BBC Good Food 2012'01 Middle East

January 2012
AED 15
New year, new you!

Delicious detox dishes
Nutritious kids' meals
Easy, healthy food swaps
WIN, WIN, WIN!

Dinner for two,
Friday brunch,
luxury getaways,
foodie hampers, a
spa treatment
and more...
saturday lunch
for friends
A foodie's
guide to Goa
bring on the
breakfast
Sesame & honey tofu

with rice noodles
FREE
supplement
on diabetes
Publication licensed by IMPZ
Become a fan of Socit Perrier

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Distributors: Gulf Trading & Refrigerating L.L.C (GULFCO) P.O.Box:1003, Dubai, UAE - Phone: 00971 4 3371400 - Fax: 00971 4 3372898 - Email: [email protected]
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED!
The list of finalists for the
DINING categories are now
listed online and in this months
issue! Please note that
nominations for Chef of The
Year and Ingredients
Categories are now closed too.
The finalists in these categories
will be announced too.
Publisher
Dominic De Sousa
Chief Operations Officer
Nadeem Hood
Editorial
editor Lauren Hills
assistant editor Nicola Monteath
designer Odilaine Salalac Mejorada
Sales team
SALES DIRECTOR Carol Owen
[email protected]
SENIOR MEDIA SALES EXECUTIVES
Rekha DSouza, [email protected]
Nicola Hudson, [email protected]
editors note
New year, new you
Photographer
Cris Mejorada
Distribution Manager
Rochelle Almeida
Contributors
Dave Reeder, Suzanne Husseini,
Dalia Dogmoch, Farah Sawaf
Subscriptions
[email protected]
Printed by
Printwell Printing Press LLC
Published by
Head Office
PO Box 13700
Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 4409100
Fax: +971 4 4293654
Web: www.bbcgoodfoodme.com
Copyright 2012 CPI.
All rights reserved.
While the publishers have made
every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information
in this magazine,
they will not be held responsible
for any errors therein.
BBC Worldwide Magazines Unit:

Nicholas Brett, Managing Director
James Hewes, Publishing Director
Jenny Potter, Editorial Director
Eva Abramik, Unit Coordinator
Immediate Media Co.
Chairman, Stephen Alexander
Deputy Chairman, Peter Phippen
CEO, Tom Bureau
Head of Licensing and Syndication,
Joanna Marshall
International Partners Manager,
Aleksandra Nowacka
UK Good Food Team
Editor, Gillian Carter
Creative Director Food Group,
Elizabeth Galbraith
Food Director Food Group, Lulu Grimes
Publishing Director, Alfie Lewis
Relax, enjoy and savour BBC Good Food ME,
Lauren Hills, editor

[email protected]
PAGE 66 | MORE cooking skills
Marketing & Communications

Marizel Salvador
I hope you have all had a wonderful holiday season and safe,
happy travels if you went away. I am sure, like many of us, you
have enjoyed all the naughty-but-nice festive goodies the
mince pies, that extra slice of stollen bread and the turkey with
the rich stuffing.
The festive season is definitely the time for indulgence, but
after all the decadence, I long for fresh, light, healthy food and
find myself rewriting the food resolutions that I broke all too quickly last year.
At BBC Good Food ME, we believe in a healthy, balanced lifestyle rather than fad
dieting, and as such, we have packed this months magazine with delicious, nutritious
recipes and ideas for simple healthy swaps to ease you into a nutritious 2012.
This month, we have also put together a supplement about diabetes, focusing on how
lifestyle and nutrition are vital for not only the prevention of type 2 diabetes, but for the
management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Heres to a wonderful, healthy, happy year! I wish you all the best.
PAGE 52 | Racing to compete
Web Developer
Louie Alma
BBC Good Food ME is published by CPI under licence from BBC Worldwide Limited, Media Centre, 201
Wood Lane, London W12 7TQ. The BBC logo is a trade mark of the British Broadcasting Corporation and are
used under licence by Immediate Media Company London Limited. Copyright Immediate Media Company
London Limited. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission.
January 2012 BBC Good Food Middle East 1
Contents
6
18
68
UPFRONT
EVERYDAY CHEFS BITES
4 CRAZY FOR COMPETITIONS

WIN brunch vouchers, cupcakes,
gift hampers and more...
18 NEW YEAR DETOX

Begin the first month of the year
with healthy and delicious detox
recipes to make sure you shed those
festive-season pounds
6 FOODIE FAVOURITES
The latest in news, trends and events not
to be missed this month
10 OFF THE SHELF
Handy kitchen gadgets, cooking appliances
and more...BBC Good Food ME helps you
begin the New Year in style
10
22 FIVE WAYS WITH PULSES

Quick recipes that include the high
protein ingredient in your daily meal plan
26 BRING ON THE BREAKFAST
BBC Good Food ME weighs up
the importance of this meal
30 HEALTHY & WELLBEING
Nutritionist Kerry Torrens gives us tips
and advice on healthy food swaps and
breakfast options
42 CHANGING DIABETES VILLAGE
Just in case you missed it at Mall of the
Emirates, BBC Good Food ME recaps the
message from Novo Nordisks Changing
Diabetes Village
46 DOING IT FOR THE KIDS
Creative, organic and vibrant recipes
from the new Power Bites menu at
Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel, to keep your
kids happy and healthy
2 BBC Good Food Middle East January 2012
52 RACING TO COMPETE
Chef Michel Jost of Yas Viceroy speaks to us
about brand direction and recipes from the
award-winning restaurant, Nautilus.
56 THE FINALISTS ARE ANNOUNCED
The nominations are in for the dining
categories! Find out who made the cut at this
years highly rated BBC Good Food ME Awards
60 SWEET ALTERNATIVES
Ariana Bundy, shows us how to cook a
gluten-free recipe while sharing baking
tips and inspiration behind her soon-to-belaunched book
62 WINTER MENU FROM THE GRAMERCY
We look back at our final Food Club
event of 2011, and feature some of Chef
Andrews winter treats
64 STEP BY STEP WITH JADE
Chef Rain at Jade, Asiana Hotel Dubai
Deira wows us with his authentic
Chinese recipes
68 FOOD CLUB
Chef Paul de Viser from Ruths Chris
Steakhouse demonstrates his signature
dishes to Food Club members
January 2012
72
84
18
TRAVEL
72 A NIGHT OF STARS
BBC Good Food MEs Dave Reeder escapes
to Vienna for Sofitels Stars, Food & Art event
76 GOING FOR GOA
Experience Goan lifestyle, recipes
and restaurants; a real taste of
Goan cuisine
84 COME OVER FOR CURRY

Roopa Gulati shows us how to cook
authentic Indian dishes for family and friends
Sesame & honey tofu

with rice noodles
Our recipe descriptions

V
Suitable for vegetarians

You can freeze it
Not suitable for freezing
88 SATURDAY LUNCH FOR THE FAMILY

Cook up a sumptuous feast with these
comfort food recipes for all!
94 FOOLPROOF FONDANTS
Expert tips and tricks on perfecting the
indulgent dessert
Contains pork
Contains alcohol
Superhealthy Low in saturated fat,
5g or less per portion; low in salt, 1.5g

or less; and at least one of the following:
provides one-third or more of your daily
requirement of fibre, iron, calcium, folic
acid and/or vitamin C or counts as one
80
96
or two portions of your recommended

5-a-day fruit and vegetables.
Low fat 12g or less per portion.
Good for you Low in saturated fat,
low in salt.
Heart healthy Low in saturated fat,
with 5g or less, and low in salt, with 1.5g
or less, and high in omega-3 fatty acids.
WEEKEND
LAST BITE
TAKE CARE!
80 DINNER IN AN HOUR
An express, budget-friendly menu in less
than 60 minutes
96 GUILT-FREE PLEASURE
A luscious low-calorie dessert to wrap
up our healthy issue
contains pork P
contains alcohol
Some recipes contain pork & alcohol. These

are clearly marked and are for non-Muslims
only. Look for this symbol:
upfront
win win win!
Crazy for competitions
Win luxury hotel stays, gourmet dinners, foodie hampers and more...
WIN
A MEAL FOR TWO at EL CHICo
Enjoy dinner for two at El Chico,

the Mexican restaurant that serves authentic
cuisine. Sit back and savor the simple moments
in life complete in a traditional heritage setting,
while tucking into signature specials such as
fajitas, enchiladas, guacamole and more. A
Mexican experience not to be missed!
WIN
A MEAL FOR TWO AT THE W GRILL AND

COCKTAILS TERRACE, PYRAMIDS, WAFI
Dine at the recently-launched European style grill

restaurant at Wafi Mall, a hotspot for foodies and
fashionistas alike. The restaurant offers a stylish
dining experience with an impressive cocktail
menu and outdoor shisha terrace.
EDs
choice
WIN
DINNER FOR TWO AT AMWAJ

RESTAURANT, SHANGRI-LA hotel, DUBAI
Tempt your taste buds by feasting on an array of

mouth-watering fresh seafood at the lavish Amwaj
restaurant, valued at AED 600.
WIN
A TWO-HOUR
AYURVEDIC
TREATMENT AT
DUBAI HERBAL
TREATMENT CENTRE
WIN
HEALTHY CUPCAKES
FROM KITSCH
Up for grabs! A box of scrumptious cupcakes

from Kitsch that includes healthier flavours
such as The Skinny, Gluten Free (Caramel white
chocolate), Dairy Free and Eggless cupcakes.
Theres one for every preference, so you can you
satisfy your sweet cravings without loading up
on calories.
WIN
A NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT

NOUR ARJAAN BY ROTANA,
FUJAIRAH, INCLUDING BREAKFAST
Enjoy a night stay including breakfast at the

luxurious Nour Arjaan by Rotana, Fujairah.
Pamper yourself in the tranquil surroundings of
the emirate and lay by the pool treating yourself
to a relaxed afternoon for you and your loved one.
Get your hands on two tickets to the esteemed

BBC Good Food ME Awards in February by
submitting in Valentines Day recipe for two. The
recipes can either be a main course or dessert
and should be sent to [email protected].
Whats more exciting is that the winners recipe
will be featured in our next issue! Deadline for
the recipe submission is 20 January 2012.
Pamper yourself
with this two-hour
ayurvedic treatment
of Abhyaangam and
Sirodhara combined to
relax your mind, body
and soul. The voucher
valued at AED 450 is
the perfect treatment to
begin the New Year
with a rejuvenated,
revitalised body.
WIN
WIN
SEND IN A RECIPE AND WIN TICKETS TO

THE BBC GOOD FOOD ME AWARDS!
A FRIDAY BRUNCH FIESTA FOR

TWO AT PYRAMIDS, WAFI
Choose from a variety of five restaurants, The

W Grill, Medzo, Carters, Thai Chi and Vintage;
diners are able to move around going back and
forth however many times they prefer. Enjoy
gourmet dishes and delicious beverages.
A DOWN TO EARTH ORGANIC

FOOD GIFT HAMPER
Winners receive a gift hamper with a range

of spices, powders, biscuits and kitchen
condiments from Down to Earth Organic Food
- goodies that are good for you and Mother
Earth, too. The products are all free of chemicals,
pesticides and fertilizer residues.
To stand a chance to win these prizes

visit our competitions page on www.
bbcgoodfoodme.com and fill out the
forms; it is so easy to do!
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Tiramisu ice cream delight

Inspired by the creamy, decadent tiramisu ice cream flavours, chef Rafael Capanas
of K Grill, Kempinski Mall of the Emirates created an elegant dinner party dessert
An elegant, Asian-inspired
dinner party dessert!
Chef Rafael Capanas
Fried tiramisu
ice cream set on green tea
cake accompanied
by caramelised walnuts
100g brown sugar
5 eggs, whites only
100g unsalted butter
125g flour
25g almond powder
7g green tea powder
1 scoop tiramisu ice cream
100g corn flakes
15g sugar
35g walnuts
TIRAMISU
An exquisite combination
of a creamy textured
ice cream with thin slices of
bittersweet brownie cake and
ripples of rich chocolate sauce.
1 For the green tea cake, cream the

butter and sugar in mixing bowl, add the
eggs into the flour and dry ingredients
into the mixture.
2 Once the cake dough ready, pour the
mixture into 18/1cm cake ring and bake
in the oven at 180C for 15 mins.
3 To prepare the fried ice cream, scoop the
tiramisu ice cream into round shaped ball.
4 Coat the ice cream in the liquid egg
white and coated with corn flakes, add
oil into the pan and fry the ice cream
until crispy.
5 Melt the sugar over a pan, add the
toasted walnuts into the sugar to create
glazed walnuts to use as a garnish.
6 Set the green tea cake on the plate
and arrange the fried ice cream over the
cake. To finish, sprinkle the caramelised
walnuts on top.
Create a nice
round ball of ice
cream using a
good-quality ice
cream scoop.
Plate up like
a professional
with fresh berries
and caramelised
walnuts.
Impress your
guests with this
elegant dessert.
upfront
TRENDS
Top 10
foodie moments
From recipe highlights, top restaurants to try,
quirky foodie moments and the best deals in
town, BBC Good Food ME keeps you in the
know this season
Seafood delicacies
at Minato
Minato, meaning harbour in Japanese, is one of the oldest Japanese

restaurants in town. Situated in the bustling hub right across the Dubai
Creek at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira, this month at Minato, chef
Nakagawa has introduced a range of new mouth-watering delicacies to
complement the traditional sushi and sashimi menu.
Seafood platters of finely-cut bluefin tuna, shrimps, salmon and
mackerel are served in a large bowl over grated ice and a seashell, giving
the entire platter a unique appearance with bursts of flavour. Other dishes
offered are miso soup, flat white fish, fresh blue fin tuna, sushi rolls and
green salad baskets.
The dishes are particularly authentic, yet appeal to the Middle Eastern
market as well as expats. BBC Good Food ME particularly liked the green
tea ice cream served with sweet beans, as the strong yet bitter taste of the
green tea ice cream is complemented by the sweetness of the beans
making it a perfect ending to a healthy and appetising meal.
For bookings and information, please call 04 205 7333/7444.
Keep on track
with Solis
Solis, the elegant beach front bistro tucked away in the luxurious Tiara
Residences on Palm Jumeirah, has created a healthy menu just in time for
the New Year. At BBC Good Food ME we understand the amount of effort
and commitment it takes to stick to a diet and avoid choosing those
unhealthy options on a menu; the options at Solis could make these
choices a little easier.
Head chef Wasantha from Solis has created a healthy menu for diet
followers to stick to their regime while feasting on a range of dishes that
are low in saturated fat but yummy in taste. Amongst the menu are a few
celebrity-endorsed and high profile diet options such as the Solis oregano
chicken avocado salad, for those following the Zone Diet as well as the
steamed asparagus salad from the famous raw food and macrobiotic diet
followed by Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna. Points are also worked out for
you, with healthy options such as the shrimp and palmito salad that are
ideal for people following the traditional Weight Watchers diet.
Prepared daily with fresh produce, the new menu is soon to be a
favourite amongst weight-conscious foodies in Dubai.
upfront
TRENDS
foodie
moments
Italian street caf

culture now in Dubai
The newly-opened Esca Caff at Qamardeen Hotel, nestled within the

Downtown Dubai area is set to bring out the laid-back street culture of
Italian cafes. Set out on the street-front of the hotel, the cafe is perfect
for people-watching or business meetings (wi-fi available), while tucking
into pots of chocolate souffle, flavoured shishas and freshly brewed cups
of aromatic coffee.
Certo
embraces organic
Every New Year is filled with good intentions and resolutions, so with this in
mind, the team at Certo, Radisson Blu Dubai Media City has come up with a
special set menu this January, offering healthy alternative food choices.
Chef Daniele will be scouting the markets for organic products to
integrate them into his favourite recipes. You can sample a healthy selection
of dishes including mushroom and potato cake with taleggio cheese sauce,
green pea soup with ricotta cheese aromatised with thyme, homemade
spinach and goats cheese ravioli with pumpkin sauce or apple and
cinnamon pancakes filled with bananas and chocolate.
To complement the healthy dishes, acclaimed sommelier Madan will be
sourcing organic grapes to complete your dining experience.
In 2012, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City will focus even more
on sustainable food and healthy living concepts, hence Certos organic
menu promotion is just another small step towards our responsible
business, Franois Galoisy, the hotels General Manager said.
The special a la carte menu will be available from 15th until 31st
January 2012 during dinner.
The IVY launches its

Friday brunch
If youre tired of the over-indulgent, all-you-can-drink brunch options in

Dubai and are in the mood for something more elegant and sophisticated on
a Friday afternoon, the newly-launched brunch at The Ivy, Jumeirah Emirates
Towers is just the option for you.
Served from 12.00 to 16.00 every Friday, you will be welcomed with a
beverage on arrival (the Bellini is delicious!) and then you can choose one
starter, one main (including unlimited side dishes) and one dessert from the
extensive brunch menu.
For starters, you can choose from the aromatic duck salad, eggs
Benedict, French onion soup with Gruyere crouton or rock oysters to name
just a few. For mains, you can tuck into some classic British fare such as
Cumberland sausage with mashed potato and onion gravy, fish and chips
with mushy peas, salmon fish cakes with sauted spinach and sorrel sauce
or the succulent roasted pork belly. For dessert, we would recommend the
hot apple pie with custard or clotted cream, and for chocolate lovers, the
dark chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream is beautifully rich and dense.
Children are catered for with their own menu, featuring tasty miniature
versions of dishes from The Ivy a la carte menu. And, children under 10
years dine for free.
Mineral water, tea and coffee are all included in the price, with
cocktails including Pimms and bloody Marys available to order and
priced individually.
The Ivy brunch is priced AED 275 per person.
upfront
TRENDS
foodie
moments
Divalicious in Dubai
Barbecue
delights
BBC Good Food ME speaks to Divalicious in Dubais Angela Coleby on

superfoods that add a glow to our skin, body and soul.
Double Decker Garden Launches Saturday Backyard Barbecue

For a relaxed, homely barbecue in a garden setting, the newly launched
Backyard Barbecue at Double Decker Garden, Al Murooj Rotana Dubai is a must.
An extension of the Double Decker pub, the garden provides a lovely patio
and garden for you to enjoy a full barbecue feast and unlimited drinks. Food is
cooked by the barbecue masters right in front of you and you can enjoy pork
dishes such as Cumberland sausages and sticky ribs, beef burgers, steaks,
kebabs and ribs, as well as chicken wings and kebabs. The salad counter is
laden with all the homemade favourites potato salad, pasta salad, a nice big
green salad, to name just a few and for side dishes you can enjoy corn on the
cob, or potatoes baked in foil over the coals, or even nachos with sour cream,
salsa and guacamole. If you have any space left after this barbecue feast, the
dessert table is filled with chocolate cookies, chocolate sponge cake, cherry
crumble and more.
A great, relaxed atmosphere, it feels like you are in a friends backyard! AED
180 per person for unlimited barbecue and drinks.
A push in
the right
direction
Do you need some inspiration and

encouragement in your battle of the bulge?
The Weight Loss show is taking place at Mina
Seyahi Hall (DIMC), Dubai Marina from January 27 to 28
from 10.00 to 20.00. Now in its third consecutive year, the family exhibition will
consist of various zones that include lectures and entertaining demonstrations
by specialists, free workout classes, fitness and health assessment tests,
seminars, live cooking stations, nutritious food samples and recipes along with
products and solutions for everyone. The Kids zone consists of educational
games, sports, activities and competitions to encourage children that exercising
can be fun as well as healthy for their bodies. Admission is free for all.
The UAE needs to become more active and to adopt healthier diets in order
to reverse the alarming rates of lifestyle diseases amongst the population, says
Linkvivas events director and show organiser, Niousha Ehsan.
Honey is pure liquid gold that has

antiseptic and antibacterial
properties that clear acne and soften
the skin when consumed or used as
a face mask. It absorbs the
impurities from the pores and
consists of a peeling effect if used as
a hot mask, which is effective in the
removal of blackheads.
Almonds are rich in minerals, calcium, folic acid, vitamin E and are a great
antioxidant. Full of fibre and omega 3, these tiny nuts help eliminate toxins,
control your cholesterol levels, smooth your digestive system and help make
your skin smooth and healthy. Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and D and is a
great face cleanser and can be used to get rid of under eye dark circles
Flaxseeds: These little seeds are packed with fibre, low in carbohydrates and
are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids (great for vegetarians). It is perhaps our best
source of lignans, which convert in our intestines to substances that tend to
balance female hormones. There is evidence that these seeds also help
prevent breast cancer and type 2 diabetes.
Combine a mixture of ingredients from your pantry and create luxurious
face masks on a budget leaving your skin smooth, soft and glowing.
Almond and honey face mask
1 tbsp honey
1 egg yolk
tsp almond oil
1 tbsp yoghurt
METHOD:
Mix all ingredients together and blend
well. Apply to the face and leave for
20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water
and pat dry.
For healthy recipes and beauty masks visit www.divaliciousindubai.com
Breakfast
super
smoothie
SERVES 2 Easily doubled

