If you’re looking for festive finger food to wow your guests over Christmas, and use up any leftovers from Christmas Day, then Lee Wescott’s recipe for turkey, fennel seed and Davidstow® 3 Year Special Reserve Vintage cheddar parcels is perfect for you.
Makes 20 parcels
Ingredients
200g turkey leg, minced
100g chicken breast minced
3g fennel seeds
1⁄2 whole egg
15g chervil, chopped
15g tarragon, chopped
Salt and pepper
50g dried apricot, chopped
10g panko breadcrumbs
30g Davidstow® 3 Year Special Reserve Vintage cheddar, grated
Egg yolk for glazing
Poppy seeds
400g block of puff pastry
Method
1. Preheat a fan assisted oven to 170°C
2. Mix all the ingredients above together, apart from the puff pastry, until a meatball consistency is achieved.
3. Roll out the puff pastry, approximately 7cm- 6cm by 1mm thickness. Allow to rest for 10
minutes.
4. Once all the puff pastry is cut to shape and rested, place a teaspoon full of the turkey mixture
into the centre of each puff pastry rectangles.
5. Now take in two opposite corners and pinch them together.
6. Glaze these with egg yolk, sprinkle on some poppy seeds and some more finely grated
Davidstow® 3 Year Special Reserve Vintage cheddar before baking.
7. Now bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Gratin, meaning a dish with a lightly browned crust of breadcrumbs or melted cheese, is the ultimate side dish for Christmas dinner. Use a good quality cheddar cheese like Davidstow and add hazelnuts for a fancy, festive twist.
Serves: 4
Ingredients
500g brussel sprouts
60g blanched hazelnuts
50g butter
50g flour
400g full fat milk
50g white wine
100g Davidstow® 12 Month Mature cheddar, grated
150g white leek sliced (discard the green part)
20g chopped sage
30g chopped parsley
50g breadcrumbs
Fine salt and white pepper
Method
1. Preheat a fan assisted oven to 170°c
2. Quarter the brussel sprouts and cook in boiling salted water for 1 minute. Plunge them into ice water to retain their colour and to stop them cooking.
3. Once cool, drain them well and roast in a frying pan with butter until they are lightly roasted and golden brown.
4. Toast the hazelnuts in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Allow to cool. Now crush these roughly.
5. Melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Remove the pan from the heat add the white wine. Cook this out for 1-2 minutes, stirring well.
7. Now gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to ensure you get a smooth sauce.
8. Return to the heat and simmer very gently, stirring continuously. Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
9. Remove from the heat, add the grated cheese and stir in well. Season with salt and white pepper.
10. Sweat off leeks without colour, add brussel sprout quarters, mix together and remove from the heat
11. Add crushed roasted hazelnuts and chopped herbs.
12. Place the mixture into a small gratin or earthenware dish. Now pour over the warm cheese sauce.
13. Sprinkle over breadcrumbs and some more finely grated Davidstow® 12 Month Mature cheddar.
14. Bake for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
We all know life is a rich and veritable feast. She presents myriad unforeseen hurdles and different paths to tread, and as technology grows and advances, the expectation for that path to be conventionally walked upon lessens. University no longer needs to start at 18, and only 18. People’s notion of their life’s calling may only strike later in life, and as such, options for study are now as varied and flexible as the people wanting to sign up.
It’s never been easier to get a degree without ever having to step foot on an actual, physical campus. With many online courses now available at the tips of your fingers, everything has just got much more accessible. So, here are 4 IDEAL reasons to study for your degree online.
YOU’LL HAVE TIME FOR YOUR FAMILY
It’s a problem many at uni face; the balancing act of working and earning money while spending long days at university. Often you’ll hear students speak of the financial struggle, and how hard it is to juggle a degree, attend campus and hold down a part time job.
This trapeze act can be mentally draining and, especially for mature students, can have a detrimental impact on family life. Studying online means you get the campus experience from the comfort of your own home, with a coffee in your hand and your baby in your arms, if you must. Watching online lectures and completing work as and when you feel prepared gives you a little space to breathe.
YOU CAN STILL EARN MONEY
With each new semester comes total upheaval of your schedule. Many courses can change class days and times each term, meaning your availability for employment will be constantly changing in tandem. This does not bode well for steady, stable work. If you don’t have to physically step foot on campus, then you’re a far more appealing prospect to potential employers, as your availability is in your hands, not in an institution’s. Without having to attend campus, you can simply be a lot more flexible. Which brings us to……
IT’S FLEXIBLE
Some days we wake up and everything just seems to go wrong from the moment we prize apart our eyelids. Toothpaste on your freshly ironed shirt, coffee spilt down the replacement, rain with no umbrella and a car that won’t start. Instead of having to force ourselves out of bed to attend a class, or arriving late, you can pull the covers back over your head and relax. That right there, is the feeling.
