a juxtaposition which just works so well with the light spring/summery flavours of tomato and asparagus. It will feel like you’re using a lot of olive oil to cook the tomatoes, but fear not; it doesn’t end up in the final dish!

What’s more, the leftover oil will be infused with a basil, tomato and garlic flavour – great for making bruschetta, dressings for salads or veg and for using as a dip for fresh bread on another occasion. It can be kept in the fridge for up to a month.

  • Preparation time: 20 minutes + chilling
  • Cooking time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Serves: 4-6

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

½ small celeriac (about 200g)
2 tbsp olive oil
110g pack fine asparagus
1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar, to serve
Wild rocket leaves, to garnish

For the shortcrust pastry
270g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
160g coconut oil
1 tsp salt

For the confit
2 x 500g packs cherry tomatoes
2 x 25g packs basil
450ml (approx) olive oil
3 cloves garlic

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. For the shortcrust pastry, add the flour, coconut oil and salt to a food processor and blitz until it resembles breadcrumbs, then mix in 3 tbsp cold water until a dough forms. Dust a little flour on the work surface and knead the dough for a minute to bring it all together. When smooth and supple, wrap and set aside in the fridge to rest for 15 minutes.

2. Base line a 23cm x 25cm x 3cm deep, loose-bottomed pie or flan tin with baking parchment. Flour the work surface and roll out the pastry to 0.5cm thick, between 2 pieces of parchment, then carefully lift into the tin. Press the pastry into the edges of the tin, then trim it, ensuring it comes slightly over the edges. Cover the dough with parchment and baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and beans, and bake for a further 5-10 minutes until cooked through. Set aside to cool.

3. Meanwhile, reduce the oven to 150°C, gas mark 2. Add all the confit ingredients to a medium ovenproof dish that only just holds the tomatoes – the oil should come at least one-third of the way up the tomatoes. If not, add more oil. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the tomatoes are soft. Remove carefully from the oven and drain through a large sieve over a bowl to collect and keep the oil (see tip, right). Set the tomatoes aside, removing the garlic and basil when cool enough.

4. While the tomatoes are cooking, trim and peel the celeriac, and cut into thin slices about 0.5cm thick. Coat in 1 tbsp of oil and a pinch of salt and place on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until tender.

5. Heat a pan with 1 tbsp of olive oil over a high heat, add the asparagus to the pan and reduce the heat to medium, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and sauté for 2-3 minutes, moving the spears often, to cook evenly. Remove from the pan.

6. Layer the celeriac slices on the pastry base, then spread over the tomato confit and top with the asparagus. Pop in the oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and scatter with rocket. Serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy of Waitrose & Partners

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR EARL GREY FRUIT LOAF

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR EARL GREY FRUIT LOAF
THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR EARL GREY FRUIT LOAF

It’s National Picnic Week next week and we’ve got the ideal recipe from Martha Collison for an intriguing, utterly delicious Earl Grey Fruit Loaf. This one is just perfect for enjoying in the sunshine, and is particularly delicious when paired with creamy Wensleydale cheese. You could go for Stilton if you like something stronger. 

  • Preparation time: 15 minutes plus soaking
  • Cooking time: 70 minutes
  • Total time: 85 minutes plus soaking
  • Serves: 12

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

2 Earl Grey teabags
200g Love Life Raisin Mix
75g dried cranberries
150g dried apricots, chopped
2 British Blacktail Medium Free Range Eggs
200g light brown soft sugar
2 tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil
250g plain flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp clear honey

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

1. At least 6 hours before you intend to make the tea loaf, place the teabags into a large measuring jug and pour over 350ml boiling water. Allow to brew for 5 minutes, then add the raisins, cranberries and chopped apricots (leave the teabags in). Cover and leave to soak for 6 hours (or overnight) for the tea to be absorbed.

2. Preheat the oven to 160°C, gas mark 3 and line a 1kg loaf tin with baking parchment or a tin liner. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar and oil until well combined. Add the flour, baking powder and salt and mix until a thick batter forms. 

3. Remove the teabags from the steeped fruit and squeeze any excess liquid into the jug. Add the dried fruits and any remaining liquid into the batter and stir until well combined. Scrape the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. If the top of the cake starts to look too brown before cooking is over, cover with a sheet of foil for the remainder of the cooking time.

4. Allow the cake to cool slightly for 5 minutes, then use a pastry brush to coat the warm top with honey. Leave the tea bread to cool completely before slicing and serving with or without butter. This cake will keep for 2-3 weeks stored in an airtight container.

Recipes courtesy of Waitrose & Partners and Martha Collison.

Martha’s most recent book is CRAVE, published by HarperCollins. You can find her online at http://www.bakingmartha.co.uk/ and on Instagram @marthacollison.

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