Blog - Page 14 - Ceres Shop

Ingredient Glossary: Quince

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

The dual forms of quince, resembling both apples and pears, provide an evident hint towards their closely related fruits. When mature, quinces emanate a strong fragrance and boast a sleek, golden-y … read more

Ingredients Glossary: Beansprouts

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What are Beansprouts? The two most prevalent beansprouts are the green-topped mung bean and the larger, yellow-topped soya bean. Often regarded as a primary, somewhat mystical ingredient, bean sp … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Quark

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Quark? Quark is a soft, velvety curd cheese with a pleasingly light tartness. It varies from low-fat versions made from skimmed milk to richer varieties enhanced with cream. Traditionally … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Beetroot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Beetroot? Once a staple in 1970s British salads where it was typically cooked and pickled in vinegar, beetroot is a vibrant root vegetable with a deep purple exterior and a rich pink t … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Quail

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Are Quails? Initially indigenous to the Middle East, quails are now widespread across Europe. These small birds typically serve one person as a starter dish; for a main course, you would … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Anchovy

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Commonly sold in tins or jars, anchovies bring a savoury, umami touch to various sauces and dressings. Here's your comprehensive purchasing guide for storing, preparing, and cooking this versatile … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Agar-Agar

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Comparable in texture to jelly, agar-agar serves as a setting agent for terrines, custards, and creams. Learn how to buy, store, and prepare dishes using agar-agar. Originally discovered in Ja … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Tahini

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Tahini, a paste crafted from ground sesame seeds, is more than a mere auxiliary ingredient; it stands tall as a sauce and condiment in its own right. Often overshadowed by the likes of chickpe … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Arrowroot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Arrowroot powder serves as a versatile starch substitute for cornflour. It's particularly effective for thickening liquids and is the go-to choice for creating transparent jellies. While its use in … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Asparagus

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Asparagus? A cultivated lily plant yields the young shoots known as Asparagus, a delicacy vegetable. These shoots have a unique, potent, savoury flavour and are relatively expensive. T … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Hen Eggs

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Are Eggs? Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein and 18 essential vitamins and minerals. They are incredibly versatile in cooking, serving as binding agents and flavour enhancers … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Banana

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Originating from what is believed to be the Arabic word for 'finger', 'banan', bananas have comfortably claimed the title of the most sought-after tropical fruit worldwide. There's a delightful arr … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Asafoetida

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Asafoetida? Asafoetida is a resinous gum derived from a species of giant fennel, and it is well-known for its intensely pungent aroma, akin to decaying garlic. It is an invaluable spice f … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Mincemeat

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Mincemeat? A quintessential component in Christmas mince pies, mincemeat also lends well to year-round baking. Originating as an age-old concoction of dried fruits, ground almonds, spi … read more

Ingredients Glossary: Bamboo Shoots

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Originating from the heart of Asia, bamboo shoots are the tender offshoots of various bamboo species. Before consumption, it's imperative to cook them comprehensively, as many contain toxins that c … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Baking Powder

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Baking powder acts as a leavening agent frequently utilised in the world of baking, particularly in the creation of cakes. Its core components include bicarbonate of soda (an alkali) and cream of t … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Basil

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Basil, though commonly linked with Mediterranean cuisine, has made significant inroads into Asian culinary traditions. This aromatic herb is cherished for its captivating, sweet scent and robust fl … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Balsamic Vinegar

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Authentic Balsamic vinegar hails from Modena, situated in Emilia Romagna, Italy. It is meticulously crafted using grape must (juice) that undergoes a reduction process, followed by fermentation. Su … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Bavette

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Bavette? Bavette is the French term for flank steak. Similar to onglet, it is a loosely textured and flavourful flat cut. It's often referred to as the butcher's cut, as it's believed tha … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Dates

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Dates are among the most ancient fruits ever to be cultivated. Dates were believed to be a fundamental component of the Babylonian diet nearly 8,000 years ago. Predominantly grown in North Africa a … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Dark Chocolate

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Dark Chocolate? Dark chocolate refers to the glossy, dark-reddish brown confection made from the cacao bean, scientifically known as Theobroma cacao. It is commonly available as pre-fo … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Damson

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

A petite fruit featuring a vivid, dark blue hue, damsons resemble plums and belong to the rose family. They possess a substantial stone and are frequently juicy, although they are seldom consumed r … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Avocado

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is an Avocado? Although technically classified as a fruit, the mildly flavoured avocado is more commonly used as a vegetable. Originating from Central America, the primary types include t … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Aubergine

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What are Aubergines? Although it's technically a fruit (a berry, to be exact), the Aubergine is used as a vegetable. It's native to Southeast Asia but is grown worldwide, with many varieties. The … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Bacon

