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10 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HAIR THIS WINTER FROM NICKY CLARKE

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HAIR THIS WINTER FROM NICKY CLARKE

 

Hair, we put it through so much especially when it comes hair when using heating appliances like styling irons and hair dryers. The pressure from the heat causes the cuticles to crack causing split ends and leaving you with dry and brittle hair. So when you style your hair at home using heated appliances, then you jump straight into the freezing cold, you are going to increase your chances of damage to your hair. We asked Nicky for his ideal tips on how to protect your hair this winter.

1. Before using your heated appliance, it is vital that you use a good quality Heat Protect and cover the entire head, such as my  Nicky Clarke Heat Protect Shine Spray (retails at £12.00 from www.nickyclarke.com)

2. After applying the heat protect product, comb through with a wide toothed comb to ensure extra coverage to the hair.

3. Once you have applied the spray you now need to take into consideration your hair’s natural texture. The thinner the hair, the lower the temperature should be. Putting too much heat on very fine hair will just cause even more breakage.

4. I would recommend using a good quality moisture shampoo that will hydrate the hair and add an extra gloss and shine.

5. The best way to prevent damage from heated appliances is to use the correct products and avoid chemical procedures. Intensive moisture treatments are really great and my top tip would be do one a week. Put a shower cap on and sleep with it on and rinse the following morning.

6. When using styling appliances make sure you turn the temperature down to a low heat and try to limit your use of them to once or twice a week.

7. If in doubt and your hair is extremely damaged from the heat, pop into see your hair stylist who can recommend an in salon treatment for a good quality condition.

8. Make sure you clean your styling appliances each time after using. With the use of pre-styling products, your tools will be left with a build-up of residue.

9. Sometimes the ends of our hair can become so badly damaged that the only solution is a trim. It is always best to visit your hair salon at least every three months to keep your hair looks its best.

10. One of the worst things you could do is to using your styling appliances on damp or wet hair. Your hair is at its weakest when it is wet so make sure your hair is 100% dry.

5 IDEAL UFO HOTSPOT HOTELS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL UFO HOTSPOT HOTELS

Are you intrigued by the supernatural? The UK has had its fair share of UFO sightings and, with The Falkirk Triangle in Scotland named UFO capital of the world, it seems you don’t have to travel far from home to catch a sneak peak of flying saucers and mysterious green men.

So if you’re up for an adventure into the unknown (and willing to risk abduction to another planet) then dig out your night vision goggles and check out these five UFO hotspots. And just in case you haven’t nabbed a spot on a spaceship to rest your head that night,  with the help of LateRooms.com , we reveal the best hotels nearby for a good night’s sleep – no matter how spooked you are.

Bonnybridge, Scotland

With more than 300 UFO sightings reported every year, this sleepy town takes the title of UFO capital of the world. Set in the heart of an area known to UFO enthusiasts as The Falkirk Triangle, Broad Haven which stretches from Stirling, Fife and Bonnybridge, see thousands of ogling visitors each year, all desperate to spot the next mystery.

Stay: The Grange Manor, prices from £72 per night

Warminster, Wiltshire

This little Wiltshire town was at the centre of controversy in the 1960s when a number of locals reported a number of sightings – and the eeriness isn’t confined to the past. Mysterious noises, intriguing balls of light and odd shadows in the sky attract visitors from all over the UK to hunt across Cradle Hill and neighbouring Stonehenge for a glimpse of the alien action.

Stay: The Bishopstrow House Hotel, prices from £120 per night

Broad Haven, Wales

Nicknamed after the Bermuda Triangle, the ‘Broad Haven Triangle’ is quite the head scratcher. Reports from schoolchildren of seeing a mysterious aircraft were far from treated as fairytales and fiction, as members of staff were quick to support the sighting. This supernatural spotting had everything, from saucers to creatures in silver suits – how can you argue with that?!

Stay: Cuffern Manor, prices from £50 per night

Rendlesham Forest Lights, Suffolk

Dubbed “Britain’s Roswell”, the Rendlesham Forest incident, which saw unexplained lights put down to UFO landings by US Air Force specialists, took place over a series of nights in December 1980 and continues to fascinate UFO enthusiasts and conspiracy theorists. And with sightings reported earlier this year it’s no wonder the believers keep going back for more.

Stay: Ufford Park Hotel, prices from £71 per night

Cannock Chase, Staffordshire

First put on the UFO radar in the 1980s, Cannock Chase is the creepy creature hotspot that just keeps giving. With sightings as recent as March this year, the Staffordshire town is bustling with conspiracies about werewolves, pig-men and even the legendary Big Foot. People are so adamant about what they saw that townspeople have even written books about the sightings, so make sure to pick up a copy when you visit.