Work can be done as and when you can fit it in with work, social and family life. There will still be deadlines like any other university of course, but with no time travelling and attending a campus, you’ll have more time to complete work and make deadlines.
IT’S CHEAPER
Attending internet courses, such as Kaplan University’s online degrees, can work out cheaper than showing up in physical form. An average week on campus is costlier than you might think, with costs accruing you didn’t bargain or budget for. With travel costs, whether that be public transport or parking, lunch and all those coffees you need to get you through the day, things add up.
The luxury of studying from home means you’ll save on all those expensive sandwiches for lunch and, more impactfully, travel. It’s a win-win situation, especially on those rainy days when thinking of sitting in cold lecture hall seats can be enough to make you want to bid adieu to academia ad infinitum.
The job market in the 21st century is an ever changing, metamorphosing beast. At once immediate and impenetrable, offering opportunity but lacking security, it’s almost impossible to find your niche. With so much of the money made happening from behind a computer, it feels like face-to-face contact and making a real difference in society have become secondary concerns. Why care about what’s happening out there when you can stay inside all day? Interacting only through your keyboard; safe, warm, and ultimately, alone.
If you’re feeling that creeping sense of emptiness, then you’re not alone. Now is the time to give back; and what better way to do it than through work, enabling you to earn money while you redress the imbalance in your soul. Yes, we’re talking about a career in the healthcare industry – specifically as a nurse.
Nursing is one of those jobs that you truly put your heart into, getting out more than you put in, and while it can be physically and mentally exhausting, it can also be rewarding and life affirming. If you’re considering a switch, then here are 5 IDEAL questions for aspiring nurses to ask. Oh and if you are an aspiring nurse, check out Athona recruitment they have some of the best aspiring nurses on their books.
What Initial Schooling Is Required?
There aren’t many ‘career’ jobs out there that you can walk into and expect to land a position without the proper educational training and certification, and nursing is no exception. You wouldn’t want someone without the requisite qualifications taking care of of a loved one, so be reassured rather than deterred; the process is lengthy. In terms of nursing, the bare minimum you need is an associate’s degree. You will then be able to practice as a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN). This is the entry-level nursing position.
Is Career Progression Possible?
Now, if you’re looking at ways you can really make nursing a lifelong career, and work your way up not just in the position but also in salary, then you will need to complete a master’s degree. This allows you tackle those more advanced areas of practice.
An excellent example of this more advanced career path is on the nurse practitioner programs, such as the Family Nurse Practitioner. What this program does is teach you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to deliver primary care to adults, adolescents, children, and infants. There is often a strong emphasis on social and biomedical factors that play into the patient’s health; a complete approach to care, then.
How Will I Handle The Physical And Mental Demands Of The Job?
Granted, every job carries with it a certain amount of stress, but nursing tends to stretch and extend this definition to its limits at times. Not only that, but it can be an absolutely exhausting job from a physical standpoint. There is very little, if any, downtime in a day. You will be on your feet pretty much your entire shift, you may be required to do lifting in order to move patients, and you’ll need to be carrying and moving medical equipment around as needed for patients.
A typical shift for a nurse lasts 12 hours and, in general, they tend to do this for three days in a row. It can be very difficult to find the energy to get through those shifts when you first start out and you aren’t yet used to it.
What this means is that as a nurse you need to be sure that you are taking care of your own mental and physical well-being. This includes getting enough sleep each night, eating a healthy well-balanced diet high in nutrients and vitamins, making sure you stay hydrated during your shift, exercising regularly to help combat stress, and getting into the habit of leaving your day at the ‘office’ when you leave and not take the stress home with you. There is also support available for nurses going through a period of struggle.
Can I Cope With Being Underappreciated?
What is most striking to those entering the field of nursing is just how underappreciated they might feel. While there will be plenty of patients who are thankful for your help and assistance, there’ll also be plenty who outwardly offer little appreciation for your skills. Please bear in mind during these times of perceived ungratefulness that patients are going through a tough, emotional time and should be forgiven for being inward looking.
On these days it can be helpful to focus on the job at hand and try to keep emotions out of the mix. You can also look to your co-workers for support, as they will understand better than anyone about the frustrations you are feeling.
Do I Want To Make A Difference?
With all the talk of stress, physical and mental strain, and the impression of being undervalued, we wouldn’t blame you for not getting to the end of this article. If the answer is yes to this final question however, there is no better job to consider. Nursing has many exciting strands, and needn’t be confined simply to hospital shifts. You’ll learn and hone a variety of skills extending way beyond simply taking care of people, but most of all, you’ll do just that; care for people. And though people may not initially show it, you have the opportunity to positively impact so many lives and be in one of the most cherished careers around.
