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4 IDEAL STEPS TO MAKING YOUR BUSINESS MORE ECO-FRIENDLY

Editorial Team
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recycle-2

Being an entrepreneur can certainly have its benefits, but it also comes with responsibilities. One area where you might feel under pressure is your company’s carbon footprint. People are increasingly aware of the importance of protecting the planet, and so it’s no surprise that a rising number of businesses are looking for ways to go green. So, if you’re keen to give your company’s environmental credentials a boost, keep reading. Here are four steps you can follow to make your company more eco-friendly.

Use renewable energy sources

From powering up your computer, to switching on lights and heating systems, to boiling the kettle, you may not realise how much energy your company uses on an average day. So that your business is able to stay up and running without doing unnecessary harm to the environment, you could use renewable energy sources instead of relying solely on mains electricity and gas. For example, you could have solar panels installed on your premises. As energy suppliers Flogas point out, this can help keep your carbon emissions low and enable you to benefit from significantly reduced overheads.

Set up a ‘cycle to work’ scheme

It’s no secret that car emissions are bad for the environment, and since it’s likely a large proportion of your personal drive into work each day, now could be the ideal time to set up a ‘cycle to work’ scheme. These programmes encourage workers to ditch their motors and cycle instead, which in turn puts less strain on the environment. When you sign up, you’ll be able to take advantage of National Insurance savings, while your employees can benefit from discounted bikes and accessories. Aside from being kind to the planet, this is a great way to promote a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Introduce a recycling system

Making a conscious effort to recycle is an easy yet highly effective way of making your business more eco-friendly. Instead of carelessly using one bin to get rid of scraps of paper and unwanted plastic packaging, you could introduce a recycling system and encourage your employees to separate their rubbish. Although this is a fairly simple task, it’s a great way to make sure your business is doing its bit for the environment.

Go digital

While there may be certain pieces of paperwork you simply need to have hard copies of, for everything else you could go digital. By scanning, uploading and storing vital information on your computer system, you’ll be able to significantly reduce the amount of paper you need to use, which is good news for the planet. There are a whole host of electronic sharing platforms you and your team can use to share and edit documents. Aside from being a more eco-friendly approach, it will mean you’re able to spend much less on paper and printer ink.

By putting these suggestions into practice, your organisation is guaranteed to reduce its harmful impact on the environment.

 

 

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CRISPY BEEF WITH SOY & CITRUS GLAZE FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CRISPY BEEF WITH SOY & CITRUS GLAZE FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

Brasserie Blanc, the home of real French cooking have shared this recipe for crispy beef with soy and citrus glaze with IDEAL. Enjoy!

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE DRESSING

  • Zest and juice of 3 limes
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 2 tbsp palm sugar
  • 2 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 1 cm piece of ginger, peeled and grated

FOR THE CRISPY BEEF

  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 4 tbsp cornflour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 400g minute steak, sliced thinly into strips

FOR THE SLAW

  • 2 carrots, cut into long thin strips using a vegetable peeler
  • ¼ white cabbage, finely sliced
  • ¼ red cabbage, finely sliced
  • 4 spring onions, finely sliced
  • Handful of coriander, leaves picked

TO PLACE

  • 1 Bag of mixed salad leaves
  • 4 tbsp cashews, toasted
  • 2 candy beetroot (or red, if you can’t find candy beetroot), finely sliced
  • 2 tbsp white sesame seeds

METHOD

  1. To make the dressing, put all the ingredients (apart from the lime and orange zest) in to a small saucepan. Simmer until thickened and syrupy, stir in the zest and set aside.
  2. Heat 2-3cm of vegetable or sunflower oil in a wok or deep pan. You can test if it’s hot enough by dropping a cube of white bread in – the oil is ready when the bread turns golden in just under a minute.
  3. While you’re waiting for the oil to heat up, make the batter for the beef by mixing the eggs, cornflour and salt together. Dip the beef slices in the batter and carefully place in the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown. Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper before coating with some of the dressing.
  4. In a big bowl, mix all slaw ingredients together.
  5. In a separate bowl, toss the mixed salad leaves and cashews with the remaining dressing and divide amongst four plates. Top the salad with the crispy beef strips and decorate with the beetroot slices and slaw. Finish with a sprinkling of sesame seeds.

www.brasserieblanc.com

IDEAL FOR DINNER: MALABAR FISH CURRY WITH TOASTED COCONUT FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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IDEAL FOR DINNER: MALABAR FISH CURRY WITH TOASTED COCONUT FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

Seafood lovers will delight in this recipe for Malabar fish curry courtesy of our friends at Brasserie Blanc. This classic French colonial recipe, made with grilled king prawns and served with toasted coconut is absolutely delicious. 

