tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89640940994278264332024-03-05T16:29:19.917+11:00From Our HomeA place to note down our cooking, baking, traveling and life adventures.Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.comBlogger443125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-12200315194156685952015-02-15T17:53:00.002+11:002015-02-15T17:53:13.140+11:00Chinese New Year 2015 - Pineapple Jam Tarts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year is only days away. The first day of the Year of the Goat/Ram/Sheep starts on 19 February 2015. In our family, the celebrations for the new year is not complete without our favourite cookies - Pineapple Jam Tarts.<br />
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I cooked the pineapple jam a few weeks ago, and kept it the fridge. Today, we made the tarts - about 200+. I follow this <a href="http://wangirls.blogspot.com.au/2011/01/malaysian-monday-3-pineapple-jam-tarts.html">recipe</a> that has been passed on to me from my Mum. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK4jq2U28E_4iKl1Yt6wX7Qx-vffRffCJuFUxjwNpw3bg0AcYYYqKqNF-AemuacErfy331SgzTTvKTl92BVsfVmDw1gAggZjLcKIabhtKnlJBvak7xwkJFApK8VyoxO2f8eE6yF8Co0lZ/s1600/pineapple+jam+tarts+raw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK4jq2U28E_4iKl1Yt6wX7Qx-vffRffCJuFUxjwNpw3bg0AcYYYqKqNF-AemuacErfy331SgzTTvKTl92BVsfVmDw1gAggZjLcKIabhtKnlJBvak7xwkJFApK8VyoxO2f8eE6yF8Co0lZ/s1600/pineapple+jam+tarts+raw.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-84067603080898769332015-02-06T14:57:00.001+11:002015-02-06T14:57:33.590+11:00Chocolate Chip Granola Bar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am always looking for homemade alternatives to buying packaged food from the supermarket. Granola or muesli bars are handy to have in the pantry either for breakfast on the go, snacks at school or whilst on the go. During the weeks leading up to start of the new school year, many recipes for lunchboxes were shared across social media. I can't remember who shared this <a href="http://www.fifteenspatulas.com/chocolate-chip-granola-bars/">Chocolate Chip Granola Bar </a>recipe by Fifteen Spatulas but I am grateful I came across it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The granola bars of the crunchy type; not chewy which some prefer. I love the mild taste of coconut which is not overpowering. I also reduced the amount of sugar as I knew the natural taste of honey and also the sweetness from the dark choc chips is sufficient. </span><br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-89603355894166048442015-02-05T12:00:00.000+11:002015-02-05T12:00:01.352+11:00Chicken and Chorizo Casserole<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am grateful to my hubby who helps with the cooking especially on weekends. I usually set the menu and he executes it. Recently we bought some delicious smoky chorizo at the local farmers market. Together with some chicken thigh cutlets on the bone, he made a yummy Chicken and Chorizo casserole. His method is based on Maureen's <a href="http://www.orgasmicchef.com/mains/chicken/chicken-and-chorizo/">Chicken and Chorizo</a> recipe. He didn't add the mushrooms as our girls are not keen on mushrooms. They did give Daddy two thumbs up for the dish - which means it's a winner in our home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He used our new Le Creuset shallow casserole dish (in red). I absolutely love that casserole dish.</span><br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-49673153435008648722015-02-04T12:00:00.000+11:002015-02-04T12:00:00.952+11:00Pineapple Jam Tarts - Chinese New Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As mentioned in my previous post, Chinese New Year is not far away. My family loves the Pineapple Jam tarts that I make once a year. I made the pineapple jam on the weekend; next step is to make the pastry and tarts this coming weekend. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's the link to my <a href="http://wangirls.blogspot.com.au/2011/01/malaysian-monday-3-pineapple-jam-tarts.html">recipe</a>. </span></div>
Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-14974573118918268202015-02-03T12:00:00.000+11:002015-02-03T12:00:01.265+11:00Salmon Yee Sang - Chinese New Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHn1h2Xs5X38tK-MkAsDJKtH47Jx_9KCoMe_a2sS4-1O7aNpDneVqlkQBctwc8BfyfcpdljxNyaREQMAZmEgyH5Aer0agCEOoYPOV5o6IS6sCD364XNOj_IiQA8Bti9tRjFz4NW8vEWJD/s1600/Yee+Sang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHn1h2Xs5X38tK-MkAsDJKtH47Jx_9KCoMe_a2sS4-1O7aNpDneVqlkQBctwc8BfyfcpdljxNyaREQMAZmEgyH5Aer0agCEOoYPOV5o6IS6sCD364XNOj_IiQA8Bti9tRjFz4NW8vEWJD/s1600/Yee+Sang.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">17 more days till we celebrate <a href="http://www.sydneychinesenewyear.com/" target="_blank">Chinese New Year</a>. This year we welcome the Year of the Goat (Sheep or Ram). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Around Sydney, there will be many events to herald in the new year. See Thang Ngo's <a href="http://www.noodlies.com/2015/01/lunarchinese-new-year-festivals-sydney-2015/" target="_blank">blog post</a> festivals around Sydney. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In our family, my Mum will make a special dish called "Yee Sang" - a fresh salad mix topped with fresh salmon sashimi tossed in a sweet dressing. This dish is a colourful mix of colours. Everyone is given a set of chopsticks to toss the salad as high as they can without creating a mess. It is believed that the higher the toss, more luck will come your way in the new year. </span><br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-50670532961129974412015-02-02T12:48:00.000+11:002015-02-02T12:48:08.590+11:00Thai Beef Salad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hubby cooked steaks with roast vegetables for dinner on Saturday. To keep healthy, I cut up my steak and added to some greens, tomatoes, cucumber, sliced Spanish onion, fresh basil from the herb garden. Then I mixed the Nam jin dressing and added to the meat and salad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thai beef salad - easy, healthy and spicy!