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RECIPE: HOW TO MAKE THE IDEAL HONEY ROAST PORK PUFFS

Rachel Stevenson
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RECIPE: HOW TO MAKE THE IDEAL HONEY ROAST PORK PUFFS

Dim sum is one of the most popular styles of Cantonese cuisine. The Royal China Group is renowned for its authentic dim sum, which is served daily from Noon until 5pm.

Royal China’s chefs have shared their recipe for Honey Roast Pork Puffs so that you can try to recreate this Chinese classic at home.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 tbsp ginger, peeled and finely grated

4 tbsp light soy sauce

2 tbsp yellow (soy bean) bean sauce

2 tbsp honey

1 pinch sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

260g pork tenderloin**

For the puffs:

490g ready-made rolled puff pastry

1 egg, beaten

Sesame seeds to sprinkle

Method

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Add the pork, cover with plastic wrap and leave in the fridge to marinate for as long as possible, preferably overnight.

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 180°C.

Remove the pork from the marinade and reserve marinade. Place the pork in a roasting pan and roast for 40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 63°C.

While pork is roasting, bring reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan. Once the marinade has boiled you can take it off of the heat. Baste pork halfway through cooking with two tablespoons of marinade. Cool remaining marinade to room temperature.

When pork is done, remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes, then cut the pork into ½ cm cubes. Toss the cubed pork in enough of the reserved, cooled, marinade to coat. The pork mixture should be room temperature before filling the pastry.

Preheat the oven to 200°C.

Cut each sheet of puff pastry into six 7.5cm squares, for a total of twelve. Brush the edges of each square with beaten egg and then place a heaped teaspoon of the pork filling in the centre. Fold the square in half to create a triangular pastry. Tuck the triangle ends under to round off the triangular shape.

Place on a roasting tray lined with parchment paper and brush egg wash over the top, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the pastries and cook in the oven for 18-20 minutes until the pastry is golden. Serve immediately.

**Tip: There is enough marinade for up to 700g pork. Buy a whole pork tenderloin and cut off the 260g needed for this recipe. Marinate and roast both pieces and use the extra Char Sui to make delicious sandwiches, fried rice, or roast pork salad!

www.royalchinagroup.co.uk

7 IDEAL APPS FOR SPONTANEOUS TRAVELLERS

Rachel Stevenson
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7 IDEAL APPS FOR SPONTANEOUS TRAVELLERS

 

Spontaneous getaways, be they with friends, family, or even business, can be hard to get right.

Because let’s face it, the very nature of dashing off at the last moment means you won’t have planned what to pack, researched the destination, mastered some basic phrases, booked a hotel, or finished that report for your boss. But with a humble smartphone, anything and anywhere is possible.

So if you like to live life on the edge, take a look at this round up of must-have apps from hotel bookers LateRooms.com, conveniently put in order of when you might need to use them next time you embark on a spur-of-the-moment trip.

Skyscanner (free – iOS and Android)

First things first, pick a destination and get those flights booked. Skyscanner does the hard work so you don’t have to, pulling together up-to-date rates from hundreds of airlines in seconds. Its ingenious drop-pin feature means it can calculate routes to literally anywhere (on earth). And if you haven’t even thought of where you want to go, it’s got the modern day equivalent of sticking a pin in a map down to a tee.  Just select ‘Everywhere’ in the destination field – it’ll show you how far your money will take you.

Packing Pro (£2.29 – iOS)

One of the hardest things about preparing for any trip is deciding what to pack. Well, if you use Packing Pro it’ll become one of the easiest, even if you’re short on time. Just pop in where you’re going and how long for and it will tell you exactly what you take with you – kind of like a digitalised Gok Wan.

Air Sharing (£2.99 – iOS)

If your off-the-cuff trip means you’ve got some work to finish en-route, then it’s definitely worth investing in Air Sharing. It allows you to preload your phone with important documents at the airport so you can check them while in the air, meaning your phone needn’t be a blunt instrument for the duration of your journey.

Google Translate (free – iOS and Android)

So you’ve touched down and finally switched off airplane mode, but the first call you receive is from nature and you don’t know how to ask where the toilets are, or indeed say anything in the vernacular. But no bother, Google Translate is on hand (or in hand) to help you navigate the local dialect. It even has a ‘visual recognition’ function in some languages, which lets you simply point your smartphone camera at some text and it will translate. Nifty.

LateRooms.com (free – iOS and Android)

Once you’ve mastered the lingo it’s time to make sure you’ve got a place to sleep. LateRooms.com’s App gives you access to over 150,000 properties globally and allows you to book a room in under 60 seconds. Its geo location functionality plots a map around your current location to show you every hotel with availability (and their room rates) within your surrounding area for that very night – so you can book your stay and check in within minutes.  What’s more, hoteliers looking to sell remaining rooms on-the-day often show Mobile Exclusive Rates that could save you up to 40%, on top of what you might find elsewhere. Handy and thrifty, what’s not to love?

Travel Safe (£0.79 – iOS, £0.64 – Android)

Of course, there’s only so much we can plan for and, if you never got around to looking up international emergency contact details before you left, it’s okay: Travel Safe is on hand. It’s the ultimate emergency contact app, and has details for nearly every country on planet earth. In just one tap you can call for help, and it even provides embassy details should you lose your passport.

