Hannah F, Author at thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:03:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 3 Times to Use Red Wine in Cooking https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-times-to-use-red-wine-in-cooking/ Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:46:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9556 Some cooks swear by using certain alcohol in their recipes. A classic choice is red wine, as it can add a unique richness and depth to some savory dishes. But it doesn’t always have a place in meals. If you’re unsure of which kinds of meals to include it in, then here are three examples […]

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]]> Some cooks swear by using certain alcohol in their recipes. A classic choice is red wine, as it can add a unique richness and depth to some savory dishes. But it doesn’t always have a place in meals. If you’re unsure of which kinds of meals to include it in, then here are three examples of good times to use it to get you started. 

Beef Stew

If you’re planning a slow-cooked hearty beef stew, then adding red wine to the recipe is almost essential. When added to the liquid of the stew early on, then the beef and the vegetables you use end up soaking up all the rich, tart, and smooth flavors that are released during the cooking. 

Nut Roast

This is another example where opting to slow-cook at a low temperature allows the ingredients and flavors you use to slowly soak into each other. Adding a dash of red wine before you bake this dish means the nuts and vegetables become super tender and tasty.

Homemade Gravy

If you’re going to the effort to make gravy from scratch for a hearty winter meal, then adding red wine helps the flavors blend much better and means all the food on your plate can be covered in the delicious mixture of ingredients.

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]]> Here’s a Delicious Crunchy Winter Salad https://thedancingcucumber.com/heres-a-delicious-crunchy-winter-salad/ Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:44:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9512 If you’re someone who loves a fresh green salad in summer, then this is something you’re likely to miss during winter when typical salad ingredients aren’t around. This winter salad is ideal for when you’re craving something fresh and crunchy during this season. It’s perfect as a side to any meal or could be mixed […]

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]]> If you’re someone who loves a fresh green salad in summer, then this is something you’re likely to miss during winter when typical salad ingredients aren’t around. This winter salad is ideal for when you’re craving something fresh and crunchy during this season. It’s perfect as a side to any meal or could be mixed with rice or couscous and served as a main with some added protein of your choice. 

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

  • ½ red cabbage 
  • 2 large carrots
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 large sticks of celery
  • ½ cup peanuts or cashew nuts
  • ¼ cup cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Finely slice the red cabbage into very thin strips and place in a large salad bowl
  2. Grate the carrots into a bowl
  3. Using your hands, squeeze the grated carrots over the bowl to remove excess liquid
  4. Add the carrots to the cabbage bowl
  5. Finely dice the celery and onion and add to the salad bowl
  6. Sprinkle over some sea salt and then add the balsamic vinegar
  7. Stir thoroughly and then set aside for 5 minutes
  8. Grate over some fresh black pepper and then add the extra virgin olive oil and mix well
  9. Add the nuts of your choice and tear the cilantro into the bowl
  10. Stir well and then serve

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]]> 3 Times When Cooking With Butter is a Game Changer https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-times-when-cooking-with-butter-is-a-game-changer/ Sat, 09 Dec 2023 16:32:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9236 Butter is an incredible ingredient, and makes just about every dish better. However, you’ve never had butter quite like this before, and using it in these three situations will change the game. Scrambled Eggs This super quick and easy meal is transformed when butter is entered into the equation. Instead of starting with oil, melt […]

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]]> Butter is an incredible ingredient, and makes just about every dish better. However, you’ve never had butter quite like this before, and using it in these three situations will change the game.

Scrambled Eggs

This super quick and easy meal is transformed when butter is entered into the equation. Instead of starting with oil, melt some butter in the pan in which you’ll be scrambling the eggs. Having the eggs cooked in this way produces some seriously creamy and smooth results. 

Steak

Steak is already very luxurious, so maybe you’re thinking there’s no need to add butter as well. But once you try the difference you won’t think twice in the future. You’ll want to start with a bit of oil in the pan for the steak to begin frying in, as the butter would likely burn at this stage. However, once the steak has been cooking for a few minutes and is starting to brown, this is when the butter should be added – just rub a small amount into the steak and let it melt into it. 

Mushrooms and Garlic

Mushrooms and garlic is a dream pairing, and works as part of many meals, from big breakfasts to pasta dishes. As perfect as these two are together, the combo reaches new levels when butter joins the picture. Just use it to fry instead of oil. 