</span><br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-88434385484418758832015-01-13T11:11:00.001+11:002015-01-13T11:11:20.187+11:00German Butter Cookies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Chinese New Year 2015 is not far away. The first day of the Year of the Goat is 19 February 2015. I have started to look for cookie recipes to make for our consumption as well as gifts for friends. I did a trial run of these melt in the mouth <a href="http://nasilemaklover.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/german-cookies.html">German Butter Cookies</a> on the weekend just past. It was super easy and quick. A great recipe to get the young ones in your family involved. My youngest help me make the fork imprint on the cookies. A quick 15 mins in the oven to bake, and it's done. The cookies finish in a very light brown; almost pale look. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You will find several recipes for these cookies on the internet; with slight variation - some add <a href="http://smallsmallbaker.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/melt-in-mouth-german-cookies-chocolate.html?m=1">cocoa </a>or matcha green tea powder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now to make more of these cookies as the cookies from the trial are all gone! It's not overly sweet and just perfect with a cup of coffee or tea or Milo. </span><br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-19489074823815938042014-07-28T08:46:00.000+10:002014-07-28T08:46:00.127+10:00Dinner Meal Plans - week commencing 28 July 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My Mum who has been helping us with our dinners during the weekdays had to have surgery on her spine recently. Whilst she is recovering for the next few months, my hubby and I have taken over the kitchen to prepare our evening meals. As we both work full-time, we need to think, plan and prepare on the weekend for our weekday dinners. Once our meals are planned, next is to do some shopping. <br />
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On the menu this week:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Chinese style pork chop; stir fry baby bok choy and rice</li>
<li>Pasta with chorizo and prawns tossed with rocket</li>
<li>Pan-fried mirror dory with sweet potato mash and steamed vegetables</li>
<li>Stir-fry beef with peppers tossed in noodles </li>
</ul>
Only four meals as we usually eat out on Fridays.<br />
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I have been planning meals for the last four weeks. I have a spreadsheet which lists down meal ideas and I also source from the internet or Facebook for inspiration. The meals must be quick to put together to ensure dinner can be put together after work. On weekends, we might also prepare the ingredients before hand like making meatballs for pasta, marinating meats for stir-fries. <br />
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Do you plan your meals? Share your ideas please. </div>
Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-17903950750496135272014-04-23T08:05:00.001+10:002014-04-23T08:05:54.731+10:00Baby Mac's Homemade Gozleme<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We love spinach and cheese gozleme in our home. We usually buy them for breakfast at the Frenchs Forest Organic Markets on Sundays. Gozleme is a savoury Turkish pastry that is cooked over a hot flat plan (griddle) similar to a crepe. You can get gozlemes with a variety of fillings - spinach and feta (our favourite), spinach, cheese and beef, beef and cheese, chicken and cheese etc. There are not too many ingredients needed to make gozleme, yet we pay $8 each.<br />
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I came across this <a href="http://baby-mac.com/2013/10/homemade-gozleme/">recipe</a> from Baby Mac which seemed easy and quick - always good for lunch at home on weekends and holidays.<br />
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I made a slight twist to Beth's recipe. I added crumbled feta cheese as well as the haloumi.<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-46844478055446057482014-04-21T14:45:00.000+10:002014-04-21T14:45:12.464+10:00Sugee CakeThis sugee cake recipe is from Aunt Abby who is an elderly friend of my Mum. I've known Aunty Abby since I was a young girl in primary school. Aunt Abby was a lovely, friendly lady whom we met through our church in Malaysia. She always had a smile and her sugee cake was one of the best around. Aunt Abby always made sugee cake at Christmas as gifts for friends.<br />
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Sugee cake is a buttery cake made with fine semolina, almond meal and many many egg yolks (10 in total). Certainly not a cake for those who are conscious of what they eat. Yet, a small piece with a cup of tea is simply perfect.<br />
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I have converted the recipe below to metrics but also left the imperial measurements.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">240gm caster sugar (8oz)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">170gm sugee (fine semolina) (6oz)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">57gm almond meal (2oz)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">283 gm butter (10oz)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">1 tbsp brandy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">10 egg yolks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">4 egg whites <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">57gm plain flour (2 oz)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">1 tsp baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<ol>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Heat oven to moderate
