Population: 3.9 million.
Singapore is a city with the world's highest concentration of millionaires. Property prices have boomed since the economy rebounded in 2009. The city state's open door policy towards top end foreign economic contributors, who traditionally gravitate towards prime areas, forcing rental demand to be high. Investor demand is also strong because Singapore has the highest concentration of millionaire households in the world. 16% with over $1million, and their capacity to buy residential property is obviously high.
Foreigners without Permanent Residency status are generally only permitted to purchase private apartments and condominiums. New land for development is limited and price growth in the luxury homes market is likely to be sustained.
Read about other major cities:
Paris - an international and cultural centre
Monday, 31 October 2011
Ghoulish Halloween Cupcakes
Cupcake
Ingredients
100g butter or
margarine
100g caster sugar
100g self-raising
flour, sifted
2 eggs
1/4 teaspoon baking
powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
essence (optional)
Method
1. Preheat the oven
to 180°C (Electric oven | Electric fan oven 160°C | Gas Mark 4) and
place 12 paper cases into a muffin tin.
2. Using an electric
whisk, food processor or wooden spoon, beat the butter and sugar until very
light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a
time, beating each one in well before adding the next. Add the vanilla essence.
4. Carefully fold in the
flour (and baking powder if using).
5. Alternatively, you
can mix the ingredients together using a food processor. Use the pulse button
to mix together in between adding the ingredients in the order above.
6. Bake in the oven for
10 - 20 minutes. After 10 minutes, check to see if the vanilla cupcakes are
ready by inserting a cocktail stick into one of the cupcakes. If it comes out
dry then the cupcakes are done. If not, then back in the oven for a few minutes
more. Don't overcook the cupcakes otherwise they will dry out.
7. Lift the
cupcakes out of the muffin tin and leave to cool on a wire rack.
Sunday, 30 October 2011
Decorated Halloween Pumpkins
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| Halloween Pumpkins |
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| Halloween Pumpkins |
Saturday, 29 October 2011
Fruit Pavlova Recipe
You should follow me on twitter here.
Things to know when making meringues:
For a less natural and more show-stopper of a dessert I'd suggest my Pink pavlova recipe
Serves 8
Oven time: 45mins
150g icing sugar
100g light brown caster sugar
4 egg whites
2 tsp cornflour
1 tsp white wine vinegar
500ml of whipped cream and 2tsp vanilla extract
6 plums and 200g strawberries
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 150oC/Gas Mark 2
2. Line two baking trays with baking parchment. Draw the 3 circles on a piece of parchment paper. I use a saucer, side plate then dinner plate as templates.
3. Place the icing sugar, light brown caster sugar and egg whites in a standing food mixer and whisk on high for 10 minutes until glossy white peaks form.4. Using a spatula, gently fold in the cornflour and the white wine vinegar.5. Divide the meringue mixture between the two baking trays and using a tablespoon, form three meringue discs.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
7. Compile your pavlova and enjoy!
Things to know when making meringues:
Eggs
1. Make sure there is NO yolk in your egg whites. Separate eggs when they are cold in a separate bowl that way if a yolk slips through you can then disgard one egg white rather than the whole bunch.
2. Beat the egg whites when they are room temperature. You just need to wait c. 30 mins.
3. Don't be afraid to beat them eggs. A dessert base (such as a pavlova) you need to make sure you keep beating until you get stiff, glossy peaks.
Mixing bowls
1. Use metal or glass mixing bowls as they are best for yielding voluminous beaten egg whites. Plastic bowls can retain fat and grease which restricts the volume of the egg whites. If you only have a plastic bowl clean it a couple of times first to minimise the risk of any fat deposits being present.
Sugar
1. Add the sugar tablespoon by tablespoon at the soft-peak stage. Take your time. Undissolved sugar attracts moisture which can then ruin your meringue. With this recipe I used icing sugar rather than caster sugar and put it all in at once as the surface area is considerably greater.
Oven
1. Keep the temperature low ideally 180C/350F/Gas 4. This will ensure the gradual evaporation of moisture from the meringue. If the oven is too hot, the outside will be super crunchy but the centre will be super sticky and chewy.
2. Don't take the meringue out of the oven too soon. Keep the meringue in the oven after baking which will help to dry it out and keep it light.
1. Make sure there is NO yolk in your egg whites. Separate eggs when they are cold in a separate bowl that way if a yolk slips through you can then disgard one egg white rather than the whole bunch.
2. Beat the egg whites when they are room temperature. You just need to wait c. 30 mins.
3. Don't be afraid to beat them eggs. A dessert base (such as a pavlova) you need to make sure you keep beating until you get stiff, glossy peaks.
Mixing bowls
1. Use metal or glass mixing bowls as they are best for yielding voluminous beaten egg whites. Plastic bowls can retain fat and grease which restricts the volume of the egg whites. If you only have a plastic bowl clean it a couple of times first to minimise the risk of any fat deposits being present.