University fees; the bane of a student’s life both during and after university, and a financial burden many have to live with long after they graduate. And that’s before considering all the other costs one is likely to incur. That degree? It’s sure gonna cost you. Increasingly, young people are turning to part time work to cope with the pressure that studying can exact on their wallet.
It’s imperative when contemplating employment during your university years to strike the right balance; you want to make the most of the opportunity to get a decent degree, have a fulfilling and active social life and transition into ‘real’ life not crippled by debt. That is the dream. Making it a reality, though, is far from easy.
Well, if you’re thinking of funding your studies and cost of living though part-time work, we’re here to help. With the help of students from Robert Gordon University Aberdeen, here are 5 IDEAL tips on how to balance work and university.
STUDY YOUR SCHEDULE FIRST
Once you’ve received your study schedule for the semester or even year, familiarise yourself with it, inside and out. Bear in mind that some universities don’t allow part-time work as a matter of principle and encouragement to focus on your degree. Remember, you’re at university to earn qualifications which will help you in later life, and as such, study should always be the priority. Don’t take on an excess of hours at work which will interfere with your uni schedule. Prioritise and put your degree first.
Anything you can dip in and out of according to how much uni work you have on and your financial needs at the time is perfect. There are more than likely research opportunities at local colleges and universities going too, which involve taking part in a survey or discussion group for a one-off payment. It may not be much, but every little helps right? Or consider starting up one of these side hustles which will allow you to set your own schedule and get paid when you want.
SACRIFICE YOUR SUMMER
At first, this suggestion may fill you with fear. But bear with us. Knuckling down to full time employment over the long summer months can free up time and money during your semesters to help you make the most of the uni experience.
While many dream of long holidays in the sun during their breaks, the reality is that you’ll spend most of it on your parent’s sofa, playing playstation and eating their cheese. So, make the choice to sacrifice your summer to work; gaining invaluable work experience – as well as money – in the process.
EAT HEALTHILY, SLEEP WELL AND EXERCISE
We get it. The stress of juggling study and a part time job is intense. Any precious free time you might be bestowed with will understandably go on socialising. But, it’s really important to keep healthy so you can work, study and have fun, all to the best of your ability!
Your diet is the first place to start; remember to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and resist the 3am kebabs with all your might. Next, gym memberships are usually cheap (or better, free) for students, so make the most of that gift by signing up and keeping fit. Your body will thank you for it.
Get a decent night’s sleep with as much frequency as you can, too. Finally – and we hate to sound like your parents – we need to talk about booze. Of course, it wouldn’t be university without the occasional letting down of your hair, but try to not binge to excess with regularity. Your liver will thank you for it.
DON’T NEGLECT YOUR SOCIAL LIFE
University is about many things, and one of them is making lifelong friendships and realising who you are as a person. So, don’t neglect your social life; keep active, healthy and in touch. Remember your friends and family as they will be a big help in relieving stress, so don’t be a stranger.
Is the modern world getting you down? Does the hyperconnected globe leave you feeling more isolated than ever? Are you tired of having a strong internet connection? Do you hate (having to avoid) the eye contact with your neighbours whenever your paths cross? Well, getting remote could be the answer.
The idea of living off-grid is getting increasingly popular with a generation of people constantly bombarded with information, advertising and unnecessary alert upon unnecessary alet. For those looking to regain their independence and identity from a world all too keen to identify and identikit us, all without compromising on a certain quality of life, there are plenty of remote locations across the UK which might appeal.
We’ve teamed up with Flogas, a gas cylinder supplier which ensures you have more off-grid energy options, to help you get away from the hustle and bustle of modern urban life. So, here are 7 IDEAL U.K locations for living off the grid.
Fair Isle, Shetland, Scotland
Population: 55*
Measuring in at just three miles long and one and half a mile wide, Fair Isle is a part of Scotland renowned for its community spirit, cultural heritage and wildlife — the latter of which ranges from black guillemots, fulmars, puffins and razorbills to both grey and common seals, as well as whales and dolphins.
Owned by the National Trust for Scotland since 1954, the island which sits between Orkney and Shetland is mostly inhabited at its southern end.
Despite its small size, there’s actually quite a bit to see and do around Fair Isle. The Fair Isle Bird Observatory is world famous for its scientific research around bird migration and seabird breeding colonies, while the George Waterston Memorial Centre and Museum is the place to find a huge collection of artefacts which offer a glimpse into the location’s rich past. There’s even a golf course — arguably the most remote across all of Britain, and not a Donald Trump in sight.
Foula, Shetland, Scotland
Population: 38*
Meaning ‘bird island’, Foula sits 20 miles to the west of Wells in the Shetland Islands and lives up to its name by playing host to one of the largest colonies of Great Skuas — or bonxies — across Britain.