PREP 5 mins NO COOK Easy
Good source of calcium and vitamin
C, counts as 1 of 5-a-day, low fat
150g punnet blueberries

2 bananas
50g/2oz medium porridge
oats
a 500g pot natural yoghurt
300ml/pt semi-skimmed
milk
2 tbsp clear honey
1 tsp poppy seeds
nutmeg, for grating
1 Tip the blueberries into a blender and blend into a pure. Pour
the contents into a bowl, set aside, then rinse the blender clean.
2 Chop the bananas into chunks, then add to the blender with the
rest of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour some of the
banana mixture into 2 large glasses, top with a spoonful of
blueberry pure, then more of the banana. Continue until you
have used up both mixtures, then finish the top with a swirl of
pure. Grate nutmeg over, to serve.
PER SERVING 403 kcals, protein 18g, carbs 72g, fat 7g, sat fat 3g, fibre 5g, sugar
52g, salt 0.42g
10
Down to Earth Organics
The organic food and products market is expanding in Dubai! Down to Earth
Organic, a brand originally from India, is now available in their store, located near
Satwa at the Hamdan Awards complex across the road from the Union flag.
With a range of chemical, fertilizer and pesticide free products, take your pick
from a variety of organic cereals, pulses, spices, condiments, oils and cookies; all
at affordable prices. Perfect for Indian cooking, this is the only shop in Dubai that
sells organic produce specifically for the Indian market. Cotton, Linen and yoga
mats and home ware items are available at the store too.
To make it more convenient for residents of Dubai, Down to Earth Organics
offers home delivery and orders can be placed by contacting the toll-free
number or through the order
form on their website.
For more information, visit
downtoearthorganics.ae or
contact 800 organic (6742642).
upfront
Off the shelf
Throw out those drab white towels and ensure your

dishes are squeaky clean with these colourful dish
cloths from CRATE & BARREL.
Give your kitchen a makeover with

these convenient and time-saving
gadgets and appliances
Grill those meats and vegetables to perfection on the high

temperature grill plate from Philips. It seals in juicy
flavours and nutrients, making food healthy and delicious.
Chop away with this userfriendly nut chopper from 2XL

for AED 44 and enjoy the
goodness of freshly chopped
fruits and nuts for breakfast,
sprinkled over desserts, or over
salads to add that extra crunch.
The device has options to chop
the nuts coarse or fine.
Celebrate the Chinese

New Year with this limited
edition set created
by luxury lifestyle brands
Nespresso and Shanghai
Tang to ring in the Year of
the Dragon.
This three-in-one pineapple corer/

slicer from LAKELAND is both
handy and mess-free. It works like
a corkscrew and peels, cores and
slices all at once, at only AED 65;
you can now add pineapples to
your daily fruit intake!
Gulp down fresh fruit and veggie

juices with this CulinOr juicer
for a refreshing intake of your five-aday and begin the New Year with a
revitalised body and mind. Available
at most major supermarkets.
LAKELAND, known for its time saving products
ensures your produce stays fresh as long as
possible. These stay fresh longer bags for AED 35
for a pack of 20, utilises a unique formula to lock in
moisture, while avoiding bacteria for several weeks.
Toss up an appetising salad in

this glass and wooden bowl from
CRATE & BARREL.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Get cooking with

MORE Cooking Skills is a fun and interactive way
to hone your culinary talents while mingling with
like-minded foodies. With healthy living on our
minds this month, be sure to sign up with Chef
Gert to create these delicious guilt-free goodies
This spinach and pumpkin salad is one
of the healthy menu options at MORE
Healthy eating at More made easy
To highlight the healthy choices, MORE introduced information into their

existing menu, which enables people to select low-fat dishes that have
a low Glycemic Index (GI) and are low in cholesterol. MORE employs a
nutritionist, who has identified and categorised these dishes, which are
highlighted on the menu with a signature jolly O.
MORE Cooking Skills in January focuses on Heathy Choices

Last months MORE Cooking Skills was a great success, and Januarys sessions will be a
fantastic chance to learn new culinary skills...
Learn to create:
Chicken lettuce wraps with Hoisin sauce,
sesame oil and brown rice, infused with
Chinese five spice.
Sweet potato gnocchi with tomato
sauce and beef bacon served with
watercress and black olives.
Pumpkin and ricotta lasagne with fresh
rosemary and sage, complemented
with crisp side salad and a simple lemon
herb vinaigrette.
Low fat mango fool with fresh
blueberries and ricotta cheese.
During the class, you will...
Learn to prepare a variety of healthy but
tasty meal items,
Understand the science of making pasta
Learn tips and tricks for making simple
salad dressing
Discover the secrets of proper

gnocchi and lasagne dough
Create beautiful, yet simple to make
healthy meals
Enjoy lots of interactive and informative
entertainment with the MORE chefs
Venue: MORE Gold and Diamond Park for
the Wednesday class, MORE Murooj for the
Saturday class
The dates: Wednesday 25 January 2012, 9am
to 1pm at MORE Gold and Diamond Park and
Saturady 28 January 2012, 11am to 3pm at
MORE Murooj.
MORE Cooking Skills is priced at AED 200 per
person, and includes the cooking lessons, as
well as lunch, coffee and tea, a bag of
goodies, MORE apron and recipe cards.
For bookings call 042633113, email cooking@
morecafe.biz or you can visit the website
www.morecafe.biz.
A dedication to art
MORE supports the creative inspiration of art and this can be seen in a variety of
different mediums within the cafes. There are currently over 25 artists who exhibit
their artwork in MORE, with most residing in the UAE.
Since MORE first opened back in 2002 the caf walls and open space have
been a canvas for aspiring artists to display and expose their work. The Managing
Partner, Wouter D.K. Lap embraces creativity being a painter himself and having
come from an artists family It is exciting seeing how someones personal work
can be interwoven into the fabric of MOREs interior
Most artwork is for sale and you can find on MOREs website www.morecafe.biz
biographies on each artist. If you are an expiring artist yourself and would like to
exhibit you can express your interest by emailing them at [email protected].
upfront
Healthy
food swaps
Lose the fat, not the flavour with

these easy substitutes from BBC
Good Food MEs Nicola Monteath
upfront
Greek yoghurt instead

of sour cream
Enjoy the thick and creamy goodness of Greek

yoghurt, which isnt only delicious but increases
your intake of calcium and protein on a daily basis,
that is great for your bones and skin.
Greek yoghurt is known for its bacteria fighting
power by improving intestinal health while
balancing the digestinal tract. Packed with protein
and little fat, 1 cup of Greek yoghurt contains about
150 calories when compared to about 327 calories
in reduced fat sour cream
Enjoy: Greek yoghurt can be substituted in place
of sour cream and mayonnaise for delicious dips.
Stir in chopped coriander, black pepper and a
squeeze of lemon for a delicious, low-fat dip.
Sweet potatoes instead

of white potatoes
Potatoes are a meal in itself, especially when laden

with your favourite toppings. Make the switch from
white potatoes to sweet potatoes and enjoy a spud
for either lunch or dinner.
Sweet potato is a good source of Vitamin A and C
as they are immune boosters for our bodies. The
beta carotene found in sweet potatoes is known to
have cancer-fighting properties too. Each sweet
potato contains about 103 calories compared to the
white potato that contains around 123 calories.
Enjoy: Top up your spud with a range of healthy
toppings such as Greek yoghurt, vegetables, tuna,
and pulses. The choices are limitless, just make sure
to choose from a range of healthy toppings and
avoid unhealthy fats such as butter and sour cream.
Quinoa instead of couscous
Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is known to be the

king of wholemeal grains. With a creamy crunchy
sort of texture, this grain is known to help migraines
due to its good source of magnesium as well as
cardiovascular health benefits. Usually low in
cholesterol, quinoa digests slowly and has a low
glycaemia index. A cup of quinoa consists of 160
calories, whereas couscous has 176 calories.
Quinoa also contains vitamin B2, vitamin E and iron.
Enjoy: Drizzle a teaspoon of lemon or olive oil over
cooled, cooked quinoa with 1 tsp lemon and add to
salads for a burst of flavour and nutritional value.
Olive oil instead of

vegetable oil
Oils can be a significant catalyst for increased

cholesterol levels. Vegetable oils consist of
unhealthy saturated fats whereas olive oil
consists of heart-healthy Omega 3 fatty acids. 1
tbsp of olive oil consists of 119 calories while
vegetable oil consists of 124 calories. If cooking
with oil, we suggest using canola oil rather than
olive, but the way to get the most nutritional
value from olive oil is by drizzling cold-pressed
extra virgin olive oil over salads.
Enjoy: Create a simple vinaigrette by mixing
together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine
vinegar,1 tablespoon Dijon mustard , 1 tablespoon
honey , 1/2 teaspoon salt , 1/4 teaspoon black
pepper and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
Dark chocolate instead

of milk or white chocolate
You dont have to sacrifice your sweet tooth

cravings by giving up chocolate; just make the
switch from white chocolate to dark chocolate
(highest possible cocoa content). Dark chocolate
consists of flavanoids that are a powerful source of
antioxidants, while the delicious taste and
intoxicating aroma consists of mood elevating
properties. 100g of dark chocolate contains 505
calories whereas white chocolate contains 539
calories. Also, as dark chocolate has a more
powerful flavour, you will find that you will only need
to eat a little dark chocolate to satisfy your cravings.
Dark Chocolate is known for its maintenance of
blood circulation as well as its excellent disease
preventing properties, strengthening the body
against heart failure, cancer and even strokes. It
also contains Vitamin A1, B, C and D.
Enjoy: Bite into a small block of dark chocolate after
dinner to gain its health benefits, or crumble dark
chocolate to use as chips in cookies or muffins for a
healthier alternative to high-sugar milk or white
chocolate chips.
TIP TO GOOD HEALTH

Swapping high calorie foods
for healthier options is great;
however keep in mind that
portion is still key! Just because
a food is lower in calories and
fat, doesnt make good to overconsume in large portions.
Chic, stylish
seafood at
Amwaj
The captivatingly stylish Amwaj restaurant, Shangri-la

Hotel, Dubai, offers guests outstanding fresh seafood
in one of Dubais most chic settings. We meet the
recently-appointed Chef de Cuisine Marcello Mereu
to learn more about his inspiring dishes
hef Marcello took the culinary helm in the Amwaj kitchen recently with a fresh new
menu and a straightforward approach to cooking. Marcello began his working life
in his native Sardinia working with famous chefs such as Luca Casadio and Sergio
Mei. Marcello then worked in London, Monaco and France before spending the past eight
years in Tokyo, Japan. He worked in Michelin-starred BiCE with Andrea Brambilla;
Salvatore Ferragamos restaurant Il Borro; and later at G, owned by Yukio Yokoyama. Chef
Marcello most recently worked at Altomond, the upscale Italian eatery in downtown
Tokyo as Executive Chef.
Marcellos signature dishes include red snapper sauted with zucchini cream steamed
vegetables and lime espuma; Roasted eel flavor of rosemary green peas sauce and fresh
tomato sauce; and squid stuffed with vegetables and almond, with cuttlefish ink sauce
and shallot cream.
In the kitchen
with Chef de Cuisine Marcello Mereu
What inspires you to cook and create new recipes?
I like to create something new all the time.I keep thinking of
ingredient and how the would with one another. the creative
process is exciting and full of discoveries...this is what inspires me.
For the superstar recipe on the facing page: the
pan-seared salmon what are your top tips to success
so that our readers can master the dish at home?
The salmon should be a little raw from inside because cooking
it too much would make it dry and not taste very good.
You joined Amwaj a couple of months ago how are
you enjoying the experience, and what have you
brought new to the menu?
It is interesting to use the local fish in the menu. Dubai is an
exciting place to do new things, and you can really push the
boundaries. I keep introducing daily specials and I keep
changing the menu around. We also have wine dinners and
special events where I create new dishes. My favourite event
so far was the food and art concept where we did a
photography exhibition and I created the food inspired by art.
What can diners expect when they dine at Amwaj?
Fresh ingredients, contemporary style of cooking, a relaxed
lounge, great music and a chic interior.
What are some of your favourite dishes on the menu?
What must-try dishes would you recommend to BBC
Good Food ME readers? The superstar - pan-seared salmon;
fish and rice dish and Saint Jack.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
SUPERSTAR
Pan-seared salmon
SERVES 1
220g salmon
4g mixed spices
15g butter
2g salt
20g beetroot
100g orange
50g arugula
15g spring onion
2g garlic
5g hoi sin sauce
2g ginger
1 Cut 3 pieces of salmon of about 70

grams. Cook for 2 minutes in the pan
and continue cooking in the oven at
220 degrees for a few minutes. The
salmon must be rare
2 Boil the beetroots cut into pieces and
cook with a little butter on a pan.
3 Cut the ginger into strips and cut the
orange into segments.
4 On a plate, place the rocket and the
salmon. Season with hoisin barbecue
sauce, orange and ginger and spring
onion, and serve.
Win
win
!
win
Win dinner for

two at Amwaj, Shangri-la
Hotel, Dubai (up to the value
of AED 600)! To enter the
competition, see details on page 4.
HATS OFF
King prawn with fresh mango chutney
450g large king prawns
40g seaweed salad
10g micro green
20g ginger
80g mango
20g parsley
2g black pepper
3g salt
20ml olive oil
10 ml vinegar
5g sugar
1 Cut into cubes half mango and blend
half mango mix and season with sugar,
vinegar and chopped ginger.
2 Grill the shrimp until they are cooked.
3 Place the mango chutney, shrimps,
seaweed salad and micro greens on
the centre of the plate.
Kellogg Company 2012.
FLAUNT A NEW SHAPE

AND A NEW SHADE IN
JUST 2 WEEKS
Theres only one way to wear red with confidence.
So this year, let the Special K Challenge help
you get in shape and feel great. Simply enjoy a
delicious bowl of Special K for breakfast, one
for lunch, then a healthy balanced meal for
dinner. And what better way to enjoy your new,
confident figure than by winning
an unforgettable Dream Days
experience? For details visit
www.specialkchallengeuae.com
Terms and conditions apply
Everyday
er cipes
New Year detox
5 ways with pulses
Bring on the breakfast
Hit your 5-a-day
Skinny pizza
recipe, p21
vegetable
20 Spicy
egg fried rice
roasted squash
22Warm
& Puy lentil salad
eggs with
28Soft-boiled
pancetta wrapped soldiers
EVERYDAY
New Year detox

If youve over-indulged during the festive season, these healthy recipes will help get you back on track again
Sesame & honey tofu
with rice noodles
SERVES 4 PREP 15 mins
Low fat
COOK 30 mins Easy
2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
396g pack firm tofu, cut into 1 x 3cm
sticks, patted dry
150g/5oz dried brown rice noodles
1 tbsp tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
1 tbsp clear honey
1 red pepper, thinly sliced
1 bunch spring onions, cut into
fingers
2 heads pak choi (about 200g/7oz),
washed and leaves separated
1 Heat half the oil in a frying pan over

a medium heat. When hot, add the
tofu and cook for 5 mins on one side.
Turn, then fry for another 3 mins.
Continue cooking for 10 mins more,
turning regularly make sure you
scrape up any bits that are stuck.
Dont worry if it falls apart a little,
these pieces become crispy. Remove
to a plate and keep warm.
2 Meanwhile, cook the noodles following
pack instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the dressing by mixing tbsp of
the remaining oil with the tamari,
five-spice powder and honey.
3 Heat the final tbsp oil in the pan
and cook the pepper for 1 min, then
add the onions and pak choi. Toss

together for 3 mins, until wilted. Add
noodles and half the dressing and mix
well. Heat through and divide between
4 bowls. Top with the tofu and drizzle
remaining dressing over.
PER SERVING 297 kcals, protein 12g, carbs 40g,
fat 11g, sat fat 2g, fibre 3g, sugar 9g, salt 1.22g
HEALTHY BENEFITS
Tofu is rich in protein and low in fat.
An average portion makes a valuable
contribution towards your daily
calcium requirements and is a good
source of energising iron.
EVERYDAY
Three bean, tomato
& spinach stew
Low fat
COOK 20 mins Easy
1 large onion, finely chopped
1-2 garlic cloves, crushed
olive oil
1 tbsp ground cumin
400g can chopped tomatoes
200g can kidney beans,
rinsed and drained
200g can cannellini beans, rinsed

and drained
100g/4oz green beans, chopped
100g/4oz spinach, washed and
roughly chopped
and cook for 1 min. Tip in the tomatoes

with a cup of water and simmer
for 10 mins, until thickened.
2 Add all the beans and cook for 5 mins,
then add the spinach and cook for 5 mins
more. Serve with crusty brown bread.
1 Cook the onion and garlic in a little

olive oil until softened. Add the cumin

HEALTHY BENEFITS
The colourful ingredients in this
stew are rich in carotenoids, which
are good for your health and your
looks. Carotenoids, like lycopene
found in tomatoes, help boost
immunity, fight cancer and protect
your skin from ageing.
EVERYDAY
Spicy vegetable egg fried rice
Chicory, apple & date salad
Creamy korma

Low fat
COOK 15-20 mins Easy

Easy
Low fat

Low fat
COOK 30 mins Easy
200g/7oz basmati rice or 400g/14oz leftover

cooked rice
1-2 red chillies, deseeded and grated or
very finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp sunflower oil
2 large carrots, diced
200g/7oz Chinese cabbage, finely sliced
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 spring onions, sliced
200g/7oz frozen peas
1 tbsp soy sauce
3 heads chicory, leaves separated

3 Medjool dates, pitted and julienned
100g/4oz watercress, large stalks removed
1 apple, quartered, cored and
thinly sliced
handful mint leaves
handful flat-leaf parsley
FOR THE DRESSING
juice 1 lemon
5 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 If making the rice from scratch, cook it

following pack instructions, then drain. Mix the
chillies and garlic (in a pestle and mortar, if you
have one) with a pinch of salt, to make a paste.
2 Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan on a
medium-high heat. Add the carrots and stir-fry
for 5 mins until tender. Add the cabbage and
chilli paste and cook for
1 min more. Tip in the cooked or leftover rice
and stir-fry for 1 min until piping hot.
3 Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan.
Add the eggs to the cleared space and scramble
until set. Mix in the onions, peas and soy and
stir-fry everything together until the peas are hot.
NO COOK
1 Put all the salad ingredients into a bowl.

2 Whisk all the dressing ingredients together.
Just before serving, toss the salad ingredients
with the dressing.
Per serving 141 kcals, protein 1g, carbs 12g, fat 10g, sat
fat 1g, fibre 2g, sugar 10g, salt 0.03g
HEALTHY BENEFITS
1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped
3 cardamom pods, bashed
2 tsp each ground cumin and coriander
tsp ground turmeric
1 green chilli, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
thumb-size piece fresh ginger, peeled and
finely chopped
800g/1lb 12oz mixed vegetables, such
as carrots, cauliflower, potato and
courgette, chopped
500ml/18fl oz hot vegetable stock
200ml/7fl oz natural yogurt
2 tbsp ground almonds (optional)
TO SERVE
toasted flaked almonds, chopped
coriander leaves
TIP Mix it up with different veg in your fried rice
Natural yoghurt and ground almonds are
1 Heat the oil in a large pan. Cook onion with

the dry spices over a low heat for
5-6 mins until the onion is light golden. Add the
chilli, garlic and ginger and cook for 1 min, then
throw in the mixed vegetables and cook for a
further 5 mins.
2 Pour in the stock and simmer for 10 mins.
Add the peas and cook for 3 mins more until
the veg are tender.
3 Remove from the heat and stir through the
yogurt and ground almonds, if using. Serve
sprinkled with the toasted almonds and coriander.
broccoli, pak choi, baby corn and mangetout are
prebiotic foods: these promote the growth of
all great additions.
good gut bacteria that support digestion and
Veg like chicory, which have a bitter flavour,

play an important part in supporting the liver.
This salad is also rich in potassium, which helps
manage blood pressure and water balance.
Eggs are one of the few food sources of
vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin. It helps your
body use calcium, which keeps bones and teeth

healthy, and also supports your immune system.
are important for your immune defences.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
HEALTHY BENEFITS
This vitamin-rich pizza topping
supplies vitamins A, C and K as well
as folate. Mozzarella provides protein
and is a useful source of vitamin B12,
an important vitamin for vegetarians.
Healthy start with
La Tourangelle
Drizzle La Tourangelle Extra Virgin Olive Oils
over this Mediterranean sardine salad to enjoy
the Omega 3 nutrients
Mediterranean
sardine salad
SERVES 4 PREP 15 mins NO

COOK Easy
Heart healthy, good
source of omega-3 and calcium
Skinny pizza
COOK 25 mins Easy
1 packet pizza base mix (about 145g)
1 tbsp olive oil
400g can plum tomatoes, drained
small ball vegetarian mozzarella,
sliced
50g/2oz rocket
vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese
shavings, to serve
La Tourangelle Extra Virgin Olive Oil
90g bag salad leaves

handful black olives, roughly
chopped
1 tbsp capers, drained
2 x 120g cans sardines in tomato
sauce,
drained and sauce reserved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Divide the salad leaves between 4
plates, then sprinkle over the olives
and capers. Roughly break up the
sardines and add to the salad. Mix
the tomato sauce with the oil and
vinegar and drizzle over the salad.
PER SER VING 140 kcals, protein 10g, carbs 1g,
1 Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7.