Wi-Fi Finder (free – iOS and Android)

No prizes for guessing what this one does. Wi-Fi Finder stands out thanks to its offline mode that lets you download Wi-Fi maps before you arrive, keeping those roaming bills as low as possible and letting you get the most out of your awesome new Apps.

So there you have it – tool up your smartphone before you next nip away, you’d be app-solutely mental not to

5 IDEAL ECO-VACATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GIVE BACK ON THE GO

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL ECO-VACATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GIVE BACK ON THE GO

Interested in going to the ends of the Earth to help save the planet? Or perhaps just a beach in Hawaii or an animal preserve in Costa Rica? In honor of Earth Day, the travel experts at Cheapflights.com, have pulled together their picks for 10 destinations to make a difference: top ecotourism impact spots with a line-up of hands-on, inspiring opportunities to play a role in protecting the planet.

And, to keep us all treading more lightly when we travel, Cheapflights.com has also compiled a list of essential eco-travel tips with small steps that travelers can take to help make bigger strides in protecting the planet.

For those looking to put a green spin on their next adventure, below are five of our picks for eco-vacations where you can give back on the go:

Monitor climate change in Joshua Tree National Park in California

Spend some time in one of North America’s most popular national parks while at the same time helping scientists monitor climate change and do what they can to preserve the Mojave Desert. As you hike through stunning Joshua Tree National Park in California, you’ll be tasked with monitoring desert vegetation and collecting data on various plants; trapping, recording and safely releasing reptiles and amphibians and exploring the area for larger birds and animals alongside scientists. This is a great volunteer opportunity for anyone who loves hiking in the great outdoors and has a passion for environmental conservation.

Help research global warming in Canada’s Mackenzie Mountains

If you love getting out into nature, you’re going to love this chance to work with scientists to discover clues about global warming in the Mackenzie Mountains, a majestic mountain range that runs along the border between Canada’s Northwest Territories and the Yukon. The researchers here are working to preserve the area’s sensitive environment and learn more about the effects of global warming. You’ll help them look for and monitor signs of climate change, take soil and permafrost samples, monitor the health of the tree line and record information on native plant species. When you’re not in the field, you’ll have a chance to relax at the lodge and attend talks on climate change and the natural history of species in the area.

Protect bottlenose dolphins in Croatia

The small village of Zambratija, Croatia, will be your base as you volunteer with bottlenose dolphin conservation on the Adriatic Sea where the bottlenose dolphin population has declined by approximately 50 percent in the last five decades. Your volunteer efforts will include dolphin observation and tracking as well as entering and analyzing data from field work. You’ll learn how to distinguish between dolphin species and have the chance to attend morning talks about NGO efforts to protect marine mammals and ecology. During your stay, there will also be at least one organized group trip to a nearby national park.

Care for wildlife in Hawaii

This volunteer opportunity is your chance to have an unforgettable beach vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii while also helping to care for native and exotic wildlife at a local wildlife center. During your stay, you’ll be caring for resident exotic and non-releasable wildlife, working with injured wildlife and returning them to the wild if possible and educating visitors and locals about Hawaii’s island ecology and animal behavior. When you’re not working, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the island’s many beautiful beaches.

Participate in island conservation in the Galapagos

Volunteer with Projects Abroad in the Galapagos Islands, one of the most naturally diverse environments in the world. Volunteers are based on San Cristobal Island in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and participate in a hands-on way with conservation efforts. The Galapagos Islands are renowned as a location for ecotourism, and work for this project includes removing invasive plant species, replacing them with indigenous species, participating in beach cleanups, and observing and collecting data on various native animals, especially the Galapagos Petrel, an endangered seabird. If that wasn’t enough, you’ll also get the chance to work at the Galapagos National Park’s giant tortoise breeding center.

10 IDEAL REASONS WHY THE BRITISH LOVE AFTERNOON TEA

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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10 IDEAL REASONS WHY THE BRITISH LOVE AFTERNOON TEA

Scones with lashings of jam and cream, cucumber sandwiches and lots of tea = heaven for a Brit! If you’ve ever wondered why then here are 10 reasons why the British love afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is a long-running British tradition, dating back to the early 18th century when it was used to bridge the gap between the two main meals of the day, lunch and dinner. Today, the custom remains an extremely popular pursuit, enacted in tea rooms, hotels and households across the country. But what exactly is it about the custom that we adore so much?

TRADITION

Whilst there are now a number of modern variations of the quaint tradition, socialising over a pot of tea and tucking into finger sandwiches is all part of re-creating a sense of old-fashioned finery. The ritual allows us to revisit traditional values, reminisce about times gone by and exercise some good old English etiquette.

HIGH TEA CONNOTATIONS

Contrary to popular belief, high tea actually originated from the lower classes, which was later transformed into an event predominately for the upper class. However, with many prestigious hotels now offering elaborate high tea experiences, much of the appeal can be attributed to the element of sophistication and refinery associated with this style of dining.

ICONICALLY BRITISH

Just like having a roast beef dinner on a Sunday, afternoon tea is quintessentially British. In fact, people from all over the world still think of the ceremony as a daily occurrence, when in reality, it’s often considered a treat saved for a special occasions. Still, we’re proud of our traditions, and call it narcissistic, but one of the reasons why we love the tea-drinking custom so much is because we invented it!