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]]> Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry https://thedancingcucumber.com/beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry/ Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:09:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9233 Stir fry is one of the best meals. Quick, tasty, and packed with veg, you can’t really go wrong. This exciting version pairs fresh green broccoli with succulent beef for a hearty and healthy meal. You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes too, by adding different vegetables or using different sauces.  View this […]

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]]> Stir fry is one of the best meals. Quick, tasty, and packed with veg, you can’t really go wrong. This exciting version pairs fresh green broccoli with succulent beef for a hearty and healthy meal. You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes too, by adding different vegetables or using different sauces. 

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

  • 15 oz frying steak
  • 1 head of broccoli 
  • 1 large white onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1 red chili
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • ½ cup cashew nuts

Instructions:

  1. Chop the broccoli, onion, garlic, ginger, and chili
  2. Chop the frying steak into smaller pieces
  3. In a large wok heat the oil
  4. Add the broccoli and onion
  5. Fry this for 10 minutes stirring frequently
  6. Add the beef and continue to stir fry for another 5 minutes
  7. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili and continue to stir fry for another 5 minutes 
  8. Add the cashew nuts and stir them through
  9. In a small bowl mix the oyster sauce and rice vinegar and then add to the wok, ensuring it is well mixed in
  10. Serve immediately with rice or noodles, and some cilantro scattered over

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]]> Hearty Beef Stew https://thedancingcucumber.com/hearty-beef-stew/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:04:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9184 There’s nothing more comforting than hot, tasty stew when it’s cold and miserable out. Letting this simmer for a while is the secret here, as this results in soft, succulent chunks of beef and super flavorsome vegetables. This can be served with some simple yet satisfying mashed potato, or you could try making some dumplings […]

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]]> There’s nothing more comforting than hot, tasty stew when it’s cold and miserable out. Letting this simmer for a while is the secret here, as this results in soft, succulent chunks of beef and super flavorsome vegetables. This can be served with some simple yet satisfying mashed potato, or you could try making some dumplings to throw on top of the stew 5 minutes before the end of the cooking time. 

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 15 oz stewing steak chunks
  • 1 large white onion
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 large carrots
  • ½ swede
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1 cup red wine

Instructions:

  1. Chop up the onion, carrots, swede, and garlic
  2. In a large pot heat some oil and then  add the onion, carrots, and swede 
  3. Fry this for 5-10 minutes, until the veg has started to soften
  4. Add the beef chunks and continue to fry for another 5 minutes
  5. Add the garlic, thyme, and paprika and fry for another 5 minutes, until there’s no visible pinkness to the beef 
  6. Pour in the beef stock and the red wine, and increase the heat, stirring regularly 
  7. Continue to let this simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring to make sure the bottom doesn’t stick
  8. When the liquid has thickened, it’s ready to serve – enjoy!

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]]> Easy Carrot Cake https://thedancingcucumber.com/easy-carrot-cake/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:50:48 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9167 This carrot cake recipe is easy to make and is the perfect sweet treat to please the whole family.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by BBC Food (@bbcfood) Ingredients: For the Frosting: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Meez☕ (@meez_foodie) Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared […]

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]]> This carrot cake recipe is easy to make and is the perfect sweet treat to please the whole family. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain flour
  • 1 cup demerara sugar
  • 2 carrots
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons oil 
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg

For the Frosting:

  • 3 ounces butter
  • 6 ounces full-fat cream cheese
  • ½ cup icing sugar
  • Walnut halves for decoration 

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 ℉
  2. Line a cake tin with greaseproof baking paper
  3. Grate the carrots and place to one side
  4. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and oil until it reaches a smooth consistency
  5. Add the grated carrot, cinnamon, and nutmeg and mix well
  6. Add the eggs and beat them in
  7. Place this mixture into the cake tin and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes
  8. Meanwhile, make the cream cheese frosting
  9. Beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth
  10. Add the icing sugar and beat again, until everything is thoroughly mixed 
  11. When the time is up, check the cake is cooked by sticking a knife in the middle and seeing if it comes out clean
  12. When cooked, leave the cake to cool on a rack
  13. When completely cool, top with the frosting and then decorate with walnut halves

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]]> 3 Salad Leaves to Try https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-salad-leaves-to-try/ Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:18:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9076 For many of us, salads are often the same ingredients each time. While we obviously have our favorite go-tos, there are so many options out there and it’s great to mix these up from time to time. Here are some options to try to add some new life to your salads.  Lambs Lettuce This mild […]

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]]> For many of us, salads are often the same ingredients each time. While we obviously have our favorite go-tos, there are so many options out there and it’s great to mix these up from time to time. Here are some options to try to add some new life to your salads. 