Sugar
1. Add the sugar tablespoon by tablespoon at the soft-peak stage. Take your time. Undissolved sugar attracts moisture which can then ruin your meringue. With this recipe I used icing sugar rather than caster sugar and put it all in at once as the surface area is considerably greater.
Oven
1. Keep the temperature low ideally 180C/350F/Gas 4. This will ensure the gradual evaporation of moisture from the meringue. If the oven is too hot, the outside will be super crunchy but the centre will be super sticky and chewy.
2. Don't take the meringue out of the oven too soon. Keep the meringue in the oven after baking which will help to dry it out and keep it light.
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| Pink pavlova You should follow me on twitter here. |
Friday, 28 October 2011
Alternative Honeymoon Destinations
For some, the decision of where to go on honeymoon is simple; a relaxing and secluded resort on the beaches of the Caribbean or an island in South East Asia. But if you’re hoping for something a little different for your first holiday as a married couple, check out our list of the top four alternative honeymoon destinations for inspiration.
Rainforest retreat
Perfect for the eco-conscious, adventurous newlyweds, a stay in Borneo’s lush tropical rainforest will provide a truly unforgettable honeymoon. Get closer to the natural world by staying at a nature resort such as the Borneo Tropical Nature Resort, set alongside the Lambir Hills National Park and surrounded by breathtaking wildlife. To combine your eco-adventure with a little downtime, make sure you sample some of Sabah’s pristine beaches.
Perfect for the eco-conscious, adventurous newlyweds, a stay in Borneo’s lush tropical rainforest will provide a truly unforgettable honeymoon. Get closer to the natural world by staying at a nature resort such as the Borneo Tropical Nature Resort, set alongside the Lambir Hills National Park and surrounded by breathtaking wildlife. To combine your eco-adventure with a little downtime, make sure you sample some of Sabah’s pristine beaches.
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| Japan |
Tokyo tour
Get far removed from romantic resorts and fellow honeymooners with a trip to Japan’s Tokyo. This thriving metropolis provides the perfect backdrop for adrenaline junkies and urbanites thanks to its cutting edge lifestyle and modern trends. But underneath the action packed surface, there are plenty of opportunities for a little romance with your other half. Spend the day at the beautiful Temples of Asakusa, before making your way over to Tokyo’s riverside for an evening dinner cruise, complete with spectacular views of the city by night.
Road trip romance
Hit the road U.S.A style with an American road trip for two. There are plenty of routes to choose from, each offering their own unique adventure. Out on the open road you’ll certainly feel all the stresses and strains of life at home are miles away, giving you and your partner ample time to enjoy one another’s company in an exciting and beautiful location.
Darling Darjeeling
With the Himalayas as a backdrop and the Dooars Jungle in easy reach, Darjeeling in India offers one of the most varied and beautiful spots for a romantic break. If you’re hoping to get away from it all with just breathtaking nature for company, you’re sure to find the intimacy and seclusion you’re looking for in Darjeeling. Points of interest include Ghoom Buddhist Monastery, the Botanical Garden and the spectacular mountains, not to mention some truly magnificent sunsets.
You should follow me on twitter here.
Hit the road U.S.A style with an American road trip for two. There are plenty of routes to choose from, each offering their own unique adventure. Out on the open road you’ll certainly feel all the stresses and strains of life at home are miles away, giving you and your partner ample time to enjoy one another’s company in an exciting and beautiful location.
Darling Darjeeling
With the Himalayas as a backdrop and the Dooars Jungle in easy reach, Darjeeling in India offers one of the most varied and beautiful spots for a romantic break. If you’re hoping to get away from it all with just breathtaking nature for company, you’re sure to find the intimacy and seclusion you’re looking for in Darjeeling. Points of interest include Ghoom Buddhist Monastery, the Botanical Garden and the spectacular mountains, not to mention some truly magnificent sunsets.
You should follow me on twitter here.
Thursday, 27 October 2011
4 of the Best Places to Visit in North East Asia
From the idyllic countryside of rural China to the sensory overload of Japanese cities, Northeast Asia offers a fantastic blend of contrasting and conflicting places for you to visit. This vast region is largely dominated by China and its much smaller neighbor Japan, and there is so much to be explored here. Despite belonging to the same continent, the cultures, laws, customs and costs of the countries comprising Northeast Asia can differ hugely. It’s best to fully research where you’re going before you set off on your discovery of the orient.