Stay: Colton House, prices from £94 per night

5 IDEAL ESSENTIALS YOU REQUIRE WHILE CAMPING

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL ESSENTIALS YOU REQUIRE WHILE CAMPING

 

While camping might sound like the ultimate fun trip, try not to get too ahead of yourself in this regard. Whatever may be your preconceived notions about camping, there are still plenty of things that you will need to keep in mind, especially if you are a first-timer.

You may initially think that you won’t even need most of the essentials on the list, but that’s the catch of camping sometimes – you never know what may happen or when you might need those very essentials you think aren’t that necessary. Here is a list of a few of those essentials :

Navigational Instruments

This is not just restricted to maps or a compass. Even something like a GPS tracker could be added to the list, depending on the circumstances. Although as far as mere convenience is concerned, just a map and a compass would also suit you just fine provided you know how to use both of them to the fullest potential.

First Aid Supplies

Now this one pretty much goes without saying. You could opt for pre-assembled ones or make your very own kit (provided you have the expertise) to suit your personal needs and preferences. You will also need to keep in mind the overall length of your camping trip and the number of people you will be going with. Only then will you be able to pack accordingly. Also a guide to deal with medical emergencies is a must.

Light sources

Sure you may be doing a lot of your camping during the day, but what if it’s raining throughout the day and you can only travel/walk at night? In this regard, headlamps and flashlights are the main choice for most people out there simply because of the fact that they are small, lightweight and tend to have long battery life as well. Even packable lanterns are a good option, but finally don’t forget to carry spare batteries at any cost.

Tools and repair kit

Multitools and knives, especially some of the best survival knives uk made or otherwise are absolutely essential in every regard. They are also instrumental in the aspects of food preparation and first aid as well. This cannot be stressed enough. After all, if you end up entering the forest, you will certainly require at the very least, a basic folding knife that you can use to cut through twigs and branches in the way of the path.

Basic Insulation

Unless you happen to be trekking or camping in blazing hot weather which I very much doubt you even would, you will certainly need, at the very least an additional layer of clothing. Also in the countryside, things can turn chilly, windy or wet rather fast so you will need to do your packing keeping the current weather scenario in mind.

However, there is one essential item that does not entail anything physical. That is simple and basic knowledge. Having all the essentials is going to be ultimately useless if you have little to no idea about how to actually use them in the event of an emergency. So do remember to pack up all of them, but also don’t forget to do your research regarding how to use them either. One is pretty much useless without the other and you would do well to keep that basic fact in mind.

 

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR HOT LEMON CURD PUDDING

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR HOT LEMON CURD PUDDING

Check out this recipe for hot lemon curd pudding with pine nut ice cream, fennel sorbet and Early Grey tea parfait.

You should begin the process the day before eating. First, make the pine nut ice cream and fennel sorbet, as they need the longest to set. If you’re on a roll, make the Earl Grey tea parfait the day before too.

Which you do first is up to you.

Pine nut ice cream

(makes a small tub – roughly 6 servings)

  • 170g of pine nuts
  • 500ml of full-fat milk
  • 160ml of cream
  • 140g of caster sugar
  • 4 egg yolks from medium sized eggs (with whites reserved)

Fennel sorbet

(makes a small rub – roughly 4 servings)

  • 2 fennel bulbs
  • 2 tablespoons of Pernot
  • 1 star anise
  • 190ml water
  • 175g sugar
  • 15g liquid glucose
  • 1 lime juiced
  • A few basil leaves

Say you opted to make the ice cream first;

  1. Warm a splash of milk (10ml should be fine). Put the pine nuts in a food processor and blitz with the warmed milk to a paste
  2. Bring the rest of the milk and the cream to the boil, together. Allow to cool
  3. Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy
  4. Pour the milk and cream mixture over the egg yolk and sugar. Pour at a gradual pace and constantly whisk, to avoid the yolks cooking, although not vigorously as you don’t want a layer of foam to develop
  5. Whisk in the pine nut paste and cook on a low heat, always stirring, until the mix thickens to a custard (to a temperature of 80°c)
  6. Strain into a new container or bowl and allow to completely cool – I would suggest bringing down to room temperature and then finishing off the cooling in the fridge
  7. Churn in an ice cream maker until it is thickened and creamy. Freeze

Next, the sorbet.