As well as wildlife to seek out, Foula is also the place to find the huge 1,200-foot-high Da Kame. These cliffs rise so high from the sea that on a clear day views can be enjoyed from their tip all the way across to neighbouring locations like Unst and the above mentioned Fair Isle.
The Knoydart Peninsula, Highland, Scotland
Population: 98*
The fact that the Knoydart Peninsula can only be accessed by either boat or foot just goes to show how isolated this 55,000-acre site is.
Nestled between Loch Hourn and Loch Nevis in the Lochaber district of the Scottish Highlands, the Knoydart Peninsula has been hailed as one of the last great wilderness areas in Scotland. Fortunately, the saying ‘leaving the best until last’ holds true here, with heart-pumping mountain passes to hike along, sandy inlets to explore and so much breath-taking coastal and mountain scenery waiting to be discovered.
As for where to call home, Inverie is the main settlement area of the Knoydart Peninsula and is the place to find the region’s primary school, post office, a selection of community shops, the Knoydart Pottery & Tearoom and The Old Forge Inn — the most remote pub in mainland Britain.
The Holy Island Of Lindisfarne, Northumberland
Population: 180*
The birthplace of England’s Christian Heritage, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne off the Northumberland coast is so isolated that it’s entirely cut off from the rest of the world twice a day when it’s paved causeway becomes submerged during times of high tide.
Fortunately, there’s so much to see and do when on the island. A peaceful and unspoiled land awaits, as does Lindisfarne Priory. Once the home of St Oswald, it was here that the precious Lindisfarne Gospels were created.
Lindisfarne Castle will also be difficult to ignore, especially since the 16th century structure — which now serves as a quirky holiday home following a makeover by architect Edward Lutyens — sits high atop one of Lindisfarne’s craggy hills.
Calf of Man, Isle of Man
Population: 2*
Sitting on the southern-most tip of the Isle of Man — hence its name — the Calf of Man is only one and a half miles long and one mile wide. It’s surprising just how much can be packed into this 600-acre rocky outcrop though, which is currently owned by the Manx National Heritage.
There’s a bird observatory and nature reserve to be sought out, for one, with the Calf of Man playing host to many species of birds — both seabird colonies and migrating birds — as well as a significant population of rabbits. Fans of nature will also be happy to hear that the island is a destination primarily filled with flat heathland and coastal grassland, while ancient burial grounds will appeal to those seeking history.
Lundy Island, Devon
Population: 28*
Situated 12 miles off the northern coast of Devon, Lundy Island is a small wind-swept destination that grabbed attention in 2017 when it gained the moniker of being England’s first Marine Conservation Zone.
Owned by the National Trust, Lundy Island is a peaceful retreat where no cars can be found and there’s only a single shop and a single pub to explore. Fortunately, there’s so much wildlife to seek out to make the most of the time — a variety of seabirds, grey seals, dolphins and even a basking shark or two can be viewed on or from the island on a given day.
Bardsey Island, North Wales
Population: 4*
Sitting across from Wales’ rugged Lleyn Peninsula, Bardsey Island — or Ynys Enlli by the Welsh tongue as well as the Island of the Currents by its literal translation — has been an important pilgrimage site as far back as Medieval times.
Historians will also be intrigued to hear that there’s a legendary claim that Bardsey Island is the burial site of King Arthur, while those after nature can enjoy daily views of migratory birds, dolphins, porpoises, rare butterflies and what has been claimed to be the oldest apple tree in the world
Christmas is a very expensive time with all the presents to buy and festive gatherings to attend so saving money on your energy bills would be a great help to take a little pressure off your bank balance. The energy saving experts at www.zenithhome.co.uk offer some simple tips to help you save money by being more energy efficient when you are rustling up the Christmas dinner. Making these small changes will ensure that your energy bills won’t be the reason your bank balance is suffering!
Room temperature is best
Defrost the turkey, and any other frozen food thoroughly, to room temperature before you start cooking, this is far more energy efficient than cooking chilled food as it reduces your overall cooking time.
One pot wonder
Steaming your Christmas dinner vegetables such as carrots, cabbage and even the dreaded sprouts is far more energy efficient as the layered compartments of a steamer means that only one flame is used for cooking three types of vegetable. Also make sure that you use the correct sized pan for the flame, you will need the pan to cover the whole flame otherwise heat will be lost. Keeping the lid on will also prevent heat loss and be more energy efficient.
Magical microwave
Use the microwave oven where possible as this is the most energy-efficient cooking method, so why not heat up the gravy or warm up the Christmas pudding in there? But remember to switch off your microwave at the mains afterwards so it isn’t left using electricity to power its clock.
Baby it’s cold outside
Why not take advantage of the winter chill and keep all your drinks outside, the cold air will keep them lovely and chilled without taking up room in your fridge. Keeping too many items in the fridge reduces its energy efficiency so by removing all the bottles, you will save a lot of energy.