Shanghai, China
While not as attraction dense as other major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai offers an exhilarating experience without the need for tourist traps. But the few sights it is home to are truly magnificent. Not to be missed is Yu Yuan Garden, a 400 year old classical garden located in Shanghai’s Old Town. Look past the throngs of tourists and allow yourself to be transported to 16th century China, taking in the beautiful architecture and wealth of history that surrounds you. Yuyuan Garden is the most lush, lavish and magnificent Chinese garden that is situated in the middle of the Old City area, very near to The Bund in Shanghai whose history dates back to the time period of 1559. This classical area is considered to be a source of great temptation for the visitors and people gather here in large numbers. Its fascinating halls, pavilions, rockeries, cloisters and ponds are some of the major attractions. The most alluring treasure and astonishing feature of the garden is the Jade Rock which is 10.8 feet high and contains 72 holes. The magic related to this rock is that if a stick is burned under it, all the holes will produce the smoke and the same happens if you put water. That’s why the site is truly bewitching and is admired a lot by the people.Apart from all such charming places of the garden, there is much more in this dazzling area. So plan a visit for the stunning Yuyuan garden of Shanghai. Hollywood films which have been set in Shanghai include: Transformers: Revenge of the fallen (2009), Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) and Empire of the Sun (1987).
You should follow me on twitter here.
Tokyo, Japan
A fascinating mix of old and new, Tokyo is a fast paced, thriving metropolis that still stands true to its rich heritage. Expect century-old tradition to be interspersed with startling modernity, and don’t be surprised if you get left behind on the rapidly moving trends. If you’re visiting in January, May or September, squeeze some sumo into your schedule with a visit to Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s National Sumo Hall. Hollywood films about Japan include House of Bamboo (1955), a film noir feature directed by Samuel Fuller about American gangsters setting up shop in Japan; Sayonara (1957), starring Marlon Brando and based on James Michener novel about American servicemen that falls for Japanese girls; You Only Live Twice (1967), a James Bond thriller with ninjas, sumo wrestlers and the ultimate Bond; Sean Connery.
Jeju-do, South Korea
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| Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai |
While not as attraction dense as other major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai offers an exhilarating experience without the need for tourist traps. But the few sights it is home to are truly magnificent. Not to be missed is Yu Yuan Garden, a 400 year old classical garden located in Shanghai’s Old Town. Look past the throngs of tourists and allow yourself to be transported to 16th century China, taking in the beautiful architecture and wealth of history that surrounds you. Yuyuan Garden is the most lush, lavish and magnificent Chinese garden that is situated in the middle of the Old City area, very near to The Bund in Shanghai whose history dates back to the time period of 1559. This classical area is considered to be a source of great temptation for the visitors and people gather here in large numbers. Its fascinating halls, pavilions, rockeries, cloisters and ponds are some of the major attractions. The most alluring treasure and astonishing feature of the garden is the Jade Rock which is 10.8 feet high and contains 72 holes. The magic related to this rock is that if a stick is burned under it, all the holes will produce the smoke and the same happens if you put water. That’s why the site is truly bewitching and is admired a lot by the people.Apart from all such charming places of the garden, there is much more in this dazzling area. So plan a visit for the stunning Yuyuan garden of Shanghai. Hollywood films which have been set in Shanghai include: Transformers: Revenge of the fallen (2009), Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) and Empire of the Sun (1987).
You should follow me on twitter here.
A fascinating mix of old and new, Tokyo is a fast paced, thriving metropolis that still stands true to its rich heritage. Expect century-old tradition to be interspersed with startling modernity, and don’t be surprised if you get left behind on the rapidly moving trends. If you’re visiting in January, May or September, squeeze some sumo into your schedule with a visit to Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s National Sumo Hall. Hollywood films about Japan include House of Bamboo (1955), a film noir feature directed by Samuel Fuller about American gangsters setting up shop in Japan; Sayonara (1957), starring Marlon Brando and based on James Michener novel about American servicemen that falls for Japanese girls; You Only Live Twice (1967), a James Bond thriller with ninjas, sumo wrestlers and the ultimate Bond; Sean Connery.
Jeju-do, South Korea
Beautiful Jeju Island is a world away from the hectic, concrete jungle that is mainland Korea. This lush, mountainous landscape is the destination of choice for Korean newlyweds and holidaymakers, and it’s not difficult to see why. Take a tour of the many waterfalls found here, making sure not to miss Jongbang Waterfall, believed to be the only one in Asia that falls directly into the sea.
Guilin, China
A rich abundance of historic treasures and natural beauty can be found in picturesque Guilin, an ancient city located on the west bank of the Li River. While many have complained that economic growth and overpricing have detracted from Guilin’s charms, it still retains much of what made it the most well-known tourist destination in China, including meandering blue rivers, dramatic mountain formations and rolling green rice fields.
You should follow me on twitter here.
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| Guilin, China |
A rich abundance of historic treasures and natural beauty can be found in picturesque Guilin, an ancient city located on the west bank of the Li River. While many have complained that economic growth and overpricing have detracted from Guilin’s charms, it still retains much of what made it the most well-known tourist destination in China, including meandering blue rivers, dramatic mountain formations and rolling green rice fields.
You should follow me on twitter here.