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

For the marinade

  • 1 tsp galangal, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 6 tbsp sunflower oil
  • ½ tsp chilli curry powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • Generous pinch of salt
  • 450g skinless hake fillets

For the curry sauce

  • 5 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1-2 Birdseye chillis, roughly chopped (deseeded if you don’t like it too hot)
  • 400g tin chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Thai fish sauce (Nam Pla)
  • 1 tsp fresh turmeric, grated
  • Thumb-sized piece ginger, peeled and grated
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, 1 finely chopped, 1 crushed
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp tamarind paste
  • 2 onions, diced
  • 1 tbsp palm sugar or soft light brown sugar
  • ½ tsp grated nutmeg
  • 3-4 tbsp sunflower oil
  • 3 lime leaves
  • 400g tin coconut milk
  • 180g raw king prawns

For the pilaf

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 350g long grain rice, rinsed
  • 1 lime leaf
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 400g tin of coconut milk

To garnish

  • Crispy shallots
  • Small bunch of coriander, leaves picked
  • Coconut flakes

METHOD

  1. Put all the marinade ingredients in the small bowl of a food processor and blitz until smooth. Place in a large plastic freezer bag with the fish, turning the fish in the bag a few times to ensure it is thoroughly coated. Secure the bag with a loose knot and put on a plate in the fridge to marinate overnight.
  2. To make the sauce, blend all the ingredients (except for 1 lemongrass stalk, the oil, lime leaves and coconut milk) in a food processor until smooth.
  3. Heat the oil in a large casserole and add the lemongrass and lime leaves. Cook until fragrant, then add the curry paste and cook for two minutes. Add 400ml of boiling water and the coconut milk and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
  4. While the sauce is cooking, make the pilaf. Melt the butter in a pan and cook the onion for 3-5 mins until soft. Add the rice and stir to coat with the melted butter. Cook in the pan for a further minute until the rice begins to turn translucent.
  5. Add the lime leaf, salt, 300ml of boiling water and the coconut milk. Bring to the boil, then put the lid on and turn down the heat. Simmer very gently for 15-18 mins or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Drain and set aside.
  6. Remove the lemongrass and the lime leaves from the sauce and add the fish and prawns. Put the lid on and simmer for 5 mins or until the hake is just cooked and flaking and the prawns are pink through.
  7. Sprinkle the rice with the crispy shallots and coriander and scatter the coconut over the curry. Serve immediately.

www.brasserieblanc.com

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR GETTING A NEW JOB IN 2018

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR GETTING A NEW JOB IN 2018

In addition to losing weight, and spending more time with family, many people will set a New Year’s resolution to improve their professional lives in the coming year. According to research, one of the top 10 most popular resolutions is job-related, whether it’s landing a new job, a promotion, or to earn more money.

As a result, recruitment agencies across the country will receive a surge of candidates in January, both from people who are looking for a career change and from those that want to get back into the job market after a period of absence. We asked Recruitment Services, Cheltenham  to share their ideal tips to help you stand out above other candidates in 2018.

Promote yourself

When interviewed by a recruitment agency, remember that you still need to promote yourself fully, so that, in turn, they can “sell” you effectively to the job market. An interview with an agency, no matter how informal, is just as important as any other job interview, be presentable and be on time.

Appearance

Appearance is really important when looking for work, and first impressions count. Plan and check the details of your appointment, make sure you leave yourself enough time to get there and, if applicable, where you can park your car. These things might sound trivial but they could make all the difference.

Attention to detail

When you get to the stage of making an application, check that you submit exactly what is being asked. It is surprising how many people don’t send a covering letter or fill in an application by hand when asked to do so. Neglecting to follow instructions shows a lack of attention to detail and this can be detrimental to your application.

Tailor your CV

Tailor your CV to the job you are applying for. As an agency we realise that you will probably be applying for more than one job, so make sure you know exactly what the requirements are for each job and show that you have the specific skills needed.

Manage your applications

Keep a spreadsheet of every job you apply for and make a record of the closing dates, contact names and numbers for each job. This way, you can keep track of all the roles you have expressed an interest in and make follow up calls if you have received no response.

Trust in the agency

If you’re looking to go through an agency, this fragrance recruitment company would be perfect if you would like to dive into the fragrance seller route. When approaching an agency, choose one that you can trust and set out to build a relationship with them.build a relationship with them. Try and find an agency that suits you. For example if your’e looking for a hospital job, find an agency that specialise in finding nursing jobs.  Your perfect job may not be on the market yet but if they know what you are looking for and have a good relationship with you, we will think of you when it crops up.

5 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP REDUCE YOUR BEAUTY CARBON FOOTPRINT IN 2018

Editorial Team
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A recent photograph of a seahorse in the Indonesia Ocean clinging to a cotton earbud by the wildlife photographer, Justin Hofman has gone viral. What with the plastic microbead scandal last year which brought evidence that these beads were polluting our ocean and infiltrating the marine food chain, the discovery earlier this month that tiny pieces of plastic have been found in sea salt and with the catastrophic hurricanes recently, climate change is starting to make a noise and people are beginning to be more willing to listen and less in denial.

Aside from cotton earbuds, the beauty industry in general has produced a major carbon footprint. Generally consumers only really consider the finished product and disregard the combination of exotic and chemically enhanced ingredients that goes in to it, in effect this has contributed to polluting the planet.

We have listed 5 top tips below for you if you are passionate about the environment and pursuing a ‘zero waste’ beauty lifestyle but not sure how:

Homegrown Beauty

Look for beauty brands that source their ingredients and packaging resources in Britain. By doing this you will know that no ingredients or products have been shipped hundreds of miles from abroad causing a mass carbon footprint. Not only will you not share the guilt of polluting the planet but it will also help and encourage smaller homegrown brands to grow rather than endorsing large international corporate brands.

Cutting down on landfill waste and repurposing ingredients that would otherwise be discarded is the central ethos for British skincare brand, Optiat. Their coffee scrubs contain Arabica coffee beans from locally sourced London barista bars and their brand new hemp face mask range uses organic hemp husks from the Oxfordshire countryside as gentle exfoliators, perfect for sensitive skin and leaves skin feeling soft and replenished.