Optimise that oven
Basting, basting, basting seems to be the cardinal rule for a moist turkey dinner at Christmas but as you know, this involves opening and closing of the oven. Make sure that minimum heat is lost by ensuring this is a swift process and do not leave the oven door open whilst basting.
Love the leftovers
You will be delighted to hear that eating everything in sight at Christmas is actually the most energy efficient option as food waste sent to landfills decomposes and produces methane which is incredibly harmful to the environment. So get creative with your leftovers and make sure that all those chocolates are eaten too!
Whether you’re in, out or on the fence, our relationship with Europe and theirs with us has been under a particularly strong, EU funded microscope recently. The debates have been done to death, with battle lines drawn in both metric and imperial, leaving no one’s dignity intact.
In an IDEAL world, there would be no us and them, just an amalgamative, harmonious one. We’ve made great use of that lovely, visa-free, automatic-right-of-admission travel to experience all that Europe has to offer, and along the way, have luxuriated in some routines we think would be ripe for integrating into British culture. So, with arms and minds wide open, here are 5 IDEAL European routines we should all embrace.
Vacay à la Français
The average French worker can expect 30 days a year of paid vacation, compared to around 20 days for most other European countries. What’s more, legal rulings in the country protect their right to be undisturbed by work when enjoying downtime. This, combined with a host of other benefits and perks for workers, means the French have a most favourable work/life balance and an ethos which is all about enjoying life; la joie de vivre, indeed.
Continental Cycling
Capitals on the continent are synonymous with cycling, with Copenhagen and Amsterdam perennially named as the most cycle-friendly cities on the planet. Indeed, on a recent list of the world’s 20 most bike-friendly cities, 85% (yes, 85!) were in Europe. The air feels clean, there’s less noise and the people have a healthy glow and toned frame – what more could you want?
Recycle Like A German
A commitment to sustainability seems engraved and ingrained in the German national consciousness, and this is no more apparent than in their obsession with recycling. Their system has been so effective, in fact, that they now have to import rubbish to keep their recycling plants operational.
Swedish Fika
The Danes and Norwegians have hggye. The Finns practice kalsarikannit. and the Swedes cherish fika. The Scandinavians, it seems, have a way of taking something completely habitual and mundane, giving it a name, and turning it into the ‘secret to their success’.
Fika is akin to a coffee break, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a state of mind; a commitment to unwinding and sharing downtime with colleagues, in turn creating a friendly, informal space where creativity can breathe and ideas percolate. No wonder then, that the Swedes are so often mentioned as the most creative country in the world.
Spanish Siestas & Fiestas
Although the siesta is rarely practiced with the regularity we like to assume in Spain, it’s a great idea for so many reasons. Not only have scientists confirmed the health benefits of a siesta, which include reduced stress levels as well as its ability to helps cardiovascular function and improve alertness and memory, an afternoon nap is just a delightful treat.
The Spanish ethos of late, leisurely dinners is also something we can very much get on board with. It promotes slow grazing, conversation, community, and a sense of celebration and fiesta – something us Brits admire about the Spanish a lot.
The interactive map below by Translate Media, who conducted a survey of 2,500 people across Europe, depicts just what it is that we Brits love so much about Europe and what they love about us in return. It found that one fifth of us praise Spain’s love for fiestas and it’s no wonder why – who doesn’t love a good party. So as Yusuf Bhana from TranslateMedia so perfectly puts ‘ let’s celebrate our differences and enjoy what each has to offer’. We think that embracing these 5 IDEAL European routines is the perfect place to start.
Christmas is nothing without a festive tipple and now ‘tis the season for winter warmers, festive fizz and much merriment. Putting the spirit in Christmas (quite literally) here’s our round up of IDEAL Christmas cocktails to enjoy in London this holiday season.
MARSHMALLOW INFUSED MARTINI
What: This Christmas, May Fair Bar, May Fair Terrace and May Fair Kitchen have created an indulgent marshmallows-infused Martini to treat their customers. A mix of marshmallow infused vodka and pineapple juice, topped with a toasted marshmallow garnish is surely all you need to hear to entice you. Just try it!
What: Add a little spice to the festive season this year at The Cinnamon Club, with their warming Christmas cocktail ‘Twas the night before Christmas.’ Served in a festive bauble and priced at £12.50, this wintry tipple is a blend of Ophir spiced gin, cranberry, fennel, rosemary and tonic, garnished with an orange peel. Those are some serious flavours which we think work magically together, and we can’t wait for a taste.