temperature 160C (120C for my oven).</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Line base of a 9 inch square
baking pan and grease the base and sides of pan. (optional: dust the pan with a
little flour)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Cream butter and ½ quantity of
sugar.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Beat the egg yolks with the
remaining sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Beat the egg whites till stiff.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Fold in sugee to the butter and sugar
mixture, then fold in the egg yolk mixture.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Lastly, fold in the almond
meal, flour, brandy followed by beaten egg white.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Pour mixture into prepared baking pan.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Bake for 45 mins till inserted
skewer comes out clean. Top of cake is golden brown. Let cake cool in pan for
10 minutes then cool totally on wire rack.</span></li>
</ol>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">You can use the remaining egg whites in an omelette or meringues.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment-->Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-55388269008174389902014-02-16T18:10:00.001+11:002014-02-16T19:36:07.167+11:00Bacon Cheese and Corn MuffinsA savoury muffin for the coming week's lunch-boxes.<br />
<br />
<br />
3 rashes of bacon, diced<br />
<br />
1 3/4 cup self raising flour<br />
<br />
2 cups grated tasty cheese<br />
<br />
1 1/2 cups milk (I substitute with 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 cup buttermilk)<br />
<br />
1 egg<br />
<br />
60gm butter, melted<br />
<br />
1 1/2 corn, remove kernels from cob (125gm corn kernels)<br />
<br />
1/2 tsp smoked paprika<br />
<br />
dash of cracked black pepper<br />
<br />
pinch of salt (optional)<br />
<br />
<ol><br />
<li>Preheat the oven to moderate heat about 160-180C. </li>
<br />
<li>Line a 12 hole muffin tray with baking cups. Alternatively, you can grease the tray. I find it easier to use the paper cups to minimise washing.</li>
<br />
<li>Sift flour into a bowl, add in the grated cheese, smoked paprika, bacon, corn kernels, salt and pepper. Mix to combine.</li>
<br />
<li>Slowly add in the milk, melted butter and beaten egg. Mix quickly and lightly together. </li>
<br />
<li>Spoon the mixture into the muffin holes.</li>
<br />
<li>Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.</li>
<br />
<li>Cool on wire rack.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Muffins can be freezed. Just reheat in microwave when ready to eat. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZxF1ighOAKy5uBhhyphenhyphen_zrdmWYA0FZhqtYPKOD9fJRhmD4f9udMZ9P30sKDWWxaepdy3bwvWlQFaBBqiuI1zjGvxJkcMTUeYuJfau9I_k19vpZthqCRkOcwOqVoSzh0UrNIQr_i-KgND-E/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZxF1ighOAKy5uBhhyphenhyphen_zrdmWYA0FZhqtYPKOD9fJRhmD4f9udMZ9P30sKDWWxaepdy3bwvWlQFaBBqiuI1zjGvxJkcMTUeYuJfau9I_k19vpZthqCRkOcwOqVoSzh0UrNIQr_i-KgND-E/s1600/photo-5.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
</center>
<br />
<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-87799595279745244782014-02-11T19:31:00.001+11:002014-02-11T19:31:41.064+11:00Mums - Let's Stick Together and Support Each Other<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A girlfriend share this post by Dr Carolyn Nee on Facebook yesterday - <a href="http://carolynee.net/a-letter-from-a-working-mother-to-a-stay-at-home-mother-and-vice-versa/">"A Letter from a Working Mother to a Stay at Home Mother and Vice Versa"</a> . <br />
<br />
It is a well-written post acknowledging the hard work of both mums who stay at home and those who work. Neither role has less value than the other. In fact, both roles are equally important. I am tired of these constant debate in the media about whose role is better, and the on-going thrashing by both parties turning on each other. <br />
<br />
For me, it's all about personal choices and what suits your family. I strongly believe that if Mum is happy, then the family or household is happy. That's definitely the case in my family. <br />
<br />
I understand that sometimes, women don't have a choice and need to work for financial reasons. And that's OK too. As women, we need to support each other regardless of the role we play. No one truly knows the true circumstance of each family, so we shouldn't be quick to judge. Instead of being bitchy, envious and turning on each other, let's support all Mums as they carry on their role. <br />
<br />
Stop the mummy bashing!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-64459325145263878922014-02-10T20:16:00.001+11:002014-02-10T20:16:24.889+11:00Blueberry Muffins by Abby from Manila Spoon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I came across Abby's blog "<a href="http://www.manilaspoon.com/">Manila Spoon</a>" through another blogger Linda (aka Biren) from <a href="http://www.rotinrice.com/">Roti n Rice</a>. Both Biren and Abby reside in US of A. That's the beauty of the blogging world, it knows no boundaries and many share their recipes with everyone. <br />
<br />
Blueberry muffins are a staple lunchbox item in our home. When I found Abby's <a href="http://www.manilaspoon.com/2012/09/blueberry-muffins.html">recipe</a>, I bookmarked it to try. It is now a family favourite. The sour cream helps keep the muffins moist. <br />
<br />