Wednesday, 26 October 2011
Take a cruise from Florida
Jamaica
Depending on your budget and how much holiday time you have available, you can choose a cruise from Florida to Jamaica which lasts anything from four days to 2 weeks. Cruises usually dock in two port locations; Ocho Rios or Montego Bay. While in Jamaica, there are some fantastic sightseeing stops for you to visit. If you are a fan of reggae music, a trip to Bob Marley’s birthplace in the small village of Nine Mile is a must. You can see his childhood home plus the mausoleum in which he is buried.This being the Caribbean, there is of course lots of opportunity to get up close and personal with the tropical sea life. From scuba diving, to deep sea fishing and swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove, you will be spoiled for choice. Jamaica, a romantic holiday destination.
Costa Rica
Located further south in Central America, is the beautiful country of Costa Rica. Famed for its diverse ecology, Costa Rica has 12 different tropical life zones categorized by the forest type and altitude. But that’s not all Costa Rica has to offer; there is also over 1,100 miles of coastline here, which ranges from rocky shores to palm tree lined white sand beaches, offering holidaymakers plenty of choice. Cruises typically depart from east coast cities, including Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Round Caribbean cruises
It’s no wonder that the Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations. This region of paradise islands has something to offer for everyone. Cruising to the Caribbean allows you to relax in the sun, ride the waves on a wave runner, soar through the sky on a parasail, swim with the dolphins and stingrays, and so much more! On a round Caribbean cruise you can visit the Cayman Islands, Barbados, Belize, St Lucia, Jamaica and many other stunning locations besides.
Costa Rica
Located further south in Central America, is the beautiful country of Costa Rica. Famed for its diverse ecology, Costa Rica has 12 different tropical life zones categorized by the forest type and altitude. But that’s not all Costa Rica has to offer; there is also over 1,100 miles of coastline here, which ranges from rocky shores to palm tree lined white sand beaches, offering holidaymakers plenty of choice. Cruises typically depart from east coast cities, including Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Round Caribbean cruises
It’s no wonder that the Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations. This region of paradise islands has something to offer for everyone. Cruising to the Caribbean allows you to relax in the sun, ride the waves on a wave runner, soar through the sky on a parasail, swim with the dolphins and stingrays, and so much more! On a round Caribbean cruise you can visit the Cayman Islands, Barbados, Belize, St Lucia, Jamaica and many other stunning locations besides.
Some ships sailing from Florida may call at private islands owned by the cruise companies offering a wide range of beach based activities. It's worth noting that if you are taking a fly cruise then you will be limited by the airline’s policy. Most ships have facilities such as nappy changing, high chairs and baby products as well as games consoles, books, games and sporting equipment to keep you and your family and friends entertained and occupied!. So, go on, book that Caribbean cruise!
You should follow me on twitter here.
You should follow me on twitter here.
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
Banana Cake Recipe
Banana Cake Ingredients:
3oz marg
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp mixed spice
1 medium egg
2 bananas (yellow, or even better, brown)
3oz sugar (I use light brown caster sugar)
5oz SR Flour
2oz milled flaxseed (my own addition, gives the cake a better texture)
1/4oz dried fruit (I often leave the fruit out)
Runny Icing Ingredients
Icing sugar
1tsp lemon juice
Boiling water
Method:
1. Preheat oven - Gas mark 4
2. Cream sugar and marg together - gradually add dry ingredients, then egg.
3. Mash bananas in separate bowl and then add into the mixture.
4. Add the dried fruit at the very end.
5. Pour the mixture in a loaf or cake tin and place in middle shelf of oven for 45mins - 1 hr, 45 mins for cake tin, 1hr for loaf tin. Cool on wire rack.
6. Boil some water. Sift icing sugar in bowl (c.8 table spoons), add 1 tsp of lemon juice, then drop by drop add the boiling water. Keep stirring you want the icing to be liquid but still thick so it will keep its shape when poured onto the cake. Allow it to set a little (for a few mins) then pour over cooled cake.
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Monday, 24 October 2011
Duchess of Devonshire: Kisses for Votes
Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire caused a political scandal in 1784 when canvassing for the leader of the 'Whig' party, Charles James Fox. Georgiana was an ancestor of Diana, the Princess of Wales and was just as popular in her own day. The notorious incident allegedly took place in late March whereby the Duchess exchanged a kiss for a vote, among whom was a butcher - a mere commoner. The incident was predictably exploited in the press, encouraged by supporters of William Pitt who sought to sully her reputation by constantly referring her favours as a form of prostitution.
'We hear the D-ss of D grants favours to those who promise their votes an interest to Mr Fox'
The Morning Post, 31st March 1784.
Saturday, 22 October 2011
Travel Around Europe in Style
If you are planning a trip around Europe and want to indulge in a little luxury (I can't blame you) then consider your mode of transport as there are some really fabulous choices available out there.
