Make mine mulled

One of my favourite drinks when temperatures drop is mulled wine. It’s so easy to make using a mix of spices from your pantry, or you can buy a sachet to mix in to your favourite red wine. The best red wine to use is full-bodied, dark and fruity, so it won’t be […]

Warming, gorgeous food: Gorgeous Food

Chilly winter mornings are here to stay, but there is one antidote that seems to makes the cold that little bit more bearable. Warming up from the inside is the way to go, and what better than a piping hot coffee and delectable, freshly baked treat, straight out of the oven. Jo and […]

Great grub and conviviality: Two Fat Possums

It might be only a short drive out of the city, but the atmosphere in West Melton’s Village Centre is that of a country village. And the village “pub” is the Two Fat Possums, a name as amusing as any equivalent in the United Kingdom. You expect great grub in an establishment of […]

Indulgent apple and berry crumble

Ingredients 5-6 apples, peeled, cored and roughly chopped 1/2 cup mixed frozen berries 3/4 cup plain flour 3/4 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup Chelsea soft brown sugar 80g butter, softened Pinch of cinnamon Method Preheat oven to 180oC bake. Place apple, berries, and a splash of water together in a pot. Bring to […]

Keeping food safe: Food and Health Standards

Food is one of life’s essentials. Whether bought from a supermarket, a café or a restaurant, food should always be safe for consumption. Food safety, however, does not happen spontaneously. It is highly regulated and there are organisations in our community dedicated to this task. One of these is Food and Health Standards, […]

The most delicious Sunday: Eliza’s Manor

Perfectly blending the unique atmosphere of a bygone era, with a sophisticated and modern twist, Eliza’s Manor is a dream location to stay or dine. When you walk through the door, you’re transported back through the decades. Luxury is in every detail, from the beautiful boutique accommodation to the welcoming fine dining restaurant. […]

It packs a punch: Protein Punch

The role of protein in our diet has increased in importance. Scientists now know that most of us need more than we are getting, and that our needs change as we go through life stages. Long gone are the days when dietary protein supplements were the sole province of grunting body builders. Protein […]

Bring on winter favourites

Tucking up inside with a hot bowl of tasty soup, gorgeous gooey pasta or mouth-watering pizza is one of the good things in life during cold, wet days. Even better is that many of these winter favourites don’t take long to make, especially with a bit of forethought, and creative pantry shelf stocking. […]

Location, ambience and fine cuisine

Canterbury’s hospitality industry is buzzing again and we’re spoilt for choice with so many amazing food and beverage options. If you’re thinking romantic, picturesque lake views and sunsets, check out Lake House Restaurant and Bar on the edge of beautiful and serene Lake Hood in Mid-Canterbury. With its stunning covered and heated deck […]

Chunky shortbread toffee bars

Courtesy of Simple Wholefoods. Makes 16 large bars 24 small bars or 48 bites Ingredients  BISCUIT BASE 2 cups raw cashews 1 cup coconut flour 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 6 tablespoons melted coconut oil 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract TOFFEE LAYER 2 cups pitted medjool dates 1/3 cup almond butter 1/4 cup […]