Blueberries can be expensive when not in season. I usually stock up in summer and freeze them for baking or smoothies. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjyYi1HfW138gnBY-4_EE19p8pfdxVmlaaf_6q1eCiyqExy8r2ee_qpi4l_z9xROnEL9l4mFMH0qmEh20-jo-5Slj58i45bHJNFqwa3iLQDssOhjFWOUzq7M-Mh19vP1XmahL_k1m7_Xg/s1600/photo-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjyYi1HfW138gnBY-4_EE19p8pfdxVmlaaf_6q1eCiyqExy8r2ee_qpi4l_z9xROnEL9l4mFMH0qmEh20-jo-5Slj58i45bHJNFqwa3iLQDssOhjFWOUzq7M-Mh19vP1XmahL_k1m7_Xg/s1600/photo-4.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You can't go wrong with this recipe.<br />
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Thank you Biren for introducing me to Abby's blog.<br />
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Thank you Abby for sharing your recipes. Much appreciated.<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-31294776554478297672014-02-09T20:39:00.002+11:002014-02-09T20:39:57.677+11:00MeatloafWhen we visited our friends in the Southern Highlands late last year, we were served this simple yet yummy meatloaf for lunch. It was served cold but still tasted very good. It's a great meal to make for children as you can hide vegies in the meatloaf.<br />
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500gm lean minced beef<br />
1/2 onion, chopped<br />
handful flat leaf parsley, chopped<br />
1/2 carrot, grated<br />
1 small zucchini, grated<br />
2 tbsp tomato sauce<br />
cracked pepper<br />
salt<br />
1 egg, lightly beaten<br />
1 cup breadcrumbs<br />
2 tbsp BBQ sauce<br />
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<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 180C. Line a loaf pan with baking paper.</li>
<li>Place the mince, chopped onion and parsley, grated zucchini and carrot into a medium size bowl. Add the tomato sauce, pepper and salt, beaten egg and breadcrumbs. </li>
<li>Using your clean hands, mix until well combined. </li>
<li>Scope the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until firm to touch, remove from oven. Drain excess fat.</li>
<li>Spoon the BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Cook for a further 10 minutes, or until the top is glazed. Stand on tray for 5 minutes. </li>
<li>Slice the meatloaf and serve with beans and mashed potatoes or any vegetables. </li>
</ol>
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Foonote: Adding the vegies makes the meatloaf moist and juicy. Another option is to top the meatloaf (from step 5) with mashed potato and cheese, then back into the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is brown. </div>
Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-42768509986694795602014-02-09T17:54:00.002+11:002014-02-09T17:54:45.803+11:00Date and Pecan LoafI love dates and pecans, always a good combination for me. I decided to make something for this coming week's breakfast. This is delicious served warm and smeared with butter.<br />
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60gm butter<br />
1 cup boiling water<br />
1 cup finely chopped dried dates<br />
1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda<br />
1 cup firmly packed soft brown sugar<br />
2 cups self raising flour<br />
1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans<br />
1 egg, lightly beaten<br />
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<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 160C for fan-force or 180C for a convention oven. Line a loaf pan with baking paper.</li>
<li>Stir the butter and the water in a medium saucepan over low heat, until butter has melted. Remove from heat, stir in the dates and soda, followed by the remaining ingredients. </li>
<li>Pour mixture into the prepared pan.</li>
<li>Bake the loaf for about 40-45 mins. Stand the baked loaf in the pan for 5 mins then place on wire rack to cool. </li>
<li>Serve warm or toasted with butter smeared on top.</li>
</ol>
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-51938702516827030312014-02-05T16:47:00.001+11:002014-02-05T16:47:19.268+11:00Banana Date Muffins<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Muffins are great for lunchboxes. There are many varieties of muffins - sweet and savoury - that are easy to make and keep well in freezer for later. I usually make muffins from what I can find in the fridge or pantry.<br />
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In our home, we don't like to eat bananas that have brown spots on them. We prefer our bananas unblemished, yes we're a fussy lot. The easiest ways to use blemished bananas are in smoothies and baking banana bread, banana cake and muffins.<br />
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I found this quick and easy muffin recipe made with vegetable oil and buttermilk. I had all the ingredients in the pantry plus 3 bananas that I had freezed last week.<br />
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A whisk and a spin, the muffins are ready to bake for 20 mins. Perfect for afternoon tea.<br />
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2 cups self raising flour, sifted<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed firmly<br />
1 tsp mixed spice (you can reduce this)<br />
1 cup mashed bananas (2 large bananas)<br />
1 cup pitted dates, chopped<br />
3 eggs, lightly beaten<br />
1/3 cup vegetable oil<br />
1/3 cup buttermilk **<br />
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**Buttermilk can be substituted by adding 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to 1 cup of milk<br />
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Line a 12 hole muffin pan with baking paper cups.<br />
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Sift dry ingredients into a large bowl, stir in remaining ingredients.<br />
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Spoon mixture into the prepared muffin pan.<br />