  1. Toast the star anise in a pan for a minute. When it begins to release its aroma, add the pernot and bring the boil. Take off the heat and allow to cool
  2. On a mandolin, slice the fennel on the thinnest setting. Reserve the fronds
  3. Place the fennel in a shallow tub, pour over the cool pernot and freeze
  4. Bring the water, sugar and liquid glucose to the boil, stirring occasionally so the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat and allow to cool
  5. Take the fennel out of the freezer once partially frozen, add a few leaves of basil and the fennel fronds. Blitz and strain, making roughly 250 ml of fennel juice. Blitz again with the water, glucose and sugar
  6. Strain into an ice cream maker and churn until you have a slushy like consistency. Freeze 

Earl Grey tea parfait

(makes 8 servings – circular cutter of 4cm diameter)

This parfait has a fairly loose set, so serve straight after removing from the freezer

  • 2 Earl Grey tea bags
  • 20ml of lemon (or bergamot if you can find it) juice
  • 20 ml water
  • 1 sheet of gelatine
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 72g caster sugar
  • 60ml whipping cream
  • 12 ml double cream

For the parfait,

  1. Make the tea. Bring the lemon juice and water to the boil. Take off the heat and add the tea bags. Let brew.
  2. When the tea has infused with a deep orange colour and tastes sufficiently Earl Grey-like without being bitter, remove the tea bag
  3. Bloom the gelatin in cold water for 4 – 5 minutes
  4. Heat the double cream until warm
  5. Add the sugar to the tea mixture, and bring to 118°c – achieving a syrupy texture
  6. During that time, whisk the egg yolks to a pale colour
  7. Squeeze excess moisture from the gelatin, add it to the double cream and stir until incorporated.
  8. Pour the syrup over the yolks gradually, whisking continuously to avoid the egg cooking. Stir in the double cream and geltaine
  9. Whisk the whipping cream to soft peaks and fold in the egg and syrup mixture
  10. Pour the parfait mixture into a lined, flat tin so it reaches about a 1cm in depth. Freeze

Basil meringue

At this stage you’ll notice a lot of reserved egg whites. You can use some to add texture to the dish, if you like

  • 85 g icing sugar, sieved
  • 80 g egg whites, at room temperature
  • a squeeze of lime
  • 4 basil leaves, cut into fine strips
  1. Set the oven to 75°c – 100°c depending on how much time you have. The lower the longer you’ll need
  2. Whisk the egg whites and lime to soft peaks
  3. Mix the icing sugar and basil together and add a spoonful at a time to the egg whites, still whisking until firm peaks form
  4. Spread evenly and thinly over a baking tray lined with baking paper
  5. Bake until completely dried out and crispy. Break into shards and store in an airtight container 

Hot lemon curd pudding

(makes 6 individual portions – ramekins of 6cm diameter) 

Make immediately before cooking. Alternatively, prepare all of the stages in advance and complete by whisking the egg whites just prior to cooking. This is not a soufflé, and does not live or die by its rise, though expect some.

  • 50 g butter
  • 200 g golden caster sugar
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 1 lemon’s zest
  • 2 lemon’s juice
  • 3 eggs, yolks and whites separated
  • 50 g plain flour, sieved
  • 250 ml milk
  1. Heat the oven to 170°c. Place a tray in the oven with water roughly 2cm high. Allow the water to come to heat
  2. Gently warm the milk
  3. Beat the butter, sugar, lemon zest and hot water together
  4. Add the flour and lemon juice and mix
  5. Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing with a whisk
  6. Slowly add the warm milk and whisk slowly until you have a smooth batter
  7. Whisk the egg whites to firm, but not stiff, peaks and gently fold the two components together
  8. Pour to the top of ramekins lined with butter and place in the bain-marie in the oven.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes. You want the top to be browned and slightly crisp, with the sides being of a soufflé consistency and the base a lovely, piping hot lemon curd. That’s the magic

To serve

  • A handful of toasted fennel seeds and pine nuts, blitzed to a coarse dust
  • A handful of fennel fronds and/or fresh basil leaves cut into strips
  1. On a circular plate, place the hot lemon pudding, still in his ramekin.

Do not turn out, as we want to keep the three distinct layers of texture in tact.