Lambs Lettuce

This mild yet tangy leaf is a great base for a huge range of salads. It’s easy to find and works in many contexts. Try roasted butternut squash with feta, lambs lettuce, and toasted pumpkin seeds for a warming and hearty salad.

Pea Shoots 

As the name suggests, this delicious leaf comes from the pea plant. Its fresh and pea-like taste will bring so much life to your salads. Try this dressing with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and some sea salt as a side to a hearty lasagne or pasta bake. 

Radicchio 

This one is quite bitter by itself, so works best paired with something sharp and zingy. For example, try a salad with goat’s cheese, figs, and a balsamic vinegar dressing for a rich and fresh-tasting meal. The beautiful pink leaves will add some photo-worthy aesthetic to your dish too. 

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]]> Super Easy Butter Bean Houmous https://thedancingcucumber.com/super-easy-butter-bean-houmous/ Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:14:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9075 Houmous is a popular dish worldwide. It has many versions of it, all originating from various parts of the world. This version uses butter beans instead of the usual chickpeas. Butter beans have a delicious savory flavor to them and work in the same contexts as classic houmous. They’re also high in protein, so are […]

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]]> Houmous is a popular dish worldwide. It has many versions of it, all originating from various parts of the world. This version uses butter beans instead of the usual chickpeas. Butter beans have a delicious savory flavor to them and work in the same contexts as classic houmous. They’re also high in protein, so are a great choice for a healthy side. This recipe is super simple and doesn’t require a food processor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 15-ounce canned butter beans 
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Drain and rinse the butter beans, and place them into a large bowl
  2. With a potato masher, crush and smash the beans until they have broken down
  3. Finely mince the garlic, making it as small and crushed as possible 
  4. Add the oil and tahini to the beans and mix together
  5. Add the minced garlic, the lemon juice, and the smoked paprika, and mix thoroughly 
  6. Once this mixture is well combined, it should be left to sit for at least 2 hours
  7. It can then be used as a dip or spread and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days

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]]> The Best Mac and Cheese Recipe https://thedancingcucumber.com/the-best-mac-and-cheese-recipe/ Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:26:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9035 Try this super indulgent and comforting version of the beloved classic. View this post on Instagram A post shared by America's Test Kitchen (@testkitchen) Ingredients (serves 4): View this post on Instagram A post shared by Murray’s Mac & Cheese (@murraysmac) Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michaela Vais | Vegan […]

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]]> Try this super indulgent and comforting version of the beloved classic.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 8 ounces of macaroni
  • 1 large onion 
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 cups of milk
  • 2 tablespoons of flour 
  • 2 tablespoons butter 
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 350℉.
  • Fry the onion and garlic until soft. Add the vinegar and stir until dissolved. Leave to cool.
  • Put a pot of water to boil, and add the macaroni once the water is bubbling. Reduce heat and simmer for the time stated on the packaging, then drain.
  • Meanwhile, heat the butter until melted. Add the flour and stir thoroughly until all blended. Increase the heat and gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
  • Take the sauce off the heat and stir through the cheese and the mustard. With an immersion blender, blitz up the onion and garlic and add this to the sauce.
  • Put the drained macaroni in an overproof dish and then stir the sauce mixture through. Top with more shredded cheese and the breadcrumbs, and put in the oven for about 30 minutes, until the top has browned.
  • Serve with some greens.

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]]> An Easy Recipe for Simple Roasted Veggies https://thedancingcucumber.com/an-easy-recipe-for-simple-roasted-veggies/ Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:38:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9031 Roasted veg is one of the easiest dishes to create, but is so satisfying and delicious. This comforting and healthy recipe will go with a huge range of meals. Stir it through pasta with some fish, or have it with some mashed potatoes and sausages. It will also work well as a component of a […]

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]]> Roasted veg is one of the easiest dishes to create, but is so satisfying and delicious. This comforting and healthy recipe will go with a huge range of meals. Stir it through pasta with some fish, or have it with some mashed potatoes and sausages. It will also work well as a component of a tapas-style meal.