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Bake in moderate hot oven about 20 mins. For my oven, I set the temperature to 120C.<br />
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Makes 18 (medium size muffins)<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-27852778770814614962014-02-03T10:04:00.000+11:002014-02-03T10:04:24.686+11:00Simple and Delicious Chocolate Cake (recipe by Celia from Fig Jam & Lime Cordial)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A few weeks ago, Celia who owns the blog Fig Jam and Lime Cordial published a recipe for <a href="http://figjamandlimecordial.com/2014/01/19/a-really-good-chocolate-cake/">"A Really Good Chocolate Cake"</a>. I read the recipe and it looked simple. Anything that does not require the Kitchenaid mixer is simple to me.<br />
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I had all the ingredients except for unsweetened natural cocoa. I only had Nestle's <a href="http://www.bakers-corner.com.au/baking-products/nestle-plaistowe-dutch-processed-cocoa/">Plaistowe Dutch Processed Cocoa</a> in the pantry, but decided to give it a go.<br />
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The cake is simple delicious and light. I made the chocolate icing in the microwave, first time ever as I usually follow the method in Celia's recipe placing a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water.<br />
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Everyone loved the cake. It's great for morning or afternoon teas or anytime at all really. Who can say no to chocolate cake?<br />
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P.S. I forgot to take a photo of the whole cake, this was all that's left.<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-2582538761924751222014-02-02T20:24:00.001+11:002014-02-02T20:24:58.534+11:00Zucchini FrittersThe new school year started towards the end of last week. It's back to routine and preparing lunchboxes for my two girls.<br />
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This year, I am trying to keep lunchboxes interesting to ensure my girls have enough nutrition to keep them going throughout the day. I decided to give them the responsibility to create their own list of food that they want in their boxes for morning teas and lunch. This way, it gets them involved and gives them ownership of what they eat. They have create a long list of choices which will hopefully make it easier for me to prepare.<br />
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This week, I made zucchini fritters for their lunches. I was planning to make zucchini slice, but I forgot to buy some bacon and it was too late to head to the shops. A quick search on <a href="http://www.taste.com.au/">www.taste.com.au</a> and I found an easy fritter recipe.<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-29009419443404921362014-02-02T20:15:00.003+11:002014-02-02T20:15:38.182+11:00Chinese New Year 2014 - Year of the Wooden HorseHappy Chinese New Year everyone!!<br />
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Kung Hei Fatt Choy!!<br />
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Many blessings to you and yours in this coming Year of the Horse.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbBpGJb6-4QdBkI6zopS7Hg9-LQv3wwjKtznIOxlReJ8hty52YkmqV-GBJ5hTNoG9HcZhbbiVdMEIb_5_A9Cdd7sYVFqD8FoOvXa3YXYSyUUhCyhfSpf8p-SLZxd8hNIXDKClOz6_V1oo/s1600/yr+of+the+horse.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbBpGJb6-4QdBkI6zopS7Hg9-LQv3wwjKtznIOxlReJ8hty52YkmqV-GBJ5hTNoG9HcZhbbiVdMEIb_5_A9Cdd7sYVFqD8FoOvXa3YXYSyUUhCyhfSpf8p-SLZxd8hNIXDKClOz6_V1oo/s1600/yr+of+the+horse.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image source: <a href="http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/chinese-new-year">http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/chinese-new-year</a></td></tr>
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<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-3633149847657852262013-07-14T16:22:00.003+10:002014-01-04T20:14:20.859+11:00Baked Cassava Cake (Kueh Bengka)On my last trip to Malaysia, I made sure I had my fill of Nyonya kueh, something which is difficult to find here in Sydney. There are a few places that sell them e.g. Alice's Makan, but it can be pricey.<br />
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This is an easy to make <a href="http://wendyinkk.blogspot.com.au/2009/07/bingka-ubi-baked-cassava-cake.html?utm_source=BP_recent">recipe</a>. I bought the frozen grated cassava from the local Asian store.<br />
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I modified the recipe:<br />
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40gm coconut oil (replace the butter)<br />
100gm caster sugar<br />
100gm soft brown sugar<br />
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Texture was a little soft, next time will have to reduce the amount of water. Using frozen cassava may also affect the texture. Must remember to use a smaller tray to get more height.<br />
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Wendy, thanks again for another great recipe.<br />
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-82263627985170712402013-07-13T19:37:00.001+10:002013-07-13T19:37:25.933+10:00Morning Market Section 17, Petaling Jaya, SelangorMy girls and I have just returned from a holiday in my home country - Malaysia. The main purpose of this trip was to celebrate my grandma's 90th birthday and family reunion. Family members from around the world returned for this special celebration except for 1 cousin. We had a fantastic time in Malaysia despite the haze that greeted us when we arrived. Luckily, after a few days the haze cleared but the weather was still extremely hot and humid. Most of our days were spent indoors in air-conditioned comfort.<br />