  1. Put a small amount of the dust on the plate to prevent slippage, then place the parfait on top
  2. Put a small amount of the dust on top of the parfait and rest a small quenelle of the pine nut ice cream on top.
  3. Crumble a small amount of meringue onto the remaining space on the plate and rest a small scoop of the fennel sorbet on it
  4. Be creative with the meringue shards, basil and fronds if you wish
  5. Enjoy hot

5 MINUTE IDEAL HEALTH WINS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 MINUTE IDEAL HEALTH WINS

pexels-photo-110470-large

If you’re reading this article then you’re already winning! Dr Sally Norton, NHS weight loss consultant and founder of VavistaLife reveals 5 minute health wins that take – yep 5 minutes

There are never enough hours in the day or days in the week to get everything done. The bare essentials may make it through but looking after us often ends up at the bottom of the list. It’s crazy – because looking after ourselves saves time in the long term, as we are able to function more efficiently and less likely to succumb to illness when we are healthy. But when life is out of control, try to find just 5 minutes for yourself. Here’s how…

Get moving

Whilst the NHS recommends around 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week plus time on strength exercises, it seems most of us just don’t make the time for it. The good news is that more and more studies are showing that shorter bursts of high intensity or sprint exercises can have great health benefits too….so having too little time is no excuse. Any exercise is better than none. Set your watch for this simple 5 minute workout….. Sprint as fast as you possibly can (on the spot if necessary) for 20 seconds, jog for 20, walk for 20. Repeat 5 times.

Breathe 

We sometimes forget that our brain needs downtime too. Stop for 5 minutes and focus on your breathing for a quick way to unwind and de-stress. Set a timer and sit in a quiet place – even your parked car before you hit the office or supermarket! Now focus on taking deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.

5 MINUTE HEALTH WINS

Phone a friend

It’s well known that social networks and healthy relationships help stave off the mental health issues that affect 1 in 4 of us at some time in our lives. By taking 5 minutes out of your busy day to chat to a friend or work colleague you are strengthening those bonds and cementing those lines of communication that may prove invaluable in keeping your mind as healthy as your body.

Plan ahead

‘Failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ as the saying goes. When we are surrounded by unhealthy choices at every turn it’s no surprise our willpower lets us down when we are stressed, tired and hungry. Try to spend just 5 minutes each day planning your healthier meals and grabbing some nutritious snacks for when the hunger pangs hit you unawares.

5 MINUTE HEALTH WINS

Think positive

Sometimes we feel as though the world is waging war on us, that deadlines are dragging us down and that life is leaving us listless. But it’s not just a cliché – studies show that looking on the bright side of life can really make things better and even lead to increased success at home and work. What’s more, it’s possible to develop a sunnier outlook even if you are normally a glass half-empty type. Rather than feeling down in the dumps, spend 5 minutes listing all that you can feel grateful for, however small. You will find your mood lifts – and if you make it a regular habit, who knows what benefits will follow.

However busy you are, there will be 5 minutes somewhere in the day for a quick boost to wellbeing, health, weight or fitness. You just have to remember to look for it! Perhaps wake up 5 minutes earlier or set an alarm at a certain time of the day. Add it on to an existing regular routine like after a shower or on arriving home from work. Anything that reminds you that you need some time too.

7 IDEAL WAYS TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY ON YOUR LUNCH

Rachel Stevenson
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7 IDEAL WAYS TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY ON YOUR LUNCH

Becky Alexander & Michelle Lake, authors of Packed, a hip and easy guide to lunch on-the-go, share their top tips on how to save time and money on your lunch

If you work in a city centre, there are now loads of places to buy a lunch. The thing is, the mark-up can be massive for what you get (3.60 for a veggie sandwich?). Lots of us get into the habit of buying the same thing most days too, which means we aren’t getting the variety or veggies we probably need. If you are spending 10 minutes each day queuing to buy your lunch, then why not spend that time getting organised buying a few online basics to make your lunch instead? Then you can get out for a walk or have more time to relax instead. Brits are spending on average 2.5K a year on lunch, which is the price of a very nice holiday. Here are some tips to help you make your own, and save some time and money:

Do an online shop at your desk

Once a week or fortnight, buy things like bags of cooked Beluga lentils, olives, feta cheese, tuna in olive oil, nuts and roast peppers so you can always make a delicious packed lunch.

Buy an amazing loaf of bread

Buy the most delicious, seed-packed rye or sourdough loaf from a posh bakery or market stall. Cut it into wedges and freeze. Take a chunk to work every day to go with your soup or salad – much nicer and loads more nutrients than a bit of white baguette.

Baby steps

If the thought of making your lunch before work seems like a massive hassle, why not try once or twice a week to start with?