Plastic Pandemonium

As a nation, Britain is falling behind on the amount of waste we recycle, with the goal of recycling 50% of its overall waste by 2020.  Compared to other nations such as Sweden that send less than one per cent of its waste to landfill and recycles everything else, Britain is not the most conscious in minimising the plastic pandemonium that has polluted our oceans. With polystyrene and plastic waste even reaching the arctic and could prove fatal for the Arctic’s habitants including polar bears and seals this is a huge environmental issue.

Take inspiration from the Nordic states and begin searching for brands that use sustainable and recyclable packaging to help reduce the damage of plastic to the planet. Odylique’s packaging is made from earth-friendly recyclable and often recycled materials including old milk bottles, to minimise the impact of waste and plastic on the environment. Conscious of ‘packaging miles’, Odylique chooses to source its packaging and printing from European suppliers only.

Miracle Multitaskers

Another eco-friendly tip the Scandinavians abide by and that you can adopt in your own beauty regime is to use more multitasking beauty products. These could include multipurpose miracle balms which work as lip balms to eye primers. By investing in products you know will serve several functions, not only will this discourage you from buying too many products and cut down on your waste but it will also help save your pennies too!

The What Skin Needs Soothing Skin Gel (£9.99, www.whatskinneeds.co.uk) is a multi-purpose functional non-greasy gel that works to ease your skin from multiple skin irritations from soothing acne to healing insect bites.

Anna Brightman, co-founder of eco-friendly beauty brand, Optiat advises on what to look for to help reduce your carbon footprint when investing in your beauty essentials: “As a brand, we are committed to changing our current ‘take, make, dispose’ world by promoting a circular economy: keeping things in use as long as possible before restoring them at the end of their lives.”

“So, if products have the word ‘disposable’ in them, like disposable razors, or disposable cutlery, then they are best avoided. Small changes like these are very easy to make and they make a big difference. “

“Try to introduce soap bars into your regime rather than just always using liquid soap. Soap bars last much longer and tend to have a lot less packaging. We are excited to be bringing out a new range of soap bars this November made from repurposed chai spices. The chai spices had been used to brew tea, but they still smell amazing, so rather than them going in the bin, we have used them in our brand new soaps!”

Electric Nightmares

If you are partial to straightening your hair or giving your locks a quick blowdry for enviable bounce and texture do take into consideration that using electrical appliances emits greenhouse gases which then in turn has an effect on global warming. This is through the transmission of using electricity that uses unsustainable energy sources such as fossil fuels, which then emits harmful gases including CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. Whenever possible limit your electrical use so instead of using hairdryers air dry your hair or instead of using tongs to curl your hair try overnight rollers. Not only will this be more eco-friendly but it will also save your hair from heat damage!

The Ingredient That Destroys Rainforests

One of the main culprits for mass deforestation and the destruction of wildlife habitats is the production and extraction of palm oil.  Approximately a third of the size of Germany is used for palm oil plantations in south east Asia such as Malaysia and Indonesia. You will likely find palm oil in many everyday consumer goods from margarine to shampoo. Organisations such as the WWF who are a part of the Roundtable For Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) are actively encouraging better and less damaging practices for sustainable palm oil production and extraction. Currently only 10% of palm oil production is deemed certified and sustainable by RSPO. Therefore, stop endorsing brands that practice with unsustainable palm oil as there are many brands available who are against the palm oil production and refuse to use the ingredient in their products such as Odylique, Dr Hauschka and Lush.

For a palm oil-free shampoo alternative, try Odylique’s Tea Tree & Gentle Herb Shampoo (£12, www.odylique.co.uk), which contains only natural and organically grown ingredients including coconut oil, tea tree and rosemary to fully hydrate and moisturise your mane.

5 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT DIM SUM IN LONDON

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT DIM SUM IN LONDON

Dim sum’s ubiquity in London has done little to dampen their popularity but what separates the great from the good is often the minutest detail. With this in mind, and with hundreds in our belly, here are our IDEAL picks for the best dumplings in London.

On Café

At first glance, a quaint macaron purveyor on an industrial road off Clapham Common, but enter with your BYO bottle, take a seat and enjoy some of the finest dumplings in the capital. Dim sum is fashioned with great care and is delicate and light. The kind of place where you feel real love has gone into the food and prices which have made regulars of us.

Address: 31 Clapham Park Rd, London SW4 7EE, UK

Website: oncafe.london

A.Wong

Tipped to finally win a Michelin star in the next guide*, A.Wong offers a dedicated dim sum menu at lunch time with some really inventive combinations and quirks of presentation. Whilst the bill can rack up, a few pieces are still utterly reasonable for the lofty standards this place sets. Desserts are also ethereal, so save room!

Address: 70 Wilton Rd, Victoria, London SW1V 1DE, UK

Website: awong.co.uk

*since the article was written, A.Wong did indeed win that star. Congratulations guys!

My Neighbours the Dumpling

A newer addition to the dumpling landscape, this little family run joint housed in Clapton is a fair trek from the city centre but that trek will be rewarded with lovely dumplings. These are very much handmade, with not a whiff of production line in the fantastic aroma emanating from the kitchen. A no bookings policy requires an early arrival – but don’t worry, the pace is efficient enough to cope with the queues and there’s a bar to drink away the wait.

Address: 165 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5 8EQ, UK

Website: www.myneighboursthedumplings.com

Yauatacha

A lesson in understated elegance, this chic dim sum and teahouse is the most expensive of our picks, but the whole experience is flawless. The room exudes sensuality and the dim sum is exquisite – perfectly light and refined and as good as any we’ve eaten anywhere in the world.