Make up the pizza base according to
pack instructions. Roll out to a large
circle (about 22cm) and put on a
non-stick baking sheet for 10 mins to
puff up a bit.
2 Heat a non-stick frying pan with the oil,
add the garlic and cook for 1 min. Add
the tomatoes, season, then cook,
squashing down the tomatoes with
a fork, until thickened. Cool.
3 Spread the tomatoes over the pizza
base and top with mozzarella. Bake for 20
mins until puffed and golden. To serve,
scatter over rocket and cheese shavings.
EVERYDAY
ways with
pulses
Canned and dried pulses make great storecupboard

staples theyre versatile, naturally high in protein
and brilliant for bulking out soups and stews
Harissa-spiced tomato
& chickpea stew
Warm roasted squash

& Puy lentil salad
SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins COOK 35 mins Easy

Superhealthy Good source of vitamin C,
counts as 2 of 5-a-day, Low fat.
Fry 1 sliced red onion and 1 sliced and
deseeded red pepper in tbsp olive oil for
10 mins until starting to soften. Stir in 2
crushed garlic cloves and 2 tbsp harissa
for 2 mins. Pour in a 400g can chopped
tomatoes, 400ml hot vegetable stock, a
400g can drained chickpeas and some
seasoning, then simmer for 20 mins.
Remove from the heat and add 1 tsp honey,
a good squeeze lemon juice and a small
bunch roughly chopped coriander or mint.
Serve with couscous.

COOK 30 mins Easy
Superhealthy High in fibre, good
source of iron, folic acid and vitamin C, counts
as 5 of 5-a-day, Low fat.
Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 4. Toss 1kg
butternut squash, chunkily diced, with 1 tbsp
olive oil, 1 crushed garlic clove, 2 tsp thyme
leaves and seasoning. Roast for 25-30 mins or
until tender.
Mix together 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar,
tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp wholegrain mustard and
1-2 tbsp water. Drain 2 x 400g cans Puy lentils
in water and toss with the dressing, sliced
red onion, 100g bag spinach and 150g halved
cherry tomatoes. Divide the lentils between 4
plates. Top with the squash, then crumble over
40g Cheshire cheese and 1-2 tbsp toasted
pumpkin seeds.
fat 4g, sat fat none, fibre 5g, sugar 8g, salt 0.87g
Lemony butter bean dip

with black pepper pittas
SERVES 6 as an appetiser or part of a meze
plate PREP 10 mins COOK 15 mins Easy
Superhealthy Counts as 1 of 5-a-day, Low fat.
Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Put 3 pittas,
torn into pieces, on a baking sheet. Brush with 1
tbsp olive oil and a good grind of black pepper,
then bake for 5-6 mins until golden and crisp.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a frying pan, add 4
finely chopped shallots, 2 crushed garlic
cloves and 1 tbsp chopped rosemary leaves,
and cook for 8-10 mins until soft.
Cool for a few mins, then tip into
a food processor with 2 x 400g cans butter
beans, drained, zest and juice
lemon, 100ml vegetable stock and some salt
and pepper. Whizz until smooth, then serve with
crisp pittas and a drizzle of olive oil, if you like.
deseeded and finely chopped green chillies,

2 chopped tomatoes and 1 crushed garlic
clove, and cook for 10 mins.
Drain the lentils, then stir into the onion
mix with some seasoning and a small
bunch coriander, chopped. Serve with rice
or chapatis.
fat 4g, sat fat none, fibre 3g, sugar 4g, salt 0.06g

Recipes lucy jessop | Photograph sian irvine | Food styling katy greenwood | Styling sue rowlands
Red lentil dhal

SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins COOK 15 mins
Easy
Superhealthy Good source of iron,
counts as 2 of 5-a-day, Low fat.
Put 200g red lentils in a pan with 1 litre
water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15
mins or until tender.
Fry 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp ground
coriander and tsp turmeric in 1 tbsp
olive oil for 2 mins. Stir in a thumb-sized
piece ginger, grated, 1 chopped onion, 2
Hit your
Breakfast
Apple & blueberry bircher
SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins plus
standing NO COOK Easy
Superhealthy High in fibre,
Low fat, 3 of 5-a-day
5-a-day
200g/7oz porridge oats

tsp ground cinnamon
500ml/18fl oz apple juice
4 apples, grated
200g/7oz blueberries
Courgette, pea & pesto soup

SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins COOK 15
Superhealthy High in
mins Easy
fibre, good source of vitamin C and folic
acid, 3 of 5-a-day
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, sliced
500g/1lb 2oz courgettes, quartered
lengthways and chopped
400g can cannellini beans, drained
and rinsed
1 litre/1 pints hot vegetable stock
2 tbsp basil pesto
DINNER
1 Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Cook

the garlic for a few secs, then add the
courgettes and cook for 3 mins until
they start to soften. Stir in the peas and
cannellini beans, pour on the hot stock
and cook for a further 3 mins.
2 Stir the pesto through the soup with
some seasoning, then ladle into bowls
and serve with crusty brown bread, if
you like. Or pop in a flask to take to work.
Mix the porridge oats with the cinnamon

in a large bowl. Stir in the apple juice and
grated apples, then gently fold in the
blueberries. Allow to stand for 5 mins
before serving, or leave overnight and
enjoy for breakfast the next day.
LUNCH

Tandoori tilapia with

spicy sweet potato
mash & tomato salad
SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins COOK 20 mins
Easy
Superhealthy Heart healthy, high
in fibre, good source of omega-3, calcium
and vitamin C, Low fat, 5 of 5-a-day
4 x 140g/5oz tilapia fillets
1 tbsp tandoori paste
1kg/2lb 4oz sweet potatoes, cut into
small chunks
4 carrots, chopped
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1 red chilli, deseeded and chopped
FOR THE SALAD
8 tomatoes, chopped
small red onion, thinly sliced
small bunch coriander, roughly chopped
Find it a challenge to eat your

5-a-day? Weve created three
easy recipes, packed with
fruit and veg
1 Coat the tilapia fillets with the

tandoori paste and set aside. Put the
sweet potatoes, carrots and garlic in
a large pan of salted water. Bring to
the boil and cook for 10 mins or until
tender. Drain well, then allow to
steam-dry for a few mins. Add the
chilli to the pan and mash everything
together with some seasoning. Cover
and keep warm.
2 Heat the grill to high. Grill the tilapia
for 8-10 mins or until cooked through.
Meanwhile, mix the salad ingredients
together and serve alongside the
tilapia and mash.
Recipes rosie reynolds | Photographs gareth morgans | Food styling jayne cross | Styling jenny iggleden
EVERYDAY
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Host a hassle-free party

Hosting a relaxed, stylish party at home doesnt have to be stressful. The Saleh
Bin Lahej Group-Hospitality has many options for you to cater with ease
We speak to Executive Chef of Saleh Bin Lahej Group - Hospitality Division,

Mohammed Abd Salam about catering and entertaining at home:
aleh Bin Lahej Group-Hospitality Division extends its

culinary expertise right at the convenience of your
fingertips, from party platters delivered at your
doorstep to a customised food package with complete
catering set-up. Now, you can enjoy celebrating that special
occasion without the hassle.
We offer our full range of restaurant menus offering
different cuisines, from Chilis (American), Romanos
Macaroni Grill (Italian), El Chico (Authentic Mexican), Cantina
Laredo (Gourmet Mexican), Black Canyon (Asian) to The
Pizza Company (Italian Pizza and Pasta). We create a
personalised menu to fit your taste and budget whatever
you need to make that perfect and unforgettable event.
You may inquire from any Saleh Bin Lahej GroupHospitality Division Restaurant of your choice. Prices
depend on the party package. Hosting your party is now
made easy, because at Saleh Bin Lahej Group-Hospitality
Division, we are in continued pursuit to Serving You a
World of Taste.
If I am planning a fun, relaxed party

for friends, what type of food would
you recommend?
A cocktail and canaps party set-up with a mix
of light and finger food dishes will allow you to
establish a relaxing mood that encourages a
smooth conversation and interaction amongst
your party guests.
What are some of your favourite sharing
party dishes? And why?
I have a favourite party dish in each of our
Restaurant brands. I personally like them
because their appetisingly colorful and
enjoyably mouth-watering not just for adults but
also for kids. My favorites are Big Mouth Burger
Bites from Chilis, Romanos Sampler consisting
of Tomato Bruschetta, Mozzarella Fritta and
Calamari by Romanos Macaroni Grill, Top Shelf
Fajita of El Chico, Shrimp Cocktail of Cantina
Laredo, Pineapple Prawn Fried Rice of Black
Canyon and of course the Gourmet Pizza
selections of The Pizza Company.
The presentation is always important with
party food what are some of your top
tips to success?
In making food preparation, you have to consider
your party theme or colour motif. Choose a
Serving Plate that matches with the theme, you
can even consider serving a bite-size food on a
spoon. Place some garnish on the dish to make it
look fresh and appetising. But make sure not to
over-garnish the dishes. There must be a

harmony between colour, texture, shapes and
arrangement to form a stylish food presentation.
So be creative and innovative.
How would you describe the catering
menu at Chilis?
Fun, fresh and flavourful.
If I was having a relaxed canap birthday
party for about 50 people what dishes
would you recommend?
For a canap birthday party, I would
recommend Antipasti menu items from
Romanos Macaroni Grill such as Tomato
Bruschetta, Shrimp and Artichoke Dip served
with crispy croutons and Mozzarella Fritta,
complemented by Chicken, Beef or Shrimp
Spiedinis served in skewers.
Is ordering in from a catering menu a nice,
hassle-free way to entertain?
Yes, it is. Opting for catering is a hassle-free
way to entertain, as food preparation and
cooking will take so much of your time and
effort. Most of the time, by the time you finish
preparing for the party, you do not have the
energy anymore to enjoy the actual party
because you are already exhausted. With the
fast-paced busy lifestyle we have, delivery and
catering has transformed social gathering,
allowing individuals and families to flawlessly
throw party and enjoy their time with their
friends making it fun and unforgettable.
EVERYDAY
Bring on
the breakfast
We all know that breakfast is important, but
many of us have forgotten exactly why.
BBC Good Food ME looks at why we really
shouldnt be skipping our morning meal
t is a topic that has been touched on since childhood, with the

consequences taught to us repeatedly throughout our lives. But
still, many of us dont put in the effort to make a healthy,
balanced breakfast a part of our daily routine. If coffee is the only
form of food you consume early morning, then you might want to
read further and re-consider your diet options in order to kick start
your New Years resolutions and lead a healthier lifestyle.
Breakfast, the first meal of the day should be consumed in
order for the brain to acquire glucose or blood sugar in order to
provide energy and enable it to function at its optimum. The
glucose is also needed for other organs and muscles to activate
and function at their optimum.
Sugar levels must be maintained throughout the day, and a
good breakfast with slow-releasing sugars is important to
maintain those glucose levels until lunch time. Without food, or
with the wrong types of foods, your sugar levels will peak and
drop, causing tiredness, lack of concentration, mood swings as
well as other complications.
People often believe that skipping breakfast will reduce their
calorie intake for the day and thus aid in weight loss. However, this
choice not only leaves the brain and body with a lack of energy,
but also leads to hunger pangs by mid-morning that often results
in snacking on unhealthy foods, succumbing to cravings and
tucking into a heavier lunch that is higher in sugar and fat.
In fact, it has been proven that people who eat breakfast tend to
lose more weight over the course of time as their metabolism is
sped up, and they tend to have fewer cravings for sugary, high-fat
food. A cup of coffee and a croissant isnt a good breakfast, and
neither is a bowl of sugary cereal, as it does not provide the
substantial nutrients required to sustain your energy and take you
through till the next meal. These refined carbohydrates cause your
energy and sugar levels to peak and then crash, rather than plateau.
Our body requires a healthy, nutritious breakfast to revitalise our
bodies and fuel up the brain. A breakfast complete with whole
carbohydrates (avoiding refined sugars and breads), nutrients and
proteins will ensure you have energy to last you till your next meal.
People
who eat
breakfast tend
to lose more
weight over the
course of time as
their metabolism is
sped up, and they tend
to have fewer cravings
for sugary, high-fat food
Some tips on what to choose...

and what to lose
Choose your carbohydrates wisely
Oats, rye bread and millet are complex carbohydrates that are great to eat in the
morning. Low GL (glycemic load), these carbohydrates pump glucose slowly into the
bloodstream to slowly increase, and therefore maintain, the energy for longer.
Choose wholemeal bread in order to increase your daily intake of fibre. Avoid the
sugar-rich cereals and always choose wholegrain over white options.
Plus point for proteins
Proteins such as eggs, fish, nuts and seeds are fantastic food options for the morning.
Studies reveal that consuming proteins early morning enhances concentration levels at
work and school. Hard boiled eggs are an easy grab-and-go breakfast as they are low in
calories and saturated fats as well as packed with Vitamins A, B, D, E and various
minerals such as calcium iron, potassium and magnesium.
Milk is another essential food consumed during breakfast, especially since it is a meal
in itself; the proteins and calcium help develop childrens bones and teeth. Full fat
milk is usually preferred by many when compared to skimmed milk; however it is
beneficial if the latter is consumed in order to reduce fat intake as well as lower
cholesterol levels.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals should ideally be consumed in every meal of the day in order
to ensure that we receive our ideal nutrient intake, and many play an integral part in
our health; help prevent deterioration of sight, promote bone growth as well as
maintain healthy hair, skin and nails along with other benefits.
EVERYDAY
Skinny granola
Serve 6 15 minutes Easy
WHY ITS LIGHTER Honey and
cinnamon add lots of flavour without
too many calories.
75g mixed nuts (almonds, cashews
and brazil nuts are good)
100g rolled oats
25g pumpkin seeds
25g sunflower seeds
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp honey
Heat the oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5.

Mix the nuts, oats and seeds with the oil
and cinnamon and spread out on a
non-stick baking tray. Drizzle over the
honey then cook for 10-12 minutes until
golden. Allow to cool on the tray then
store in a jar for up to a month. Serve
with yoghurt and fruit.
PER SERVING (OF PLAIN GRANOLA) 239 kcals,
protein 6.0g, carbs 17.4, fat 16.6g, sat fat 2.4g, fibre
2.4g, salt 0.01g
Spring onion and potato

cakes with smoked salmon
Serve 4 30 minutes Easy
WHY ITS LIGHTER Using spray oil for
frying and half-fat crme frache
means less fat.
400g potatoes, peeled and cut
into chunks
4 spring onions, finely sliced
spray oil for frying
1 tbsp plain flour, well seasoned
1/2 lemon, zest and juice, plus
wedges to serve
2 tbsp half-fat crme frache
a handful parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp hot horseradish or
horseradish sauce
200g smoked salmon
1 Steam the potatoes until tender, mash

with plenty of salt and pepper then stir
in the spring onions. Cool then shape
into 8 cakes. Dust with the seasoned
flour. Spray a non-stick frying pan with
spray oil then fry the potato cakes on
each side for 4 minutes until golden.
2 Mix the lemon juice and zest, crme
frache and parsley with the
horseradish and some seasoning and
serve drizzled over the potato cakes
and smoked salmon.
PER SERVING 178 kcals, protein 15.7g, carbs 20.3,
fat 4.3g, sat fat 1.4g, fibre 2.0g, salt 2.42g
EVERYDAY
Soft-boiled eggs with
pancetta wrapped soldiers
Serves 2 15 minutes Easy
WHY ITS LIGHTER Thin cut pancetta is
a lighter substitute for streaky bacon.
6 thin slices pancetta
1-2 thick slices crusty bread,
cut into 6 thick soldiers
2 eggs
1 Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.

Wrap pancetta slices around the soldiers
then put on a non-stick baking sheet and
cook for 10 minutes until the bread is
golden and the pancetta is crisp.
2 Meanwhile, add the eggs to boiling
water and cook for 4 1/2 minutes, for a
soft-boiled egg. Drain then serve with
pancetta soldiers to dunk.
PER SERVING 228 kcals, protein 14.1g, carbs 15.2,
fat 12.9g, sat fat 3.8g, fibre 0.5g, salt 1.20g
Easy breakfast solutions

Finding a healthy yet delicious food to grab on the way out isnt
always easy (especially first thing in the morning). BBC GOOD
FOOD ME, recommends stocking these essential items in your
pantry. Eggs, Whole grain bread, cottage cheese, fresh fruit and
cereals make a variety of delicious breakfast options, just use
your creativity and create a healthy breakfast in under five
minutes, below are a few ideas to get you started this week.
Breakfast smoothies: 1 cup skim milk or
Greek yoghurt blended with cup fruit and 1
tsp wheat germ, sprinkle with nuts and youre
ready to head out!
Muffins: Split open a small bran

muffin and top with your favourite fruit,
seeds and a dollop of Greek yoghurt.
Eggs on toast:
Boiled or scrambled egg
with a sprinkle of pepper
on wholemeal toast.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
A great way to
wake up
Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Why not start your
day right with this delicious egg dish and a mug of Continental Coffee
Spicy tomato baked eggs
SERVES 2 PREP 5 mins COO K about 20

mins Easy
Sauce only Good source of iron,
folic acid and vitamin C, counts as 2 of 5-a-day
Vary this dish by flavouring the simple
tomato sauce with whatever you have to
hand curry powder, pesto or fresh herbs.
1 tbsp olive oil
2 red onions, chopped
1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
1 garlic clove, sliced
small bunch coriander, stalks and leaves
chopped separately
2 x 400g cans cherry tomatoes
1 tsp caster sugar
4 eggs
1 Heat the oil in a frying pan that has a
lid, then soften the onions, chilli, garlic and
coriander stalks for 5 mins until soft. Stir in
the tomatoes and sugar, then bubble for 8-10
mins until thick. Can be frozen for 1 month.
2 Using the back of a large spoon, make
4 dips in the sauce, then crack an egg into
each one. Put a lid on the pan, then cook over
a low heat for 6-8 mins, until the eggs are
done to your liking. Scatter with the coriander
leaves and serve with crusty bread.
PER SERVIN G 340 kcalories, protein 21g, carbohydrate
21g,fat 20g, saturated fat 5g, fibre 6g, sugar 17g, salt 1.25g
Refresh your life
EVERYDAY
Health & Wellbeing

Cook and eat well this month with practical
advice from nutritionist Kerry Torrens
Brainy breakfast for kids (and you)