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We arrived early in the morning, after a quick shower and feeling refreshed, I went out with my aunt to her local market to buy food for breakfast and check out the fresh produce. I took Ash with me to show her what the markets are like in Malaysia. She is used to the farmers markets here in Australia which is a lot cleaner. It was a real eye-opener for her and she was horrified at certain sections with the fresh chicken and fish displayed and gutted right there for the customers.<br />
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Here are some of the pics I took that morning. The stalls at this market vary from fresh meat, vegies, roast meats, herbal medicines, knick knacks, flowers, biscuits and food e.g. kueh (cakes), nasi lemak, yau char koay, apom as well as drinks like fresh sugar cane, fresh coconut juice and soya milk.<br />
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My senses are tantalised and challenged when visiting these open markets.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dxBEC2Obmc/UeEcniMoDTI/AAAAAAAADIY/paD7C7NHuc8/s1600/Fresh+Chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dxBEC2Obmc/UeEcniMoDTI/AAAAAAAADIY/paD7C7NHuc8/s320/Fresh+Chicken.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-63073225907997113992013-06-12T21:02:00.002+10:002013-06-12T21:02:46.401+10:00Choc Espresso Hazelnut BrownieThis recipe is a combination of several choc recipes that I have. It came about because I had some ingredients for one recipe and some for another, so I decided to put the two together. It's an easy one-bowl recipe.<br />
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200gm dark cooking chocolate, broken in pieces<br />
100gm butter, cut into cubes<br />
2 eggs, room temperature<br />
1 cup caster sugar<br />
1/2 cup self raising flour<br />
1/2 cup hazelnut meal (ground hazelnut)<br />
2 tablespoons espresso coffee<br />
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<li>Pre-heat oven to 160C-180C temperature. Line a 8 inch square pan with baking paper. </li>
<li>Melt the chocolate and butter together in a medium sized saucepan on low heat. Stir the melted chocolate and butter to get a smooth, shiny texture. Set aside for 5 mins to cool.</li>
<li>Add in the caster sugar, mix well. Follow with the 2 eggs, again stir the mixture properly to ensure eggs are well combined.</li>
<li>Slowly sift in self raising flour and fold into the mixture. </li>
<li>Add in the espresso coffee. After that, slowly fold in the hazelnut meal.</li>
<li>Pour the ready mixture into the baking pan and put into the pre-heated oven.</li>
<li>Bake for 25 minutes. Test with a skewer or toothpick into the centre until it comes out clean.</li>
<li>Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Then remove from pan and slice, dusting with some icing sugar before serving. </li>
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Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-78697700323936907762013-06-10T20:08:00.003+10:002013-06-10T20:08:39.010+10:00Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Palm Beach, NSWLong weekends in Australia are few and far in between, therefore when a long weekend rolls around, we always want to make the most of it. We didn't have much planned this Queen's Birthday long weekend (note: the Queen of England's birthday is actually on 21 April) as I was working late Friday night and most of Saturday. Thankfully, the project deployment went well which allowed me to enjoy the remaining two days with my family.<br />
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We had awesome weather earlier today, woke up to temperature at 12C and sunny. We decided to take a drive to Palm Beach in the Northern Beaches to walk up to the <a href="http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/Ku-ring-gai-Chase-National-Park/Barrenjoey-Lighthouse/historic-site">Barrenjoey Lighthouse</a>. The lighthouse sits on the most northern point of Sydney, on Barrenjoey Head. It is about 91m above sea level and there are several walks to get to the summit. We parked the car at the Governor Philip Park and walk towards the beach and onto the Smuggler's Track. The hike takes about 20 minutes on a slightly steep and rocky track. It's probably a medium grade, and not pram or wheelchair friendly. The track was muddy in various spots due to the recent rains.<br />
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The view at the top is simply stunning and breathtaking. We kept a lookout for any whales who migrate north in the winter. There have been reports of whale sightings from the top.<br />
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Highly recommend as a spot to bring your visitors. On the way back, you can head to Palm Beach Jetty to catch the <a href="http://www.palmbeachferries.com.au/ferry/routes/">ferry</a> to The Basin or Mackerel Beach. Another great thing to do as a day trip with the family.<br />
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If you're hungry, you have a few choices to take in a meal - <a href="http://www.barrenjoeyhouse.com.au/">Barrenjoey House</a>, <a href="http://www.thegreedygoat.com.au/">The Greedy Goat</a>, <a href="http://dunespalmbeach.com.au/">Dunes Restaurant and Kiosk</a> or <a href="http://www.jonahs.com.au/%E2%80%8E">Jonah's at Whale Beach</a>.<br />
