Blog

Ingredient Glossary: ​Arrowroot

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

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

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

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: Asafoetida

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

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

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

​Ingredient Glossary: Dates

Posted by Emily on 1st Dec 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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