Sardines with Basmati and Wild Rice
The smell of fresh sardines cooking on the barbecue, grilling or frying carries with it images of sultry hot summer days, the sea and sandy coasts of Britain and beyond, Mediterranean cafes, and the heady aroma of vibrant green herbs. I love how food can transport us in this way; it’s a powerful and wonderful kind of earthy magic, and to experience it you only have to close your eyes and inhale deeply that smoky scent as the sardines grill. I bet you can smell it even now as you read; the magic is working already.
Toffee Popcorn
I remember watching my Mum make popcorn when I was a little girl. She used to have a saucepan with a glass lid so we could see the corn hit it and explode. Standing on tiptoes by the cooker with my sister, waiting for the corn to start popping, was unbearably exciting, and with the first sudden pop we’d squeal with delight. When I make it these days it takes me right back to that time and really brightens up a rainy afternoon.
Tuscan Style Soup
I always like to have cans of various beans in the cupboard, along with cans of tomatoes and the usual pasta and rice. No matter what, I know I have a good meal waiting to be made just by reaching for these.
This simple but tasty soup inspired by Tuscany can be adjusted as you like, or according to what you have in. The recipe is really just a suggestion for you to play around with.