Get off to school with a good start by giving your kids a healthy morning send-off. Skipping
breakfast or loading up on high-sugar cereals can lead to poor concentration, energy
slumps and mood swings. A nutritious breakfast provides a balance of slow-releasing
energy, brain-friendly fats and protein to keep hunger at bay until lunchtime.
Eggs are excellent brain food, whether boiled or beaten lightly to make scrambled
eggs, French toast, an omelette or a frittata.
Not to be sneezed at
Black pepper not only adds flavour to food, it also has several
health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and fighting
infections. A grind or two of pepper promotes digestion, keeps the
liver healthy and, thanks to its active ingredient piperine, may
protect against cancer. More good reasons to go easy on salt and
pick up the pepper mill instead.
Cosy porridge A bowl of porridge is packed with complex carbs for steady release of
energy. Add seasonal fruit, a dollop of yogurt and finish with a sprinkle of flaked almonds.
When they wont eat anything. Stock up on

frozen berries and whizz up a smoothie, by
blending with milk or yogurt. Add a spoonful
each of ground almonds and oats to help
stabilise blood sugar levels.
No time to eat? Pack them off with pocket food, like a banana, a small pack of
oatcakes, cheese slices and a fresh juice or smoothie.
Take care Under-5s should avoid whole nuts and seeds because they may present a choking risk.
Make a simple swap

for
Be safe with sprouts

Following E.coli outbreaks in England, the Food Standards Agency
has revised its guidance on sprouted seeds such as alfalfa, mung
bean and fenugreek. It now advises us to add sprouts early in the
cooking process and to ensure theyre cooked thoroughly until
steaming hot; they shouldnt be served raw. If you sprout your own
seeds, make sure you clean the equipment scrupulously and
always wash your hands after handling seeds.
Its a myth that eating veg raw is always better for you. In
the case of carrots, cooking them increases your absorption
of beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A for
healthy skin, eyesight and a strong immune system. Better
still, boiling carrots whole or in large chunks retains more of
another valuable antioxidant, falcarinol. Simply slice, chop or
mash just before serving.
Photographs alamy, stuart ovenden, craig robertson, stockbyte, adrian taylor, STEPHEN MARWOOD, DAVID MUNNS, PHILIP WEBB
Short of time? Toast wholemeal bread and

top with no-added-sugar nut butters, such as
peanut, cashew or almond. Other energyboosting toast toppers include soft cheese,
lean ham, mashed banana or baked beans.
EVERYDAY
Go nuts for them
Rich in heart-friendly fats as well as vitamin E, folate, magnesium, zinc and selenium
its easy to see why nuts are so good for us. Some are particularly helpful for our health,
so stock up on the best ones for you:
Walnuts The best bet if you want to lower your cholesterol
add an apple
just a handful a day will reduce the bad cholesterol, which

furs the arteries. Walnuts also increase insulin sensitivity, making
them useful for people with poor blood-sugar control. Other nuts
with cholesterol-lowering ability are pistachios, monkey nuts (not
a true nut) and pecans.
An apple a day really does have its

benefits. Apples contain ursolic
acid, a compound that helps
prevent muscle loss, so adding an
apple or two to your regular diet
just might keep you toned and lean.
Almonds Snack on these for strong bones. Not only are almonds richer in calcium than
other nuts, they also supply the magnesium your body needs to use calcium effectively.
Or, choose walnuts, Brazil nuts or cashews.
Brazil nuts One of the richest sources of immune-supportive

selenium, just 2-4 of these nuts a day will help to boost your
immunity. Theyre also an excellent choice for men concerned
about fertility and prostate health. Other good choices include
cashews and pistachios.
5 Feel-good meals
Chestnuts Like to nibble on nuts but worried about your weight? Choose chestnuts,
which are lower in fat and calories than other nuts. Or, pick hazelnuts and almonds.
Macadamias Eating these may help to improve memory and
concentration as they are a good source of omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids,

which are important for brain function. Also try walnuts and almonds.
Dont be put off by the calorie count, as generally the health benefits of nuts
outweigh this. Stick to a portion the size of a golf ball and enjoy as a snack, or add
to stir-fries or curries. Choose fresh nuts where you can and avoid salted,
dry-roasted or sugar-coated ones.
Eat your way out of the

post-holiday blues with
these good-mood meals.
Rich in tryptophan, the
building block for
serotonin (the feel-good
brain chemical), and
vitamin D, they also
supply slow- releasing
energy to keep your
mood stable and reduce
comfort craving.
1
2
Oat porridge,
milk and a banana.
Scrambled eggs
on rye toast with
grilled tomatoes.
3
4
Baked potato with

cottage cheese.
Chicken in a
mushroom sauce with
brown rice and greens.
Fish pies with smoked

salmon, prawns & dill.
And so to bed
If overseas travel has disturbed your sleep, pop a few kiwi fruit in
your shopping basket. A recent study reports that eating two, an
hour before bed, helps you to sleep better and longer.
Make a simple swap

for
Microwave
Steaming veg rather than boiling helps conserve water-soluble vitamins

like vitamin C, but microwave steaming is even better. Broccoli, for
example, retains as much as 90% of its vitamin C when steamed in a
microwave, and it wont lose its valuable anti-cancer compounds either.
Simply place the veg in a microwave-safe bowl, add a small amount of
water, cover with non-PVC cling film and cook following the
manufacturers instructions.
Hob
EVERYDAY
Eat well
all week
Stay on track even when youre busy,

with these good-for-you recipes
Recipes and food styling Katy Greenwood | Photographs Sian irvine | Styling sue rowlands
Spicy and satisfying
EVERYDAY
MONEY
WISE
Quick, filling and

full of flavour
Vegetable & bean chilli

High in fibre, good source
of iron, folic acid & vitamin C, counts as
5 of 5-a-day, Low fat
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
thumb-sized piece ginger,
finely chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 courgettes, diced
1 red pepper, deseeded
and chopped
1 yellow pepper, deseeded
and chopped
1 tbsp chilli powder
100g/4oz red lentils, washed
and drained
1 tbsp tomato pure
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
195g can sweetcorn, drained
420g can butter beans, drained
400g can kidney beans in water,
drained
1 Heat the oil in a large pan. Cook the

garlic, ginger, onion, courgettes and
peppers for about 5 mins until starting
to soften. Add the chilli powder and
cook for 1 min more.
2 Stir in the lentils, tomato pure,
tomatoes and 250ml water. Bring to the
boil and cook for 15-20 mins.
3 Add the sweetcorn and beans, and
cook for a further 10 mins.
Thai turkey stir-fry

Counts as 1 of 5-a-day, Low fat
1 tbsp fish sauce

handful mint, roughly chopped
handful coriander, roughly chopped
300g/11oz rice noodles

1 tsp sunflower oil
400g/14oz turkey breast, cut into
thin strips and any fat removed
340g/12oz green beans, trimmed
and halved
1 red onion, sliced
juice 1 lime, plus extra wedges
for serving
1 tsp chilli powder
1 red chilli, finely chopped
1 Cook the rice noodles following pack

instructions. Heat the oil in a non-stick
pan and fry the turkey over a high heat
for 2 mins. Add the beans, onion and
garlic, and cook for a further 5 mins.
2 Stir in the lime juice, chilli powder,
fresh chilli and fish sauce, then cook for
3 mins more. Stir in the noodles and
herbs, then toss everything together
before serving.
EVERYDAY
Keema curry & raita
SERVES 4 PREP 10-15 mins
Good source of iron,
counts as 2 of 5-a-day, Low fat
Simple one-pot
1 onion, chopped
400g/14oz lean beef mince
handful fresh coriander, chopped
brown rice, to serve (optional)
For the paste
1 green chilli, deseeded and chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
thumb-sized piece ginger, chopped
tsp each turmeric and ground
coriander
1 tbsp korma curry powder
For the raita
200g/7oz fat-free natural yogurt
100g/4oz cucumber, peeled,
deseeded and diced
handful fresh mint, chopped
1 Whizz together the ingredients for the

paste in a blender or food processor
add a splash of water if you need.
2 Cook the onion in a splash of water for
about 5 mins until softened. Stir in the
mince and cook for another 5 mins to
brown. Add the paste, cook for 1 min,
then pour in 100ml water. Bring to the
boil and simmer for 15 mins.
3 Meanwhile, mix together the raita
ingredients and season to taste.
When the mince is cooked, season and
stir through the fresh coriander. Serve
with the raita and brown rice, if you like.
Freezes well
Baked fennel pork with

lemony potatoes & onions

COOK 50 mins Easy
High in fibre, good source of folic acid &
vitamin C, counts as 2 of 5-a-day, Low fat
2 tbsp fennel seeds
1 tbsp olive oil
4 pork loin steaks, trimmed of fat
1 large onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
750g/1lb 10oz baby new potatoes,
halved lengthways
2 fennel bulbs, thinly sliced, green
fronds reserved
juice 2 lemons
340g/12oz broccoli, broken into florets
1 Crush the fennel seeds lightly in a

pestle and mortar. Mix with half the
oil and a little seasoning. Rub into the

pork and set aside.
Heat remaining oil in a shallow
ovenproof dish. Soften the onion and
garlic for about 5 mins, then tip in
the potatoes and brown for a few
mins. Add the fennel, lemon juice
and about 100ml water. Season,
cover with the lid and cook in the
oven for 35 mins.
3 Remove the lid, stir the potatoes
and place the meat on top. Return to
the oven, uncovered, and cook for
another 10 mins or until the pork is
cooked to your liking. Meanwhile,
cook the broccoli.
4 Scatter over the reserved fennel
fronds and serve with the broccoli.
Heart-healthy supper
Grilled mackerel with soy,

lime & ginger
marinating COOK 15 mins Easy
Heart healthy, good
source of omega-3 & vitamin C,
counts as 1 of 5-a-day
300g/11oz mackerel
100g/4oz jasmine rice
1 red pepper, deseeded and diced
For the marinade
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
juice 1 lime
small piece fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp honey
1 To make the marinade, mix all the

ingredients together and pour over the
mackerel. Cover and chill for 30 mins.
2 Heat grill and put the mackerel,
skin- side up, on a baking sheet lined
with foil. Grill for 5 mins, then turn and
baste with remaining marinade. Grill
for 5 mins more.
3 Cook the rice following pack
instructions, then drain and toss with
the spring onions and pepper. Serve
with the mackerel.
EVERYDAY
Just sweet
enough
Cut back
on refined
sugar
Satisfy your craving for a sweet snack

by baking this healthier treat thats
packed with good-for-you ingredients
What to use instead

Go for naturally sweet ingredients, such as
fresh, frozen or dried fruits like apricots,
dates and figs. Stewed fruits, pured
dates or grated sweet vegetables, such as
carrots, and parsnips, all work well in
bakes and cakes.
Other sources of sweetness are honey,
dark and blackstrap molasses, golden syrup
and brown demerara sugar. They contribute
small amounts of vitamins and minerals,
but are still very high in calories and should
be used sparingly.
Choose local honey

Our traybake recipe is sweetened with
honey and fruit. If you use locally-bought
raw honey, you will also benefit from small
amounts of additional nutrients, plus the
traybake will store well due to the natural
preservatives in the honey.
Honey hints
When replacing
sugar with honey,
remember that the
honey is sweeter
so youll need less
weight for weight,
and because honey
is a liquid youll
need to reduce
other fluids in the
recipe by about
one-fifth.
When measuring,
coat the spoon with
a thin layer of oil so
the honey slides off
easily with
minimum wastage.
Store at room
temperature to
stop your honey
crystallising. If it
starts to crystallise,
pop the pot in a
bowl of hot water.
Raw unprocessed honey contains small

amounts of natural enzymes, vitamins,
minerals, antioxidants and anti-bacterials,
as well as local pollens that are thought
to help de-sensitise hay-fever sufferers.
Processed shop-bought honey is
typically heated to high temperatures and
subject to ultra-filtration, which removes
many benefits.
Check out your local farmers market or
farm shop for unprocessed honey.
Raspberry oat traybake

CUTS INTO 16 SLICES
COOK 12 mins Easy
PREP 15 mins
150g punnet fresh raspberries

50g/2oz butter, plus extra for greasing
75g/3oz clear honey
200g/7oz rolled oats
50g/2oz ground almonds
tsp almond extract

Grease a 20cm x 20cm baking tray.
Mash the raspberries roughly in a
bowl and set aside.
2 In a medium saucepan, melt the
butter and honey with a pinch of salt.
Take off the heat, then stir in the oats,
ground almonds and almond extract.
Mix until they are coated in the butter
and honey mixture.
3 Press half the oat mix in an even
layer in the baking tray. Spread the
mashed raspberries on top, then
spoon the remaining oats on top
and smooth with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 10-12 mins or until golden.
Remove from the oven and leave to
cool before slicing into 16.
Photograph DAVID MUNNS | Food styling LIZZIE HARRIS | Styling JENNY IGGLEDEN
Most of us eat too much refined sugar,

which is most often found in confectionery,
cakes and biscuits. Its also commonly added
to some savoury sauces and ready meals.
Eating (and drinking) high-sugar foods not
only causes tooth decay, but may lead to
weight gain, heart disease and diabetes.
Eating, too many sweet foods will affect
your appetite by causing sugar cravings,
making you less likely to eat more nutritious
foods and proper meals. Refined sugars,
which include table sugar, high fructose
corn syrup, glucose and glucose syrups,
contribute energy in the form of empty
calories they supply no other nutrients.
A popular alternative is fruit sugar. Its
sweeter than sugar so you need less, but
weight for weight it supplies the same
amount in calories and, like sugar, it
supplies no other nutrients.
Make everyday cooking

something special
The powerful Kenwood

has a huge 4.6 litre bowl,
and with 4 extra power outlets, as well as a host of attachments
and accessories available, everything from mincing meat to
kneading dough to whisking cream is quick and easy.
Plus, Kenwoods new flexible K-beater will ensure that everything you mix will be even
smoother. The Kenwood
has the power and versatility to give you out
of this world results every time, quickly and easily, so youll spend less time preparing
the food and more time with your family enjoying it.
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Available in select retail outlets and Jashanmal department stores.

Dubai: Al Ghurair City Tel: 04 227 7780 l Mall of the Emirates Tel: 04 347 1715 l Dubai Festival City Tel: 04 232 9023
Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Mall Tel: 02 645 6454 l Marina Mall Tel: 02 681 5419
Sharjah: Sahara Centre Tel: 06 531 6644 l Al Ain: Shaikh Khalifa Street Tel: 03 751 3151
For trade enquiries: P.O.Box 1545, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: 04 266 6633, Fax: 04 262 9597, Email: [email protected]
Al Ghaith Trading
Kenwood Showroom, Hamdan Street,
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Tel: 02 678 4300, Fax: 02 677 3837
Email: [email protected]
EVERYDAY
Fabulous
Clam, chorizo &
white bean stew
Photographs peteR cassidy | Food styling LIZZIE HARRIS | Styling JENNY IGGLEDEN | Wine notes SARAH JANE EVANS
fish
We love to cook with fish and

seafood at this time of year. These
dishes are light but still satisfying
eat them outside when its cool,
but sunny
Clam, chorizo
& white bean stew
Low fat
COOK 20 mins Easy
The spicy kick of Spanish chorizo works
brilliantly with seafood.
50g/2oz chorizo, diced
small bunch flat-leaf parsley, half
finely chopped, half roughly chopped
200ml/7fl oz hot stock, fish or
vegetable
400g can chopped tomatoes
400g can butter beans or other white
beans, rinsed and drained
1 tsp Sherry vinegar
600g/1lb 5oz clams, cleaned
crusty bread, to serve
1 Fry the chorizo in a large frying pan

with a lid, over a medium heat until it
is starting to crisp up and release its oil.
Add the onion and cook for 5 mins until
starting to soften. Then add the garlic
and finely chopped parsley, and fry
for 1 min more.
2 Pour on the stock and tomatoes.
Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, then
add the beans and Sherry vinegar.
Simmer for 10 mins until the liquid is
slightly reduced.
3 Scatter over the clams, cover with the
lid and steam for 2-4 mins, shaking
the pan occasionally until the clams
are open. Have a little taste before
seasoning, as the clams can be quite
salty. Then scatter over the chopped
parsley. Eat with lots of crusty bread.
Get ahead
The crab cakes can
be made up to a
day ahead just
chill after step 4,
then continue with
the recipe as above
the next day.
Crab cakes with

dill mayonnaise
chilling COOK 30 mins Easy
250g/9oz potatoes, diced
300g/11oz white crabmeat
1 tbsp capers, drained and finely
chopped
2 spring onions, finely chopped
zest and juice 1 lemon, plus extra
wedges to serve
small bunch dill, finely chopped
4 tbsp good-quality mayonnaise
2 tbsp plain flour
1 egg, lightly beaten
85g/3oz dried breadcrumbs
sunflower oil, for shallow frying
1 Boil the potatoes in a large pan of

salted water for about 15 mins, drain,
then return to the pan and leave to
steam dry for about 5 mins. Mash,
then leave to cool.
2 In a large bowl mix the crabmeat,
capers, spring onions, lemon zest and

half the juice with half the dill. Stir in the
mashed potato with some seasoning,
then shape into 12 neat round patties.
Transfer these to a plate and put in the
fridge for 20 mins to firm up.
3 To make the dill mayonnaise, mix the
mayo with the remaining lemon juice
and dill. Put this in the fridge for later.
4 Put the flour, egg and breadcrumbs
on 3 separate plates. Dust the crab cakes
all over with the flour, then dip into the
egg and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
5 Add enough sunflower oil to a shallow
frying pan to come about 1cm up the
side. Heat the oil, then carefully slide the
crab cakes in; you might have to do this
in batches. Cook for about 3 mins on
each side until they are crisp and golden.
Drain on kitchen paper. At this point you
can pop the crab cakes into the oven to
keep warm or serve right away with dill
mayonnaise and extra lemon wedges.
EVERYDAY
Hot tea-smoked trout with

new potato & rocket salad
COOK 25 mins Easy
Good source of omega-3 and vit C
500g/1lb 2oz baby new potatoes,
larger ones halved
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
10 tea bags (not herbal ones)
50g/2oz demerara sugar
50g/2oz long-grain rice
4 fresh trout, about 280g-350g/
10-12oz, gutted and heads removed
100g bag rocket
1 Boil the potatoes in a large pan of

salted water for about 15 mins.
Drain well in a colander and allow
them to steam dry for 5 mins.
2 To make the dressing: mix the
mustard, olive oil and vinegar with
some seasoning. Stir in the spring
onions, then pour the mixture over the
warm potatoes and allow to cool.
3 To make the smoking mixture, split
the tea bags and empty the leaves into
a bowl with the sugar and rice. Line a
deep roasting tin with foil, tip the
smoking mix on top and cover with
another piece of foil. Place the tin onto
the hob over a medium heat until it
starts to smoke a little.
4 Once you see smoke escaping,
put the trout on top with a little bit
of seasoning and cover with more foil,
trapping the smoke inside. Lower the
heat and leave to smoke for 20-22 mins
until the trout is cooked it should flake
away from the bone when it is done.
5 Add the rocket to the potato salad
and gently stir to coat in the dressing.
Divide between 4 plates and serve
with the trout.
fat 14g, sat fat 3g, fibre none, sugar none, salt none
tip
To cook the trout on the barbecue, wait for
the coals to turn ashy grey, then pop the tin
on the grill and follow the recipe, above.
Impress everyone
with your home-smoked
barbecue recipe
Eat Well Feel Well by Daniel Green

World renowned healthy eating expert and TV celebrity Chef Daniel Green will grace the kitchens of Dusit Thani
Dubai from 5th to 9th February to introduce healthy dishes that will form part of the restaurants menu.
Sample great tasting gourmet meals at Delicatessen and The Californian restaurant or book a table for the Gala
Dinner in Al Wasl Ballroom on 8th February and embrace a healthy lifestyle.
Rates:
AED 395 per person inclusive of a 6-Course Gala Dinner* menu and selected house beverages in Al Wasl Ballroom
AED 125 per person inclusive of Themed Nights Buffet and soft beverages at The Californian restaurant
Visit Dusit Thani Dubai facebook page to participate in the competition and get a chance to win a Gala Dinner for
two or a private homecooking for six with Chef Daniel Green.
*Amazing prizes to be won at the Gala Dinner
For enquiries and reservations:

Tel: +971 4 317 4515
Web: dusitthanidubai.dusit.com
HEALTH BITES
Changing
Diabetes
Novo Nordisks Changing Diabetes Village took place from 5 to 7 December 2011 at
Mall of the Emirates Dubai. A fantastic initiative highlighting how healthy eating and
regular exercise can help prevent and manage diabetes, BBC Good Food ME speaks
to Novo Nordisks Jesper Hiland, senior vice president International Operations and
Mads Bo Larsen, vice president, Africa, Gulf and India to find out more
Photography CRIS MeJORADA
Suzanne Husseini presented healthy cooking

demonstrations for people who visited the
Novo Nordisk Changing Diabetes Village
Can you explain the difference

between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Jesper Hiland: There are two types of
diabetes. There is Type 1 diabetes, where
basically you dont produce any insulin in
your pancreas. This is a rare disease in the
Middle East, and you see this far more in
the northern parts of the hemisphere,
meaning in Finland, Denmark, as you get
closer to the North Pole or South Pole. In
this part of the world, 99% of the people
suffering from diabetes, have type 2. In
body is not under good glycaemic control,

or if your glucose levels arent managed.
You have to aim at getting the glucose level,
sugar level in your blood; try to get it as
near normal as a non-diabetic patient, that
is crucial to avoid long-term complications.
How can you manage your diabetes
through lifestyle?
Jesper Hiland: With diabetes type 2 it is,
to a high degree, associated with lifestyle,
and there are two main components. One is
food intake eat a healthy, well-balanced
diet and to avoid too many calories being
consumed, that is one balance you have to
look at. The other is exercise and upbringing
if you will. Exercise is important, because this
balances the glucose intake, and by building
up muscle mass you will have a greater
chance of preventing diabetes. And then of
course, not only what you eat, but also what
you drink. Often this is not thought about.
UAE is having one of

the highest prevalence or
highest numbers of
patients with diabetes. It is
estimated today that in the
Middle East & North
Africa (MENA) region and
specifically in the UAE that
one in five adults are
suffering from diabetes.
With that said, it is a global
phenomenon too, a global
pandemic we are facing
type 2 diabetes, the pancreas produces

insufficient quantities of insulin and/or the
insulin has a reduced effect.
Of course juices are healthy, but only in small

portions. Because of its high sugar content, it
is a very easy intake of carbohydrates.
Is it a myth that type 2 diabetes

isnt as serious as type 1 diabetes?
Jesper Hiland: Yes, it is one of the
misunderstandings when talking about
diabetes. People do believe that type 2
diabetes is not that serious, but it is
associated with exactly the same
complications as type 1 diabetes. If your
Why has diabetes become such

a pandemic, worldwide?
Jesper Hiland: Our lifestyle has changed
dramatically. Physically we sit more in
cars, we take escalators rather than stairs,
and we dont work to get our food. Exercise
and physical activity is now not a natural
part of our day-to-day lifestyle, and food
comes in over-proportions too. I do believe

that the buffet-style of food is causing more
dangers, too because the eyes and the
stomach dont always coordinate that well
and so you tend to eat more than you
should. Also the size of the plate, in many
cultures it used to be 25 centimetres in
diametre, but now today we see it is 35
centimetres or even 40 to 45 centimetres,
so again we eat too much, its not about
being full, its about being over full.
And specifically in the UAE, what
are some of the causes in the
rapid increase of the prevalence
of diabetes?
Mads Bo Larsen: The country just had its
40 year anniversary, so if you go back 40
years to 1971, you look at what people
looked like then and they look totally
different to what they look like today. Why
is this? They were living off dates, rice, fish,
a meager diet that was also very healthy.
Then, in a very very short space of time this
country has moved to a situation where it is
the total opposite - with an abundance of
food, abundance of nice, air-conditioned
cars and not much regular physical activity,
so no one gets any natural exercise. So that
in the short period 40 years is a short
time there is a dramatic change and this
has a major influence of the prevalence of
diabetes, and that is a problem.
Is this prevalence and dramatic
increase in the UAE different to the
rest of the world, or is it on par
with what is happening globally?
Jesper Hiland: The UAE is having one of
the highest prevalence or highest numbers of
patients with diabetes. It is estimated today
that in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
region and specifically in the UAE that one in
five adults are suffering from diabetes. With
that said, it is a global phenomenon too, a
global pandemic we are facing.
We estimate today that there is 200 to
360 million people with diabetes in the
world and in twenty years from now, the
latest data revealed from IDF (International
Diabetes Federation) indicates that 550
million people will suffer from diabetes and
that means that one in ten adults globally
will suffer from diabetes, so its not only in
the UAE, but world-wide. But, in the UAE it

is one-in-five. And what is more alarming is
that we estimate that 39 percent of people
in the Emirates are at risk of developing
diabetes, which is on top of the 19.2
percent that suffers from it already today.
What are some of the complications
that people can suffer if their
diabetes isnt managed properly?
Jesper Hiland: It is estimated that 79
percent of cardiac arrests or cardiac
attacks in diabetics, are associated with
diabetes, and even higher percentages with
complications like blindness, amputations,
kidney failures, nerve problems, so on
average. 80% of people suffering from
diabetes will be associated with these
types of long-term complications.
We call diabetes a silent killer, because it
doesnt kill people as quickly as other
diseases, but it is silent because it can kill you
in a relatively short period of time if you are
not under good glycemic control. And thats
from the side effects. It is estimated that 10
million people are dying prematurely every
year around the world because of diabetes.
A person passes away every 8 seconds
because of diabetes.
Is this often because people dont
know they have diabetes, and arent
managing it, or do people know about
it, but cant manage it properly?
Jesper Hiland: A very high proportion of
people suffering from diabetes, dont know
it. We estimate that at least 50 percent (we
are talking about something called the rule
of halves) so we say out of the population,
we think that at least 50% do get diagnosed
at a certain point of time, but it is typically
due to the side-effects from diabetes tiredness, and then they go to the doctor,
the doctor takes their glucose levels and in a
split second they can have an idea that he is
confronted with a diabetic. If he has this
suspicion, he will then do more rigorous
testing to see if the person is in fact diabetic.
What are some of your tips for people
to firstly try and prevent diabetes?
Jesper Hiland: Eat with moderation. It
is easier said than done; we all know it,
and then do more day to day activities
Mads Bo Larsen
Jesper Hiland
that can change your life. I recommend it

to everyone, to do it at a very early age.
Start to do it with your children make
sure that they are active with their life. A
lot of things need to be done with children
and it is difficult in this part of the world
because of the heat and all the airconditioned environments.
Change your lifestyle, this is doctors
advice, I would also say. I have seen great
improvement in people using a coach or
using someone that can mentor you to help
you and direct your diet. This helps
directing you in your daily life, because its
not easy. We are living a life where
everything is in excess.
And then if you have been diagnosed
with diabetes type 2, how can you
manage the disease properly?
Mads Bo Larsen: One thing is
prevention, but the whole issue of
treatment for people that have diabetes.
Along with the right medication, you can
manage diabetes with diet and exercise
and you can take it a long way, no problem
with that, but this requires a lot of
discipline, it requires that even when you
get yourself to 50-55 years of age, you
need to keep yourself slim, fit, healthy, but
not everyone has this discipline, so if
youre loosening up on disciplined, your
diabetes will increase.
The medical treatment is very important
and the intensification of treatment is
important to a patient who will develop the
complications. Now we know that diabetics
can lead a near-normal life, and have as
long life expectancy than a person without
HEALTH BITES
diabetes, and that does require that you

intensify treatments, go to a new level of
treatment when your blood sugar levels
start getting too high.
With the Changing Diabetes
campaign at Mall of the Emirates
that took place last month, what did
you hope to achieve?
Mads Bo Larsen: First of all, we wanted
to get a lot of awareness about diabetes to
the people of the UAE. We want to give our
contribution to the understanding of
diabetes. We did blood sugar testing, we
talked about the necessity of monitoring
your blood glucose levels once in a while
and we talk about nutrition. If you have
diabetes and are on treatment, we want to
talk about what the right foods to eat are
so that you lose weight and can manage
the diabetes better. It is a misconception
that you can just cut out sugar and you
wont get diabetes, I would even say that
you can eat sugar in moderation, in
balance. It is not a matter of what you eat,
but how much you eat, everything needs
to be in balance and moderation.
A simple blood-glucose test can

indicate whether your blood
glucose levels are too high
With diabetes type 2 it is, to a high degree, associated

with lifestyle, and there are two main components. One
is food intake eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and to
avoid too many calories being consumed The other is
exercise; it is important, because this balances the
glucose intake, and by building up muscle mass you will
have a greater chance of preventing diabetes
Suzanne Husseini on diabetes

As part of Novo Nordisk Changing Diabetes Village, Suzanne Husseini
inspired visitors with her healthy, well-balanced cooking. Suzanne, talks to
us about preventing diabetes in children through lifestyle and nutrition...
Type 2 diabetes has become a world pandemic. What used to be called Adultonset Diabetes has earned the name of being type 2 as it no longer just inflicts
adults. The statistics of children being diagnosed with it is frightening. In the UAE
particularly, 20% of the population will be inflicted with type 2 diabetes and so
many are young children.
This is truly a crisis as children dont make the choices to eat in an unhealthy way.
Parents are responsible for their diets. They need to be offered wholesome, healthy
options from the minute they start to eat solid food. They need to acquire the taste for
real food and not the fast food that has invaded the UAE.
Sugary soft drinks and sweet fruit juices are so prevalent in their diets as well, which
is one of the main reasons for the increase in childhood obesity ,which leads to type 2
diabetes. A major lifestyle change has to happen to reverse and prevent this disease
and chart a new path.
My undying message is always to welcome your children into the kitchen to be part
of the cooking process. The sooner the better. Children need to touch real food, smell
it and ultimately eat it... They will acquire a taste for the way food is meant to taste.
Processed fast food distorts the flavours with their added fats, salt and sugar. They will
be hypnotised by those artificial foods if they are not introduced to the real thing
Cooking with your children will teach them priceless lessons. They will understand
that good quality food is made at home and requires some effort.
At as young as three years of age, children can tear lettuce, squeeze lemons,
sprinkle herbs, and work with dough. They can do anything if you allow them. It gives
them a sense of pride to have participated in preparing a meal
Ultimately Love happens in the kitchen and your children will fall in love with real
food and relish in its preparation. They will want to eat it.
And, as a parent you have made the most important connection and that is to teach
your child how to eat to be healthy for the rest of his life. Thats love!
The Changing Diabetes Village that took place from 5 to 7 December

2011, and the activities included free blood sugar tests, healthy cooking
demonstrations by Suzanne Husseini, a football show with players from
the UAE national team, kinetic sports games and dance activities.
EVERYDAY
Doing it for
the kids!
Healthy food for kids has never been

this much fun. BBC Good Food ME
presents three colourful, nutritious
recipes your children will love
bn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai recently

launched Power Bites, a fun, healthy
childrens menu that encourages kids
to stay away from junk food and enjoy
fresh, natural flavours. With the
staggering prevalence of children with
type 2 Diabetes and obesity in the UAE, it
is so important to instill good eating
habits in children from a young age.
These recipes are imaginative and
inspiring; we hope you enjoy creating
them at home.
Creamy, nutritious
macaroni makeover
EVERYDAY
A classic, total comfort food

for your kids and a good source
of vitamin D and essential
minerals. Keeps your lil Popeye
craving for more...
Mushroom, fava bean,

cherry tomato, creamy
mild cheddar cheese sauce,
baked macaroni
SERVES 2
20 MINUTES PREPARATION
120g macaroni, cooked and drained

30g cheddar cheese, grated
100g spinach leaves
20g fava beans
60ml cream
20g tomato
5g sea salt
pinch of pepper
50g mushrooms, quartered
10ml olive oil
10g cherry tomatoes, quartered
1 Heat olive oil in a pan, saut the

quartered mushrooms, fava beans,
quartered cherry tomato, season with
salt and pepper.
2 Add cream in the same pan and allow
it to reduce a bit, stir in the spinach
leaves and allow it to wilt.
3 Continue adding the macaroni and
toss to coat. Check for seasoning.
4 Place it in a bowl and spread
generously with grated cheese and bake
it in a pre heated oven 180C for 3-4
minutes. Serve hot.
Nutritional value: Per Serving: 904 Calories; 37g Fat
(36.5% calories from fat); 33g Protein; 112g
Carbohydrate; 11g Dietary Fiber; 85mg
Cholesterol; 2162mg Sodium. Exchanges: 6 1/2
Grain(Starch); 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 6 Fat.
EVERYDAY
The perfect afternoon treat,

your children will think this
smoothie is a sweet rather than a
healthy snack
Banana organic honey
smoothie
SERVES 1
2 bananas, peeled and diced
2 tbsp honey
120ml yoghurt
Blend all the ingredients in a blender till

smooth. Serve cold.
Carbohydrate; 6g Dietary Fiber; 16mg Cholesterol;
62mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 1/2 Fruit; 1/2 Non-Fat
Milk; 1/2 Fat; 2 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.
Dragon fruit, prawn and

mango salad mint,
lemongrass vinaigrette
SERVES 2 PREPARATION TIME: 20 MINS
100g dragon fruit, scooped
10g mint leaves, julienned
200g shrimp, blanched and deveined
20g baby spinach leaves
50g red radish, thinly sliced
20ml lemon juice
10g lemon grass, finely chopped
60ml olive oil
3g sea salt
pinch of pepper
1 For the vinaigrette: Place lemon juice,

salt, pepper and a touch of sugar in a
bowl and whisk.
2 Pour the olive oil and continue
whisking till it forms and emulsion. Add
the finely chopped lemon grass and
leave it to infuse.
3 For the salad: In a bowl place the
dragon fruit balls, blanched prawns,
sliced red radish, julienned mint, baby
spinach leaves.
4 Season with sea salt and freshly
crushed pepper, drizzle the vinaigrette
toss and serve.
Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 152mg Cholesterol;
714mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 3 Lean
Meat; 0 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 5 1/2 Fat.
PREVIOUS ATTEMP AT COOKING

:26-01-2001
Cooking is one of the most necessary elements of life.

Not only does it nourish our bodies, but also our hearts,
Renew your cooking experience with CulinOr
UAE Distributor: Royal House Lifestyle General Trading

Tel No: 04-2712376 Fax No: 04-2717145 Toll Free: 800 (CulinOr) 2854667
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CHEFS BITES
YAS VICEROY
Racing to compete
Just as the dust settles on the Yas Marina Circuit, Dave

Reeder catches up with newly-appointed executive
chef Michel Jost of the Yas Viceroy in Abu Dhabi to find
out more about the direction of the rebranded hotel
n a real feat of daring and split second timing, just three weeks after the
announcement that Yas Hotel by Aldar was to become the Yas Viceroy,
the hotel management pulled off a rebranding and partial reorganisation
ready for the Abu Dhabi F1 week.
More major changes will become apparent over the next twelve months,
but for executive chef Michel Jost it was a very challenging and exhilarating
three weeks. Fresh into the job, after relocating from Europe, he fine-tuned
menus and prepared for the arrival of celebrity chefs from the US and
France. Failure was not an option, especially with the impending arrival of
the high-profile F1 teams and eager fans.
Now youve survived your baptism of

fire, whats next on the agenda for you
here at the hotel?
We want to offer what nobody else can.
Well keep asking the question can we
improve? because we want the best
feedback to gain a position as one of the
leaders in regional dining. Well be looking at and refreshing each of our outlets, to
make sure they match the excitement of the hotels design and location. We also
want to bring in more visiting chefs - the two who have just been with us
(Executive Chef Mirko Padern of Oliverio at Avalon Beverly Hills and 2-star
Michelin chef Jacques Pourcel from Jardin des Sens in Montpellier) were prebooked before the rebranding - and we expect to be very visible during
Februarys Gourmet Abu Dhabi.
Do you have any unusual food passions when youre not
cooking professionally?
No, Im fairly normal, I think! However, I do have a passion for bio foods and really
believe you should feed kids on it so they understand what real food tastes like.
Try this: eat something like bio cornflakes for a couple of months and then see
that when you go back to non-bio, the food will taste completely wrong!
CHEFS BITES
YAS VICEROY
Youve had a busy few weeks, I think?

Yes, but its been worth it. This is the most amazing hotel around fresh, new, inspiring and full of life. I mean, where else would have
you an F1 track passing through the hotel!
Whats your key approach to food and developing new dishes?
The main thing is not to reinvent just for the sake of it. Sure, its about
creativity and honesty. In another field, look at the iPhone or iPad aesthetically stunning, a pleasure to use and very stylish. As chefs we
have to be creative - especially here, where you see an aesthetic in
every aspect of the hotel. Yas Viceroy is very design driven as you
see, which creates a real atmosphere. So our food concepts need to
be totally creative too. Theres no point in going just half way; that just
doesnt work.
Signature restauratnt, Nautilus, Yas Viceroy
Does the aesthetic of the hotel make your job harder?

Well, simplicity is the ultimate challenge, especially if the food needs
to be inspiring. However, we always need to listen to the customer
and understand why they come here. The customer is giving me time,
putting trust in me and what I deliver.
Are diners getting more sophisticated in terms of food
knowledge, do you think?
Absolutely, if theyre well travelled. Theyre knowledgeable and they
want to understand where their food comes from. As you know,
many chefs are now turning away from some popular products
because of sustainability concerns and I believe that sensible
customers understand that and approve. Its all really about
education and I think schools need to take a bigger part in
the process of developing food knowledge. Of course, the
Internet has changed everything - people are thinking,
interacting, researching and collecting information. Its easy
now for customers to get all the information they want.
Is sourcing an issue for you?
Not at all. There are flights from Paris every day and our
geography does not affect produce availability. Its important
to me that we are able to trace all our foods. Id like to use more local
produce and I think as an industry we could be doing more to
promote local farmers - the food can be fresher, its better for the
environment and it can help to promote rural tourism.
CHEFS BITES
YAS VICEROY
Recipes from Nautilus
Nautilus is an award-winning seafood restaurant at the Yas Viceroy Hotel. Ultra-modern in design, it features a pure white interior and floor to
ceiling windows offering spectacular views of Yas Marina.
Crab cocktail
with fennel sorbet
SERVES 4
Ingredients for crab salad:
280g crab meat
70g fresh tomatoes, diced
10g ripe avocado
15g gherkins
6g capers
salt, to taste
3g black peppercorns, crushed
lemon, juiced
40g mixed lettuce
5 sprigs fresh coriander leaves
Ingredients for cocktail sauce:
100g mayonnaise
40g tomato ketchup
tsp paprika powder
10ml Tabasco sauce
lemon, juiced
fine sea salt, to taste
Ingredients for fennel sorbet
1l water
200g fresh fennel bulb
15g fennel seeds
250g liquid glucose
200g sugar
15g stabiliser/gel glaze
Ingredients for fennel crisp
50g fennel (thinly sliced)
150ml water
40g sugar
20ml corn oil

2 sheets parchment paper
Ingredients for dressing
250ml balsamic vinegar reduction
50ml red pepper oil
30ml basil oil
1 For the cocktail sauce: Mix

all the ingredients and blend with
a balloon whisk.
2 For the crab salad, add the
crab meat to the capers,
gherkins, chives, diced tomatoes
and avocado. Season it and add
the lemon juice. Then add the
cocktail sauce and fold well.
Finally, place the salad in a ring
mould and top it with the mixed
lettuce and coriander leaves
3 For the fennel sorbet: Heat
the water, remove from the flame
and let it cool until its lukewarm.
Then, add the fresh fennel and
fennel seeds, cover and let it get
cool. Then blend and strain it
through a fine sieve, add the
sugar, liquid glucose and stabiliser and

blend it again. Churn this mixture in a
sorbetier and serve frozen with a
fennel crisp on top.
4 For the fennel crisp: Use a
mandolin to cut the fennel bulb into
thin slices. Make a thin syrup with the
water and sugar and then dip the slices
in it. Arrange two sheets of butter
paper between two stainless steel
trays. Place the fennel in between and
bake it at 70 degrees C for 12 mins.
Keep in a warm dry place.
5 To serve: On a round white plate, place
the crab salad in a ring mould and top it
with the mixed herbs and lettuce. Drizzle
the balsamic reduction in uneven spots
around the crab salad. Scoop the sorbet
and place a fennel crisp on top.
Enjoy it all again

another thyme!
Red snapper with yabby
tail, scallops and lemon
emulsion
SERVES 4
Ingredients for red snapper
800g red snapper fillet (scaled
and pin boned)
sea salt flakes, to taste
black peppercorns(crushed),
to taste
tsp lemon juice
20g butter
40ml extra virgin olive oil
Ingredients for lemon
emulsion
240g yabby tail, peeled
160g scallop, cleaned
lemon, juiced
5g curly parsley
150g tomato
Ingredients for Kenya beans
200g Kenya beans
10g salted butter
1 garlic clove, peeled
30g shallots
black peppercorns(crushed),
to taste
For plating
30g cherry tomatoes
5g mixed herbs
1 For the red snapper, marinate the

fish fillet with salt, black
peppercorns and olive oil. Grill the
fish (skin side down) on a hot grill,
as soon as there are grill marks,
turn it over onto a stainless steel

plate and top with butter, lemon
juice and finish it in a 160 degree
C oven for three minutes.
2 For the lemon emulsion,
clean and peel the yabby tail
and cut it lengthwise. Cut the
scallop meat lengthwise along
the grain of the meat. Poach
the tomato then peel skin off.
Dice it into neat cubes. In a
pan, melt the butter then add
in the yabbies, scallops and
saut. Mix in the lemon juice
and nape the meat constantly.
Finish off with chopped
parsley, diced tomatoes and a
touch of crushed peppercorns.
3 For the Kenya beans, cut
the strings on the side of the
beans. Blanch them in hot
water then flash chill them in
ice water. Strain and place in
an absorbent cloth. Heat the
butter in a pan then add in
the chopped shallots and
saut till translucent. Toss
the beans and finish with
crushed black peppercorns.
4 To serve, on a warm plate,
place the beans in the centre.
Arrange the lemon emulsion
around it and garnish with
mixed herbs and cherry
tomatoes. Place the hot snapper
in the centre and mount with
the remaining of the emulsion.
100% Value Back Offer