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Etymology The term "bacon" traces its origins back to the early 14th century, describing meat taken from the back and sides of a pig. This meat could be fresh or cured, although it was particu … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Za'atar

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Za'atar is a renowned spice blend in Middle Eastern and Levantine cuisine. An Introduction to Za'atar Za'atar is transformative; once tasted, it's easy to see why it has become a staple in n … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Arborio Rice

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Arborio Rice? Arborio is a variety of superfine rice originating from Italy, precisely one of the largest types within the short Italian rice variants in the species Oryza sativa japon … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Apricot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

A close cousin to the peach, nectarine, plum, and cherry, apricots exude a delightful aroma and soft, velvety skin ranging from a subtle yellow to a rich orange hue. The interior houses a large sto … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Sumac

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Description: A drupe that is sun-dried and ground Flavour Profile: Vibrant, citrusy, tart, floral Associated Cuisines: Native American, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines such as Pale … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Amaranth

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Amaranth is a versatile, protein-packed pseudo-cereal similar to quinoa, and it's distantly related to leafy greens like Swiss chard and spinach. The plant produces numerous seed heads, each yieldi … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Apple

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

Grown in temperate climates, apples are among the most extensively cultivated tree fruits. Over 7,000 varieties exist, many of which are produced in the UK. Nonetheless, a mere dozen or so types ar … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Almond

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Are Almonds? Sweet almonds possess a delicate aroma that is well-suited for baking, and also complements fish and chicken dishes. Classic almond recipes include trout with almonds, Ba … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Aduki Bean

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Are Aduki Beans? The Aduki Bean is a tiny, reddish-brown bean with a cream-coloured seam and sweet, nutty flavour. It is particularly popular in Asian cooking, often used for sweet dishes … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Agave Syrup

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Is Agave Syrup? Agave syrup (also known as agave nectar) is a naturally occurring sweetener akin in texture to honey, albeit slightly thinner. It's derived from various species of the aga … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Duck

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What is Duck? Duck meat is rich and robust in flavour, offering a high nutritional value. It's a good source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as zinc, potassium, magnesium, and iron. … read more

Ingredient Glossary: Udon Noodles

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019 Reading Time:

What Are Udon Noodles? Udon noodles are a staple of Japanese cuisine, known for their thick, white, and somewhat ribbon-like appearance. These noodles are primarily crafted from strong white w … read more

Packet Bridge Promotes Quality and Consistency

Posted by Emily on 30th Nov 2019 Reading Time:

Nine years ago, Cem Oktem took over Packet Bridge Fish & Chips in Bolton-le-Sands, Lancashire, with his brother Cihan and their dad. With a lot of hard work and improvements, the shop is now workin … read more

Episode 36 - Why Andreas Antona’s Vision Inspires a New Era in Hospitality

Posted by Emma on 29th Nov 2019 Reading Time:

On the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, host Stelios invites a true legend of the culinary world, Andreas Antona, to share his journey. Andreas, the godfather of Birmingham’s fine dining scene, … read more

Episode 35 - Meat, Passion, and Perseverance: The Story Behind The Rib Man

Posted by Emma on 23rd Nov 2019 Reading Time:

Mark Gevaux, better known as The Rib Man, has an extraordinary story that captivates foodies and entrepreneurs. In this episode of The Ceres Podcast, host Stelios delves into Mark’s life, highlighti … read more

Episode 34 - Chef Stephen Terry’s Candid Tales on the Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 16th Nov 2019 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios invites Chef Stephen Terry to share his journey through the hospitality industry and what a journey it is! Stephen, the patron and head chef of … read more

Episode 33: From field to fryer with Stuart Mitchell

Posted by Emily on 10th Nov 2019 Reading Time:

Mitchell Potatoes can trace its roots back more than 400 years when the family were crofters - or small farmers - in Bathgate, Edinburgh. A deal with a duke, who happened to be one of the biggest l … read more

Episode 32: Mitch talks Rockfish & The Seahorse

Posted by Emily on 31st Oct 2019 Reading Time:

Sitting in The Seahorse in Dartmouth, waiting for Mitch to turn up, you can see why this 40-cover, Italian-inspired restaurant is one-of-a-kind. Priced at the slightly higher end of the seafood spe … read more

Episode 31 - David Moore on Michelin Stars, Risk-Taking, and 30 Years of Hospitality Excellence

Posted by Emma on 24th Oct 2019 Reading Time:

What does it take to survive and thrive in London’s ultra-competitive fine dining scene for over 30 years? David Moore, founder of Pied à Terre, reveals all in the latest episode of the Ceres Podc … read more

Episode 30 - Crisp Conversations with Cem Oktem

Posted by Emma on 16th Oct 2019 Reading Time:

In Episode 30 of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios invites Cem Oktem of Packet Bridge Fish and Chips to share his inspiring journey through the fish and chip industry, culminating in the opening of … read more

Episode 29 - Adam Stokes on Fine Dining, Michelin Stars, and Modern British Cuisine

Posted by Emily on 11th Oct 2019 Reading Time:

The Ceres Podcast Episode 29 offers an exceptional dive into the culinary world, featuring Adam Stokes, the co-owner of Adam’s Restaurant and the Oyster Club in Birmingham. Hosted by Stelios, this e … read more

Episode 28 - A Journey Through Speciality Coffee with Stephen Hurst

Posted by Emma on 4th Oct 2019 Reading Time:

Coffee lovers, business owners, and industry enthusiasts—prepare to be captivated by the latest Ceres Podcast episode featuring Stephen Hurst, affectionately known as “The Coffee Hunter.” From his b … read more

Episode 27: Behind the Scenes with Amanda Afiya

Posted by Emily on 27th Sep 2019 Reading Time:

During her time as editor at leading hospitality and catering magazine The Caterer, and in her current roles where she provides PR and consultancy services to chefs, restaurants and hotels, Amanda … read more

Episode 26 - The Secret to Success: Fish, Chips, and Grit with Banico Zeniou

Posted by Emma on 20th Sep 2019 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios dives deep into the captivating journey of Banico Zeniou, co-owner of Fylde Fish Bar, a thriving trio of fish and chip shops in Southport. From … read more

Episode 25 - Johnny Pusztai's Guide to Quality Butchery

Posted by Emma on 13th Sep 2019 Reading Time:

In episode 25 of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios hosts Johnny Pusztai, the charismatic "snobby butcher" from Nottingham who has been crafting his trade since he was 12. With a passion for quality meats a … read more

Episode 24 - Robin Sheppard on Bespoke Hotels, Accessibility, and Lessons from the Hospitality Industry

Posted by Emma on 6th Sep 2019 Reading Time:

Episode 24 of the Ceres Podcast welcomes Robin Sheppard, founder of Bespoke Hotels, whose compelling story blends resilience, humour, and business acumen. Host Stelios dives deep into Sheppard's rem … read more

Episode 23 - Inside The Boat Inn with Liam & Steve

Posted by Emma on 28th Aug 2019 Reading Time:

The Ceres Podcast has delivered yet another compelling episode, this time featuring Liam Dillon, the passionate owner and head chef, and Steve Loughlin, the dynamic general manager of The Boat Inn … read more

Episode 22 - How Simon Bonwick Defied the Odds and Won a Michelin Star

Posted by Emily on 23rd Aug 2019 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios invites Simon Bonwick, the maverick chef and owner of The Crown at Burchetts Green, for an unforgettable conversation. Known for its Michel … read more

Episode 21 - Tackling Tuna, Sustainability, and the 2048 Seafood Myth with Dr. Tom Pickerell

Posted by Emma on 16th Aug 2019 Reading Time:

The latest episode of The Ceres Podcast dives deep into the complexities of seafood sustainability with the insightful Dr Tom Pickerell, Global Tuna Director at the Sustainable Fisheries Partnersh … read more

Episode 20: Exploring the Secrets of Three-Star Dining with Andy Hayler

Posted by Emma on 8th Aug 2019 Reading Time:

Have you ever wondered what it takes to dine at every three-star Michelin restaurant worldwide? Episode 20 of The Ceres Podcast offers an extraordinary look into the world of fine dining thro … read more

Episode 19 - How Tony Crolla Turned a Family Dream into a Hospitality Empire

Posted by Emma on 10th Jul 2019 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios dives into an engaging conversation with Tony Crolla, CEO and chairman of Edinburgh’s renowned Vittoria Group. This episode isn’t just a stor … read more

Episode 18 - A Conversation with Dale Osborne

Posted by Emma on 29th Jun 2019 Reading Time:

Few journeys are as captivating as that of Dale Osborne, Executive Chef at Bistro Bagatelle in Mayfair. In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Stelios dives into a rich conversation with Os … read more

Episode 17 - Lessons from Chesterford Group's James Lipscombe

Posted by Emma on 14th Jun 2019 Reading Time:

What makes a business thrive for nearly a century? This is precisely the question explored in the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, where Stelios welcomes James Lipscombe, Managing Director of … read more

Episode 16 - Reinventing Fish & Chips: Insights from Gary Rosser on the Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 5th Jun 2019 Reading Time:

Gary Rosser's story, as shared on the Ceres Podcast, is a masterclass in perseverance, creativity, and passion for seafood. As the founder of The Scallop Shell in Bath, Gary transformed his chi … read more

Episode 15 - Secrets Behind Krispies Success: A Journey Through Passion and Hard Work