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 large onion 
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350℉.
  2. Chop up all the veg into similar-sized pieces.
  3. Place all the veg into a large bowl. Add the extra virgin olive oil and stir thoroughly. Then gradually add the paprika, basil, and seasoning, making sure to stir well.
  4. Once the veg is evenly coated with oil, spices, and herbs, transfer it to a large ovenproof dish. Put in the oven for 20 minutes, and then give it a good stir. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes, or until all softened and browned. 
  5. Serve this up with your choice of accompaniment. 

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> Hannah F, Author at thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:03:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 3 Times to Use Red Wine in Cooking https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-times-to-use-red-wine-in-cooking/ Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:46:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9556 Some cooks swear by using certain alcohol in their recipes. A classic choice is red wine, as it can add a unique richness and depth to some savory dishes. But it doesn’t always have a place in meals. If you’re unsure of which kinds of meals to include it in, then here are three examples […]

The post 3 Times to Use Red Wine in Cooking appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Some cooks swear by using certain alcohol in their recipes. A classic choice is red wine, as it can add a unique richness and depth to some savory dishes. But it doesn’t always have a place in meals. If you’re unsure of which kinds of meals to include it in, then here are three examples of good times to use it to get you started. 

Beef Stew

If you’re planning a slow-cooked hearty beef stew, then adding red wine to the recipe is almost essential. When added to the liquid of the stew early on, then the beef and the vegetables you use end up soaking up all the rich, tart, and smooth flavors that are released during the cooking. 

Nut Roast

This is another example where opting to slow-cook at a low temperature allows the ingredients and flavors you use to slowly soak into each other. Adding a dash of red wine before you bake this dish means the nuts and vegetables become super tender and tasty.

Homemade Gravy

If you’re going to the effort to make gravy from scratch for a hearty winter meal, then adding red wine helps the flavors blend much better and means all the food on your plate can be covered in the delicious mixture of ingredients.

The post 3 Times to Use Red Wine in Cooking appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Here’s a Delicious Crunchy Winter Salad https://thedancingcucumber.com/heres-a-delicious-crunchy-winter-salad/ Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:44:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9512 If you’re someone who loves a fresh green salad in summer, then this is something you’re likely to miss during winter when typical salad ingredients aren’t around. This winter salad is ideal for when you’re craving something fresh and crunchy during this season. It’s perfect as a side to any meal or could be mixed […]

The post Here’s a Delicious Crunchy Winter Salad appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> If you’re someone who loves a fresh green salad in summer, then this is something you’re likely to miss during winter when typical salad ingredients aren’t around. This winter salad is ideal for when you’re craving something fresh and crunchy during this season. It’s perfect as a side to any meal or could be mixed with rice or couscous and served as a main with some added protein of your choice. 

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

  • ½ red cabbage 
  • 2 large carrots
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 large sticks of celery
  • ½ cup peanuts or cashew nuts
  • ¼ cup cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Finely slice the red cabbage into very thin strips and place in a large salad bowl
  2. Grate the carrots into a bowl
  3. Using your hands, squeeze the grated carrots over the bowl to remove excess liquid
  4. Add the carrots to the cabbage bowl
  5. Finely dice the celery and onion and add to the salad bowl
  6. Sprinkle over some sea salt and then add the balsamic vinegar
  7. Stir thoroughly and then set aside for 5 minutes
  8. Grate over some fresh black pepper and then add the extra virgin olive oil and mix well
  9. Add the nuts of your choice and tear the cilantro into the bowl
  10. Stir well and then serve

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]]> 3 Times When Cooking With Butter is a Game Changer https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-times-when-cooking-with-butter-is-a-game-changer/ Sat, 09 Dec 2023 16:32:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9236 Butter is an incredible ingredient, and makes just about every dish better. However, you’ve never had butter quite like this before, and using it in these three situations will change the game. Scrambled Eggs This super quick and easy meal is transformed when butter is entered into the equation. Instead of starting with oil, melt […]

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]]> Butter is an incredible ingredient, and makes just about every dish better. However, you’ve never had butter quite like this before, and using it in these three situations will change the game.

Scrambled Eggs

This super quick and easy meal is transformed when butter is entered into the equation. Instead of starting with oil, melt some butter in the pan in which you’ll be scrambling the eggs. Having the eggs cooked in this way produces some seriously creamy and smooth results. 