Address: 15-17 Broadwick St, Soho, London W1F 0DL, UK

Website: www.yauatcha.com

Jen Cafe

A cash-only, no reservations affair in the heart of Chinatown, you can see the excellent dumplings being freshly made through the window. This sight never fails to entice us inside to sample the goodies on offer.

Address: 4-8 Newport Place, Chinatown, West End, London, WC2H 7JP

Website: chinatown.co.uk

8 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY ORGANISED IN 2018

Editorial Team
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8 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY ORGANISED IN 2018

8 TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY ORGANISED IN 2016

Do you make New Year’s resolutions each year, but find that you can’t even keep them until the end of January?

Well, if your resolution this year was to become more organised, ensure you don’t get to the end of the year just as disorganised as when it started. Let 2018 be the year you actually stick to your resolution with a little help from 8 IDEAL tips.

Use Your Smartphone

Instead of using your phone to procrastinate as you spend hours scrolling through Facebook and Twitter to avoid things you should actually be doing, use it to help you stay organised. With more than 1 million apps in the app store, there are plenty that will help you organise your life – from a shared family planner and menu planning, to personal to-do lists and budget tracking.

Keep A Diary

A diary can help you see clearly what you need to do day-to-day. When you’re making plans you can consult it to see whether you are free, and never double-book a birthday or significant date again. You could also colour code it so you can quickly see the difference between work and social events.

Make A To-Do List

Daily to do lists are the best way to keep you on top of your day and help you to get the most out of it. Use it to write down everything you need to get done, in order of importance or when it needs doing. Then you can cross it off as you go – try not to let anything roll over. Sad though it may sound, you will feel a real sense of achievement seeing it all ticked off! You can also plan ahead and set long-term to do lists than include goals with deadlines.

Declutter

In order to be organised you need to declutter your home and desk at work. 
A messy space doesn’t enable organisation, because you never know where anything is and spend half your time looking for it! Throw out everything you can – if you aren’t ready to throw it away yet Self Storage Bournemouth enables you to store it safely and securely until you decide what to do with it.

Give Everything A ‘Home’

Are you forever running around your home because you’re late but can’t leave the house until you have found your keys, phone or wallet? Then it is time to give everything a ‘home’ – from coat hooks and shoe racks to a key cupboard and watch stand.

Delegate

Sometimes, disorganisation can simply come from trying to do everything yourself. This year give yourself a break by sharing some of the responsibilities, whether this is at home with kids and/or a partner, or with colleagues in the office.

Organise Your Inbox

Our computers can become just as cluttered and disorganised as our homes.
Sort through your inbox – deleting anything you don’t need and creating folders to ensure important emails are easy to find. Then do the same on your desktop – deleting anything that is unnecessary and use folders to help stay organised.

Be Motivated

It will be impossible to stay organised without a bit of motivation. Sure, keeping a diary and setting goals will help you with organisation, but you need the motivation to actually fulfil the tasks, otherwise having them written down is pointless. Perhaps keep another resolution this year and get fit – head to the gym or go out for a run – both can clear your head and relieve stress, allowing you to go back to the task with fresh eyes.  

Follow the above tips and you may find the more organised you become, the more spare time you acquire!

 

4 IDEAL ECO LIFE LESSONS TO TEACH YOUR CHILDREN

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL ECO LIFE LESSONS TO TEACH YOUR CHILDREN

 

It’s never too early to teach your children about the environment. Taking care of the environment is everyone’s duty, and the earlier your children learn good habits, the better. Simple lessons can be taught early, and as a parent you have an important role in teaching them these lessons from an early age. Here are some important eco-friendly life lessons from Tyler Davison, a primary educator with a particular passion for science and technology that you can give to your children.

Get Into Good Habits Around the Home

There are so many good habits you can get your children into from a very early age, and these will remain with them for life. For example, you could encourage them to:

  • Turn off computers, tablets and televisions when not using them
  • Unplug chargers for phones and other devices
  • Always turn off the light when they leave the room
  • Turn the tap off when brushing their teeth

You can also set an example to them and teach them about why you are doing certain things, such as recycling waste rather than throwing it away, collecting rain water in a water butt, buying reused things rather than new ones, reducing your consumption as a family and using your own bags when you go shopping.

Take Advantage of Technology

Children love technology. Many have the ability to use tablets and smartphones, and technology is part of their lives from the moment they are born. It therefore makes sense to use technology to teach them about important concepts such as being eco-friendly.

For example, you could download apps on tablets that teach them about the environment, animals, the natural world and anything that provides an eco-message.

You can also use gadgets and devices to teach them about saving power. For example, homes all over the country will soon be getting smart meters, and when the smart meter installation takes place, use it as an opportunity to explain how it can help you to cut your power usage.

Let your children look at the screen with you to find out how much power you are using, and then make reducing the amount of energy you use into a challenge for the whole family.

Plan Fun Activities with an Eco-Lesson

There are endless activities that you can enjoy with your children that will also teach them about caring for the environment, and the only limit is your creativity. Some to get you started could include:

  • Grow your own plants and vegetables
  • Go on a hunt for insects in the garden
  • Plant a tree
  • Make something out of recycled items
  • Create a picture using natural items like leaves and sticks
  • Go on a nature walk and see what you can see
  • Set up a bird feeder in the garden
  • Keep a list of all the flowers you can find in the garden and around your house

Teach Your Children to Care for the Environment

By teaching your children how to care for the environment from an early age, you will be providing them with lessons that will last a lifetime. No one is ever too young to lead an eco-friendly lifestyle, so make sure your children know what is involved early on by teaching them important lessons that will stay with them for life.