Take a Cruise
Sail the Mediterranean aboard a luxury cruise liner and enjoy multiple European countries with ease and sophisticated style. Whether you have your sights set on the shores of southern Italy or the eastern delights of Turkey, there are options suited to every type of traveller. A luxury cruise liner offers great restaurants and fun activities right outside your door. A cruise is the perfect solution if you’re looking for laidback, luxury travel. Let's Sail Away! Everything You Need to Know About Luxury Cruises
All aboard the Orient Express
Travelling by luxury train is unrivalled in terms of romance and Hollywood glamour. Since its maiden voyage from Paris to Istanbul in 1883, the Orient Express has offered more than your average train journey. You can almost feel the presence of the great historic figures that have traveled on the Express, with its original 1920’s carriages, Lalique glass panels and wood burning stoves, this luxury train will transport you to another world entirely.
Receive an excellent level of service with sumptuous food prepared by skilled French chefs and stunning views of Europe aboard the Orient Express. If you’re looking for understated elegance and grandeur as you make your way across Europe then the Orient Express could be the answer to your dreams.
Private jet
A little extreme, I know, but the option is there for those wanting to go the extra mile. A chartered jet will get you to where you want to go in style, comfort and of course, speed. Enjoy first class service on board and peace and quiet of a private cabin. The fast travel time allows you to spend more of your vacation relaxing and enjoying Europe. After all, that is why you’re going! Private Jets
Personal bellboy
Certain luxury travel companies are now offering the services of a personal bellboy throughout the duration of their European travel packages. For a cost, Abercrombie and Kent provide a travelling bell boy to assist you with your luggage during your vacation to help remove the stress of luggage handling. Simply leave your packed suitcases at your departing destination and your personal bellboy will collect and deliver it to your next lodging.
Luxury hotel barge
Drift through the beautiful sights of Europe and take the time to really take in your surroundings with a luxury barge holiday. This is truly a unique way to travel. You can benefit from a fully crewed vessel, charming accommodation and an onboard chef. Each day will bring a new city to explore and, even better, you only have to unpack once!
You should follow me on twitter here.
Sail the Mediterranean aboard a luxury cruise liner and enjoy multiple European countries with ease and sophisticated style. Whether you have your sights set on the shores of southern Italy or the eastern delights of Turkey, there are options suited to every type of traveller. A luxury cruise liner offers great restaurants and fun activities right outside your door. A cruise is the perfect solution if you’re looking for laidback, luxury travel. Let's Sail Away! Everything You Need to Know About Luxury Cruises
All aboard the Orient Express
Travelling by luxury train is unrivalled in terms of romance and Hollywood glamour. Since its maiden voyage from Paris to Istanbul in 1883, the Orient Express has offered more than your average train journey. You can almost feel the presence of the great historic figures that have traveled on the Express, with its original 1920’s carriages, Lalique glass panels and wood burning stoves, this luxury train will transport you to another world entirely.
Receive an excellent level of service with sumptuous food prepared by skilled French chefs and stunning views of Europe aboard the Orient Express. If you’re looking for understated elegance and grandeur as you make your way across Europe then the Orient Express could be the answer to your dreams.
Private jet
A little extreme, I know, but the option is there for those wanting to go the extra mile. A chartered jet will get you to where you want to go in style, comfort and of course, speed. Enjoy first class service on board and peace and quiet of a private cabin. The fast travel time allows you to spend more of your vacation relaxing and enjoying Europe. After all, that is why you’re going! Private Jets
Personal bellboy
Certain luxury travel companies are now offering the services of a personal bellboy throughout the duration of their European travel packages. For a cost, Abercrombie and Kent provide a travelling bell boy to assist you with your luggage during your vacation to help remove the stress of luggage handling. Simply leave your packed suitcases at your departing destination and your personal bellboy will collect and deliver it to your next lodging.
Luxury hotel barge
Drift through the beautiful sights of Europe and take the time to really take in your surroundings with a luxury barge holiday. This is truly a unique way to travel. You can benefit from a fully crewed vessel, charming accommodation and an onboard chef. Each day will bring a new city to explore and, even better, you only have to unpack once!
You should follow me on twitter here.
Friday, 21 October 2011
Autumn Tomato Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1-1.25kg/2lb 4oz-2lb 12oz ripe tomatoes or 2 cans of chopped tomatoes 1 medium onion
1 small carrot
1 celery stick
2 tbsp olive oil
2 squirts of tomato purée (about 2 tsp)
a good pinch of sugar
2 bay leaves
1.2l hot vegetable stock (made with boiling water and 2 stock cubes)
Serves 4
Autumn Tomato Soup Method:
1. Prepare your vegetables. If the tomatoes are on their vines, pull them off. Wash the tomatoes in water.
2. Cut each tomato into quarters and slice off any hard cores (they don't soften during cooking and you'd get hard bits in the soup at the end). Peel the onion and carrot and chop them into small pieces. Chop the celery roughly the same size.