Where:The Old Westminster Library, Great Smith St, Westminster, London SW1P 3BU
What: Get into the festive spirit from 38 floors high at Bōkan, with sweeping views across the capital and beyond. Their mince pie cocktail – made with Sipsmith Gin, cloudy pear juice, egg white and mince pie syrup (water, sugar and mincemeat) is a must-try, bringing together our two favourite things – mince pies and gin – in perfect harmony. It costs £9.
Flock to Aviary at Christmas and get a load of this indulgent, rum-filled cocktail. The perfect creamy and sultry addition to the festive season, the Hot Chocolate Rum (£8) treat, made with Gosling Black Seal rum, Dark Deluxe chocolate and milk and served with a sweet and sticky marshmallow garnish, is the decadent delight your Christmas has been waiting for.
What: Served in a giant glass tea pot and filled with pear vodka, passion fruit liqueur, lime juice, almond syrup and sweet Champagne, this delicately fruity mix is a festive triumph and ideal for spreading some festive spirit around through sharing – that’s what Christmas is about after all.
P.S As controversial as stealing the last mince pie, this year Crocker’s Folly is serving a Salmon inspired cocktail. The Salmon Fizzis an intriguing combination of Alaskan Salmon vodka, orange compote, elderflower liqueur and Champagne. Smoked salmon canapés are so last year, 2017 is all about The Salmon Fizz.
Christmas is all about food, food and more food, and the month of December is undoubtedly the best time of year for indulging in festive desserts. At no time of year does the sweet stuff become more abundant and appealing, with so many traditional puddings making their annual appearance around this time. This year however, all those mince pies and Christmas puddings are getting a run for their money. From a deliciously seasonal mince pie hybrid to European Christmas inspired ice creams, here are 6 IDEAL Christmas sweets in London you simply must try.
MINCE PIE CROISSANT
What: When festive cheer meets quality French patisserie, magic happens. This all-butter croissant filled with rich, sweet mincemeat and dusted with icing sugar is the perfect grab-and-go snack whilst on the move, and makes for the ideal breakfast to wake up to on Christmas morning.
What: Bad Brownie is famous for selling indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate goodies that will make anyone smile. This year they’ve created some Christmas Brownie balls which you won’t be able to resist. Our favourite is the ‘Christmas Pudding’ – a pocket of brandy butter wrapped in spiced fruit brownie, covered in dark chocolate, white ganache and a cherry.
Where: You can buy these brownies ONLINE in the UK and at markets around London, including Maltby Street Market (Sat & Sun) and at Selfridges everyday.
What: Get your baubles + bubbles this festive season with an irresistibly Christmassy dessert. This indulgent and creamy cheesecake is a delicious alternative to the traditional festive sweet treat and is a thing of pure joy. If you fancy making it yourself you can! We persuaded the guys at Bar + Block to share the recipe for this gorgeous cheesecake here.
Where: Bar + Block, 26-30 York Way, Kings Cross, London N1 9AA
What: The lovely people at Doughnut Time have created festive inspired doughnuts that taste as Christmassy as they look. Our favourite is the ‘Treat Yo’Elves doughnut’; A Nutella filled, chocolate glazed doughnut topped with dark chocolate flake, holiday sprinkle mix, miniature chocolate chip cookies and a milk bottle lolly, complete with a cheeky note for Santa. Ridiculously sweet and indulgent, Father Christmas can only wish to get one of these by the chimney.
Where: Doughnut Time, 96 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 5E
What: The guys at Gelupo are celebrating a pan-European Christmas (and what IDEAL likes to think of as two fingers up to Brexit) with their range of festive gelatos, embracing just some of the amazing flavours and food that Europe has to offer. Think Christmas Cake gelaton with pieces of rich fruitcake inspired by the UK. Panettone from Italy, Stollen flavoured Luxembourg and Advocaat from the Netherlands are just some of the exciting, festive flavours you can try.
What: With all the flavours of the traditional mince pie combined with Crossdown’s signature sourdough, this seasonally inspired doughnut is the sugar. They fill their mini dough bites with home-made fruit mincemeat before hand-dipping them in a brandy butter glaze and topping with a vanilla pie crust crumble. We wish we could eat this doughnut all year round – Father Christmas take note.
Where: Various Locations across London. Find a Crosstown near you here
P.S Christmas doughnuts are everywhere this December, another one we couldn’t leave off the list is Breadahead’s Christmas pudding doughnut which is topped with a gingerbread star and rolled in cinnamon sugar. Find it in Borough Market alongside other festive foodie treats.
Hey you! Yes, you. Stop reading IDEAL magazine and hop to it; there’s work to be done. Ok, maybe first, finish this article. View it as an investment.
Everyone is guilty of procrastinating – even as we type this, we’re perusing buzzfeed lists and cute baby videos – but some of us (yep, us) are far worse than others. When there are deadlines to meet or a dissertation to finish, the looming presence of procrastination takes on a whole lot more sinister form. So, keep this in mind when you get to the bottom of our 4 IDEAL tips on finishing your dissertation.