 

 

5 IDEAL TIPS ON COOKING WITH GIN AT HOME

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON COOKING WITH GIN AT HOME

It’s no secret that the UK has developed quite a fondness for gin. We’ve even have Ginuary, whole month dedicated to it.  After tea it’s probably our national drink.  Steve Smith, Head Chef at Bohemia believes it’s time we did more with our gin and bring the spirit to the boil. If you’re apprehensive about swapping sipping for the saucepan, Steve Smith recommends how to execute gin-centric dishes at home.

Gin + Fresh Water Fish

The flavor of gin marries perfectly with fresh water fish, in particular salmon. When preparing, ensure the gin marinates into the fish by chilling in the fridge for at least 45 minutes before cooking. We serve our gin and salmon dish with cucumber and horseradish at Bohemia, which complements the fish perfectly.

Gin + Vegetables

While many serve their G+T’s with cucumber, sprigs of asparagus also serve as a tasty garnish. Why not turn this into a delectable dish and serve gin infused asparagus alongside a salad? Add ginger syrup and lemon juice for an extra zing.  

Gin + Shellfish

Gin and oysters are the ultimate extravagant flavour combination, guaranteed to impress even the most refined of diners. Simply pour gin and tonic over oysters, then season with lemon zest and a pinch of salt. 

Gin + Desserts

The options are endless when it comes to pleasing the sweet-toothed. Try a gin and tonic tart, gin and tonic cupcake or even a refreshing gin and tonic sorbet for summer. Furthermore, almost any dessert can be topped with an adults-only gin and tonic syrup made by combining caster sugar, tonic water and lemon juice in a saucepan over a low heat and adding a splash of gin and juniper berries.

Gin and Matcha

Fear not health enthusiasts – superfoods are not out of bounds. Gin and matcha is a great food marriage.  Try a simple gin and matcha cocktail, with a tablespoon of Sweet Matcha Powder, lime juice, London Dry Gin and ice.

5 IDEAL NEW YEAR CHANGES TO BOOST YOUR MIND & YOUR MOOD

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL NEW YEAR CHANGES TO BOOST YOUR MIND & YOUR MOOD

While many scoff at the notion of a nation making new year’s resolutions, 80% of which fail by February, we at IDEAL think there’s no harm in making pledges, whatever the reason, to bring about positivity in your life. And if it takes a new digit on the calendar to bring that about, then that’s just fine. Matters of the body usually take precedent in resolution priorities, but it’s equally important to take action to nurture the mind. So, here are 5 IDEAL changes to make in 2018 to boost your mind and your mood.

MAKE MORE TIME FOR FAMILY

Modern life is relentless, fast paced and full of obligation. Family will always remain that one, stable consistent, so this year, take time out to call home and visit regularly, too. This might sound like the simplest thing to do, but if you cast your mind back to 2017, you’re probably only able to pick out a handful of memorable moments that you’ve spent with your loved ones. The hours you racked up longing for likes from strangers on Instagram, though, are probably in the triple digits. It’s time to redress that balance.

The importance of family shouldn’t be underestimated. Studies show that maintaining a good family life can fend off medical problems later down the line. According to the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, single people have a higher risk of developing dementia, and New York University found that married people suffer less from cardiovascular disease than singletons. The Journals of Vacation Marketing also found that people with plenty of holidays on the horizon and trips to look forward to felt happier with their lives in general and experienced less negative emotions. So, pepper 2018 with a handful of family holidays and always have a future date in the calendar dedicated to time with loved ones.

TAKE A LONG LOOK AT YOUR CAREER

The parameters of professional life are constantly shifting and asking us to shift our expectations in tandem. It can feel hard to keep up. Make 2018 the year to step back and re-evaluate your job — whether this means switching careers or just making positive changes to the way you conduct your work life. Ask yourself the daunting, searching questions you may have been avoiding; where do I see myself in 5 years, how will I get there, is this the field of work I want to be in forever?

If you do want to change jobs, careers or simply get a promotion, consider acquiring some extra skills and qualifications to make you a more attractive prospect. Changes needn’t be drastic and sudden; enacting small shifts in your work routine and conduct could lead to a much higher job satisfaction. Even something as simple as re-decorating your office or desk, arranging a night out with your team or organising Friday afternoon quizzes can lift the atmosphere and make work a little easier to endure.  

DINE DIVERSELY  

We’d all like to eat a little healthier, but rather than putting yourself on a grueling and strict diet, make healthy eating more tolerable by incorporating the cuisines of the world into your breakfast, lunch and dinner. A report by Diabetes UK discovered that around 66% of adults ate three or fewer portions of fruit and vegetables per day, with almost 50% not eating a piece of fruit at least three days in a week. By embracing food from different corners of the globe, you’ll bring variety, deliciousness and most importantly, diversity of ingredients. In discovering new cuisines, you’ll increase the number of often neglected fruits, vegetables and pulses in your diet. This will broaden the mind without broadening your waistline. Magnificent!

CHALLENGE YOURSELF WITH A NEW SPORT

It wouldn’t be New Year without a burning desire to lose weight and get fit. But instead of dragging yourself to the gym or pounding the pavement, why not get active with a more off-centre exercise, like skiing or snowboarding? This could be good for the brain as well as body, as it’s sociable, challenging and exciting; far preferable to the daily toil of the gym, we think. It’s great for your physique, too.