On Your Total Food Bill
[Note: Yabbies are

small freshwater
crayfish from Australia]
oasisbeachtower
T
RE HE
ST FI
AU NA
RA LIS
NT T
S!
We are proud and excited to list the finalists in the dining

categories of the BBC Good Food ME Awards 2011!
FINALISTS IN THE DINING CATEGORIES
BEST BRUNCH
Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah
Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort &
Spa Dubai
Spectrum on One, Fairmont Dubai
Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai
BEST CAF
More Caf, Dubai
Lime Tree Caf, Dubai
Jones the Grocer, Abu Dhabi
Bloomsburys Caf, Abu Dhabi
BEST STEAKHOUSE
Ruths Chris Steakhouse,
The Monarch Dubai
JWs Steakhouse, JW Marriot Dubai
Prime Steakhouse, Meydan
Rhodes Twenty10, Le Royal Meridien
BEST FAMILY/CASUAL
Carluccios, Dubai
Ping Pong, The Dubai Mall
The Noodle House, Dubai
BEST LATIN AMERICAN
Asado, The Palace The Old Town
Maya, Le Royal Meridien Dubai
Pachanga, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah
La Parilla, Jumeirah Beach Hotel
BEST INDIAN
Chor Bazaar, Ibn Battuta Gate
Indego by Vineet,
Grosvenor House Dubai
Iz, Grand Hyatt Dubai
Mahec, Le Meridien Dubai
BEST MEDITERRANEAN
BiCE, Hilton Jumeirah Beach
Elia Greek Restaurant,
Majestic Hotel Dubai
Medzo, Wafi, Oud Metha
BEST ASIAN
Benjarong, Dusit Thani Dubai
Zuma, DIFC
Okku, The Monarch Dubai
Hakkasan, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi
Blue Elephant, Al Bustan Rotana
BEST MIDDLE EAST & NORTH
AFRICAN (MENA)
Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams Desert
Resort & Spa
Shabestan, Radisson Blu,
Dubai Deira
Al Nafoorah, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Ewaan, The Palace The Old Town
Celebrating
the best!
BEST EUROPEAN
La Petite Maison, DIFC
Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire,
InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Rhodes Mezzanine,
Grosvenor House Dubai
Rivington Grill, Souk Al Bahar
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Toro Toro, Grosvenor House Dubai,
Tower 2
Voi, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Table 9, Hilton Dubai Deira Creek
Stay by Yannick Alleno, One&Only
The Palm Jumeirah
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
La Petite Maison, DIFC
Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire,
InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Zuma, DIFC
Okku, The Monarch Dubai
Congratulations to the finalists and thank you to all the passionate foodies
who nominated; the response has been overwhelming.
In the next stage, our elite panel of independent judges will be dining out anonymously
and voting for their favourite finalists based on stringent criteria.
For more details visit www.bbcgoodfoodme.com
The nominations for our INGREDIENTS categories and CHEF OF THE YEAR
category closed on 25 December. The finalists in these categories will be
announced online in early January.
Supporting sponsor
Do you want to attend the most

high-profile food awards in the UAE?
On 21 February 2012, at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC)
we will have the glittering BBC Good Food ME Awards;
a festive celebration of the finalists and winners.
This is your chance to mingle with your favourite chefs and other like-minded foodies!
The event will include welcome drinks and canaps, a three-course set meal including selected
beverages during the awards ceremony, as well as entrance to our VIP after party.
Bookings are now open, so be sure to reserve your place to avoid disappointment.
AED 350 per person, or just AED 250 per person if you are a Food Club member!
AED 2,000 per table of ten.
JOIN THE FOOD CLUB TO BE

ELIGIBLE FOR THE AWARDS
DISCOUNT!
Are you a Food Club member?
If not, sign up today at
www.bbcgoodfoodme.com and
receive regular newsletters,
invitations to chef masterclasses
a restaurant discount card
and so much more!
CHEFS BITES
Dont be a
bartender,
be a mixologist
Paris-based liquid chef Laurent Greco, is

a renowned mixology specialist who has
been working with Perrier for two years.
BBC Good Food ME meets up with Greco
on his recent visit to Dubai to find out
more about the art of cocktail making
What is mixology? What we call mixology is the art of cocktail making, but it is more than this. It is a state of
mind for a bartender when we work. It is about always thinking about customers and thinking about how you can
create and serve cocktails in different ways. We are always trying to surprise our customers; when you come to
this point of reflection, then you can call yourself a mixologist.
Is mixology a new trend? The name is a new name, but the concept of what we now call mixology has
been around for 70 years. It is just that now we can see a lot more people called mixologists. It is those bartenders
that went a step further and they go into more about thinking of customers, bringing new ideas all the time and
really getting into the art of cocktail making. It is also about being more efficient for the customers.
Mixologist, Laurent Greco
What are the key elements of mixology? The flavours, how you present the drink, the taste, the
story you are going to bring around the drink. You need a short story to introduce the drink and serve it that is
what we call mixology. Eyes first, then nose and mouth; it is a sensory experience.
What inspires you to create new recipes, like the ones you have created for the
Mixology by PERRIER books? Everything! Everything is an inspiration, but for this programme, we use
Perrier as the main ingredient. We want people to serve Perrier as the main ingredients of the cocktail and
construct a story around Perrier, so that it is an experience when you have a Perrier cocktail served.
The Magic Perrier cocktail

with candyfloss
So why Perrier; does it lend itself well to cocktail making? Perrier has two important key
elements: it is the most sparkling water you can find on the market, so it has a lot of gas, and it also has a low
mineral content, so it doesnt bring any flavour or extra taste to the drink, which is exactly what I am looking for.
What are some of the new ideas in professional cocktail making? There is smoke
injection, where we are injecting flavoured smoke into the drink, which changes the flavour. We also have
disappearing techniques, making things disappear and reappear. It is a magic show in a way, it is what we call
molecular mixology basically we change textures, so from a solid it turns to a liquid in front of the customers
eyes, from liquid to solid so its no longer a cocktail you drink, but a cocktail you eat. We try to bring new
sensations flavours, of course but the texture too.
And trends, how has cocktail making changed in the last twenty years? We always
use muddled fresh fruit, rather than mixers. We are in 2012, so we have finished the era of mixers, everything
needs to be fresh. This is pushing creativity and the taste is very real. Fresh lemon juice has fresh lemon juice taste
you cant get that out of a bottle.
What ingredients do you enjoy working with? Fresh ginger was definitely my ingredient of the
year! Fresh herbs, fresh ingredients that is always the best tip for the base of a good cocktail.
For people at home, what are some tips to making a great cocktail? It really comes down to
the simplest things. If you like to drink Perrier for example, you might usually place a slice of lemon in your glass. But
you can do something a bit different why not place a nice piece of fresh ginger in the glass instead of the lemon, or a
slice of cucumber; the flavours are great.
Like a scene straight out of an

Arabian fairytale, Al Hadheerah
Desert Restaurant is the place to
experience traditional fare amid
rolling sand dunes. Here the
mood of old Arabia is captured
perfectly through the lively
entertainment of belly dancers,
henna artists, live bands and
falcon displays.
For reservations call 04 809 6194
www.meydanhotels.com
Pantone 871 C
Pantone Process Black
20 C, 25 M, 60 Y, 25 K
100K
Prime is a place to savour with

the rich, elegant dcor echoing
what is served up in front of you.
Prime serves only the finest cuts
of premium beef sourced from
around the world including the
world-renowned and delicious
Wagyu. Everything is designed
to complement with an emphasis
upon quality and flavours.r.
For reservations call 04 381 3111
CHEFS BITES
Sweet
alternative
Ariana Bundy, the author of Sweet

Alternative, a cookbook packed with
gluten- and egg-free recipes presents
some delicious bakes for our healthy issue
Flower power
These shortbread cookies are shaped like

flowers, and because they are made with pure
chickpea flour they are packed with protein.
They contain no eggs and are melt-in themouth tender and soft
Makes 35 - 40
These shortbread cookies are shaped like
flowers, and because they are made with
pure chickpea flour they are packed with
protein. They contain no eggs and are
melt-in the-mouth tender and soft. This is a
traditional Persian recipe thats served at
special ceremonies such as weddings and
New Year. Theyre incredibly easy to prepare
and last for months stored in the freezer.
450g/1 lb/4 cups fine roasted
chickpea flour
350 g/12 oz/11/2 cups unrefined
golden caster
(superfine) sugar
21/2 tsp vanilla sugar
115 g/4 oz/1/2 cup coconut butter
or ghee
3 tbsp slivered pistachio nuts, for
decoration
1 If you cant find roasted chickpea flour,

simply place the unroasted flour on a
baking tray and bake in a 180C/350F/
gas mark 4 oven for about 1215 minutes
or until golden.
2 The next step can be done either by
hand or with a KitchenAid (or other food
mixer) fitted with a paddle. Place the
caster sugar, vanilla sugar and coconut
butter or ghee in the mixing bowl and
mix for about 23 minutes (or 5 minutes
by hand) until pale and creamy.
3 Add the chickpea flour and mix for
a further 3 minutes or until a dough
forms. Dont be tempted to add any
liquid a dough will form eventually.
Place the dough on a floured board and
CHEFS BITES
Cooking with Ariana
knead for another minute or so until

it is no longer sticky. Line a baking
tray with baking parchment and
push and flatten the dough so that it
is about 2.5cm/1 inch thick.
4 Place in the refrigerator for at
least 1 hour.
5 Meanwhile, preheat the oven to
150C/300F/gas mark 2. Line a
baking tray with a silicon liner, or
get a non-stick baking tray ready.
Take the dough out of the
refrigerator and cut out cloverleaves or flowers. Place them on the
prepared baking tray they wont
rise or spread much, so leave just
12 cm/an inch or so between
them. Bake them in the preheated
oven for about 2530 minutes.
6 Dont allow the cookies to colour
check them underneath, and if
theyre golden and slightly pinkish,
theyre done. Take them out of the
oven and push one pistachio sliver
into the middle of each cookie.
Leave to cool completely before
removing them from the tray or they
will crumble. They keep for about
one month in the refrigerator or
three months in the freezer.
What are some of your top tips to

gluten-free baking?
Dont overmix. Fold batter with a
light hand, bake as much you need
and be creative. Think about mouthfeel, textures and try to recreate all
the things youve been missing. This
is what I tried to do with my book
Sweet Alternative. It contains all the
things I grew up with such as
chocolate chip cookies, muffins,
French Macarons, tarts as well as
dairy-free versions of creamy ice
creams, smooth airy mousses,
luscious Dulce de Leche, custardy
flans. The perfect example is my
Fraisier recipe a fluffy, rich Genoise
cake, moistened with syrup, spread
with silky smooth Creme Anglaise
studded with vanilla and layered with
fresh ripe strawberries bursting with
flavour. You couldnt tell the
difference; no one would guess that
its gluten-free. With recipes like
these you can really have your cake
and eat it too!
If you are craving something sweet, what
are some good, healthier alternatives to
calorific treats and desserts?
Another title to my book should have
read low calorie, healthy desserts,
because I only use healthy ingredients
such as rice milk (low in fat), olive oil,
extra virgin coconut oil (excellent health
properties), buckwheat flour (a fabulous
source of fibre and antioxidants), and
raw sugar. Ive also used Konjac noodles
instead of rice noodles in a classic
Persian recipe called Faloudeh (a
fragrant granita also known in the Asian
world as Falouda etc). Its made from a
root vegetable which has zero calories,
is pure soluble fibre and one of
Japanese womens secret for staying

trim. Closer to home, Nigella Lawson
has recently incorporated Konjac into
her diet and exercise plan which helped
her to dramatically lose weight!
What inspires you to bake and cook?
After studying business and working in
marketing for an Haute Couture House
in Paris, I hit a wall when I realised I
just wasnt fulfilled with what I was
doing. I loved eating and entertaining
friends and had watched my
restaurateur father run his classic
French restaurant in Beverly Hills, so a
light bulb went off! I attended Cordon
Bleu in Paris and met all the other food
crazy people and came to realize that
my obsession is shared!
And what inspires me to put on the
apron now; I get inspired when I see a
nice piece of meat or a fresh
vegetable in season. Smells also
inspire me to get into the kitchen and
whip something up.
You are launching your book
Pomegranates & Roses very soon, can
you tell me a bit about it?
My next book Pomegranates & Roses:
My Persian Family Recipes (Simon &
Schuster) is mostly filled with glutenand dairy-free recipes; and you can
replace the butter in some of the
dishes. A whole new world of different,
delicious and easy to make recipes will
open up to those who struggle with
searching for new meals to cook for
themselves and their families!
What is your guilty food pleasure?
Too many to mention! Unlimited ice
cream, crme brulee, decadent cookies,
chocolate covered dried fruits, anything
with coconut, and my own natural
Nutella recipe straight from the spoon!
CHEFS BITES
THE GRAMERCY
Food
Club
Event
Cosy winter recipe

from The Gramercy
Chef Andrew Paderas, from The Gramercy, DIFC cooked up a festive culinary storm at the gorgeous
Miele Gallery last month. This was the last Food Club event of 2011, and we hope you enjoy cooking up
this wonderful winter turkey with all the trimmings
Bread and apple stuffing

1/3 cup butter
2 green apples, diced
4 cups bread cubes
2-3 eggs, beaten
1 tbsp sage
Chicken or turkey stock
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Sage-infused
slow roasted turkey
1-1.5 kg turkey breast
100g softened butter
Few leaves of sage
1 onion
1 garlic clove
1 stalk celery
Salt, to season
Pepper, to season
1 Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

2 Soften the butter, finely chop the sage
and mix in with the softened butter.
3 Season the turkey with salt
and pepper.
4 Carefully pipe the sage butter under
the skin and spread evenly. Tie the
turkey to avoid spilling.
5 Roughly chop some onion, garlic,
celery and some herbs and put in a
roasting pan.
6 Set the turkey on top of the chopped
aromatics, add some water to produce
some steam and roast for 45 minutes or
until done. Internal temperature should
reach 160degrees.
Parmesan-crusted
roast potato
1kg potato
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Few sprigs of rosemary
cup parmesan cheese

Salt, to season
Pepper, to season
1 In a pan, melt the butter and saute the

onions and apples. Add the bread cubes
and allow to coat with butter.
2 Transfer into a bowl, add sage and
slowly mix in the eggs and broth. Season
with salt and pepper.
3 Scrape into a buttered dish, cover with
foil and bake for 30 minutes at 360
degrees. Remove the foil and let it brown
for about 5 minutes.
Turkey gravy
1 Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2 Peel and cut the potatoes into your
desired thickness.
3 Boil until almost tender and drain the
water thoroughly.
4 In a hot pan, drizzle the oil and butter;
add rosemary and potatoes, saut until
it turns brown.
5 Season with salt and pepper. Transfer
potatoes to a hot tray and sprinkle with
parmesan. Shake the pan before putting
in the oven. Turn sprouts and roast until
brown in colour.
2ltrs. turkey Stock

2-3 tbsp olive oil
500g turkey trimmings
1 carrot
1 onion
1 stalk celery
Few sprigs of fresh herbs
cup red vinegar
2-3 tbsp tomato paste
Salt, to season
Pepper, to season
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
Sauteed brussel sprouts

500g brussels sprout
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Splash of red vinegar
Salt, to season
Pepper, to season
1 Boil salted water.

2 Trim the sprouts and remove the
discolored leaves. Score the bottom stalk.
3 Boil for about 3-5 minutes or until
tender and drain thoroughly.
4 In a hot pan, sprinkle the oil and butter;
add the sprouts and sautee for a minute.
5 Remove sprouts, splash some vinegar
and add salt and pepper.
1 Boil turkey stock. In a separate pan,

heat the oil.
2 Stir in turkey trimmings until it browns.
Add the mirepoix and saut until evenly
brown. Season with a little salt.
3 Splash vinegar and let it reduce. Then
stir in the tomato paste to blend evenly,
allowing the paste to extract its natural
oil. Scrape the mixture into the boiling
stock and continue boiling until further
reduced.
4 Meanwhile, prepare the roux by
melting the butter. Slowly stir in the flour
and mix until evenly blended.
5 Strain and transfer the reduced stock.
Continue simmering and slowly whisk in
the roux. Season with salt and pepper.
CHEFS BITES
Step-by-step
at
Jade
Nicola Monteath gets hands-on experience cooking authentic Chinese cuisine with head chef Rain at Jade,
Asiana Hotel Dubai Deira
he recently launched Chinese restaurant at Jade, Asiana Hotel

serves a variety of Chinese cuisine that appeals to expats as
well as the Middle Eastern market, with its signature specials
such as Beijing roasted duck and sweet & sour white fish.
Rumour has it that if you inform the hostess taking your order
which Chinese province food you prefer the chef will tailor the
spiciness according to your taste buds. The Yanghzou fried rice
hails from the province Yanghzou, where the dishes contain less
or no spice as opposed to provinces such as Sichuan (Chef Rainys
hometown) where most recipes are mildly spiced.
Yangzhou fried rice

Serves 1-2
1 roasted chicken leg
2 eggs
200g steamed rice
50g corn oil
10g sesame oil
5g chicken powder
20g spring onions
5g Salt
30g mix vegetables of choice
30g shrimps
1 Steam rice in a large pot,

while rice is steaming cut the
chicken off and dispose the
bone, slice chicken and dice
into small pieces.
2 Dice the mixed vegetables
and spring onions into fine
pieces, set aside.
3 Add a large concaved

tipped spoon of boiling
water into a wok and fry the
shrimps for 1 minute until
cooked through, set aside.
4 Heat sesame and corn oil
in the wok, slowly add the
eggs and scramble it before
setting aside.
5 Toss diced chicken into
the oil mixture and cook for
1 minute.
6 Stir in the steamed rice,
chicken and vegetables,
fry for 1 minute. Add the
chicken powder and salt
before mixing thoroughly.
7 Serve hot and place
shrimps on top as garnish.
CHEFS BITES
Wok fried beef with black
pepper sauce
Serves 1 2
120g beef tenderloin
25g bean sprouts
25g red pepper
25g green pepper
20g flour
10g egg, whisked
10g oyster sauce
5g black pepper
50g cooking oil
10g sesame oil
5g chicken stock powder
5g soya sauce
5g white pepper
1 Slice the beef, green and red peppers

into fine strips.
2 Add beef, oyster sauce, soy sauce,
white pepper, flour and whisked egg in
a bowl and mix thoroughly.
3 Place a large spoonful of boiling
water in a wok, add peppers and bean
sprouts. Cook swiftly for 10 seconds,
strain into a colander and set aside.
4 Heat half the cooking oil in the wok
(or flying pan,) and fry beef strips
thoroughly for 30 seconds. Strain into a
colander and set aside.
5 Heat the remaining oil in the wok, stir
- fry the beef and vegetables and mix
well until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add the black pepper, chicken stock
powder and sesame oil, mix well.
6 Serve hot with garnishes on the side.
CHEFS BITES
MORE
Last month, MORE Cafs talented chef Gert taught members

of our Food Club to create three festive goodies at MORE Caf
Dubai Festival City. This was the launch of the MORE Cooking
Skills, and it was a fantastic event of food and fun
cooking skills
Pumpkin cupcakes
MAKES 20
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp coarse salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter,
melted and cooled
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line

cupcake pans with paper liners; set
aside. In a medium bowl, whisk
together flour, baking soda, baking
powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger,
nutmeg, and allspice; set aside.
2 In a large bowl, whisk together, brown
sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and
eggs. Add dry ingredients, and whisk
until smooth. Whisk in pumpkin puree.
3 Divide batter evenly among liners,
filling each about halfway. Bake until
tops spring back when touched, and a
cake tester inserted in the center
comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes,
rotating pans once if needed. Transfer
to a wire rack; let cool completely.
For more details on the More Cooking Skills in

January, see page 11.
Royal honey buttercream

MAKES 678g
6 large egg yolks
112g honey
454 g butter, room temp (must be soft)
1 Beat the yolks in a mixer until light in color.

