Welcome to this week's roundup, where we delve into a mix of delectable recipes, thought-provoking health concerns, and heartfelt relationship advice. From comforting puddings to sustainable seafood and the complexities of grief, there's something for everyone to savor.
Sweet Endings: Nigel Slater's Panettone Pudding
Nigel Slater's take on bread and butter pudding is anything but ordinary. He elevates the classic with panettone, offering a rich and flavorful twist. Slater emphasizes the importance of baking time, suggesting 35-40 minutes for a barely-set pudding with a trickle of custard, or 40-45 minutes for a more puffed-up, wobbly delight. Ready to bake? Set your oven to 160C/gas mark 3, whisk together 2 large eggs, 75ml of milk, 250ml of double cream, and 50g of caster sugar. Tear 150g of panettone into pieces, place in a baking dish, and pour the custard mixture over it. Enjoy!
And while we're on the topic of comfort food, let's not forget Georgina Hayden's one-pan sausage, kale, and black bean stew. This weeknight staple is easily customizable with toppings like charred tortillas, soured cream, and lime-dressed avocado. "This one-pan sausage, kale and black bean stew is a weeknight staple in our house," Hayden says, "not least because I can put it on the table with a range of toppings and accompaniments, and everyone gets excited."
One-Pot Wonders: Alice Zaslavsky's Mussels
For a quick and sustainable seafood option, look no further than Alice Zaslavsky's mirepoix mussels. This one-pot wonder is not only affordable but also incredibly flavorful, requiring only a baguette to soak up the fragrant broth. Zaslavsky notes, "Mussels have all the theatre of oysters without the price tag. They’re sweet like scallops, but harder to overcook, and have no clammy shell grit to purge."
These mussels are a sustainable choice, earning a "better choice" nod from Australia’s Good Fish guide, and they're ready in the time it takes to prep the ingredients. A kilo of mussels for under $10? That's a win-win!
Health Scares and Kitchen Utensils
Are your wooden spoons making you sick? Arwa Mahdawi dives into the recurring online panic surrounding wooden spoons and potential contamination. Influencers, like Lulaboo Jenkins on TikTok, have sparked viral crazes by demonstrating how boiling wooden spoons releases "disgusting gunk." While it's always good to be mindful of kitchen hygiene, Mahdawi humorously questions the severity of the threat, reminding us to take health scares with a grain of salt.
Navigating Grief in Relationships
Finally, Annalisa Barbieri addresses a reader's concern about their partner's unresolved grief stemming from the loss of their father. The article highlights how avoiding sadness can strain a relationship. Barbieri emphasizes the importance of confronting emotional pain rather than suppressing it, noting that "feeling sadness is essential for feeling happiness." It's a reminder that open communication and empathy are crucial when navigating grief with a loved one.
This week's articles offer a diverse range of topics, from culinary inspiration to insightful relationship advice. We hope you found something to enjoy and perhaps even something to ponder. Until next time!