VARIETY

Being presented with an assortment of tasty treats is guaranteed to get anyone’s taste buds going. Many food venues are now extending their afternoon menus with customised specialties, including English muffins, pies or even champagne-based versions. Even the tea, traditionally made with milk and sugar, is often available with a selection of exciting fruit and herbal flavours including earl grey.

TEA CULTURE

There’s no hiding from the fact that as a nation, we’re obsessed with the idea of having a good cup of tea – so much so that the idiom ‘not my cup of tea’ is commonly used to describe something that is not to your taste. Thus, an activity that centres around tea-drinking, with some additional sweet treats on the side, is to experience British drinking culture at its very best.

EXCITING LOCATIONS

Whether you prefer the informal atmosphere of a cosy tea room or want to indulge in the grandeur of London’s most high-end hotels, the tradition is as much about food and drink as it is about the location. To get the full experience in one of the capital’s leading hotels, The Landmark London offers an impressive selection of sandwiches, cakes and chocolate treats with herbal and brewed teas, all served up in the stunning surroundings of their exclusive Winter Garden Restaurant.

BREAKING UP ROUTINE

There’s no denying that we’re all prone to being creatures of habit, meaning that when we deviate from our everyday routine, it’s all the more enjoyable. By replacing lunch and diminishing the need for a proper dinner, dining at a time that strays from our daily eating patterns can be a fun way to try something different, especially with busy weekend schedules that call for a quick bite to eat.

SOCIAL OCASSIONS

Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a baby-shower or simply an excuse to catch up with old friends, sharing a pot of tea is very much a social occasion. Having a civilised get-together in the middle of the day provides the perfect chance to engage in conversation, share food and relax in good company.

FOOD WITH A DIFFERENCE

Offering a refined take on the everyday ‘builders tea’, there’s undeniably something fun about using a cup and saucer, not to mention making your way down a three tier platter and nibbling on a whole host of finger foods. The delicate nature of bite-sized sandwiches and tiny samples of cakes offers a different way to enjoy food.

A POPULAR TREND

Even back when it started with the high-born ladies of the18th century, afternoon tea has always been a fashionable event. Whilst drinking tea can certainly be performed at home, the ceremony of dressing in your best and heading out to some of the most sought-after venues in London for an afternoon of indulgence still remains a popular form of recreation for the style-conscious crowd.

PAVE THE WAY TO PARTY PLANNING PARADISE WITH THESE THREE TIPS

Rachel Stevenson
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PAVE THE WAY TO PARTY PLANNING PARADISE WITH THESE THREE TIPS

 

party planning

Throwing a successful party is always satisfying. What’s better than knowing everyone had a good time because of your efforts? Even so, organising a party is never easy, especially if it’s a big one! Have you got a special event coming up? Maybe your friend has trusted you with their engagement party? Or, does a loved one have a big birthday on the way? Ensuring a big party goes well isn’t as hard as you might think. All you need to do is go about things in the right way. Here’s some ideas that should make the process a little easier!

KEEP ON TOP OF ORGANISATION

party planning 2

Organisation is important when planning any party. A large party requires even more effort in the planning stages. When there’s a lot to keep on top of, it’s best to split tasks into manageable chunks. Don’t take on too much at once and find yourself overwhelmed. Write a list of everything you need to do, and take it an item at a time. The guest list is going to need attention as soon as possible. That’s one of the biggest tasks you’ll face, and you’ll feel better once it’s out the way! Cross each item off the list as you complete it. Working this way will ensure everything is done in no time. Anytime you feel panicked, return to the list. Remind yourself how much progress you’ve already made!

MAKE SURE TO CATER FOR EVERYONE

buffet 3

When you’re working with large guest numbers, you need to make sure that you’re going to have enough of everything. The sooner the invites get confirmed, the sooner you can start ensuring you have the amounts you need! The main things you’ll need to consider are venue and catering. Make sure the space you hire is large enough to fit your guests! Most venues will give you a rough estimate on numbers. Check the capacity is large enough before committing to anything. Remember, too, that you don’t want things to be too tight. Something like country house hire will ensure a spacious event! Make sure, too, that you pass accurate numbers on to the caterers. You don’t want your guests going hungry!

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP

party planing 3

Even if you think you have things under control, it’s worth asking for help. It may be possible to organise a small party alone, but a large one is a different beast altogether! Don’t make silly mistakes by taking too much on your shoulders. Ask friends and family to help you out a little. If you’re struggling, you could use a professional to take care of the hard work for you! That would free you of the stress, and ensure that the night goes well! Who better to plan the thing than someone who does it for a living? Remember that the quality of the party is what matters. Don’t risk things going wrong because you want to take full credit. Know when to admit that something is too much!

FIVE IDEAL WAYS TO TACKLE THE DREADED RED STAIN

Rachel Stevenson
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FIVE IDEAL WAYS TO TACKLE THE DREADED RED STAIN

We’ve all been there; whether during a party or a cosy night in – the dreaded red wine stain when even a small spill can look disastrous.

However, it needn’t ruin your night as BISSELL, the experts in carpet cleaning, has shared its top tips when it comes to removing red wine. Just remember to act fast, as the longer the wine is left to set into your carpet the harder it can be to tackle.