Buy fridge stars

Radishes, rocket, cauliflower and red peppers will last for a week, maybe two, in your fridge, so you won’t worry about them looking soggy by Friday.

How much?

The mark-up on shop salads and sandwiches is huge. Many are low on protein (half an egg anyone?) and high on cheap, chewy lettuce. For the price you pay, think how much salmon, cray fish, avocados etc you could buy instead for that.

Batch cook at the weekend

Once a week or fortnight, make a veg- and pulse-packed soup or veg chilli. Freeze and you have something to pull out and take to work when you have zero time in the morning.

Sunday lunch savings

If you are cooking a roast lunch, add a few more veggies to the tray such as carrots, red onions, cauliflower and sweet potatoes. These can be your lunch on Monday, maybe with some feta cheese on top. Save any leftover roast chicken too to have on Tuesday in a hearty sandwich, with some roast peppers and rocket.

Coffee habits

If you buy a coffee most days, you are spending about 500 a year. That’s a weekend away. Why not take turmeric or matcha teabags to work instead, which can give you a few extra nutrients too.

For more lunch hacks from Becky and Michelle visit: www.nourishbooks.com

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR QUICK & EASY CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR QUICK & EASY CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

 

Chocolate brownies

A fantastic quick and easy recipe for  irresistible, tasty and rich chocolate brownies

Serves 20

  • 400g caster sugar
  • 225g butter, melted
  • 60g cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 eggs
  • 225g plain flour
  • ½ tspn baking powder
  • ½ tspn salt
  • 60g walnut halves
  1. Mix all ingredients in the order above.
  2. Bake at 180 C / Gas mark 4 for 20 – 25 minutes in a rectangular 23x33cm greased baking tin.
  3. Cool, and slice into equal square portions.

Recipe by Russell Hobbs

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR HOT CHOCOLATE SOUFFLE

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR HOT CHOCOLATE SOUFFLE

Hot chocolate soufflé: with a decadent, melting middle this one is all about seduction and sharing a spoon.

Ingredients

  • 75g butter
  • 450ml milk
  • 50g plain flour
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 1½ tbsp cocoa powder
  • 50g caster sugar
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C
  2. Melt the butter in a pan, stir in the flour and cocoa, and blend over a low heat. Add the milk and mix well using  a hand whisk until thickened slightly. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool, then add the egg yolks and beat in.
  3. Put the egg whites in the bowl, mix on speed 6 for a few seconds, then add the sugar and continue to whisk until soft peaks form. Fold in the sauce.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 1.2 litre dish. Stand the dish in a roasting tin filled half full with boiling water, put into the oven, and bake for 40- 45 minutes, until well risen.

 

Recipe by Russell Hobbs

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN, GARLIC POTATOES AND GREEN BEANS

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN, GARLIC POTATOES AND GREEN BEANS

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN, GARLIC POTATOES AND GREEN BEANS

Be healthy and happy with this Mediterranean chicken, garlic potatoes and green bean recipe.

For the chicken:

  • 2 Skinless chicken breasts
  • Small handful of dried black olives
  • 1 onion
  • 1 tomato
  • 2 springs of fresh tarragon
  • 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
  • Salt & pepper
  • 1 egg – lightly beaten
  • Breadcrumbs

For the potatoes

  • 2 large potatoes
  • 50g butter
  • Garlic crushed
  • 1/4 pint of cream
  • ¼ milk
  •  3 cloves of garlic
  • Pepper
  • Chopped parsley
  1. Place the peeled onion, black olives and the herbs into your food processor and blitz for 15 – 20 seconds.
  2. Cut your tomato into quarters and remove the centres then add to the mix and blitz for a further 10 – 15 seconds. Add a pinch of salt and some cracked black pepper.
  3. Peel the potatoes and then slice them in your food processor.
  4. Add the crushed garlic and the slightly softened butter.
  5. Take an oval medium sized baking dish and smear the sides and base of the dish with garlic butter.  Layer the potatoes in the dish, seasoning as you go with parsley and salt & pepper to create four layers.
  6. Add the cream and milk mix to almost cover the top layer.
  7. Take the chicken breast and cut them along the long side – butterflying them out.  Place a good spoonful of the mixture along the central section of the butterfly.  Then fold over to recreate the chicken breast shape again.
  8. Use your food processor again to create some breadcrumbs. Put some flour into a bowl and add salt and pepper. Then, whisk the egg in a separate bowl.
  9. Put the potatoes dish into a pre-heated fan oven 150 C (non-fan oven 170 C). Bake for around 40 minutes. The top will have a good brown colour and the mix should be just a little runny.
  10. Meanwhile, dip the chicken in the seasoned flour, dip in the egg wash and then roll in the breadcrumbs.
  11. Place the chicken on to a baking tray and place in for 30 – 35 minutes.  At 15 – 20 minutes turn once to ensure a lovely golden colour all over.