Steak

Steak is already very luxurious, so maybe you’re thinking there’s no need to add butter as well. But once you try the difference you won’t think twice in the future. You’ll want to start with a bit of oil in the pan for the steak to begin frying in, as the butter would likely burn at this stage. However, once the steak has been cooking for a few minutes and is starting to brown, this is when the butter should be added – just rub a small amount into the steak and let it melt into it. 

Mushrooms and Garlic

Mushrooms and garlic is a dream pairing, and works as part of many meals, from big breakfasts to pasta dishes. As perfect as these two are together, the combo reaches new levels when butter joins the picture. Just use it to fry instead of oil. 

The post 3 Times When Cooking With Butter is a Game Changer appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry https://thedancingcucumber.com/beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry/ Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:09:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9233 Stir fry is one of the best meals. Quick, tasty, and packed with veg, you can’t really go wrong. This exciting version pairs fresh green broccoli with succulent beef for a hearty and healthy meal. You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes too, by adding different vegetables or using different sauces.  View this […]

The post Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Stir fry is one of the best meals. Quick, tasty, and packed with veg, you can’t really go wrong. This exciting version pairs fresh green broccoli with succulent beef for a hearty and healthy meal. You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes too, by adding different vegetables or using different sauces. 

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

  • 15 oz frying steak
  • 1 head of broccoli 
  • 1 large white onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1 red chili
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • ½ cup cashew nuts

Instructions:

  1. Chop the broccoli, onion, garlic, ginger, and chili
  2. Chop the frying steak into smaller pieces
  3. In a large wok heat the oil
  4. Add the broccoli and onion
  5. Fry this for 10 minutes stirring frequently
  6. Add the beef and continue to stir fry for another 5 minutes
  7. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili and continue to stir fry for another 5 minutes 
  8. Add the cashew nuts and stir them through
  9. In a small bowl mix the oyster sauce and rice vinegar and then add to the wok, ensuring it is well mixed in
  10. Serve immediately with rice or noodles, and some cilantro scattered over

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]]> Hearty Beef Stew https://thedancingcucumber.com/hearty-beef-stew/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:04:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9184 There’s nothing more comforting than hot, tasty stew when it’s cold and miserable out. Letting this simmer for a while is the secret here, as this results in soft, succulent chunks of beef and super flavorsome vegetables. This can be served with some simple yet satisfying mashed potato, or you could try making some dumplings […]

The post Hearty Beef Stew appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> There’s nothing more comforting than hot, tasty stew when it’s cold and miserable out. Letting this simmer for a while is the secret here, as this results in soft, succulent chunks of beef and super flavorsome vegetables. This can be served with some simple yet satisfying mashed potato, or you could try making some dumplings to throw on top of the stew 5 minutes before the end of the cooking time. 

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 15 oz stewing steak chunks
  • 1 large white onion
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 large carrots
  • ½ swede
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1 cup red wine

Instructions:

  1. Chop up the onion, carrots, swede, and garlic
  2. In a large pot heat some oil and then  add the onion, carrots, and swede 
  3. Fry this for 5-10 minutes, until the veg has started to soften
  4. Add the beef chunks and continue to fry for another 5 minutes
  5. Add the garlic, thyme, and paprika and fry for another 5 minutes, until there’s no visible pinkness to the beef 
  6. Pour in the beef stock and the red wine, and increase the heat, stirring regularly 
  7. Continue to let this simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring to make sure the bottom doesn’t stick
  8. When the liquid has thickened, it’s ready to serve – enjoy!

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]]> Easy Carrot Cake https://thedancingcucumber.com/easy-carrot-cake/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:50:48 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9167 This carrot cake recipe is easy to make and is the perfect sweet treat to please the whole family.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by BBC Food (@bbcfood) Ingredients: For the Frosting: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Meez☕ (@meez_foodie) Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared […]

The post Easy Carrot Cake appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> This carrot cake recipe is easy to make and is the perfect sweet treat to please the whole family. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain flour
  • 1 cup demerara sugar
  • 2 carrots
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons oil 
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg

For the Frosting:

  • 3 ounces butter
  • 6 ounces full-fat cream cheese
  • ½ cup icing sugar
  • Walnut halves for decoration 