The average adult can burn between 250 and 630 calories an hour while skiing or snowboarding, and the exercise tests your balance and works all your major muscle groups to help you tone up quickly. Adrenaline-pumping sports like this one also encourage your body to release endorphins — which create a feeling of happiness and lower stress — while a study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, showed that regular exercise did much to alleviate low mood. Snow sports are fast, fun and intense, but the skills take time to master. However, there are indoor slopes, snowboarding lessons and skiing lessons available to help you.

BE KINDER

Countless studies have shown that being kind, polite and thoughtful serves not only to raise the mood of the recipient, but also boosts our own sense of well being. Say please and thank you often, pay compliments, remind people you love them and smile at strangers. It only takes a moment, but the positive vibes last for much longer.

5 IDEAL REASONS OWNING A PET CAN BENEFIT YOUR HEALTH

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS OWNING A PET CAN BENEFIT YOUR HEALTH

Ever thought about owning a pet? Well it’s about time you did. Yes they require a lot of attention and dedication, but it’s worth every poop scooped off the lawn and unwanted barking in the night. Owning a furry companion can have loads of positive effects on your life, both mental and physical. Man’s best friend? We think the old adage might just be right (if not a little sexist).

According to mental health experts from AXA PPP healthcare, taking care of and spending time with a pet is a great way to give yourself some headspace to deal with life’s setbacks and challenges. Walking your dog – or even borrowing one from a neighbour or local animal rescue centre – can do wonders for your wellbeing as it combines moderate exercise with taking a break from work or household chores and getting some fresh air.

The Mental Health Foundation has also reported that stroking, sitting next to or playing with a pet relaxes and calms the mind, helping to give pet owners some much needed ‘me time’ to improve their mood and overall health.

So, here we share our 5 IDEAL reasons why living with pets is good for both mind and body.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

However bad your day’s been, you’ll have someone who depends on you to shower with affection, and vice versa. The British Medical Journal believes the emotional bond between owner and pet can be as intense as that in many human relationships and may confer similar psychological benefits. Your partner may have left you, and you’ve been fired from your job, but a dog slobbering all over your face when you get home makes it all okay.

ROUTINE

The responsibilities that come with owning a pet can give your day purpose, reward and a sense of achievement. Remember how much the reward receptors in your brain used to buzz when you played on your Tamagotchi? Well, this is for real. And forever. Regular routines and rituals are said to help forge discipline, give focus to energy management and support mental space. The Dogs Trust also highlights that a good routine is vital for your dog’s well being too – that’s two birds killed with one stone.

LOWER RISK OF HEART DISEASE

Owning a pet can reduce your risk of developing heart disease. It may be that dog owners naturally do more exercise, but pets also play a role in providing social support, encouraging you to stick with a new habit or adopting a healthy behaviour. Owning a cat has also been associated with a reduced rate of dying from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke, due to the stress-relieving effects of animal companionship.

SOCIALISING

Pets can act as a social icebreaker between strangers, or as a catalyst for social interaction. Research suggests that dog walkers experience significantly higher social capital (interactions and relationships) than non-dog walkers. If you’re having trouble meeting someone, take the dog out for a stroll and maybe it won’t just be you and your dog coming home that night.

A BOOST TO MENTAL WELL BEING

Studies have found that dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets and ownership can reduce stress and anxiety levels. Playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax. Those who do suffer from low mood often find their symptoms alleviated by Emotional Support Animals (ESA), providing much needed comfort and companionship to those in need.

If you are lucky enough to have the friendship of an ESA and are moving house, remember you are well within your rights to have a pet even from a landlord who otherwise doesn’t allow pets; just make sure you have a ESA letter for housing from a registered practitioner.

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

10 IDEAL FOOD MARKETS IN LONDON

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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10 IDEAL FOOD MARKETS IN LONDON

Once upon a time, natives and visitors alike would’ve balked at the suggestion of London as a world foodie mecca. ‘Just fish’n’chips and fry-ups isn’t it?’, they would laugh. Those days are well and truly gone; London’s capital is thriving with culinary delights, teeming with ingredients from every corner of the globe and best of all, home to a population who pride themselves on vast knowledge of wonderful food. Here you’ll find an army of these hungry citizens heading out, each and every day of the week, with a shopping list full of intriguing items. Whether you’re seeking the best cut of beef money can buy, the freshest off the boat fish or something a little more esoteric (carambola anyone?), it’s all in London. So, with all that in mind and a hunger to be satisfied in our belly, here are 10 IDEAL food markets in London.

Borough Market – London Bridge SE1

The big one. Borough is a market of international repute, dating back more than 1000 years and stocking some of the finest produce the city has to offer. It’s no surprise that discerning nearby restaurants stock their shelves, walk-ins and larders here. Fresh fruit and vegetables are at their brightest and most inviting in Borough Market, with fervent traders broadcasting their merits and extolling their virtues.

More premium products abound too; Borough Market is one of the largest stall-based purveyors of truffles, and there’s plenty of great charcuterie to get stuck into. Visit hungry, as you can feast on nibbles and freebies while you peruse. All of this adds up to a cracking day under shelter, and that’s before we mention the prepared food stalls. There are loads. Of globetrotting variety; all frying, sizzling, bubbling and more as you pass, aromas inviting you in. One thing is for certain here, you’ll leave with both stomach and hands full. Oh, and with an empty wallet (it’s not cheap).