Recipe by Russell Hobbs

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CHICKEN KIEV, VINE TOMATOES AND BOULANGERE POTATOES

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CHICKEN KIEV, VINE TOMATOES AND BOULANGERE POTATOES

CHICKEN KIEV

Freshly made Chicken Kiev, an old favourite that everyone loves and is perfect for both friends and family

Chicken kiev, vine tomatoes and boulangère potatoes (serves 2)

For the kievs

  • 2 Skinned chicken breasts
  • 2 cloves of fresh garlic
  • 50g salted butter (softened)
  • 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
  • 1 Egg – lightly whisked
  • Breadcrumbs
  • A little flour
  • Pepper to taste

 CHICKEN KIEV

For the potatoes

  • 2 large potatoes
  • 1 white onion Sliced
  • ½ pint good chicken stock
  • Pepper
  • Chopped parsley
  1. Peel the potatoes and then slice them.Then peel and quarter an onion and then put that through the slicer.
  2. Layer the potato and onions in a baking dish. Add the stock with the chopped parsley so that it just covers the potatoes.
  3. Next, make the kievs. Peel the garlic and place it in your blender along with the parsley and a good sprinkle of black pepper and blitz for 10 – 20 seconds. Add the softened butter and mix for a further 15 seconds.
  4. Take the chicken breast and slice it along the long edge into a butterfly shape, but don’t cut it completely in half. Then place a piece of cling film over the chicken and batten it out (use a rolling pin) to flatten it out slightly.
  5. Place a good spoonful of the garlic, parsley and butter mix in the middle of each breast then roll the chicken breast over the mix so no holes are left. You will now have a tight roll of chicken.
  6. Place the Boulanger potatoes in a pre-heated fan oven 150 C (nonfan oven 170 C). They will take 30 – 40 minutes to bake.
  7. Use your blender again to create some breadcrumbs. Put some flour into a bowl and add salt and pepper. Then, whisk the egg in a separate bowl.
  8. Dip the chicken into the seasoned flour, then into the egg wash and then roll it in the breadcrumbs – coating completely. Repeat for the second breast.
  9. If you have time, leave the cling film on the chicken and leave in the fridge for an hour to rest. This will help the filling to stay in the chicken whilst it bakes.
  10. Place the chicken onto a baking tray along with the vine tomatoes and place in the oven for a total of 30 – 35 minutes.  At 15 – 20 minutes, turn the kievs once to ensure a lovely golden colour all over.

Recipe by Russell Hobbs

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO BEAUTY SLEEP

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO BEAUTY SLEEP

 

Do you ever look in the mirror after a late night and see a puffy red eyed person with dark circles and lacklustre skin staring back at you? Yep we’ve all been. But although it’s easy to bounce back from the occasional late night, getting back to looking your normal self if you don’t get enough sleep all the time isn’t so easy. With this in mind we discover why beauty sleep really matters…

Your sleep matters in a big way. It matters for your health and it matters for your lifestyle. But does it also matter for the way we look? In other words, is there such a thing as beauty sleep, and if so, how does it work?

Well to answer these questions the lovely Laura Barnes from the Sleep Matters Club powered by Dreams looked into the relationship between sleep and our physical appearance and made a few interesting connections.

Skin, hair and nails treatment as you sleep

During sleep, especially during deep and peaceful sleep, our body goes into ‘repair’ mode. It does this by producing growth hormones, which help to rebuild damaged cells, including those of the skin, hair and nails. So the more sleep we get, the longer our bodies can continue with this repairing, restoring and rebalancing process. Which all means that beauty sleep isn’t a myth, it’s a fact.

If you don’t get enough sleep – it shows

When we don’t sleep enough, the body struggles to produce these growth hormones and the end results are visible signs of sleep deprivation, like dark rings under the eyes, waxen skin and dull hair . Lack of sleep can also create a stress hormone, which causes skin ageing and other physical signs of exhaustion.

And the real beauty is, it’s free

Along with being one of the best beauty tips for your body, beauty sleep also has the key advantage of being absolutely free. Why spend a fortune on expensive skin creams, hair treatments and anti-ageing products, when getting a good night’s sleep on a regular basis could quite possibly give you visibly better results? Many models and celebrities know the value of beauty sleep, so join the rich and famous by making the most of it.