3. Spoon the oil into a large heavy-based pan and heat it over a low heat. Hold your hand over the pan until you can feel the heat rising from the oil, then tip in the onion, carrot and celery and mix them together with a wooden spoon. Still with the heat low, cook the vegetables until they're soft and faintly coloured. This should take about 10 minutes and you should stir them two or three times so they cook evenly and don't stick to the bottom of the pan.
4. Holding the tube over the pan, squirt in about 2 tsp of tomato purée, then stir it around so it turns the vegetables red. Add the tomatoes, sprinkle in a good pinch of sugar and grind in a little black pepper, then tear each bay leaf into a few pieces and throw them into the pan.
5. Stir to mix everything together, put the lid on the pan and let the tomatoes stew over a low heat for 10 minutes until they shrink down in the pan and their juices flow nicely. From time to time, give the pan a good shake - this will keep everything well mixed.
6. Slowly pour in the stock, stirring at the same time to mix it with the vegetables. Turn up the heat as high as it will go and wait until everything is bubbling, then turn the heat down to low again and put the lid back on the pan. Cook gently for 25 minutes, stirring a couple of times. At the end of cooking the tomatoes will have broken down and be very slushy looking.
7. Remove the pan from the heat, take the lid off and stand back for a few seconds or so while the steam escapes, then fish out the pieces of bay leaf and throw them away. Ladle the soup into your blender until it's about three-quarters full, fit the lid on tightly and turn the machine on full. Blitz until the soup's smooth (stop the machine and lift the lid to check after about 30 seconds), then pour the puréed soup into a large bowl. Repeat with the soup that's left in the pan. (The soup may now be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating.)
8. Pour the puréed soup back into the pan and reheat it over a medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until you can see bubbles breaking gently on the surface. Taste a spoonful and add a pinch or two of salt if you think the soup needs it, plus more pepper and sugar if you like. If the colour's not a deep enough red for you, plop in another teaspoon of tomato purée and stir until it dissolves. Ladle into bowls and serve. Or sieve and serve chilled with some cream swirled in.
Top Tips: How to choose the best tomatoes: The best British tomatoes for making soup are Elegance, a deep-red classic tomato (often sold on the vine) with a thin skin and sweet, juicy flesh. Aranca are good on-the-vine cocktail tomatoes with a superb flavour and aroma, but if you prefer the larger beefsteak variety, go for Jack Hawkins. Plum tomatoes to watch out for include Santa, Jester, Mona Lisa and Baby Sweetheart.The best British tomatoes for making soup are Elegance, a deep-red classic tomato (often sold on the vine) with a thin skin and sweet, juicy flesh. Aranca are good on-the-vine cocktail tomatoes with a superb flavour and aroma, but if you prefer the larger beefsteak variety, go for Jack Hawkins. Plum tomatoes to watch out for include Santa, Jester, Mona Lisa and Baby Sweetheart.
Soup Thickness
if you want a thicker version just ad a few extra tomatoes and dont cover for the last 15 minutes
Other ideas
Kept in the fridge 3 days and then used it as a base for pasta sauce. Last night I made it again this time I added a good table spoon full of pesto and a 1/2 tsp of paprika. This time I blitzed it longer and strained through a sieve. Using a ladle to help it through the sieve. Again a great success. I haven't tried freezing it yet as its so nice theres none left to freeze. Try it with a warm chunk of homemade pesto focaccia - see my own recipe.
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Thursday, 20 October 2011
Alexander the Great: spread of the kiss
The first recorded kiss can be traced back to 1500BC in India by anthropologist Vaughn Bryant. Early Vedic scriptures mention people 'sniffing' with their mouths, and later describe lovers 'setting mouth to mouth'. It is thought that the kiss made its was westward when Alexander the Great conquered the Punjab over a thousand years later.
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Wednesday, 19 October 2011
Baby Raspberry Cheesecakes Recipe
For the base
100 g shortbread
55 g ground almonds
50 g unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
400 g cream cheese
105 ml soured cream
110 g caster sugar
1 medium egg (free range)
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp finely grated lime zest from an organic lime
50 g raspberries, fresh or frozen
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 160C. Fill a 12-hole muffin tin with muffin cases. Crush the shortbread into fine crumbs in a food processor. If you don't have a food processor put the shortbread in a sandwich bag press the air out, seal it up and then bash with a rolling pin. I put the bag on a folded tea towel so not to damage my work surface.
2. Combine the crumbs, ground almonds and melted butter in a bowl. Press a tablespoon of the mixture into the base of each muffin case and push down with a tea spoon. Refrigerate while you make the filling.
3. Beat the cream cheese, soured cream and caster sugar together until light and fluffy (I do this by hand). Beat in the whole egg, then the egg yolk, vanilla and lime zest beating well after each addition. Evenly spoon the mixture over the bases and place the raspberries evenly on top.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheesecakes are puffed and starting to colour. Allow to cool then refrigerate until ready to eat. Don't put warm food in the fridge.