SMART Goals
You may have done this so many times in University already, but making your own SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based) goals can help you earn little wins, one baby step at a time. If all you have in mind is conquering your dissertation as quickly as possible, it is going to feel like you’re never getting anywhere as the goal is too large and the finish line too distant. Not only will ticking smaller items off your list feel rewarding, you’ll probably end up getting more done with manageable, tangible objectives.
Remember, your dissertation isn’t going to be a world-changing masterpiece the first time around. But with each draft, page, paragraph, sentence and idea completed, progress is made. Keep the targets small and the eventual results will be bigger.
Rid Yourself Of Distraction
In the modern world, distractions are everywhere, and impossible to ignore. If you can’t help yourself – and let’s be honest, who can? – ensure your phone isn’t in the room or is simply switched off. That text can more than likely wait and now is not the time to check the latest snapchat filters. Try to work in a separate room to family or housemates, and if possible avoid working in bed, as this can make you feel tired and is not a productive space. Well, not for university work, anyway.
It’s All In The Planning
Having a clear plan for your essay is as important as the content itself. Clarity, brevity and coherence is essential to academic success. Looking at old dissertations can help give you structure and allow you to see where you should be heading with your dissertation. . With a fixed, structured dissertation plan, procrastination will be easier to avoid.
Schedule Writing Into Your Daily Routine
Dedicating scheduled time slots to your dissertation can help you focus and ensure you sit down and actually do something. It can also free up time, conversely, for r’n’r activities, as you’ll be more time efficient in your efforts. Use a diary, calendar or app on your phone to set times when you’re likely to be at home and at a loose(ish) end.
Once time has been allocated to academia, do not make any extra-curricular plans in the same slot. It may seem obvious, but this extra push of self-discipline can be the make or break between winners and losers. Keeping allocations light originally – 15 minute slots and working your way up, for instance – should keep procrastination at bay.
Writing a dissertation can be hard work and your peers will be in the same boat. Don’t judge yourself by anyone else’s standards as everyone works at a different pace and productivity. Good luck and close that Chrome window now!
This year, free-from is no longer an afterthought and the Christmas spread will be fit for all.
Lurpak has perfected a gluten-free interpretation of a classic suitable for the whole family.
Deliciously rich and moreish, it’s the IDEAL finishing touch to Boxing Day lunch.
Serves: 6
Prep time: 40 mins
Cooking time: 12 mins
Ingredients
For the sponge
5 large eggs
140g caster sugar
200g dark chocolate
1tsp instant coffee
For the butter icing
50g dark chocolate
100g Lurpak® Unsalted butter, room temperature
200g icing sugar
Method
Preheat your oven to 200°C / 180°C fan / gas mark 6 and cover a 33 x 23cm baking tray
with non-stick parchment paper.
Over a low heat, melt the chocolate and coffee, then separate the yolk of the egg from the
whites. Beat the egg yolks and sugar, then pour in the melted chocolate mix and beat until
combined. Finally, whip the egg whites to a soft peak, and fold the two mixtures together.
Pour the mixture onto the lined baking tray and bake for 12 minutes. Leave to cool.
To make the butter icing, melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of simmering water. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat the Lurpak® Unsalted butter until soft then gradually sift in the icingsugar, then stir in the melted chocolate. If the mixture is too stiff, add a touch of milk to loosen. Once the sponge has cooled, place a piece of baking paper the size of the tin on the worktop. Sieve over a light dusting of cocoa powder and turn the sponge onto it.
Remove the top layer of baking paper and spread the sponge with the buttercream, then
with the help of the bottom piece of baking paper, roll tightly, ensuring no paper gets caught in the roll. Cut off about a centimetre from each end to tidy and place on a dish to serve.
These wee “tattie” scone canapés from Castle MacLellan are IDEAL for any Christmas party. Traditionally tattie scones are made with leftover potatoes – another idea for boxing day perhaps?
Makes approximately 30 small canapés
Ingredients
125g potatoes cut into cubes
100g plain flour
half teaspoon baking powder
25g melted butter
4 tablespoons milk
1 egg beaten
2 tablespoon of oil, for frying
Castle MacLellan pâté of choice
Method
Cook the potatoes in plenty of salted simmering water until tender. Drain well and mash.
Sift the flour and baking powder into a bowl, add the butter, milk and egg
Mash well and add plenty of seasoning and mix to a soft sticky dough
Heat some oil in a large heavy flat based frying pan
Fry small teaspoons of the mixture as you would Scotch pancakes for 3 mins on each side until golden brown. Leave until cold.
Fill a piping bag with a large star nozzle, and soften the pâté of your choice with a fork and place in the piping bag. Pipe pâté onto the scones – any Castle MacLellan pâté works well!