ONE

Mix one-quarter teaspoon of washing-up liquid with four cups of lukewarm water. Work the solution into the stain with a gentle blotting motion. Then use clean water and a new cloth to remove the rest of the stain.

TWO

Products such as the BISSELL Oxy Stain Destroyer targets the source of stains working hard to shift, lift and permanently remove them from carpets in as quickly as 30 seconds.

THREE

Vinegar, the old kitchen cupboard favourite, can come in very useful too. Mix 1 tablespoon of washing-up liquid, 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar and 2 cups of warm water. Blot the stain using a cloth and the solution, then use a new rag dipped in water directly onto the stain to soak up the wine.

FOUR

For really harsh stains, even worse than red wine such as nail polish or spray pain – try mineral spirits and work on it very cautiously to prevent making the issue worse.

FIVE

Red wines slightly lighter cousin can also come in handy when it comes to accidents. Pour a little white wine onto the stain and blot with a cloth to work it in. Applying baking soda too helps loosen-up the stain whilst the white wine works its magic.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO: HYDRATION

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO: HYDRATION

Water is the second most popular drink in the US ….after fizzy drinks! A shocking statistic when you consider that our love of sugary drinks is one reason for soaring levels of obesity, type 2 diabetes, stroke and more.

And that’s not even taking into account the rising popularity of specialist coffees served in most high street coffee bars laden with calories, sugar and fat – which is contributing to our expanding waistlines and the health problems that go with it.

All reason enough to ditch the sugary drinks and make water the number one beverage of choice. But did you know that water is also a great pick-me-up and is one of the best health and beauty products around. Here are five reasons to drink more water:

Boost your brain power

Around 75% of the brain is water – so being dehydrated literally shrinks our brains! Even 2% is enough to reduce your attention, concentration, coordination and memory skills – not forgetting those dehydration headaches.

Give yourself energy for exercise

Hydration plays a major role in overall performance in sports and exercise, helping to regulate your body temperature during exercise and promote muscle recovery after it. Many athletes and amateurs alike choose to use a hydration pack during longer or more intense periods of exercise to ensure they’re performing at their peak. Visit Sky MD to learn more about hydration boost technology.

Perk yourself up

In a food and mood survey of 200 women, backed by mental health charity MIND, 80% reported that drinking more water helped them mentally and emotionally. Not surprising, when you consider how much dehydration stresses the brain. What’s more, 2% dehydration can also affect physical performance – making water a good all round pick-me-up.

Save on calories

Studies suggest women who drink more water are likely to weigh less. This makes sense given that simply swapping sugary drinks for water (yippee, calorie free!) could save you more than 200 calories per day. And with some specialist coffees containing a whopping 500 calories, drinking water instead could save another quarter of your recommended daily calorie intake.

Eat less

Hunger and thirst are easily confused – another reason why drinking more water can help with weight loss. What’s more, studies show that filling up with water before or with meals can reduce the amount of calories consumed.

Look more youthful

Did you know that one third of your skin is made up of water? So one of the best beauty aids around is staying hydrated. It keeps your skin cells plump and looking brighter, and can help banish blemishes and improve skin tone and clarity. Plus water is a good deal cheaper than all those expensive anti-ageing creams many of us slap on every day.

How much is enough?

But how can you ensure you’re drinking enough? A rough daily guide is 8 glasses for women and 10 for men. But this depends on a number of things, not least how warm it is and how active you are.

A sensible guide is to make water your main drink of choice and to drink little and often. If your pee is a pale straw colour- as opposed to dark or clear – you know that you’re getting it right!

AN IDEAL WINE TOUR OF TUSCANY

Rachel Stevenson
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AN IDEAL WINE TOUR OF TUSCANY

Tuscany is the birthplace of some of the world’s most iconic wines such as Chianti, Vino Nobiles, and Brunello, to name but a few. Even today the region is one of the most prolific and famous wine producing areas in Europe. Along with the enchanting landscape of rolling hills, cypress-tree lined roads and hilltop villages, Tuscany has long been a favoured and beloved region of the Italians and visitors alike.  With the help of ArtViva, here’s a run down of the wine’s from the region.

CHIANTI

Chianti is probably one of Italy’s most iconic vintages, with ancient origins dating back to the Middle Ages.Traditionally the wine is made from the Sangiovese grapes and benefits from the rugged Tuscan terrain and diversity of soil, which adds great personality to its taste. Today, in Tuscany, tours of the Chianti region’s hillside estates are popular among tourists for both the quality of sampling opportunities and the stunningly picturesque landscape that is impossible to escape!

MONTALCINO 

Over the years, the Brunello di Montalcino – produced in the DOCG zone around Siena – has gained a greater regard for its higher quality than its counterparts from Chianti. The wines produced in the Montalcino region are generally more expensive and require longer cellaring for their true flavour to mature. Montalcino itself is a classic fairytale-esque hilltop town, fully enclosed within ancient fortified walls. The town is situated at a spectacular vantage point with 360 degree views of rolling hills, olive groves, perfect vineyards and scenic country roads.

MONTEPULCIANO 

This medieval hilltop town is one of extraordinary beauty and is found in southern Tuscany. Tours of the town itself guide visitors through elegant Renaissance palaces, charming squares, ancient churches and stunning panoramic views of the valleys around it. The surrounding countryside is covered in vineyards that produce the area’s famous Vino Nobile. Quite literally translated into “the perfect wine, of noble men”, the Nobile is once again the product of quality Sangiovese grapes combined with a perfected aging process.