Be sure of your beauty sleep

To enjoy your beauty sleep, make sure you have everything you need to get plenty of it. That, of course, includes a comfortable bed and a comfortable mattress right at the top of the list. So if you’re sleeping on anything less than comfortable, do something about it by popping into your local Dreams showroom and seeing what’s on offer.

Better sleep means a better you, but in this instance it could means a better looking you too.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: BRASSERIE BLANC, THE IDEAL PLACE FOR GOOD FRENCH FOOD

Rachel Stevenson
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: BRASSERIE BLANC, THE IDEAL PLACE FOR GOOD FRENCH FOOD

Brasserie Blanc – Southbank

If you fancy some exceptionally well-cooked French food, then Brasserie Blanc is a restaurant you’ll want to visit

Raymond Blanc. As if his restaurants need any more good press. Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons has just retained its two michelin star status in the 2016 guide and after scouring the internet, we could find nothing but rave reviews about him and his empire. Raymond is undisputedly one of the UK’s most respected chefs.

Amongst other endeavours, our favourite Frenchman owns a chain of restaurants offering French cuisine under the name of Brasserie Blanc. 

Restaurants by celebrity chefs like this either live up to your expectations or they don’t. There’s no inbetween about it. And Brasserie Blanc in Southbank lived up to all expectations and to be completely honest, even exceeded some.

Idea

To be a French restaurant at it’s very best.  Brasserie Blanc aims to feel as authentic and as warm and welcoming as Maman Blanc’s home, with a comfortable space where guests can gather & savour all the various moments of the day.

Location

Situated between Waterloo Bridge and the Royal Festival Hall, this Brasserie Blanc is in the perfect spot for commuters, tourists and those who are in the area to soak up all the cultural delights that Southbank has to offer.

Style and Ambiance

Even though this place is ultimately a restaurant chain, somehow we don’t see it as a restaurant chain. It’s not in the same league as places like Cafe Rouge or Cote, and we mean that in a good way. To start, the service is perfect. Our waiter was one of the best waiters we’ve ever had. He was friendly, without crossing that line where he pretended to be our new best pal and was really knowledgeable about the menu.

The food is authentic and warming. They only use freshly prepared seasonal ingredients, unlike some chains who simply warm up ready made food – if you’ve ever worked in a chain restaurant, you know what we’re talking about. And even though it’s an upscale brasserie, it still has a relaxed vibe. The restaurant is sylish and well lit. It’s one of the best dining experiences we’ve had, and we’re not even using hyperbole.

The Food

The menu harks back to Raymond’s childhood and is all about classic French cusine. It’s packed full of dishes you will have heard of and probably already eaten, but they are done well. Here’s our food rundown.

STEAK TARTARE ‘MAISON’

An excellent steak tartare. It’s made with plenty of capers and the balance of flavours is spot on. 

BŒUF BOURGUIGNON

This dark, rich, deeply flavorful concoction of beef is a good thing. They say that the secret to making an excellent Beef bourguignon is to use all wine and no stock and we really want to know how they make it here. The dish is served with a smooth mash. It’s the type of mash that will wow you – we also want to know what kind of potatoes they use.

DUCK LEG CONFIT WITH BLACK CHERRY SAUCE

Here at IDEAL we love the way slow-braised French dishes fall off the bone. That’s why we love duck confit – tender meat with crispy skin to us is perfection.  This classic dish is an exquisite combination of duck and cherry sauce. Order it.

ESCARGOTS

Order it if you’re into snails. They aren’t served in the shells, which we kind of missed. This dish was meaty, garlicky and delicious.

PISTACHIO SOUFFLE

This dessert is simply wonderful. In terms of dessert souffles, it’s not quite as good as the one at The Sportsman, but it’s up there.

Address: 9 Belvedere Rd, London, South Bank SE1 8YL
Phone: 020 7202 8470
Menu: brasserieblanc.com

IDEAL dined as a guest of the restaurant and received a complimentary meal

7 FREE BEAUTY TRICKS EVERY WOMAN CAN DO

Rachel Stevenson
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7 FREE BEAUTY TRICKS EVERY WOMAN CAN DO

 

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Blogger Briony Goodhall, founder of The Daily Face, shares her favourite beauty tricks that every woman can do for free!