A million articles about Christmas’ propensity for stress and strain later, and it’s time to admit something; there’s a lot of downtime during the festive season. We regress into familiar familial roles and spend far too much time sprawled on the sofa in our pyjamas. Reruns of programmes we didn’t like the first time round become de rigueur, you find yourself on first name terms with every hopeful single on Dinner Date and you take your annual trip to the stale, musty ‘local’ twice in the same day, just to kill time. Suddenly someone’s suggestion of Monopoly sounds like a masterstroke…..
Well, if you’re looking for a time filler which has a bit more festive personality and gets the whole family involved and on their feet, then look no further. Here is our list of 5 alternative Christmas party games IDEAL for all the family.
THE WRAPPING RACE
A way of recycling the plentiful used wrapping paper if nothing else, The Wrapping Race may seem a silly proposition when first voiced, but in reality, it’s a hoot. All you need is scissors, wrapping paper, ribbon and sellotape (all likely to be lying around anyway), plus a willing participant to be mummified. Two teams race to wrap up one of their members, with scores awarded for neatness, flair and body coverage. Frivolous, sure, but we all know how families can get surprisingly competitive! Store your most irritating family member wrapped up under the tree until the New Year for bonus points.
FESTIVALLY THEMED BINGO
First things first, you’re gonna need your very own festive bingo cards. Get them here, or make your own. Set up your living room as a Bingo hall for extra ambience, and replace the traditional Bingo calls of Legs Eleven, Up To Tricks et al with some amusing, creative Christmas versions; 24 Santa Claus, 33 Christmas Tree, 56 Saint Nick…..you get the idea! If competitiveness gets the better of you and you’re in need of a little practice.
CHRISTMAS SONG QUIZ
An easy, fun way to get festive, this one. You’ll need Apple Music or Spotify and an encyclopedic knowledge of Christmas music. Download a playlist of festive hits and shuffle the pack, playing a few seconds of each song. In teams, points are earned for the song title, who it’s by and the year it was released. Simples.
HEAD’S UP
Drunken charades a bit cliched? Used up all your Pictionary paper? Played 20 questions just one too many times? Well, we’ve found a game which incorporates the best of all these festive family favourites and then some. Heads Up is available on Android or Apple and is an absolute blast! Leave your pride, dignity and any semblance of humility at the door for the best possible results. Holiday Charades is a Christmas themed version of the game if you want to go the extra merry mile.
CHRISTMAS BELLY LIMBO
If you have an old Father Christmas suit lying around in the attic (hey, who doesn’t?) then you’re good to go. Don the outfit, then strap a pillow to your belly – or simply eat double quantities of Christmas dinner – and set up a festive limbo pole; we’re thinking fairy lights are a nice touch. Stick some festive music on and get down!
The party season is in full swing and many of us will be trying to hide our dark circles and dehydration. Redness, irritation and dryness can be caused through cold weather and central heating, team that with everything that comes with it being party season and it’s no wonder the skin is left feeling in need of some TLC. With this in mind Skin Matters have shared their top tips to maintain skin health during the party season.
Ice water plunge
A cold mask for 20 minutes features in quite a few of Skin Matters facials – it soothes, refreshes and tightens and also takes inflammation away and brightens the skin. If you’ve had some late nights this is a great simple way to brighten up the skin and take down any inflammation or puffy eyes! Washing your face with cold water soothes, refreshes and tightens. We use iced water ourselves in our home routines, plunging the face in iced water every morning followed by a cold shower every other day. This stimulates and aids fat burn, so do it after a workout! We would also recommend using ice to reduce redness or inflamed spots. Cucumber water in an ice tray freeze, massaged on the skin, really freshens and reduces heat, all whilst moisturising the skin.
Detox with tea and electrolytes
During party season many of us indulge ourselves a little more than usual, a little more often. You can hide the symptoms by taking extra antioxidants, drinking green tea or taking electrolytes. Couple this with eating well where you can, you need plenty of super greens.
Night time is cell recovery time
There’s quite a lot of uncertainty around what a serum is and what it does. Even if you use a great moisturizer at night a serum may still be beneficial. Whilst moisturisers keep the skin hydrated, serums such as Estee Lauder, Night Repair penetrate the skin more deeply to deliver key ingredients. Serums at bedtime assist with skin’s cellular recovery with high concentrations of certain active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid (to reduce lines), vitamin C (to brighten the skin) or glycolic acid (an exfoliant), to name just a few.
Hydrate inside and out
Hydrate from the inside out, get plenty of vitamin C and omegas. Moisturise and protect using an oil based moisturiser with vitamin A, C and E if the skin is particularly dry, treat yourself to a professional specialist treatments such as an Advanced Vitamin Facial to nourish and soothe the skin.