SAN GIMIGANO 

Located just north of Siena, San Gimignano has an illustrious vinicultural history with winemaking traditions dating back to the Etruscan period. Today, San Gimignano holds its own DOC title and is the home of Tuscany’s only white DOCG wine called Vernaccia di San Gimignano. This particular vintage is produced from grapes planted at a particular altitude and grown in chalk soil.

These two factors, amongst others, produce the very unique personality of the Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Again, this stunning medieval hilltop town is one of the most beloved in Tuscany. Tours of the town explore the magnificent architecture and interior art while making it a point to stop and take in the vast panoramic views available around every corner.

There is no doubt that visitors flock to Italy for many different reasons. The country is a treasure trove of stimulation for every sense. However, for a real treat for the taste buds, the best destination is Tuscany. Tours, although they may be dedicated to wine, rarely avoid the opportunity to also sample fabulous cheeses, sweet delicacies and the freshest produce. You will find that Tuscany is truly a food and wine-lover’s tasting paradise!

3 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT BUSABA IN LONDON NOW

Rachel Stevenson
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3 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT BUSABA IN LONDON NOW

Experience the tastes, flavours and aromas of Bangkok, Asia’s coolest city, whilst indulging in fresh, vibrant and zingy Thai dishes and contemporary cocktails at Busaba. Here are 3 reasons why you should head there now!

FOR A TASTE OF BANGKOK

Busaba speaks the language of modern Bangkok eating, inspired by the traditions of Thai cookery, with the fragrant flavours and vibrant colours of every plate transporting you across the Indian Ocean, with a menu created by Executive Chef Jude Sangsida.

The small plates are all tasty, especially  Busaba’s signature Thai calamari with zingy ginger and green peppercorn. The som tam – a fragrant green papaya salad with dried shrimp, peanut, cherry tomato and fresh lime is darn good as well.

Noodles are served up in classic soups, such as coconut-rich Northern Thai laksa and tom yam soup, or fried in the sizzling wok and served in a variety of ways including the Sen Chan Pad Thai. Those with a craving for curry can take pleasure in freshly made fiery pastes including jungle chicken with Thai aubergine; mussaman duck with star anise; and songkhla beef with tangy banana pepper best enjoyed with jasmine rice to balance the heat.

Thai food is a made for sharing, so order a few dishes and some rice and get stuck in!

FOR THE CHAR-GRILL CATEGORY

The Char-Grill category is authentically Thai, with dishes featuring a distinct seared barbecue aroma and taste, from Issan-style chicken with spicy cucumber salad (order with sticky rice) to tamarind-grilled duck with Chinese broccoli, to green curry with grilled chicken.

Top Tip: If you love grilled chicken and you’re in Thailand -head to SP Chicken in Chiang Mai. This could possibly be the best chicken we’ve ever tasted. The chickens are brined, marinated, stuffed with an aromatic filling of lemon grass and garlic and cooked over charcoal. Order it with papaya salad and sticky rice – the holy trinity of Issan cooking.

FOR THE ASIAN BEERS AND COCKTAILS

Complementing the menu’s Thai ingredients and flavours, a vast selection of Asian beers and Thai spirits are available from the bar alongside other traditional refreshments and cocktails made using fresh, exotic fruits. Highlights include the refreshing Guava Bellini created with guava purèe; Asian Mojito with makrut lime leaves; and ginger spiced Red Mule featuring a dash of hibiscus syrup. For those after a pre-weekend treat can take advantage of the bar’s 2-for-1 cocktail offer available all day every Thursday. Beer lovers will be sure to opt for a chilled bottle of Busaba Saison – exclusively brewed for the restaurant by Hop Kettle Brewery – or Chang, Thailand’s most famous beer.

Address: 52-53 Eastcastle St, Fitzrovia, London W1W 8ED

Website: www.busaba.com

6 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ABSURD BIRD IN SOHO

Rachel Stevenson
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6 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ABSURD BIRD IN SOHO

Absurd Bird is one of many London joints upping the capital’s chicken scene.  Serving up southern-inspired chicken dishes, moonshine and creative cocktails,  Absurd Bird brings the spirit of the Deep South to the heart of the Big Smoke.  Here are 6 reasons to visit:

THE SOHO SPECIALS

The Soho Specials board is packed with plates only available in Absurd Bird Soho. Choose Absurd’s original Waffle Cone with Popcorn Chicken; think of an ice cream cone made from fresh waffles, but filled with tender chicken pieces. Chicken Wraps with Quinoa and Guacamole or a Smoked Caesar dressing are ideal lunch-time bites.  Absurd’s ever-changing Wild Wing Special will also feature on the board, first up is the Truffle Wing which the crowds at Wing Fest 2016 went wild for!

THE BIRD

Absurd Bird is a chicken lover’s paradise! Using only ethically sourced, hormone-free chickens from Fosse Meadows Farm where traditional free-range farming techniques mean that each bird is slow-grown for 81 days in grassy outdoor pastures which is much longer than the average 32 day-old free-ranger! Fosse Meadows allow the bird to naturally develop to maturity which produces a more flavoursome and textured meat, it’s delicious!