Website: boroughmarket.org.uk

©Pixabay

Mercato Metrapolitano – Elephant and Castle SE1

A new addition (2016) to the old-as-time-itself London market landscape, Mercato Metrapolitano is a different proposition to many of the more well-established, traditional places on our list. The proposition is more continental – Italian in fact – and is one of artisanal producers and sublime little food stalls, all housed around a central eating ‘square’. It calls to mind New York’s Eataly, and that’s no bad thing.

Website: mercatometropolitano.co.uk

Broadway Market – Hackney E8

Okay, so Broadway Market has more of a reputation for fashion. Indeed, it’s the place for fashionistas to be seen in East London, but that doesn’t mean the fine food here should be given short shrift. The location, alongside Regent’s Canal, makes it the perfect place to spend a Saturday, and we’d highly recommend the superb Vietnamese coffee from Ca Phe VN as you gear up for an afternoon on the harder stuff. And by harder stuff we mean the excellent chorizo scotch eggs from Eat My Pies, leading into Makatcha’s beef rendang. Followed by some gout. Lovely.

Website: broadwaymarket.co.uk

©Pixabay

Brixton Village and Market Row – Brixton SW9

Brixton Village is a beating heart of the famous area, just a 5 minute walk from the tube stop and home to over 100 independant traders. The space combines the traditional assumption of a market (fresh fish stalls, butchers….) with hip, groovy little restaurants and cafes. It’s testament to the influence of the market that countrywide conquerors Honest Burger and Franca Manca originated under the Village’s roof. We love how the market stays true to Brixton’s soul; it’s multicultural and inclusive. We don’t love the rumours that Mike Ashley (of Sports Direct notoriety) is considering buying it.

Website: brixtonmarket.net

©Pexels

Brick Lane Market – E1

Brick Lane is world renowned for its curries and spicy food, but did you know that it also has a fantastic market, spanning across several global cuisines and streets in the area? Visit on a Sunday to experience the event in full swing, with wares peddled and bargains to be unearthed. It’s chaotic, bustling and utterly charming. On any other day of the week, the famous restaurants are still open, serving their aromatic, heady offerings. Oh and if you like street art, look out Belgian street artist Roa’s graffiti of a crane on a building in Brick Lane. The crane is sacred to the Bengali people and is a nod to Tower Hamlets’ rich history of welcoming different immigrant populations and of course, Bengali food, which Brick Lane is famous for.

Website: www.visitbricklane.org

©Pixabay

Brockley Market

A weekly affair, Lewisham’s Brockley Market offers local produce from artisans of the area, and has racked up some serious award based recognition in the process. The meat and poultry suppliers are of particular merit, so if you’re looking to elevate the following day’s roast, cast eyes no further. What most people come here for, above all else, is the Motherflipper; a city-famous burger joint only found at Brockley. This glazed bun and succulent patty, alone, is worth the trip.

Website: www.brockleymarket.com

Netil Market – Hackney E8

Close to the previously mentioned Broadway Market, but less packed with peacocking young fashion students, Netil Market operates weekly on Saturdays and at a slower, more manageable pace. This is where Bao earned its cult following, and still has a stall here to this day. Reason enough, we think, to get amongst it.

Website: netilmarket.tumblr.com

©Pixabay

Shepherd’s Bush Market

Just a short distance away from Westfield shopping centre, Shepherd’s Bush market is a world apart in every sense. Famous for fabrics, falafel and fresh food, it’s a multicultural affair where you’ll find a large range of ethnic foodstuffs; Indian, Caribbean, African and Polish, to name but a few. Stalls packed with fragrant spices bring Marrakech’s souks to mind, while yams, coconuts, cassava, okra, falafel, mangoes and some lesser easy to source fish (red tilapia for instance) are also abundant. It’s a delight for foodies, with a lively music scene providing a soundtrack to your sojourn. If you’re staying at one of Shepherd’s Bush hotels, then it is has to be worth a visit.

Website: myshepherdsbushmarket.com

Billingsgate Market

Okay, maybe Billingsgate isn’t the place for a leisurely afternoon stroll and some falafel, but boy, is it fun. The market has the largest selection of freshly caught fish available in the U.K, and supplies top restaurants in London and beyond. It’s also open to the public. Get here early, as trade starts well before sunrise (Tuesday to Saturday) and find yourself immersed in an extraordinary spectacle.

Website: billingsgatefishmarket.org

©Pixabay

Maltby Market – Bermondsey SE16

Every weekend a lumber storage space in Bermondsey transforms into Maltby Market, with railway arches playing host to some fantastic food in a manner London does so well. St. John’s Bakery is a must; try one of their delectable doughnuts and take home some awesome sourdough, and Maltby & Greek does some of the best Greek food in London. Enough said.

Website: www.maltby.st

 

 

 

5 IDEAL TO-DO LIST ITEMS BEFORE YOU MOVE HOUSE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TO-DO LIST ITEMS BEFORE YOU MOVE HOUSE

The pressures of moving house seem to come at you from all sides. Just when you’re looking forward and straight ahead, an unexpected hurdle trips you up; when the weight of upheaval is close to dragging you down, a mishap or miscalculation knocks you sideways. With all the big issues needing so much attention, it’s sometimes easy to neglect the little tasks that keep everything running smoothly and in place. So, while you contemplate the important stuff, keep one eye on this, our 5 IDEAL to-do list items before you move house.