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<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-68264049467223646892013-04-27T20:24:00.002+10:002013-04-27T20:24:19.400+10:00Foraging for Pine Mushrooms and Slippery Jacks, Wingello<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was an awesome autumn day in Sydney today. The sky was blue, the sun was shining brightly and the temperature was perfect at 27C with very low humidity. To me, that is a perfect autumn day and one of the many reasons why autumn is my favourite season. It was too good a day to be stuck indoors. Luckily we had booked to join <a href="https://twitter.com/foodpath">Jill Dyson</a> from <a href="http://foodpath.com.au/">FoodPath Culinary Tours</a> on a mushroom foraging tour in Wingello. The drive down to the Southern Highlands was smooth and easy; compared to the previous <a href="http://wangirls.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/picking-chestnuts-at-pinehaven-farm.html">Saturday</a> when it was raining cats and dogs. <br />
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Autumn is the best season to forage for <a href="http://www.mushroomchef.com.au/mushroom-varieties/pine-mushrooms/">pine mushrooms</a> which grow below pine trees. They are also known as milky saffron because when cut, they discharge a milky orange sap. The pine mushrooms are identified by the vibrant saffron coloured cap, gills and stems. They are quite 'meaty' and have a nutty flavour. Best way to cook them is to saute the pine mushrooms with garlic in butter, throw in some chopped parsley and rosemary and serve on crusty toasted sourdough topped with a sunny side egg (with runny yolk).<br />
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Jill took some time to explain how to identify the pine mushrooms and slippery jacks; how to remove them and to avoid poisonous mushrooms. The key difference between the two besides the taste is the pine mushrooms have gills and the slippery jacks have a spongy base under the cap. When foraging for mushrooms, we had to be careful and check with Jill before we cut the mushrooms. There were some poisonous mushrooms around. These poisonous mushrooms had a beautiful red colour with spots on the top. Poisonous mushrooms usually have a white base. There was a <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/national/deadly-mushroom-meal-was-made-in-a-restaurant-kitchen-20120105-1pn3g.html">case</a> in Canberra last year where a Chinese chef and friend died after eating the Death Cap mushrooms which the chef mistook for Chinese straw mushrooms.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-bA8giMPZ9AuHTM9BWEPQ00NAfe-jC3Irz-XKjMGGMRUJvbdS5l6W0OXJ5gkt50pe5oURmIeUZ1x8HVdaJoRpLKzolw088ZMHfu9uNbApjdSGxtWaZRVDtP_y8tuibFY1vVCsAfCvZ30/s1600/Mushroom+Poisonous.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-bA8giMPZ9AuHTM9BWEPQ00NAfe-jC3Irz-XKjMGGMRUJvbdS5l6W0OXJ5gkt50pe5oURmIeUZ1x8HVdaJoRpLKzolw088ZMHfu9uNbApjdSGxtWaZRVDtP_y8tuibFY1vVCsAfCvZ30/s320/Mushroom+Poisonous.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poisonous Mushrooms</td></tr>
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The mushrooms were just growing on the side of a country road under the pine trees. Jill had done some scouting earlier in the week to find where the mushrooms are. Armed with gloves, a small knife and a bucket, we set off walking up the country road looking for these amazing mushrooms. Everyone in the group was very excited when we spotted the first pine mushrooms.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz2Bxk6Tn84/UXujzku0voI/AAAAAAAADDY/6Cng73BAQNo/s1600/Mushroom+CrossSection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz2Bxk6Tn84/UXujzku0voI/AAAAAAAADDY/6Cng73BAQNo/s320/Mushroom+CrossSection.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jill holding a pine mushroom (see saffron coloured ring at the base) </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXurug-u_1CULCTf_c-OTjB9WEi0eZNn55GUD9zHKXpuOj_7ItfHDZqs4GjZlnDYOBYAVi0iHYCbL-HWmyRDy2wamhG0p0VVWmy6G0OGiTOHzpOpkHIHj_VtpCSjCuKrdewQg3DfOgYd6/s1600/Mushroom+Pine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXurug-u_1CULCTf_c-OTjB9WEi0eZNn55GUD9zHKXpuOj_7ItfHDZqs4GjZlnDYOBYAVi0iHYCbL-HWmyRDy2wamhG0p0VVWmy6G0OGiTOHzpOpkHIHj_VtpCSjCuKrdewQg3DfOgYd6/s400/Mushroom+Pine.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine Mushrooms with distinguishable round rings</td></tr>
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We moved on further up the road to look for the slippery jacks which grows in clumps.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bzc3Yinjvlc/UXukTAe2h3I/AAAAAAAADDs/PB0bhhhBO50/s1600/Mushroom+Slippery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bzc3Yinjvlc/UXukTAe2h3I/AAAAAAAADDs/PB0bhhhBO50/s400/Mushroom+Slippery.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xxumsSDu7WI/UXukUSuqx6I/AAAAAAAADD0/82kCs6VOBgE/s1600/Mushroom+Slippery+Upside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xxumsSDu7WI/UXukUSuqx6I/AAAAAAAADD0/82kCs6VOBgE/s320/Mushroom+Slippery+Upside.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
There were more slippery jacks than pine mushrooms. We also helped Jill fill her two buckets as she was collecting them for the chef at Mount Ashby Winery in Bowral.<br />
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Along the way we saw a large wombat burrow which explained the amount of fresh wombat poo around. We were careful to avoid stepping on them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nhJK7E3Y9xg/UXukzEN5Z5I/AAAAAAAADD8/Jh6CRBYTYgM/s1600/Mushroom+Wombat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nhJK7E3Y9xg/UXukzEN5Z5I/AAAAAAAADD8/Jh6CRBYTYgM/s320/Mushroom+Wombat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wombat's burrow </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaP_JDnPfpQ/UXuk4Jz6_SI/AAAAAAAADEE/NQk_n7mJz3g/s1600/Mushroom+Banksia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaP_JDnPfpQ/UXuk4Jz6_SI/AAAAAAAADEE/NQk_n7mJz3g/s320/Mushroom+Banksia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Australian Native Banksia </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMO3bjwYXHg/UXuk4vAL_DI/AAAAAAAADEI/jA-iPhbYCQI/s1600/Mushroom+PineCones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMO3bjwYXHg/UXuk4vAL_DI/AAAAAAAADEI/jA-iPhbYCQI/s320/Mushroom+PineCones.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine cones</td></tr>
