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Make do and empty those cupboards...

It's amazing what you can make with the scraps left in the fridge, freezer and cupboards. I'm in the process of the big pre-Christmas clear out and things are reaching a critical point! But you know, I do love a culinary challenge and I find the using up of every scrap of food quite rewarding in a curiously self-righteous way.

According to my long suffering partner "There is absolutely nothing to eat in this house". I beg to differ. Since he made this declaration on Sunday morning, so far, with a little culinary license, I have made:
  

• Lasagne (using marmite to flavour the sauce as I had no cheese - it works a treat)

• Fresh bread

• Sun dried tomato and parmesan scones (using up the parmesan rinds that I never throw away)

• Iced finger buns

• Tomato soup 

• Butternut squash and walnut risotto (using pudding rice - which gives a similar but softer texture to Arborio rice)

• Thai green curry with aubergine, broad beans and peas (the only vegetables left. I'm now extremely twitchy)

• Fresh naan bread (much easier than you think)

However, now that the tea bags and milk have run out I have to admit defeat. There are some things that you just can't live without and tea is one of them. So, off to the shops I go...

A new foodie haven discovered...

I've just come back from a weekend away in my favourite city - York. I love everything about York; the architecture, the rich tapestry of history, the shops, the pubs, the atmosphere and of course the food. I've eaten some fabulous food over the years and this time I discovered a gorgeous new deli cafe that I must recommend to anyone who, like me, is a bit of a foodie - Mannion & Co.

 

 



We only popped in for a coffee but having seen the deli counter with its array of enticing olives, meats, cheeses and artisan breads we just couldn't resist. We ordered the tapas sharing platter for two and were stunned by the bounty of quality produce we were presented with. And what excellent value at £10.50 for both of us!

There is a lovely selection of nibbley foods, sandwiches and main meals on offer with a daily changing board reflecting the fresh produce available. The drinks menu is well thought out too, with quality leaf teas and barista coffees which were also delicious.

So next time you're in York, pop in to Mannion & Co, 1 Blake Street. I guarantee you'll leave feeling very contented!

Visit the Mannion & Co website here