Each tasty bird is marinated in secret recipe sauces and teamed with an array of irresistible sides. Chicken highlights include juicy wings in Buttermilk, BBQ, Buffalo or Garlic and Parmesan sauces; Grilled Whole Chickens with Sweet Gravy and Chicken Sliders. Plus, don’t miss out on the Dirty Buns – fried chicken, spicy mayo and pickles served in a bouncy bao bun.

THE SHARERS AND SIDES

Bring added excitement to the table with southern sides and sharing dishes of Jalapeño Cheese Biscuits, Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Tortilla Chips and Sweet Potato Bake with toasted marshmallows. Absurd’s famous Jalapeño Mac and Cheese is an indulgent addition to any main course.

THE GREENISH PLATES

After something a little greener? Opt for the superfood packed organic Quinoa and Mango Salad with spring onion, cucumber, pomegranate, coriander and tomato or hit refresh on a classic Caesar with plenty of southern spices.

THE SWEET SOMETHINGS

It’s not just about the chicken; leave with a sweet taste in your mouth and try Absurd’s famous Crack Pie or go for an all-out blow out with the ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake. Both are sure to have you coming back for more.

THE MOONSHINE 

No Southern affair would be complete without jars of Moonshine. Brewed at Signature Brewery in Leyton, bottles of Absurd Moonshine and Absurd Lager bring a quirky twist to the drinks menu. In the downstairs hideaway bar, sip your way through an impressive list of cocktails from mixologists Soulshakers. Enjoy Absurd’s take on some classic serves or get going with a Little Red Rooster – Finlandia Vodka, raspberry, strawberry, zesty lemon juice, sugar, and fizz, or the Cock Shot – a shot of Moonshine with a shot of Chicken Consommé – is a must try.

Address: 25 Peter St, Soho, London W1F 0AH

 

Website: www.absurdbird.com

4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID CHIPPED NAIL POLISH

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID CHIPPED NAIL POLISH

So we all love a bit of nail polish on our finger tips, but don’t you just hate it when you spend time painting your nails and the next day it’s chipped off? Well, below is our step-by-step guide on how to avoid chipped nail polish…

How To Avoid Chipped Nail Polish:

1. First of all, make sure you nails are clean, with no residue from previous polish and no grease. Our nails produce natural oils which lifts the polish off, so to prevent this happening as much as possible you need to make sure there is no oil there to begin with.

2. Next apply a layer of base coat nail polish. Clear nail polish works perfectly fine, so no need to spend extra on a special base coat polish. The base coat will prevent the polish staining your nails as well as protect the colour polish from chipping quite so easily.

3. Once the base coat is dry you can apply a layer of coloured nail polish. Make sure the polish isn’t too thick or gloopy as this will effect the look of your nails. Wait for this to dry and apply another coat, ensuring the colour is spread evenly across your nails.

4. Finally, apply two layers of top coat nail polish. Then in a couple of days time add one more layer. This just protects the nails again, to ensure any chipping that may appear soon can be prevented. We recommend trying out OPI’s Top Coatnail polish that protects and leaves a high gloss finish.

The advice above will help you avoid chipped nail polish for 3-5 days, however I have one more piece of advice to help avoid chipped nail polish for up to a week:

After applying the coloured nail polish, dip each nail in a shot of vodka, wait a minute or so for it to dry and paint over with two layers of clear nail polish. This has worked before when doing ‘newspaper nails’. The newspaper nails lasted for a week, with no chips at all until day 7, suggesting that the vodka trick really works!

One final piece of advice would be, if you have enough space, keep your nail polishes in the fridge. This prevents them from going sticky.

If you have any tips and tricks then please let us know and we’ll tell our readers!

IDEAL WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR BEAUTY REGIME FOR SUMMER

Rachel Stevenson
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IDEAL WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR BEAUTY REGIME FOR SUMMER

Summer isn’t all fun and games. If you’re not careful, too much sun, sand and saltwater will wreak havoc on your skin and hair. To make sure that readers can enjoy some July shenanigans without paying the price in October, health website Treato has compiled a list of tips for updating your beauty regime for the summer.

Make sunscreen application a daily chore

Do you put on sunscreen before you go to the beach? Good for you. However, when the temperatures are consistently above 80 degrees, you should be wearing sunscreen everywhere you go. Next time you’re at the drugstore, pick up a daily moisturizer that’s SPF 30 or higher. It’s a surefire way to ward off the aging effects of UVA/UVB rays as well as skin cancer.

1. Easy on the eyeliner… and mascara… and foundation

Sadly, sweat doesn’t mix well with your favorite beauty products. Think of summer as an opportunity to take a break from heavy makeup. While you don’t have to go makeup-free, try opting for a lighter touch, especially when it comes to foundation, which can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. If you’re going to be wearing less clothes, why not let your face breathe a bit too?

2. Practice vacation prep

Planning an island getaway? Be extra-vigilant about daily sunscreen application in the weeks leading up to your trip. This will help your skin prepare for long days at the beach and in the water. You should also exfoliate problem areas like your elbows, knees and feet that don’t get much love during the cold and dry winter months.

