
Of all the misnomers in this world, the one that infuriates me the most is banana bread. I love the stuff (could eat my sister’s all day long), but let’s face it- this is a very poorly monikered treat. Nine times out of ten, the “bread” in question is actually a cake; there’s oil or butter, vanilla extract, eggs- not to mention the requisite cup or so of sugar. For heaven’s sake, there are sometimes chocolate chips involved. Read more…
Posted in Bread on February 3rd, 2010 by Ele | 9 comments
Tags: baking, banana, Bread
One down, eleven to go. The first month of the year is over and done, and it certainly brought its share of challenges for me. I’m looking forward to happier and more productive months to come, but in the meantime- here’s what went down on the Kitchenist Network in January. Read more…
Posted in Other on February 1st, 2010 by Ele | Comments Off
Tags: round-up

I’ve never been much of a pink girl, but combined with my favourite colour, shades of pink and purple just sing, don’t they? Luckily, veg are more than just pretty: these ones are set to make my week ahead delicious, too. Read more…
Posted in Farmer's Market on January 31st, 2010 by Ele | 4 comments
Tags: flowers, links, shopping, vegetables

When you bake, who are you really baking for? You, your partner, kids, friends or co-workers? It has to go beyond your own enjoyment- unless you’re the type who can polish off a triple-layer cake in one sitting (and if you are, my respect and condolences). Read more…
Posted in Sweet on January 31st, 2010 by Ele | 5 comments
Tags: almond, Cake, cupcake, lemon, semolina

You’ve probably all heard of Welsh rabbit/rarebit, the delicious late-night snack and lunch dish so beloved of the British Isles. It’s a simple idea, really: take some toasted bread and top with a mixture of egg yolks and cheese (often with flavourings like chili, Worcestershire sauce or ale), and put the whole thing under the broiler until bubbly and delicious. Apply to mouth. Read more…
Posted in Snacks on January 29th, 2010 by Ele | 14 comments
Tags: Bread, leeks, rarebit, snack, Welsh

Back at the beginning of January, I wrote about my foodie resolution for 2010, to bake more bread. A resolution made with the best of intentions, borne of visions of wholesome, proud loaves emerging from my kitchen one after another. Not to mention the great arms I was going to have (you know, from all the kneading). Read more…
Posted in Bread on January 27th, 2010 by Ele | 11 comments
Tags: baking, Bread, honey, milk

Yesterday was one of those rare winter days that reminds me what I love about England- the springtime. Granted, it’s still a good few months away, but its promise was in the air yesterday, fresh and mild and with a certain undeniable excitement. On the way to the farmer’s market I noticed a) a woman wearing a short dress with bare legs (brave), b) more than the usual number of casual smokers hanging around outside (very brave, considering), and c) a plethora of small children who, for once, did not resemble miniature Michelin men. Read more…
Posted in Farmer's Market on January 25th, 2010 by Ele | 1 comment so far
Tags: links, shopping, vegetables

Psst, you- in need of a recipe to chase away the January blues? Well, you haven’t exactly come to the right place, but I can direct you there. I’ve a second guest post up at The Beat That My Heart Skipped, the fab new UK design and lifestyle blog. This time it’s a seasonal Veggie Pot Pie with Dumplings on the menu- perfect for warming you up during these dreary days. I’d love for you to check it out and leave me a comment over there!
Posted in Other on January 22nd, 2010 by Ele | Comments Off
Tags: dumplings, guest post, pot pie, TBTMHS, vegetables

I want to start this post with a great big Thank You to everyone who left a comment on this post last week. On Wednesday I flew home to Canada for my grandmother’s funeral, and spent the past week visiting with family and friends. Though I’m feeling okay and trying to present an upbeat front, dealing with death is never easy, and your words of support helped more than I can say. Read more…
Posted in Baked Mains on January 21st, 2010 by Ele | 10 comments
Tags: carrot, cheese, gratin, Gruyere, leek, lentil, personal, walnuts
Hello, all! Just a quick note to let you know that I’m on a blogging break until the middle of next week, which applies to all my blogs. The passing of my 97-year-old grandmother means that now is a time for family and friends rather than food (though I’m sure there’ll be a lot of that, too). Not to worry, though- I am doing fine and looking forward to getting back in the kitchen next week!

Posted in Other on January 14th, 2010 by Ele | 13 comments