2 Bring the honey to a rolling boil in small sauce pan. When
the honey is at the rolling ball stage, remove from heat and
pour it into a heat-proof measuring jug.
3 Mix the honey into the egg yolks while beating at medium/
high speed. (Dont let the honey fall onto the beater (whisk)
or it will get stuck to the side of the bowl.)
4 Beat the egg-honey mixture until its completely cold.
5 Add the butter in parts to the egg-honey mixture,
whisking continuously until the mixture is well combined.
Scraping down the sides of the mixer frequently.
6 Store at room temperature for five days at room
temperature, refrigerate for two weeks or keep for two
months in the freezer.
CHEFS BITES
RUTH'S CHRIS
Food
Club
Event
A cut
above
Talented chef Paul de Visser, executive chef of
Ruths Chris Steakhouse entertained Food Club
members at the Miele Kitchen Gallery with his
New Orleans-style cooking masterclass
The fresh tuna tartare is light and

delicious... the perfect alfresco starter
Chef Paolo at work

creating ravioli filled
with burrata
CHEFS BITES
Filet Oscar style
Oscar style means that it's topped
with asparagus, crab cakes and
bearnaise sauce.
tsp L&P Worcestershire Sauce

tsp Tabasco
a pinch of white pepper
2 pinches of salt
250ml clarified butter
For the CRAB CAKES
MAKES 6 crab cakes (90g each)
STARTER
Voodoo shrimp
A subtly-spicy New Orleans classic
6 shrimps, 16/20
2 tbsp seasoned corn starch
30g sriracha sauce
(Thai hot sauce)
30g mixed lettuce
1 pinch parsley
a wedge of lemon
1 tbsp homemade
vinaigrette
For the voodoo

shrimp sauce:
4 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp sweet chilli
sauch
1 tsp Tabasco
2 tsp Cayenne pepper
4 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 Take the shrimp and butterfly them. Then, dust them

with the corn starch and fry them for about 1 to 2 mins.
Place the fried shrimp on a piece of paper and then
place them in a bowl together with the sriracha sauce,
making sure to coat the shrimp on all sides.
2 In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients for
the voodoo shrimp sauc.
3 Place the mixed salad in a bowl and add the
vinaigrette dressing, mix well and place on the plate.
Place the voodoo shrimp on top of the salad and drizzle
with with voodoo shrimp sauce.
House vinaigrette
(Makes 500ml)
5g chopped garlic
15ml lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
a pinch of salt
a pinch of black pepper
500ml pure olive oil

1 Weigh and chop garlic and place in a container.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice measure and add to
container.
2 Measure red wine vinegar, mustard, and add to
container. Mix on low speed with a hand blender.
3 Add salt and pepper and blend in on low speed.
4 While the hand blender is running on high speed
slowly add the oil until fully incorporated and emulsified.
350G black fin crabmeat

125G colossal lump crabmeat
40G cracker meal/seasoned bread
crumbs
120G crab sauce (see recipe below)
1 Place picked crabmeat into a mixing bowl.

Ladle crab sauce over crabmeat.
2 Gently fold, to incorporate the mixture
properly, and then sprinkle the cracker meal
over the crab meat.
3 Scoop the crab mixture and shape into
90g cake and pan fry until golden and crispy.
CRAB SAUCE
Makes 500ml
1 egg, whole
300g mayonnaise
5ml blackened seasoning mix
25g Creole mustard
a pinch of salt
25g fresh chopped parsley
1 Place eggs in a mixing bowl, mix well with
wire whisk.
2 Place remaining ingredients into a mixing
bowl and mix well, make sure all ingredients
are fully incorporated.
For the barnaise sauce
STEP 1: First create Hollandaise sauce
(500ml)
50g pasteurised egg yolks
50g water
20ml lemon juice
1 Place all ingredients into big container and

burr mix on low speed.
2 Slowly add the clarified butter and mix on
low speed until all butter is incorporated. The
sauce should be at 55 degrees C and fluid.
STEP 2: Create Bearnaise reduction (1 tbsp)
2 tbsp onions, finely diced
125ml red wine vinegar
pinch of freshly chopped thyme
15g dried tarragon leaves
a pinch of finely ground black pepper
1 Finely dice onion, measure 2 tablespoons,
and place into sauce pot.
2 Chop fresh thyme, measure the rest of the
ingredients and place into the sauce pot.
3 Cook over medium to low heat. Cook for 1
hour and 20 minutes, test tarragon to see if it
is tender. If not, cook for 10 minute intervals
until it is tender. Cook until almost dry.
Step 3: Create the Bearnaise sauce
Place Hollandaise sauce into a mixing
bowl, add 1 tablespoon of Barnaise
Reduction and mix together well with a
wire whisk.
For the steak:
1 Take a filet (about 200g per person) cut
and grill or pan fry to your
desired temperature.
2 Top the filet with 3 blanched asparagus,
1 crab cake and cover with barnaise
sauce (see the recipe below, but it can be
bought in the supermarkets too)
The main
train!
CHEFS BITES
Chocolate sin cake
Makes one cake
For the chocolate ganache:
75g semisweet chocolate chips
65ml heavy cream
1 Measure out semi-sweet chocolate chips.

2 Bring cream to a boil in a saucepan and stir
until nice and thick.
3 Remove from heat and add chocolate.
Stir until smooth.
4 Cover and refrigerate until needed for use.
For the cake
10g salted butter, softened
115g unsalted butter
85g semisweet chocolate
30g unsweetened chocolate
50g granulated sugar
50ml freshly brewed espresso coffee
(1 double espresso)
2 whole eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 Butter the cake pan with softened butter and

then line with plastic wrap, making sure there
are no bubbles in the plastic.
2 Add butter to sauce pan and bring to a boil
and remove from heat.
FUL
THE SINRT!
DESSE
3 Weigh out semisweet chocolate chips

and set aside.
4 Weigh unsweetened chocolate and chop into
chunks. Add both chocolates to butter and mix
until chocolate is melted. Stir until all chocolate
is melted then remove from heat.
5 Measure sugar and place in a mixing bowl.
Add the measured espresso and mix well.
Slowly add the espresso and sugar mixture to
the melted chocolate and butter, mix slowly as
not to add air bubbles.
6 Place eggs and the vanilla in mixing bowl and
mix slowly as not to add air bubbles. Slowly mix
egg mixture to the chocolate mixture and mix
to incorporate ingredients.
7 Place prepared cake pan and pour in the sin
cake mixture.
8 Place cake pan in roasting pan and place into
a preheated 150 degrees C conventional oven.
9 Slowly pour water into pan until it reaches
up the cake pan.
10 Cook for 1 hour at 150 degrees C. Cakes
should just shake when done (like thick
pudding). If not, cook at 10-minute intervals
until done.
11 Carefully remove from water bath and place
on lined sheet tray and cool at room
temperature for 2 hours.
Ganache coating process:
1 Insert sin cakes upside down onto a cake

circle.
2 Remove cake from the pan and then slowly
remove plastic. Smooth the warm sides and
then refrigerate cake.
3 Measure the ganache and place in mixing
bowl and place over water bath.
4 Stir gently with a rubber spatula. Do not over
mix, it will trap air bubbles. Ganache should be
softened to be able to pour.
5 Hold the sin cake from underneath on the
points of the fingers, and ladle warm ganache in
the center of the cake.
6 Tilt the cake so that the ganache spreads over
the top and sides of the cake.
7 Refrigerate the cake to harden the coating.
JOIN OUR FOOD CLUB!
By joining the BBC Good Food ME Food Club you are
joining a community of over 3000 foodies who love
to spend time in the kitchen, cooking up a feast. Our
Food Club members are invited to complimentary
monthly master classes, where they get a chance to
mingle with the top chefs in Dubai and learn to cook
some of their signature dishes.
Visit www.bbcgoodfoodme.com to join our Food
Club today!
travel
vienna
A night of stars
Vienna is a foodies paradise, but the delights of the imperial
city were overshadowed for Dave Reeder by the first Stars,
Food & Art event to be held there, with six European chefs,
whose restaurants hold an imposing 14 Michelin stars
between them, cooking a special meal for charity
eveloped by Dutch chef and

author Lise Goeman
Borgesius-Timmer, the Sofitel
hosted series of gala dinners in aid of
charities - Stars, Food & Art - debuted in
Vienna at the start of December. Held in
the stunning Loft restaurant of the very
stylish Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, the
event brought around 90 diners for a six
course meal of exceptional cuisine, with
accompanying wines and entertainment
including stars of the Vienna Opera and,
bizarrely, a ventriloquist with a lascivious
crocodile puppet.
Held across Europe for five years,
these special dinners are expanding next
year, with an event at Sofitel Dubai
Jumeirah Beach on 2 April. No details yet

of which celebrity chefs are attending,
but plans are already well advanced to
make it an evening not to be missed.
The concept of Stars, Food & Art was
to create an event that was both unique
and memorable - a moment where
people could truly enjoy an exceptional
experience, gathered together in good
company, sharing excellent food, wine
and culture. The initiative was taken up
in 2007 by the management of hotel
Sofitel the Grand Amsterdam and
Borgesius-Timmer to combine
knowhow, creativity and facilities to
organise an event where culture, food,
wines and art are united.
travel
vienna
The chefs invited to
Vienna last month were:
* Thomas Bhner, La Vie,
Osnabrck, Germany - 2-star
* Walter Eselbck, Taubenkobel,
Burgenland, Austria - 2-star
* Andreas Mayer,Schloss Prielau,
Salzburg, Austria - 2-star
* Toni Mrwald, Toni M,
Feuersbrunn, Austria - 2-star
* Bruno Oger, Le Cannet, Ctes
d`Azur, France - 3-star
* Antoine Westermann, Buerehiesel,
Strasburg, France - 3-star
A key part of the evening
was the presentation of a
cheque to Gery Keszler
for the well-known Aids
Live Foundation.
travel
vienna
Chef de chefs
The menu and style of The Loft was set up by Chef
Antoine Westermann, now focused after his Michelin
starred career on starting a low-key roast chicken and
frites outlet in Paris. He still oversees The Loft with
quarterly visits, so he was the natural choice to
co-ordinate the other five chefs who flew in for the event.
My job was relatively easy - these guys really know what
theyre doing. Each sent me ideas of dishes they thought
would work and I then tried to choose and balance the different
styles and recipes so it would make a coherent meal. I knew
them all, though some have been much closer to me, but in the
kitchen you immediately become friends! It was good for me to
work with a younger generation of very talented chefs. Did I
learn anything from them? Of course, Im always learning but
I have my own style and I cant cook like anyone else.
travel
goa
Going for Goa!

Dave Reeder turns his back on chilling out on the beach and looks for the real story
amongst the remnants of colonial Goa
hink Goa and most people

will talk about lazy holidays
on the beach, trance parties
under the stars or the remnants of
hippy life amongst the markets and
beach shacks. But that does a
disservice to a country that can be seen
as a real pioneer in fusion cuisine, with
a magnificent blend of ingredients and
cooking styles from three continents
that merged to form the distinctive
taste of Goa.
Goa is unlike the rest of India. Thats

not just because of the hyper laidback
lifestyle or the endless miles of beaches
heaped with European package tourists
and hippies, or its appeal to weekend
escapees from Mumbai as the home of
cheap alcohol and legal gambling, but
purely because of its history.
Although European colonists founded
mini empires across India - from the
British to the Dutch and even the French
and Danes - nowhere else had such a
The Portuguese conquered Goa in 1510 and made it

the capital of their Estado da India, a vast area covering
its interests in Africa, India, China (Macau) and even
Japan. However, the city of Goa was even then a truly
cosmopolitan melting pot with Indians, Armenians,
Jews, Europeans, Arabs, Chinese, Japanese and other
races all living, trading and eating together
total immersion in European culture as

Goa, which for more than 450 years
was a key part of Portugals global
empire. The Portuguese conquered
Goa in 1510 and made it the capital of
their Estado da India, a vast area
covering its interests in Africa, India,
China (Macau) and even Japan.
However, the city of Goa was even then a truly

cosmopolitan melting pot with Indians,
Armenians, Jews, Europeans, Arabs, Chinese,
Japanese and other races all living, trading and
eating together.
The Portuguese brought two major influences
that would mark Goa as a very different part of
India: the Catholic religion and Portugals already
global cuisine. Today, there are two main
traditional cuisines in Goa - Hindu and Christian
- with a tiny Muslim population.Yet, although you
can find common Indian dishes from idli sambar
to dosa to tikka masala at one of the countless
international buffets or snack bars aimed at
tourists, the Goan Hindu cuisine differs largely
from the rest of India in that the majority of Goan
Hindus eat meat (chicken and mutton), though
still eschewing pork and beef for religious reasons.
In general, Hindu Goans use less heat,
tamarind and kokum for souring than other
Hindus and place heavy emphasis on asafoetida,
fenugreek, curry leaves, mustard and urad dal.
Their food is less spicy than youd expect, with
relatively light use of onion and garlic. Coconut
oil is standard for cooking.
However, its the Goan Christian food
tradition that really marks out the state, which
gained independence in 1961, some 14 years
after the end of British rule across the rest of the
country. From its new world colonies, Portugal
introduced to Goa the potato, tomato, pineapple,
guava, papaya, guava, avocado, pumpkin,
aubergine and cashew nut, as well as the
ubiquitous chilli. The thought of Goan food
without tomatoes and chillies, enjoyed with a
glass of feni distilled from cashew nuts, is
unthinkable! And, from Portugal itself, olive oil,
marmalade, salt cod (bacalhau), spicy sausage
(chourisos) and wine all added to the mix, as did
vinegar which is widely used in Goan Christian
cuisine as a souring agent and is an integral part
of the classic vindalhoo which, in Goa as
opposed to the high street Indian restaurants of
the UK, is a spiced and delicate dish rather than
a chilli endurance test.
Portuguese ships followed the official maritime
link from Lisbon to Goa via Africa (the Correira da
India), returning via Bahia in northern Brazil. At all
points, food and ingredients were exchanged. And,
underneath it all, the traditional daily diet of the
Goans - rice, fish and coconut oil.The long coastline
and deep rivers means that fish even today are a
staple, from kingfish to pomfret, tuna and mackerel,
with large supplies of local shellfish such as crabs,
prawns, tiger prawns, lobsters, squid and mussels.
travel
goa
But the Portuguese did more than introduce

new ingredients; they also brought new styles of
cooking and new types of recipes.Their
traditional love of sweet cakes meant that the
heavily dense and sweet cake bebinca is now a
staple of every Goan menu. Cooking techniques
from Mozambique, for example, developed the
typical Goan dish of chicken piri-piri. And, of
course, the Portuguese brought their love of oven
baked bread, bought twice daily from the baker.
The rather terrible Inquisition period in 18th
century Goa also brought in some food
prescriptions: not eating pork was a punishable
offence as was cooking rice without salt. The
thought behind this? Creating a wider division
between the Goan Christians who would align
with their Portuguese masters and the lowlier
Hindus and Muslims. This trend was reinforced
by legal pressure for Portuguese to marry
Goans, thus increasing the mix in the kitchen.
What all this produced was a cuisine that is
not Indian nor European, not Asian or South
American, not African but a mix of all cultures as
dishes produced with ingredients introduced to
Goa became changed and transformed yet again
when exported into the wider Lusophonic world
- so a Brazilian feijouada is recognisably the
same dish as a Goan feijouada, even though the
exact ingredients may differ. In Brazil, its origins
in slave cuisine meant a higher proportion of
offcuts of meat and offal whilst, in Goa, the
higher ranking Christian diners expected better
pork content. And so the world turns.
The challenge today is seeking out traditional
Goan cuisine. In common with most of India, it
is traditional to eat in the home or with friends
and although Goa is heavily supplied with
restaurants, the vast majority of them cater for
the international tourism trade. Walk the streets
of the capital Panaji (Panjim) and youre as likely
to find a Punjabi restaurant as a Chinese one.
However, there is a revival of traditional cooking
and any decent Goan bookshop will reveal half a
dozen cookbooks, from Whats in the pot? from
the Lions Club of Mapusa to the glossy Goa
travel adventure cookbook by Zubin DSouza to
the masterly and historical Cozinha de Goa by
Fatima da Silva Gracias.
Key Goan delights
The Goan cupboard

of key ingredients
* Kashmiri chilies - gives a fiery red
colour to dishes.
* Goan vinegar - made from coconut
palm toddy.
* Goan jaggery - dark brown or black
palm jaggery.
* Bimblim - sour fruit.
* Kokum - red berry used a souring agent.
* Tefio - dried citrus flavoured berries used
to cut through fatty fish.
* Bombay duck - dried fish used as
accompaniment to fish curry and rice.
Eat here - Goa

Horseshoe Cafe, Fontainhas, Panaji
Mums Kitchen, Miramar, Panaji
Brittos Bar & Restaurant, Baja Beach
Florentines, Saligao, Bardez
Loyds, Bogmalo Beach
Martins Corner, Betalbatim, Salcete
Martins Beach Corner, Miramar, Panaji
Nostalgia, Salcete
OCoqueiros, Alto Porvorim, Bardez
Viva Panjim, Fontainhas, Panaji
Sahakari Spice Farm, Curti Ponda
Riorico, Hotel Mandovi, Panaji
Beach House,Vivanta by Taj Holiday Village,
Sinquerim, Bardez
Eat here - UAE
Casa Goa, Palm Beach Hotel, Bur Dubai
Susegad Goa, New Peninsula Hotel, Al
Raffa Street, Dubai
Viva Goa, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai
IndiGoa, Karama Hotel, Kuwait Street, Dubai
Al Shay Restaurant, near Madina
supermarket, Karama, Dubai
Mahec, Meridien Village, Le Meridien
Dubai, Garhoud, Dubai
Treat Restaurant, Mubarak Building,
Karama, Dubai
Da Gama,Tennis Stadium, Aviation Club,
Garhoud, Dubai
Casa Goa, Al Bateen Street, near Shaikh
Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi
Chamua - Goan samosa

Crab xec xec - Crab in roasted coconut gravey
Ambot tik - Sour fish or meat curry
Balcho - Curry based on a sauce from
Macao, made from shrimp, aguardente,
laurel, lemon and chili
Sorpotel - Spicy curry with pork liver, tongue
and blood
Xacuti - Curry with roast grated coconut with
chicken or beef
Solantule kodi - Spicy coconut and kokum curry
Vindaloo - Spicy curry based on marination in
garlic and wine (vinho e alho)
Sardinhas recheadas
Stuffed sardines
SERVES 3
12 fresh sardines, medium
1 tsp salt
rice flour or semolina
oil for frying
2 tbsp spice paste
Ingredients for spice paste:
20 Kashmiri chilies, dry
1 tbsp cumin seeds
25 black peppercorns
12 cloves
cinnamon, 2 inch stick
10 garlic cloves
ginger, 2 inch
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp tamarind
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp sugar
3 tbsp vinegar
1 Grind the spices to a smooth paste. Use 2

tbsp and store the rest in a cool place.
2 Clean the fish and remove head and
centre bone, then apply salt and marinate
for few minutes.
3 Stuff the sardines with spice paste and
onions. Roll in flour and shallow fry in hot oil.
4 Serve hot with grilled onions and lemon
Food for the
Weekend
Dinner in an hour
Foolproof fondants
Saturday lunch
Low-cal pudding
Crab, lime & chilli toasts

recipe, p81
braised beef
88 Rich
with melting onions
pork fillet with

81Mustard
apple lentils & herb aioli
Ent
wit ertain
he
ase
!
& white
90Jam
chocolate roly-poly
WEEKEND
Dinner in
Three
courses
for
friends
an hour
Making a special meal doesnt have to
mean slaving away in the kitchen for hours,
as Jennifer Joyce proves with this simple,
stylish menu. Whether or not you admit
how little time it took is entirely up to you
Express menu for 6

Mustard pork fillet with apple lentils
& herb aioli
Yogurt parfaits with crushed
strawberries & amaretti
WEEKEND
Mustard pork fillet with

apple lentils & herb aioli
SERVES 6
mins Easy
PREP 10 mins
COOK 25
Pork loin fillets are fairly inexpensive and

yet look elegant at a dinner party. A quick
cheats aioli using bought mayonnaise,
lemon and tarragon makes a tangy sauce
to mop up the lentils and roasted meat.
1kg/2lb 4oz pork loin fillet
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
small bunch tarragon, chopped
350g/12oz Puy lentils
1 litre/1 pints vegetable stock
zest and juice 1 lemon
1 apple, cored and diced
200g jar good-quality mayonnaise
green beans, to serve

Rub the pork with a tbsp of oil, add
some seasoning, then seal the
outside of the meat all over in a hot
frying pan. Transfer the pork to a
baking sheet, brush the outside with
the mustard, then press on half of
the tarragon and cook for 20 mins.
Remove from the oven and cover
with foil for 5 mins.
2 Meanwhile, cook the lentils in the
stock until just tender, about 12
mins, drain, then toss with the
remaining olive oil, half the lemon
juice and the apple.
3 To make the aioli, mix the mayo,
garlic, lemon zest and remaining juice
and tarragon with some seasoning,
then set aside. Slice the pork into thick
slices and serve on a platter with the
lentils, a bowl of aioli to dip into and
some green beans.