5. Once chilled remove the cheesecakes from the muffin paper cases. Top each one with a fresh raspberry or two and dust with icing sugar to serve.
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2. Combine the crumbs, ground almonds and melted butter in a bowl. Press a tablespoon of the mixture into the base of each muffin case and push down with a tea spoon. Refrigerate while you make the filling.
3. Beat the cream cheese, soured cream and caster sugar together until light and fluffy (I do this by hand). Beat in the whole egg, then the egg yolk, vanilla and lime zest beating well after each addition. Evenly spoon the mixture over the bases and place the raspberries evenly on top.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheesecakes are puffed and starting to colour. Allow to cool then refrigerate until ready to eat. Don't put warm food in the fridge.
5. Once chilled remove the cheesecakes from the muffin paper cases. Top each one with a fresh raspberry or two and dust with icing sugar to serve.
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Tuesday, 18 October 2011
When or when not to kiss around the world
As a business woman in England, I often find that a welcome kiss rather than the profunctory hand shake is expected. I stick to the London usual cheek kiss of 2, one on each cheek starting with the left. I have heard be told that kisses planted a certain number of times could potentially denote one's country of origin.
France
The French tend to start on the right cheek, alternating cheeks up to four times although standard practice allows for two, one on each cheek.
Italy
There are no rules regarding to how many kisses are involved or indeed from which cheek one must commence.
Switzerland & Netherlands
It's three times lucky here
Belgium
Kissing according to age and regard for those with more years are deserving of more kisses.
Austria, Spain & Scandinavia
Kiss twice, once on each cheek.
Germany
Germans reserve their kisses for family and close friends only.
Russia
A kiss bestowed by the Tsar was the ultimate sign of recognition.
Turkey
It's completely normal for men to kiss one another.
Middle East
Elaborate greeting kisses in public is a long tradition but only between men. These kisses carry no homosexual connotations. Of the more liberal Arab countries i.e. Lebanon, Egypt, cheek kissing between men and women is, in some circles, accepted.
South East Asia
In countries with predominantly Buddhist or Hindu cultures kissing is extremely unpopular. In Indonesia, Malaysia, India and Pakistan kissing in public is not acceptable. The Nepalese don't kiss at all. In the Philippines the people kiss cheek to cheek and not lips to cheek.
The French tend to start on the right cheek, alternating cheeks up to four times although standard practice allows for two, one on each cheek.
Italy
There are no rules regarding to how many kisses are involved or indeed from which cheek one must commence.
Switzerland & Netherlands
It's three times lucky here
Belgium
Kissing according to age and regard for those with more years are deserving of more kisses.
Austria, Spain & Scandinavia
Kiss twice, once on each cheek.
Germany
Germans reserve their kisses for family and close friends only.
Russia
A kiss bestowed by the Tsar was the ultimate sign of recognition.
Turkey
It's completely normal for men to kiss one another.
Middle East
Elaborate greeting kisses in public is a long tradition but only between men. These kisses carry no homosexual connotations. Of the more liberal Arab countries i.e. Lebanon, Egypt, cheek kissing between men and women is, in some circles, accepted.
South East Asia
In countries with predominantly Buddhist or Hindu cultures kissing is extremely unpopular. In Indonesia, Malaysia, India and Pakistan kissing in public is not acceptable. The Nepalese don't kiss at all. In the Philippines the people kiss cheek to cheek and not lips to cheek.
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Monday, 17 October 2011
The Other Boleyn Girl - Book
When it was my turn at the book club to select a
book I tossed and turned trying to think of a book which the ladies would enjoy
but which would also encourage conversation. The last couple of books were all
about the C20th so it was time for a change. Since studying the Tudors in Year 9 at High School, I've always found the
Anne Boleyn story fascinating - a prime example of the political and religious
shenanigans of one of England
I chose Philippa Gregory’s The Other Boleyn Girl
as it covers the lives of women in history which should be an
interesting topic for a bunch of women. The book is historical fiction, based
closely of real life events and people in the past but when reading these types
of books I do take everything with a pinch of salt.
as it covers the lives of women in history which should be an
interesting topic for a bunch of women. The book is historical fiction, based
closely of real life events and people in the past but when reading these types
of books I do take everything with a pinch of salt.
Everyone knows the fate of Anne Boleyn, but not
many know the story of her rise to become Queen of England and the part played
by her sister Mary, who for many years before Anne caught his eye, was Henry's
mistress and mother to two of his bastard children. These two children would be
the closest to family Elizabeth I had and she kept them close to her throughout
her reign. If you would like to read more about Anne Boleyn’s life and execution then do so in my Traitors in the Tower post.