3. Engage in hair care warfare

Here’s the scenario: UV rays, saltwater and chlorine are all teaming up to do some serious damage to your precious locks. What do you do? Prepare for battle! First, before you even leave the house, use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. After getting out of the shower, consider applying a UV-based hairspray that will protect your hair’s color and keep it looking shiny. Before going for a dip in the pool or ocean, spray your hair with water so that it won’t absorb too much chlorine or salt. Lastly, find a cute hat! A hat can’t be beat when it comes to hair care warfare.

4. Tan the safe way

You shouldn’t bake in the heat for hours to get that sun-kissed glow that everyone craves. Instead, try a gradual self-tanner. Choose one that contains a lower percentage of DHA so you don’t end up looking like an Oompa Loompa. Also, for an even color be sure to exfoliate before applying the self-tanner.

5. Treat sunburns ASAP

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, there’s a good chance you’ll get a sunburn at some point during the summer. To reduce redness, soak a facecloth in skim milk and ice and apply it to the affected area for 5-10 minutes. Pop an aspirin or ibuprofen to lessen the sting.

6. Switch up your nighttime routine

If you normally use an exfoliator at night, try a gentler foaming cleanser to degrease your skin from the heat and humidity. A glycolic mask every 7-10 days will help prevent breakouts. Also, skip the nighttime moisturizer. Let your face breathe while you catch some Z’s.

7. Don’t forget about your lips!

Lip balm is always within arm’s reach in the wintertime, but during the summer you’re probably more worried about all the other areas that need TLC. Because the sun is just as unforgiving to your lips as it is to the rest of your skin, invest in a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

THE IDEAL PLACE FOR NOODLE LOVERS: TANG, FITZROVIA

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL PLACE FOR NOODLE LOVERS: TANG, FITZROVIA

*Permanently closed

Introducing one of our favourite noodle bars in town – the hidden Fitzrovia noodle bar where the broths are bold and the vibe exudes ‘South Asian hawker house hangout’.  Hidden away, Tang is your one stop slurp shop next time you need a noodle soup with more than a little bite.

THE IDEA

Inspired by the South East Asia’s street markets, urban-cool concrete floors and exposed hanging bulbs sit alongside newspaper-lined walls adorned with photos from across Asia. You can take your place at a communal bench table or gather around the open kitchen to feel the heat of the action.

LOCATION

Located in a ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ spot just off Tottenham Court Road, those in the know are tucking into Head Chef Chen Ng’s unique tangs. Meaning ‘soup’ in Chinese, the steaming bowls are lighter than ramen, punchier than pho and fuse together influences from across the entire Asian continent. Healthy yet hearty, they’re the perfect blend of flavour and tradition and are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.

SLIP, SLURP & SAVOUR

Each bowl begins with a broth of Asian spices including ginger, star anise and mandarin peel – ingredients typically used for their restorative qualities in South East Asia. Tasty tang combinations include juicy tiger prawns, beansprouts and a perfectly soft-boiled egg; roasted and poached chicken with ginger sauce; or salted vegetables with tofu and shiitake mushrooms.

SMALL PLATES

Small plates include Korean-inspired fried soya milk chicken seasoned with homemade hot sauce; crispy black bean tofu in a white miso sauce; and cold wheat noodle salad with Asian pear, cucumber, pickles, goji berry and a soft-boiled egg. Homemade gluten-free baos come filled with the likes of fried chicken with pickled bok choi; braised beef with cucumber; and crispy tofu with salted egg yolk sauce. Big flavours are perfectly balanced with pickles and citrus creating that ‘ying and yang’ characteristic of Asian cooking.

THE DRINKS

Complement the spice with a Chelsea Blonde, Bohemia Lager or Paxton IPA from The London Beer Factory, based in West Norwood. Red and white wine are both available alongside juices from Owlet in Kent, Karma Cola soft drinks and Lalani & Co Oolong Tea from Taiwan.

Tang

111 Great Russell Street,

London, WC1B 3NQ

W: http://www.tanglondon.co.uk

E: [email protected]

T:0207 300 3324

F: /TangNoodleBar T: @tanglondon I: @tanglondon

7 IDEAL REASONS FOR FOODIES TO VISIT THE REFINERY NEW STREET SQUARE, LONDON

Rachel Stevenson
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7 IDEAL REASONS FOR FOODIES TO VISIT THE REFINERY NEW STREET SQUARE, LONDON

Are cool cocktails, food you want to eat and a great vibe your thing? Then here are 7 reasons to visit the The Refinery New Street Square in London soon.

 

The Breakfast

Early risers can start with a fuel injection of London Calling coffee, vitamin-rich smoothies or freshly-pressed juices whilst tucking into saffron baked eggs in tomato sauce with chorizo and piquillo peppers; a vibrant breakfast quinoa bowl with spinach, avocado and poached egg; or a full English with plenty of toast.

The Seasonal Menu

For the main event, focus is given to stylish small plates and larger comfort dishes. Enjoy broad bean and ricotta on toast; crispy squid with lemon mayonnaise; or a homemade scotch egg with fiery chorizo and smoked paprika mayonnaise. Substantial mains include a half-roasted lemon chicken with herby chimichurri sauce; pea and lemon risotto with creamy mascarpone; rare beef steak sandwich on toasted sourdough with horseradish mayonnaise and truffle oil dressing; and smoked chicken salad with avocado, mango and cashew nuts.