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After an hour and half, we had a bucketful of pine mushrooms and slippery jacks.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGPbCwHDS_c/UXulSoVuTJI/AAAAAAAADEU/etBsKkbxsAM/s1600/Mushroom+Bucket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGPbCwHDS_c/UXulSoVuTJI/AAAAAAAADEU/etBsKkbxsAM/s320/Mushroom+Bucket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MccTyvdbqA0/UXulTpyeBDI/AAAAAAAADEc/f1BFYnlbeFs/s1600/Mushroom+Display.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MccTyvdbqA0/UXulTpyeBDI/AAAAAAAADEc/f1BFYnlbeFs/s320/Mushroom+Display.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wf_k_ABVMho/UXulaRQxpGI/AAAAAAAADEk/BycbDgZm0nU/s1600/Mushroom+Walking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wf_k_ABVMho/UXulaRQxpGI/AAAAAAAADEk/BycbDgZm0nU/s320/Mushroom+Walking.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading back to our cars</td></tr>
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Thank you Jill for a wonderful experience. We had another fun adventure with you.<br />
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Note: People die every year from eating the wrong mushrooms, <b>NEVER</b> eat a mushroom that you are not sure and have not been able to positively identify.<br />
<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8964094099427826433.post-69863303128303978032013-04-27T19:41:00.000+10:002013-04-27T19:41:01.182+10:00The Gardener's Kitchen, BundanoonAfter an hour and half of foraging for mushrooms, we were hungry. We had several places to chose from but decided to stop at The Gardener's Kitchen in <a href="http://www.bundanoon.com.au/">Bundanoon</a>, which was about 15 kms away from Wingello.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6o9P9IermvY/UXub0vrXnTI/AAAAAAAADB0/xV9n5hjemWw/s1600/DSC03148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6o9P9IermvY/UXub0vrXnTI/AAAAAAAADB0/xV9n5hjemWw/s320/DSC03148.jpg" width="240" /></a>The Gardener's Kitchen is a cosy country cafe that serves breakfast and lunches in a casual setting. There are tables set up indoors and outdoors. Meals are ordered at the counter and served at your table.<br />
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We had Ham and Cheese Croissant; Beef Pie served with Creamy Mash Potatoes and Peas; Pumpkin, Spinach Leek and Feta Frittata served with salad and Spinach and Ricotta Pastie served with salad. Thankfully, service was prompt and meals were brought to our table quickly. We were hungry and tucked straight away.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lmchz7eQXSc/UXub93CJUGI/AAAAAAAADCI/ECTYv0NMUco/s1600/Gardener+Kitchen+Pie+n+Mash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lmchz7eQXSc/UXub93CJUGI/AAAAAAAADCI/ECTYv0NMUco/s320/Gardener+Kitchen+Pie+n+Mash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We all had our eyes on Ash's pie and creamy mash and peas; more specifically, we were eyeing the mash and gravy. I am usually not keen on mash as I am trying to stay away from carbs, but this mash was simple irresistible. I had to have a few forkfuls.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAXOEO99Dv4/UXub77T4FLI/AAAAAAAADB8/jQlZXHVEhDQ/s1600/Gardener+Kitchen+Croissant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAXOEO99Dv4/UXub77T4FLI/AAAAAAAADB8/jQlZXHVEhDQ/s320/Gardener+Kitchen+Croissant.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pAQBqRlZzjs/UXub_D1JTUI/AAAAAAAADCU/WfIQpc-ie8g/s1600/Gardener+Kitchen+Pastie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pAQBqRlZzjs/UXub_D1JTUI/AAAAAAAADCU/WfIQpc-ie8g/s320/Gardener+Kitchen+Pastie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9IxO2hwxhTU/UXub97224BI/AAAAAAAADCE/qCsZ29Dq0lw/s1600/Gardener+Kitchen+Fritatta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9IxO2hwxhTU/UXub97224BI/AAAAAAAADCE/qCsZ29Dq0lw/s320/Gardener+Kitchen+Fritatta.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />I was happy with my frittata; a light and healthy meal which left my tummy some room for the best scones in Bundanoon. No complaints from Cait on her croissant which is a good sign. Chris happy ate his pastie.<br />
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We had to taste the scones, so we ordered a serve to share. The scones were indeed the best, served piping hot and light with raspberry jam from <a href="http://www.alpineberryfarm.com.au/">Alpine Berry Farm</a> and clotted cream. We also ordered coffees. I found my skim flat white quite mild and milky, it was more like a latte. Chris on the other hand, said he was satisfied with his flat white. Hmmm..slight inconsistency here. Usually he's the one who complains about the quality of his coffee.<br />
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After lunch, we popped into the delightful shop next door called "Nest and Burrow". It's owned by the same owners as The Gardener's Kitchen and managed by the mother-in-law of the owners, who is a friendly lady from Bowral (I forgot to ask her name). Our main purpose to visit "Nest and Burrow" was to buy some Alpine Berry Farm jams for family back in Sydney. Just quietly, we did come out with more than just jams. There are so many beautiful items for sale from kitchen and homewares, jewellery and toys. Yes, we could have spent more time there if not for the trip back to Sydney. I suppose we just have to return another time.<br />
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The Gardener's Kitchen<br />
27 Railway Ave<br />
Bundanoon NSW 2578<br />
(02) 4883 6354<br />
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<br />Charmainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07594029336646324940noreply@blogger.com1