Clean Your Existing Home

You’d be forgiven for being so focused on moving out that you neglect to get your current place ship shape and presentable. Unfortunately, this can cause a landlord or new tenant much frustration once you’ve flown the nest, and possibly incur you fines and penalties in the process. For this reason, you should consider hiring professional end-of-tenancy cleaning services, such as from Athcleaning, as experienced cleaners can get your place looking move-ready in no time, saving you the time and energy to focus on other administrative tasks.

Redirect Your Mail

The joy of a fresh start in a new neighbourhood will be somewhat tempered by having to knock on your old door to pick up your post, especially if you’re moving far away. Before you move out, then, you should change your address with the Post Office. Simply provide them with the moving out date, so they can quickly and easily redirect your mail to your new home, giving you peace of mind that important letters haven’t fallen into the wrong hands.

Set Up Utilities

You settle into your new home, a little worn and argued out, and dusty from the move. All you want is a long, hot shower. All well and good until you realise you don’t have any hot water or electricity. Avoid this by setting up utilities in your name, in advance – from the day you move in – so you’ll be accurately paying for your usage and not the previous occupants’. While we’re on the subject, get a final reading on your current meters and inform your providers so that you get the correct final bill. Most energy providers can redirect your bills to eliminate hassle and fuss.

Arrange Broadband And Digital T.V Packages

Both digital TV and broadband packages can provide you with a much needed reward at the end of, or distraction in the middle of, the moving in chaos. Get the installation of internet arranged for during the first week of moving into your new address, when you’re likely to be there. For many, a house is not a home until there’s favourite T.V programme grumbling away in the background.

Replace Carpets Or Flooring

Before you move a ton of furniture or belongings into your home, you should consider either cleaning or replacing your carpets, as this is the optimum time to do this with rooms sparse and uncluttered. This will prevent you having to move all your belongings from one room to another later down the line when wanting to add new flooring to your home. So while this may seem an unnecessary hassle and expense, it really does make sense in the long run.

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOSTING A LARGE, LAST MINUTE DINNER PARTY

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOSTING A LARGE, LAST MINUTE DINNER PARTY

It’s amazing how invites can accelerate. One moment you have a cosy night for a few friends planned, with catering a doddle and ample elbow room around the dinner table. The next, and a cascade of unannounced guests have descended on the invite list; can I bring my sister, she’s lonely this Christmas?; who wants to meet my new man?; is there room for one more? – you get the picture. The request may vary but the result is the same: a mass catering event in a micro space. Fear not, we’ve done this before. So, here are 5 IDEAL tips on hosting a large, last minute dinner party.

GET ON TOP OF YOUR MISE EN PLACE

As any chef worth his flakey salt will tell you, it’s all in the prep. Most elements of a dish, spread or feast can be prepared well in advance, ready to be removed from the fridge, heated up and finessed just before serving. Remember to add something fresh to indicate immediacy, such as freshly chopped herbs or a squeeze of citrus, and everything will feel new and just-made.

HAVE A HOG ROAST

Hosting an event centering around a hog roast feels festive, celebratory and is, quite frankly, downright delicious. It’s a triumphant thing and one which has been the focal point for centuries of celebration. For good reason, too; it’s easy, efficient and fit for any party in that it feeds great numbers.

If you don’t wish to invest in the appropriate equipment, consider hiring here, which can even be delivered pre-loaded with the meat of your choice.With the spit turning automatically and tantalising smells wafting through the air, you’re left to the hosting, schmoozing and networking; whatever takes your fancy really!

HOST A BRING-A-DISH EVENT

Although it may seem a cheat’s way out, asking your guests to each bring a dish can be the perfect way to host a party last minute. This approach is a bit pot luck, so offer an element of guidance, perhaps by setting a theme or asking for specific dishes.

If you feel uncomfortable with this level of control, simply state if a dessert, starter or side dish is required, leaving you to focus on the main event; meat, pizza, a pie…..whatever. Check out this post for easy ways to keep large amounts of food hot.

TIME FOR TAKEAWAY

If you have a week or two before your party, you could hire a caterer. But the title states ‘last minute’, so last minute it is.  A cop out we know, but one which is very often most welcome; consider calling a takeaway.

Ideally, you don’t want to order everything from one place. Spread your order around a bit to increase the chances of everything being well cooked and reasonably hot. Supplement the takeaways with simple dishes like packet salads, baby tomatoes, boiled new potatoes and other easy to prepare side dishes.

SIMPLY DON’T INVITE THE WORLD AND HIS WIFE

Hey, here’s a thought; why not simply stand firm on those additional guests? You could cite lack of crockery, plates, chairs, cups, food….lack of anything really. After all, it’s your house, your time, your life, so just take control!

IDEAL FOR A FESTIVE BREAKFAST: CHRISTMAS MINCEMEAT BIRCHER MUESLI

Editorial Team
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IDEAL FOR A FESTIVE BREAKFAST: CHRISTMAS MINCEMEAT BIRCHER MUESLI

This recipe is the IDEAL healthy breakfast in preparation for the big Christmas indulgence

Ingredients

  • 2 oz/57g mincemeat
  • 4 oz/114g low fat natural yogurt
  • 4 oz/114g old fashioned oats
  • 1 tbsp linseed
  • 4 oz/114g cold water

Topping

  • 3/4 cup natural yogurt (low fat, greek or regular according to preference)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla paste
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Method

  1. Mix first 5 ingredients and put in individual bowls or one large bowl
  2. Leave to sit for several minutes or overnight
  3. Mix topping ingredients and when set, put a layer of yogurt topping on each
  4. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and pomegranate seeds

Recipe courtesy of Cuckoo Bircher Muesli.

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