Posted by Emma on 30th May 2019 Reading Time:

Krispies, an award-winning fish and chip shop in Exmouth, shared their remarkable journey on a recent episode of The Ceres Podcast. Hosted by Stelios, this episode offered an intimate look at how Ti … read more

Episode 14 - Fish & Chips Roundtable: Big Ideas for the Industry's Future

Posted by Emma on 2nd May 2019 Reading Time:

In episode 14 of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios brings together two powerhouse voices in the fish & chip industry: Mark Petrou, co-owner of Petrou Brothers, and Andrew Crook, President of the Natio … read more

Episode 13 - The Inspiring Journey of Tony Kitous on the Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 23rd Apr 2019 Reading Time:

If you've ever doubted the power of hard work and a clear vision, episode 13 of The Ceres Podcast is here to remind you that dreams can take you from humble beginnings to extraordinary suc … read more

Episode 12 - From Damascus to Yorkshire: The Inspirational Journey of Razan Alsous

Posted by Emma on 14th Apr 2019 Reading Time:

In a story that seamlessly blends food, culture, and an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit, Razan Alsous' journey from Damascus to Yorkshire captures the essence of resilience and innovation. Episode … read more

Episode 11 - Zohaib Hussain’s Inspiring Journey in Fish and Chips

Posted by Emma on 22nd Mar 2019 Reading Time:

The latest episode of The Ceres Podcast is a must-listen for fish and chip shop owners, small business enthusiasts, and food industry professionals. Hosted by Stelios, Episode 11 features … read more

Episode 10 - Cyrus Todiwala from Mumbai to Café Spice Namaste

Posted by Emma on 15th Mar 2019 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios sits down with celebrated chef and restaurateur Cyrus Todiwala, the man behind Café Spice Namaste. The conversation spans Cyrus's remarkable jour … read more

Episode 9: How Fred Capel Built an Icon at Chez Fred

Posted by Emma on 28th Feb 2019 Reading Time:

In this engaging episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios sits down with Fred Capel, owner of the renowned fish and chip shop Chez Fred. Fred takes us on a journey through his family’s history, from h … read more

Episode 8: Navigating Quotas, Brexit, and Sustainability with Bobby Joyce

Posted by Emma on 21st Feb 2019 Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios interviews Bobby Joyce from Smales Fish Merchants, diving into the complexities of the fish industry. The conversation starts with Bobby explaining his … read more

Episode 7: Loren lays it on the line

Posted by Jamie on 31st Jan 2019 Reading Time:

As commercial officer at the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), Loren Hiller is hugely passionate about eradicating unsustainable fishing, which she says has tripled over the past 40 years. She fi … read more

Episode 6: Craig Buckley's Vision for the Future of Fish and Chips

Posted by Emma on 26th Jan 2019 Reading Time:

From humble beginnings in a local gastropub to becoming a recognised figure in the fish and chips industry, Craig Buckley's journey is a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of exc … read more

Episode 5: Phil Vickery's Journey of Passion and Purpose

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2019 Reading Time:

In an episode that unfolds like a seasoned dish, blending the rich flavours of experience, passion, and innovation, Phil Vickery invites us into his world beyond the glare of TV lights. In this wor … read more

Episode 4: Stelios steps up to the mic

Posted by Emily on 23rd Dec 2018 Reading Time:

A born talker, a food enthusiast and MD of Ceres, Stelios Theocharous turns the microphone on himself to explain the inspiration behind his podcasts and how he spends his time when he’s not worki … read more

Episode 3: Thomas Colombo, the Maestro of Mixology on a Global Stage

Posted by Emma on 23rd Dec 2018 Reading Time:

In the heart of Italy, where the azure waters of Lake Garda lap against verdant shores, a story of passion, creativity, and cultural bridging through the art of mixology begins. Thomas Colombo, a n … read more

Episode 2: Charting the Future of Fish and Chips with Andrew Crook

Posted by Emma on 18th Dec 2018 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Stelios sits down with Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), for a deep dive into the heart of Britain's … read more

Episode 1: Making his Mark

Posted by Emma on 30th Nov 2018 Reading Time:

Many of you probably already know Mark Petrou from one of his many guises: co-owner of Petrou Brothers in Chatteris, Cambridge; founder of Chippy Chat magazine and its online forum, the latter of w … read more

Lets Get Technical

Posted by Stelios on 29th Nov 2018 Reading Time:

We have compiled a guide to help you get the best audio quality on the day of your podcast recording. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch. What Screen - It's best to use … read more

How to Be a Great Podcast Guest

Posted by Stelios on 29th Nov 2018 Reading Time:

The art of interviewing is a popular topic, but what about the art of being interviewed? While the role may feel more passive, it's just as active as the interviewer's. These tips for a memorable (in … read more