Ingredients: 1/4 cup peanut oil 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped 1 long red chili pepper, thinly sliced on the diagonal 200 g beef fillet, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed if salty 4 shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced 6 oyster mushrooms, torn or sliced 2 tablespoons … Read more

This Whole30 Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy and lightly sweet—perfect for summer picnics, packed lunches, or meal prep. Make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it on a bed of greens, with gluten-free crackers, alongside fresh vegetables, or simply in a bowl. Chicken salad was one of my childhood favorites, but … Read more

The easiest way to add bold flavor and a silky finish to any savory dish is this 5-Ingredient Cajun Cream Sauce. As a busy mom with a gourmet palate, I love sauces that are quick to make yet taste like they took longer. This luxurious, flavor-packed sauce comes together in about 5–10 minutes once the … Read more

Coffee Talk 15: a chance to catch up on the little things in life—both sweet and salty! July 2019 Hi there! Happy July. This month has felt especially busy and full of change. How is your summer shaping up? Maybe you have a big move on the horizon, are relaxing in a hammock, or tackling … Read more

Banana bread is a timeless favorite that fills the kitchen with a warm, homey aroma and delivers a moist, flavorful slice every time. It evokes cozy mornings, family gatherings, and simple comfort. Best of all, it’s easy to make—no specialty equipment or rare ingredients required. A few bowls, basic tools, and ripe bananas are enough … Read more

This chicken salad is an everyday favorite: quick to make, full of flavor, and versatile. I love the addition of giardiniera for a spicy, tangy bite, but you can swap it for peppadew peppers or another favorite add-in. The salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with protein—perfect for meal prep and easy lunches. Make a … Read more

Slow-cooking this honey-glazed gammon in cider, then finishing it in the oven, creates a crisp, caramelised exterior and tender, juicy ham inside. The recipe is straightforward and delicious — ideal for family meals or special occasions. Gammon is perfect for feeding a crowd. If you enjoy slow-cooked ham, try serving it with roast potatoes and … Read more

See how we’ve transformed our farmhouse’s herb and flower garden over four years into a peaceful, mostly deer-resistant sanctuary. Below I share the before-and-after progress, our simple DIY watering system, and why the maintenance remains low-effort. Some links in this article are affiliate links and if you click on them I will receive a small … Read more

When planning meals, it’s easy to focus on the main dish and forget the sides—until ten minutes before dinner when you wonder, “What should I serve with this?” To make dinnertime simpler, here’s a curated list of inexpensive, easy side dishes that pair well with almost any meal. These choices are practical, budget-friendly, and tasty. … Read more