Did you know that the average woman will spend a crazy amount of £100,000 on cosmetics over her lifetime, which equates to £40 a week and £2,000 a year. Yes, we all know how expensive it is to look after our skin, hair, nails and all the rest. However, you don’t always have to spend a small fortune to look good. Fact. Here are some free and quick beauty tips and tricks that can easily be adapted to any women’s lifestyle, making a difference to your beauty regime without the need for extra cash. 

The Iced Water Facial  

If you’re feeling a bit tired and you need to wake up – submerge your skin in ice cold water. It sounds crazy but this little trick will not only wake you up, it will also instantly tighten pores and make your skin feel smooth.

The Headstand Glow

Did you know that a headstand basically gives you a “face lift” by letting your skin hang in the opposite direction. No joke.

I recently started doing a new class at the gym which is a mixture of pilates and yoga, involving a lot of stretching and upside down-ness and also headstands. But through all the redness and dizziness, headstands really get the blood pumping and flushes fresh nutrients and oxygen to the face, creating a nice glow on the skin. If you’re not into exercises or headstands you can always stick your head off the end of your bed I suppose!

The Ice Cube Spot Reducer

You can use your ice cubes for more than just your cocktails! Ice cubes are a great natural spot remedy. When you feel a spot coming on, instead of trying top pop it, press a cold flannel/ ice cube on the area which will work to reduce the swelling and redness around the spot. This trick not only helps to shrink your spot, it also reduces its lifespan by reducing the size of the spot.

The Toothbrush Hair Saviour

Do you have those annoying flyaway bits when you’ve just done your hair? To rectify this simply take your toothbrush and gently smooth them down. This one isn’t completely free as you do need a toothbrush – but I’m assuming everyone has one of those?

The Natural Wave Trick

Don’t have time to dry your hair before bed? Then just brush your hair in the shower after conditioning and when you get out – tie it in a little bun on the top of your head. This means that when you get up in the morning, you’ll have a natural wave through your hair and you won’t have to worry about styling it. 

The Face Massage 

If your skin is looking dull, give it a quick massage morning & night. This will get the blood pumping and the muscles working to ensure your skin is naturally plumped and glowing. If you already have a facial oil/ serum, you can use that too but technically that doesn’t count as free!

The Credit Card Trick

Lastly, when you’re doing a smokey eye, take something with a straight edge like a credit card and use this as a guide. Place it at the corner of your eye and wing it out slightly so you can create that perfect party look. This method will also stop any fall out from dropping onto the skin!

For more beauty advice, tips and tricks from Briony, follow her on Twitter and like her on Facebook

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR PESTO AND SALMON DROP SCONES

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR PESTO AND SALMON DROP SCONES

PESTO SALMON SCONES

Pesto and Salmon Drop Scones: Perfect nibbly bites to serve to your guests – more of a canapé than a starter to accompany the conversation!

Pesto and Salmon Drop Scones (Makes 20)

For the scones:

  • 115g (4 oz) of self-raising flour
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp Pesto sauce
  • 100ml (4 fl oz) milk
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil

For the Topping

  • Crème fraîche or sour cream
  • 55g (2 oz) smoked salmon, make up into small rolls

For the Garnish:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh dill
  1. Place the flour in the food processor bowl. Add the egg, pesto sauce and half the milk and blend on a slow speed. Thin to a dropping consistency with the remaining milk. Season.
  2. Wipe a sauce pan or hotplate with a little oil on a piece of kitchen paper.  Drop tablespoons of the mixture onto the hotplate, when bubbles rise to the surface, turn over and cook the other side.
  3. Place the mini pancakes on a serving plate, top each with a spoon of sour cream and a roll of smoked salmon.  Scatter chopped dill on top.

PESTO

 Recipes by Russell Hobbs

IDEAL TIPS: UNDERSTANDING THE JARGON BEHIND BUYING AND SELLING YOUR HOME

Rachel Stevenson
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IDEAL TIPS: UNDERSTANDING THE JARGON BEHIND BUYING AND SELLING YOUR HOME

The property market is growing at a fast rate, according to recent reports Bristol is the fastest growing rate in the country, so there’s never been a better time to get onto the housing ladder.

However, the terminology associated with buying and selling a home is sometimes a little confusing, especially for those who are looking for their first home. The difference between base rates and capped rates, and bridging finance and mortgage offer, is worth knowing.

The infographic below can give you more confidence when exploring the offers that are available to you. It will help when reading through relevant literature on the housing market for first time buyers in the south-west; when talking with solicitors, lenders and brokers; and when analysing the terms of your mortgage before finally signing on the dotted line!

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