SERVES 6
mins Easy
PREP 10 mins
COOK 5
Fresh white crabmeat is widely available,

but you could also use tinned. It only needs
a few extra touches like chili and lime, and
then you have your starter. Keep the toasts
crisp but still chewy in the centre, so guests
can easily bite through them.
1 small baguette, cut into 12 slices
2 tbsp olive oil
140g/5oz white crabmeat
1 red chilli, deseeded and finely
chopped
1 tbsp coriander, chopped
zest and juice 1 lime

Put the baguette slices onto a baking
tray, drizzle over half the oil, add some
seasoning, then bake for 5 mins until
golden at the edges.
2 Meanwhile, mix the crab, chilli,
coriander, lime zest and juice with
the remaining oil and some seasoning,
then spoon on top of the toast just
before you serve.
WEEKEND
Heres how I whip up dinner in an hour
Jennifer Joyce, busy food writer and mother of two, shares tips for
a smart but stress-free supper for friends
You dont want to be rushing off to make dessert halfway through your meal, so get
this done first. Simply assemble the puddings, then leave in fridge until ready to serve
10 minutes
Toast the bread and set aside. Mix the crab topping together
and refrigerate 10 minutes
Sear the meat, rub with mustard and tarragon, then place in
the oven to roast 10 minutes
Yogurt parfaits with crushed

strawberries & amaretti
SERVES 6 PREP 10 mins NO COOK
Easy
Superhealthy Good source of
vitamin C, Low fat
With its thick texture, Greek yogurt is the
perfect base for a quick pudding. You can
use any mashed or chopped fruit, but
end-of-summer strawberries are ideal.
While the meat roasts, cook lentils and prepare aioli 15 minutes
Keep the lentils in the liquid and drain them just before you serve. Remove the meat from
the oven and cover with foil to keep warm.
Blanch the green beans and keep warm in the pan 5 minutes
Arrange the crab on toasts and serve on a small platter 5 minutes
Drain lentils, toss with apples and oil, and arrange on platter with the beans. Slice the
400g punnet strawberries, chopped

4 tbsp caster sugar
500g pot low-fat Greek yoghurt
12 small amaretti biscuits, crushed
meat and arrange on top. Serve with aioli 5 minutes

For the puddings, remove from fridge and serve with small spoons.
In a small bowl, mix the strawberries

with half the sugar, then roughly mash
them with a fork so they are juicy. Mix
the remaining sugar into the yoghurt,
then layer up 6 glasses with amaretti
biscuits, yoghurt and strawberries.
No cooking required
WEEKEND
Come over for

curry
Forget the takeaway! Be inspired by Roopa Gulatis Indian menu
for eight a great way to feed a crowd for less
Photographs LIS PARSONS
Crunchy radish
& tomato salad
Tomato &
coriander sauce
Tandoori
chicken
Photograph david munns | Food styling lucy netherton | Styling lucy harvey
naan bread
Pilau with peas
Spicy cauliflower
WEEKEND
Crunchy radish & tomato salad
Spicy cauliflower

mins Easy
1 of 5-a-day
SERVES 8 PREP 10 mins COOK

20 mins Easy
Good source of vitamin C, counts
as 1 of 5-a-day
COOK 2
Counts as
For the relish

350g/12oz tomatoes, chopped
3 red onions, finely chopped
1 cucumber, deseeded and diced
200g/7oz red radishes, quartered
For the dressing
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 heaped tsp Dijon mustard
juice 2 limes
2 tsp caster sugar
1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
handful mint leaves, shredded
1 To make the dressing, heat the oil in

a pan, then throw in the mustard seeds
and cook until they start to pop. Tip the
seeds into a bowl and allow to cool. Add
the rest of the dressing ingredients to
the bowl and whisk everything together.
2 Add the tomatoes, onions, cucumber
and radish to the dressing, stir to coat,
then allow to stand at room temperature
for 10 mins before serving.

large piece ginger, finely chopped
2 tsp chilli flakes
2 tbsp cumin seeds
2 tsp turmeric
1.25kg/2lbs 12oz cauliflower (after
trimming and removing leaves),
broken into pieces
small bunch coriander, chopped
Heat the oil in a big pan or wok with

a lid, then add the ginger and spices.
Swirl everything around for a few secs
until the spices are aromatic. Reduce
the heat, then stir in the cauliflower and
some seasoning. Put the lid on and cook
for 10 mins or until softened, stirring
occasionally. Sprinkle over the coriander
before serving.
Pilau with peas
SERVES 8 PREP 10 mins COOK

20 mins Easy
Counts as 1 of 5-a-day, Low fat
ways with
naan bread
Make one flavour or all of them. Allow

about half a large naan per person.
Rosemary & chilli naan

Heat the grill to hot. Mix 1 tsp
chopped rosemary leaves with
1 deseeded and finely chopped red
chilli and stir in 1 tbsp olive oil. Drizzle
2 large naans with 1 tbsp water and
spread over the rosemary mix. Grill
for 2-3 mins until golden, then serve.
Garlic & mint naan

Heat the grill to hot. Mix 1 crushed
garlic clove with 1 tbsp shredded
mint leaves and 1 tbsp olive oil.
Drizzle 2 large naans with 1 tbsp
water, then spread over the garlic
and mint mix. Grill for 2-3 mins until
golden, then serve immediately.
Harissa & red onion naan

Heat the grill to hot. Mix 1 tsp harissa
paste with 1 tsp Greek yogurt and
1 finely chopped small red onion.
Drizzle 2 large naans with 1 tbsp
water, then spread over the harissa
and onion mix. Grill for 2-3 mins until
golden, then serve immediately.
Tomato & coriander sauce

COOK 10 mins Easy
700ml/1pt tomato passata
large piece ginger, grated
3 tsp caster sugar
3 green chillies, finely chopped
juice 1 lemon
2 tsp ground cumin
300ml/pt Greek yogurt
50g/2oz butter, diced
small bunch coriander, chopped
Put the passata, ginger, sugar, chillies,

lemon juice, cumin and yogurt into a pan
with some seasoning and bring to the
boil. Cook for 5 mins until slightly
reduced, then gradually stir in the butter.
Finish with the coriander and serve.
fat 9g, sat fat 5g, fibre none, sugar 5g, salt 0.59g
500g/1lb 2oz basmati rice

2 tsp cumin seeds
8 cloves
3 onions, chopped
3 green chillies, split lengthways, but
not cut all the way through
3 bay leaves
700ml/1pt vegetable stock
2 Drain the rice, then add it to the onions

and spices, stirring to coat the grains
with oil. Cover the rice with stock and
bring to a simmer. Scatter the frozen
peas on top, put the lid on, then cook on
a very low heat for 12-15 mins dont be
tempted to remove the lid.
3 Turn the heat off and leave, with the lid
on, for another 5 mins. Lightly fluff up
the rice with a fork before serving.
1 Wash the rice, then soak in enough

cold water to cover for 15 mins.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large pan
with a lid, add the cumin seeds and
cloves, then fry until fragrant. Stir in the
onions, then reduce the heat and cook
with the lid on for 10 mins, stirring
occasionally or until soft. Add the
chillies and bay leaves, then increase the
heat and fry until the onions are golden.
WEEKEND
WEEKEND
Tandoori chicken
marinating COOK 15 mins
Easy
Good for you, Low fat
juice 2 lemons
4 tsp paprika
2 red onions, finely chopped
16 skinless chicken thighs
vegetable oil, for brushing
FOR THE MARINADE
300ml/pt Greek yogurt
large piece ginger, grated
4 garlic cloves, crushed
tsp garam masala
tsp ground cumin
tsp chilli powder
tsp turmeric
1 Mix the lemon juice with the paprika

and red onions in a large shallow dish.
Slash each chicken thigh three times,
then turn them in the juice and set
aside for 10 mins.
2 Mix all of the marinade ingredients
together and pour over the chicken.
Give everything a good mix, then cover
and chill for at least 1 hr. This can be done
up to a day in advance.
3 Heat the grill. Lift the chicken pieces
onto a rack over a baking tray. Brush
over a little oil and grill for 8 mins on
each side or until lightly charred and
completely cooked through.
fat 7g, sat fat 3g, fibre none, sugar 2g, salt 0.29g
WEEKEND
Speedy ginger ice cream
with chilli-chocolate sauce
SERVES 8
mins Easy
PREP 10 mins
COOK 10
75g/2oz stem ginger, finely

chopped
3 tbsp syrup from the ginger
1-litre tub vanilla ice cream, softened
FOR THE CHILLI-CHOCOLATE SAUCE
300g/11oz dark chocolate, chopped
pinch chilli flakes
200ml/7fl oz whole milk
100ml/3fl oz double cream
25g/1oz golden caster sugar
cones, to serve (optional)
2 Put the chocolate and chilli in a large

bowl. Bring milk, cream and sugar to
the boil, then remove from heat and
pour over the chocolate. Leave to
stand for 2 mins, then whisk until the
chocolate is melted. Serve warm with
a scoop of ice cream.
PER SERVING 479 kcals, protein 6g,
carbs 50g, fat 30g, sat fat 17g, fibre 2g,
sugar 40g, salt 0.24g
1 Stir the ginger and syrup through the

ice cream, then return to the freezer
to firm up for at least 1 hr.
Wow your friends with

spicy ice cream flavours
WEEKEND
Saturday lunch
for the family
Cooking within a budget doesnt mean you have to
skimp on flavour and portion size. Spoil your family with
Sara Buenfelds two-course lunch. Satisfying comfort
food at its best
Photographs LIS PARSONS
WEEKEND
Rich braised beef with

melting onions
Stuffed jackets with leeks

& Boursin soft cheese

Superhealthy Good source of
hrs Easy
iron and folic acid, counts as 2 of
5-a-day 1.41 per serving

95p per serving
COOK 1-2 hrs Easy
Im a fan of beef shin. It cooks to a melting

texture far better than braising steak, which
can end up dry, even though it falls apart.
4 thick generous slices beef shin,
about 700g/1lb 9oz
plain flour, for dusting
3 medium onions, halved and
thinly sliced
2 tsp caster sugar
700ml/1pts beef stock (made
with 2 cubes)
3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
4 large flat mushrooms, thickly sliced
chopped parsley, to serve
1 Dust the beef in flour, then set aside.

Heat the oil in a large pan. Add the
onions and fry for 5 mins. Add the sugar
and cook for 5-10 mins, stirring
frequently, until the onions are
caramelised. Stir in the garlic for the final
few mins.
2 Pour in the stock and stir in the
Worcestershire sauce. Add the beef
and mushrooms, then season, adding
plenty of black pepper. Cover and cook
gently for 2 hrs until the meat is tender.
Can be chilled for up to 3 days. To
freeze, cool and store in freezer bags.
Thaw and reheat in a pan. Serve
scattered with parsley.
Kids love this type of potato dish. Its also

delicious with sausages and gravy.
sunflower oil
4 baking potatoes
2 large leeks, halved lengthways,
well washed and thinly sliced
50g/2oz butter
100g/4oz Boursin cheese

Rub the oil over the skin of the potatoes,
then bake for 1-1 hrs until theyre
soft when you stick a knife into them.
Allow to cool a little. Meanwhile, saut
the leeks in 40g of the butter for about
5 mins until softened.
2 Halve the potatoes and scoop the flesh
into a bowl, leaving behind a good
border of potato all the way around the
skin, so the potato shells can stand on a
baking tray and hold their shape.
3 Beat the potato flesh with a spoon, to
break it up rather than mash it, then stir
in the buttery leeks, seasoning and the
cheese. Scoop the mixture back into the
shells and arrange on a baking tray. Dot
the remaining butter on top of the filled
potatoes. Bake for 30-40 mins until
piping hot and starting to turn golden.
Thyme-glazed carrots & peas

Superhealthy High in fibre,
mins Easy
good source of beta-carotene, counts
as 2 of 5-a-day, Low fat 34p per serving
4 large carrots, cut into chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp caster sugar
1 tbsp thyme or lemon thyme
1 Tip the carrots into a non-stick pan

and add the oil, sugar, thyme and
seasoning. Pour over 150ml water and
bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, for
6-8 mins until most of the liquid has
evaporated and the carrots look a
little glossy.
2 Add the peas, cover the pan
and cook for a few mins more.
Serve immediately.
WANT TO GET AHEAD?

You can make the braised beef up to
three days ahead; store chilled in the
fridge. When ready to cook, reheat in a
pan until bubbling. It freezes well for up
to three months, too.
Bake and stuff the potatoes, top with the
butter, then cover and chill overnight. When
ready to cook, reheat in the oven, adding
an extra 5-10 mins to the cooking time.
You can weigh out and mix the dried
ingredients for the suet pastry, but the
roly-poly tastes best fresh from the oven,
so make on the day. Bake so its ready as
you finish your main course.
WEEKEND
Jam & white chocolate

roly-poly
SERVES 4 (with leftovers)
PREP 20 mins COOK 50 mins
Moderately easy
50p per serving with
custard (based on cutting into 4)
Suet puddings are traditionally steamed,
however, this recipe is much easier as it
is baked and, for a modern twist, rolled
then drizzled with white chocolate. If you
have any white chocolate left over, you
can melt it into the custard.
butter, for greasing
300g/11oz self-raising flour
85g/3oz caster sugar
140g/5oz suet
150ml/pt milk, plus a dash
8 tbsp raspberry jam
50g/2oz white chocolate, chopped,
plus about 25g/1oz, melted
425g carton custard, to serve

Butter a sheet of baking parchment. Mix
the flour with the sugar, suet and a good
pinch of salt, then bind with the milk to
make a soft, but not sticky, dough. Add
a dash more milk if it helps to bind the
last few bits left in the bowl.
2 Roll out the dough on a floured surface
to a 20 x 30cm oblong. Spread with the
jam and scatter with the chocolate,
leaving a border all the way around.
3 Roll up the dough from one short
end so you have a sausage shape,
then gently pinch the ends to seal in
the jam. Carefully lift onto the
prepared parchment.
4 Fold the paper up over the ends of
the roly-poly, then wrap up quite
tightly. Secure with staples or bulldog
clips all the way along the roll, as this
will help you achieve the classic
round shape.
5 Bake for 50 mins until the roll feels firm
and looks golden through the paper.
Allow to stand for 5 mins before cutting,
as this will stop the jam flowing out.
Drizzle with the melted chocolate and
serve with a jug of warmed custard.
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WEEKEND
Foolproof
fondants
Learning to make the

ultimate show-off dessert,
molten chocolate fondants,
is a lot easier than you think
BARNEY DESMAZERY Food editor
Barneys
restaurant
classics
Foolproof chocolate
& coffee fondants
MAKES 6 PREP 20 mins plus chilling
COOK 12 mins Moderately easy
Ive added a splash of coffee to the
fondants, which makes them even
more after-dinner.
PER SERVING 635 kcals, protein 9g, carbs
175g/6oz butter, plus extra melted

butter for greasing
cocoa powder, for dusting
175g/6oz good-quality dark chocolate
(we used 70%)
200g/7oz golden caster sugar
4 eggs
50ml/2fl oz good-quality black coffee
(we used espresso coffee)
85g/3oz plain flour
vanilla ice cream, to serve

Use a pastry brush to grease 6 dariole
moulds or individual pudding basins
really well and place in the fridge for
the butter to set. Then grease again,
dust with cocoa powder and set aside.
2 Melt the butter and chocolate
together over a pan of barely
simmering water, then remove. In a
separate bowl, beat the sugar and
eggs together until light and fluffy. Fold
the chocolate and beaten egg together,
then add the coffee and finally fold
through the flour.
3 Divide the mixture between the
darioles. The puddings can now be
frozen or chilled (see Restaurant tips,
right). Place on a baking tray and
bake for exactly 12 mins until the

mixture has puffed up and formed a
crust but still has a slight wobble to
it. Turn the puddings out onto serving
plates and serve with a big scoop of
vanilla ice cream for a great contrast
of hot and cold.
60g, fat 42g, sat fat 23g, fibre 2g, sugar 44g,
salt 0.52g
RESTAURANT TIPS
Chefs have developed little tricks to
ensure that they get perfect results every
time. For fondants, its greasing the
moulds twice. This makes all the
difference and guarantees that the
puddings will slip out easily when turned
out onto the plates, so its well worth the
effort.
The secret to getting the gooey middle
is timing. Dont leave it to chance or
estimate make sure you set a timer
to exactly 12 minutes.
A pastry chef would never make
fondants at the last minute, as they hold
so well in the fridge or freezer. They can
be made several hours ahead and chilled
before cooking; or freeze, then cook from
frozen for 15 minutes.
You can make the fondant without the
coffee and add other flavours. A dash
of rum, some chopped stem ginger,
a sprinkling of cinnamon or even a small
pinch of chilli powder all work well.
Photograph david munns | Food styling lucy netherton | Styling lucy harvey
There are few more

magic cookery moments
than digging a spoon
into a chocolate fondant
and watching the rich
sauce ooze out these
really are the best dinner
party dessert ever
WEEKEND
Perfect every time
LAST BITE
Healthier recipe for this delicious dessert

Upside-down
lemon cheesecake
Serves 8 20 minutes + setting
Easy
WHY ITS LIGHTER Soft cheese is very high

in fat and, added to a fat-filled biscuit base,
cheesecake is loaded with calories. Mixing
virtually fat-free quark with light soft
cheese for the top, and using low-fat
crushed amaretti biscuits for the base
makes the whole recipe much lighter.
500g quark
200g light soft cheese
6 tbsp lemon curd, plus a little extra
mixed with lemon juice to serve
2 tbsp icing sugar
2 lemons, zested and juiced
4 gelatine sheets
12 amaretti biscuits, crushed
Line a 20cm springform tin with

clingfilm. Beat the quark and soft
cheese with the lemon curd, icing sugar
and lemon zest. Soak the gelatine in
cold water until it is floppy, lift out and

then put in a small pan with the lemon
juice and heat gently until the gelatine
melts. Stir into the cheese mixture
and pour into the tin. Sprinkle the
amaretti over the top and press in
gently. Chill for 3 to 4 hours or
overnight until set and then carefully
turn out onto a plate to serve. Spoon
over a little extra lemon curd mixed
with lemon juice if you like.
PER SERVING 185 kcals, protein 14.4g, carbs
23.6g, fat 4.2g, sat fat 2.4g, fibre 0.2g, salt 0.48g
Hcker, the definitive German luxury kitchen company, dedicated to

designing and crafting the worlds most desirable kitchens.
Hcker Kitchen | Sheikh Zayed Road | Al Barsha | Dubai | UAE

Tel 04 3990425 | [email protected] | www.hacker.ae
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MA K E SPACE YOUR OW N

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January 2012

New year, new you!

WIN, WIN, WIN!

Sesame & honey tofu

Publication licensed by IMPZ

Become a fan of Socit Perrier

New year, new you

BBC Worldwide Magazines Unit:

Relax, enjoy and savour BBC Good Food ME,

Lauren Hills, editor

PAGE 66 | MORE cooking skills

Marketing & Communications

PAGE 52 | Racing to compete

January 2012 BBC Good Food Middle East 1

EVERYDAY CHEFS BITES

4 CRAZY FOR COMPETITIONS

18 NEW YEAR DETOX

22 FIVE WAYS WITH PULSES

2 BBC Good Food Middle East January 2012

84 COME OVER FOR CURRY

Sesame & honey tofu

Our recipe descriptions

Suitable for vegetarians

88 SATURDAY LUNCH FOR THE FAMILY

5g or less per portion; low in salt, 1.5g

or two portions of your recommended

Some recipes contain pork & alcohol. These

January 2012 BBC Good Food Middle East 3

Crazy for competitions

A MEAL FOR TWO at EL CHICo

Enjoy dinner for two at El Chico,

A MEAL FOR TWO AT THE W GRILL AND

Dine at the recently-launched European style grill

DINNER FOR TWO AT AMWAJ

Tempt your taste buds by feasting on an array of

Up for grabs! A box of scrumptious cupcakes

A NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT

Enjoy a night stay including breakfast at the

4 BBC Good Food Middle East January 2012

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SEND IN A RECIPE AND WIN TICKETS TO

A FRIDAY BRUNCH FIESTA FOR

Choose from a variety of five restaurants, The

A DOWN TO EARTH ORGANIC

Winners receive a gift hamper with a range

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Chef Rafael Capanas

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6 BBC Good Food Middle East January 2012

Italian street caf

The newly-opened Esca Caff at Qamardeen Hotel, nestled within the

The IVY launches its

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8 BBC Good Food Middle East January 2012