The Boleyn Family
The Boleyn family, like other ambitious families at court, used the girls in their family as pawns to advance their own positions at the court of Henry VIII. At the age of thirteen, Mary was presented to Henry VIII ordered by her scheming family to serve her King and country by opening her legs whenever commanded, or doing anything else the great beast of a King desired. While the Kings sexual desires were quenched, life at court was sweet for the Boleyn family who boldly basked in the favourable rays of favour from Henry VIII. Inevitably the King's eyes soon begin to wander and Mary having born two of Henry’s children is overlooked. The Boleyn family were loosing their grip. A new filly was need to entertain the King hence when Anne came onto the scene. Mary was helpless to do anything but aide her family's plot to advance their fortunes. The plan was fool proof, all Anne needed to do now was marry the King and then produce a male heir.
Character Portrayals
Philippa Gregory portrays the Boleyns and Howards as selfish, scheming, treacherous manipulators which makes it hard to feel any empathy for them.
Portrayal of Mary Boleyn
Mary is
portrayed as
passive, naive, slow-witted, submissive to the authority figures in her life
even when they are morally wrong, and all that is pure and virtuous in the
world. She is always ethically and morally right, despite having some quite ugly
opinions of other people and undertaking questionable actions. Mary is never reviled by the other characters, and is only once or twice called
offensive insults, but only by stereotypically bad characters. In contrast, when
Anne is with the king, she is single and has no husband to betray, and yet she
is in the wrong because her love for Henry is not the innocent pure love of
Mary. When Mary teaches Anne the techniques to keep Henry happy, Anne is spat
at and insulted by everyone despite having learned them from Mary.
In short, this Mary Boleyn is bland, boring and
one-dimensional. She was treated as a doormat which, as a twentieth century woman I found frustrating and craved her emancipation. Mary is held up as
something to be admired. We too, the readers are told, should try to be placid and obedient
and prefer the life of an impoverished country idyll married to the
stereotypical poor but honest man.
The real Mary Boleyn,
judging from her stream of letters to her family and the king, was desperate to
return to court and escape even the life of the country gentlewoman. The real Mary Boleyn who slept around and
whose real life second husband went rioting in London
Anne, the devout,
clever and generous woman of history is nowhere in evidence here. Instead she's
been replaced by a character of the same name who is instead petty, vain,
cruel, possessive, and whose wit and intelligence is painted as a negative
character trait for a woman to possess. Incest with her brother, deformed babies
resulting from aforementioned sinful union, attempted poisonings of Princess
Mary and Bishop Fisher, and using witchcraft to have an abortion have never been proven. It's true that Anne was known to have a temper and a very sharp tongue but her character is twisted into something unrecognisable to the Anne I have become to know through my other reading.
Portrayal of George Boleyn
George Boleyn is portrayed as a bisexual
stereotype which seems a little strong. He was very well known as a womaniser. George's scaffold speech was primarily concerned with defending his religious beliefs and his passion for reform. It was not the honourable thing to deny guilt once a guilty verdict had been given in a court of law, and therefore he followed the conventions of the day by admitting he was a sinner deserving of death. He begged forgiveness of anyone he may have offended and begged for God's forgiveness. He came close to denying his guilt by declaring, beware, trust not in the vanity of the world or the flatterys of the court, or the favour and treacheries of fortune. George Cavendish, Gentleman Usher to Cardinal Wolsey, in his poetry entitled Metrical Visions lambastes the young man for his womanising, saying:
I forced widows, maidens I did deflower.
All was one to me, I spared none at all,
My appetite was all women to devour
My study was both day and hour.
Historical References
What I did
enjoy was the historical references. Daily life at court is described in fascinating
detail, from the relentless leisure pursuits, masques and banquets laid on for
the easily bored and spolit King to the complex hierarchies and machinations of
the courtiers. It’s a shame that the fall of Queen Katherine of Aragon and her only child, Princess Mary, and
the politics of the competing European courts and the break with Rome
Summary:
There were a number of heated debates at our
monthly meeting about this book. Given that a number of the women hadn’t previously
read historical fiction I was relieved and overjoyed by the passion with which
the women spoke about Anne and her sister Mary in particular.
If you haven’t read The Other Boleyn Girl please remember that
the story is based upon history but Philippa Gregory has reworked the
characters to make the story more compelling. It is still a good read, the story moves along at a good pace, it isn't
bogged down by overly descriptive phrases or stilted dialogue. All of the main
characters are brought vividly to life in a way which Philippa Gregory does
with all her books. I found myself still thinking about the characters for days
after I had finished the book. If you have developed a taste of works about the Tudor period then I would recommend both Eric
Ives and David Starkey.
You should follow me on twitter here.
please remember that
the story is based upon history but Philippa Gregory has reworked the
characters to make the story more compelling. It is still a good read, the story moves along at a good pace, it isn't
bogged down by overly descriptive phrases or stilted dialogue. All of the main
characters are brought vividly to life in a way which Philippa Gregory does
with all her books. I found myself still thinking about the characters for days
after I had finished the book. If you have developed a taste of works about the Tudor period then I would recommend both Eric
Ives and David Starkey.You should follow me on twitter here.
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