The Sharing Boards

Sharing boards, perfect for catch-ups over cocktails or private events, include Middle Eastern-style mezze; seasonal charcuterie; and crispy duck flatbread with cucumber, spring onion and hoisin.

The Delicious Desserts

Not forgetting dessert, choose from Eton mess with meringue, strawberries, cream and mint; knickerbocker glory with salted caramel ice cream, plum, honeycomb, cream and almonds; or lemon tart with crème fraiche.

The Cocktails

From Monday–Friday, find Drake & Morgan’s masters of mixology shaking and stirring a collection of globally-inspired concoctions. Choose from classics such as the Old Fashioned or Pisco Sour, or indulge in something a little more creative like the Candy Shop (Tanqueray gin, rhubarb & custard liqueur and lemon).

The Al Fresco Pop-Up Peroni Ahmbra bar

Experience something new at the al fresco pop-up Peroni Ahmbra bar this summer. Peroni Ambra is a real thirst-quencher combining the refreshing Peroni Nastro Azzurro with the sharpness of chinotto – a rare, Italian citrus fruit – and is served over ice. This is the place to escape the everyday; kick back and soak up some rays whilst watching the world go by.

The Wine

Gluttons for the grape can enjoy bottles from some of the best vineyards in the world while bubbles come in the form of champagne, prosecco and English sparklers. There’s also craft brews like English Hawkes Urban Orchard and Goose Island Honkers Ale and zero proof mocktails – the Black Magic is a study in the dark art of experimental cocktail-making – a concoction of beetroot juice, honey, lime and activated charcoal – Instagram it quick before it disappears!

 

The Refinery New Street Square

12 New Street Square

London EC4A 3BF

020 7842 0750

www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk/the-refinery-new-street-square/

Twitter: @TheRefineryBar

Instagram: @drakeandmorgan

Images courtesy of Facebook: TheRefineryNewStreetSquare

 

HOW TO GET YOUR IDEAL COUNTRY CHIC WEDDING JUST RIGHT

Rachel Stevenson
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HOW TO GET YOUR IDEAL COUNTRY CHIC WEDDING JUST RIGHT
wedding 1

Country chic weddings are so in right now. It’s all mason jars and raffia bows wherever you look. But having a rural style wedding can go wrong if you don’t make sure that your clear expectations are met by those around you. Remember a country wedding should be informal but still chic, and everyone involved needs to be aware of this. Read on for some inspiration.

Venue – Views are important but so are facilities

country chic wedding 2

One of the most important things, when you are sorting out a country chic wedding, is to find that perfect venue. Country House Weddings offers a selection of stunning venues that capture the charm and elegance of a countryside wedding.People dream about having their wedding photos taken in a field full of sunflowers. Or with rolling landscapes in the background. So the location and view can be a massive deciding factor when choosing this.

But is this the only thing you should be thinking about? No, it really isn’t. It can be the most beautiful field in the middle of nowhere. But if there is poor access so you can get your wedding cars anywhere near. Or no toilets for the guests,  and nowhere to prepare the food, you are going to make things pretty difficult for yourself.

A solution to this problem is to use companies that specialize in providing facilities that you need for an outdoor wedding.

Then, you know that your day will be a success and that a certain standard will be achieved. Even if you do choose to have in the back and beyond.

Decor – It takes a lot of work for things to look messy

wedding food

For many folks sorting the decorations for their wedding is one of the most fun a creative parts. Of course,  for a country chic wedding you will be focusing on things like jam jars with fresh wild flowers in. Burlap bows and swags, as well as mason jars, with lids, and straws for the guest’s drinks.

Just remember though that just because you are going for a rustic theme, it doesn’t necessarily mean that anything will be cheaper or easier to do. It can take just a much effort to get rustic decorations looking right, as it can for the classical roses and diamonds style wedding.

Remember too that rustic weddings are super popular these days. So unless you are creating your own decorations, you will be paying comparative prices to any other style that is available.

Food – Filling food doesn’t come cheap

buffet weddding

Another aspect of getting your country style wedding right is the food. Let’s be honest everyone loves the food at weddings. As they are normally starving once, the ceremony has finished. Especially if they have had a few drinks in that waiting period in between, so they tend to want a filling meal.

However finding a suitable filling meal for a rustic style wedding doesn’t necessarily come cheap. Of course, you do get to think outside the box a little more. For example, you can offer spit roasted pork or lamb with cold sides. Or sausage and mash and even fish and chips. But is can still add up to a lot of money if you are having more than 50 guests.

A good way around this is to offer a cold buffet with a lot of variety. Include items like pates, cheeses, crackers, fruits, cold meats and sandwiches. This can work well with the country theme. It also means that you don’t have to have hot food facilities on site which can save you a significant amount of money.

Service – Outdoors is amazing but is practical?

country chic wedding

Country chic couples often favour having their service outside. This is a wonderful idea until you realize that we live in the UK, and the weather is an about as predictable as the US election result.

The romantic idea of getting married in the summer, under a gazebo, in a beautiful place surrounded by nature can be so tempting. But if you are set on this you do need to make sure there is a plan B in case the weather isn’t quite what you want.

Some venues are well prepared for this and offer both indoor and outdoor services options, which can be switched at short notice if the worse happens. This is a much better way of doing things, than relying on the weather to be sunny, which can just end up causing a lot of unnecessary stress and heartache.

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