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 ℉
  2. Line a cake tin with greaseproof baking paper
  3. Grate the carrots and place to one side
  4. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and oil until it reaches a smooth consistency
  5. Add the grated carrot, cinnamon, and nutmeg and mix well
  6. Add the eggs and beat them in
  7. Place this mixture into the cake tin and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes
  8. Meanwhile, make the cream cheese frosting
  9. Beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth
  10. Add the icing sugar and beat again, until everything is thoroughly mixed 
  11. When the time is up, check the cake is cooked by sticking a knife in the middle and seeing if it comes out clean
  12. When cooked, leave the cake to cool on a rack
  13. When completely cool, top with the frosting and then decorate with walnut halves

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]]> 3 Salad Leaves to Try https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-salad-leaves-to-try/ Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:18:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9076 For many of us, salads are often the same ingredients each time. While we obviously have our favorite go-tos, there are so many options out there and it’s great to mix these up from time to time. Here are some options to try to add some new life to your salads.  Lambs Lettuce This mild […]

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]]> For many of us, salads are often the same ingredients each time. While we obviously have our favorite go-tos, there are so many options out there and it’s great to mix these up from time to time. Here are some options to try to add some new life to your salads. 

Lambs Lettuce

This mild yet tangy leaf is a great base for a huge range of salads. It’s easy to find and works in many contexts. Try roasted butternut squash with feta, lambs lettuce, and toasted pumpkin seeds for a warming and hearty salad.

Pea Shoots 

As the name suggests, this delicious leaf comes from the pea plant. Its fresh and pea-like taste will bring so much life to your salads. Try this dressing with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and some sea salt as a side to a hearty lasagne or pasta bake. 

Radicchio 

This one is quite bitter by itself, so works best paired with something sharp and zingy. For example, try a salad with goat’s cheese, figs, and a balsamic vinegar dressing for a rich and fresh-tasting meal. The beautiful pink leaves will add some photo-worthy aesthetic to your dish too. 

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]]> Super Easy Butter Bean Houmous https://thedancingcucumber.com/super-easy-butter-bean-houmous/ Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:14:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9075 Houmous is a popular dish worldwide. It has many versions of it, all originating from various parts of the world. This version uses butter beans instead of the usual chickpeas. Butter beans have a delicious savory flavor to them and work in the same contexts as classic houmous. They’re also high in protein, so are […]

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]]> Houmous is a popular dish worldwide. It has many versions of it, all originating from various parts of the world. This version uses butter beans instead of the usual chickpeas. Butter beans have a delicious savory flavor to them and work in the same contexts as classic houmous. They’re also high in protein, so are a great choice for a healthy side. This recipe is super simple and doesn’t require a food processor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 15-ounce canned butter beans 
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Drain and rinse the butter beans, and place them into a large bowl
  2. With a potato masher, crush and smash the beans until they have broken down
  3. Finely mince the garlic, making it as small and crushed as possible 
  4. Add the oil and tahini to the beans and mix together
  5. Add the minced garlic, the lemon juice, and the smoked paprika, and mix thoroughly 
  6. Once this mixture is well combined, it should be left to sit for at least 2 hours
  7. It can then be used as a dip or spread and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days

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]]> The Best Mac and Cheese Recipe https://thedancingcucumber.com/the-best-mac-and-cheese-recipe/ Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:26:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9035 Try this super indulgent and comforting version of the beloved classic. View this post on Instagram A post shared by America's Test Kitchen (@testkitchen) Ingredients (serves 4): View this post on Instagram A post shared by Murray’s Mac & Cheese (@murraysmac) Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michaela Vais | Vegan […]

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]]> Try this super indulgent and comforting version of the beloved classic.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 8 ounces of macaroni
  • 1 large onion 
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 cups of milk
  • 2 tablespoons of flour 
  • 2 tablespoons butter 
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 350℉.
  • Fry the onion and garlic until soft. Add the vinegar and stir until dissolved. Leave to cool.
  • Put a pot of water to boil, and add the macaroni once the water is bubbling. Reduce heat and simmer for the time stated on the packaging, then drain.
  • Meanwhile, heat the butter until melted. Add the flour and stir thoroughly until all blended. Increase the heat and gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
  • Take the sauce off the heat and stir through the cheese and the mustard. With an immersion blender, blitz up the onion and garlic and add this to the sauce.
  • Put the drained macaroni in an overproof dish and then stir the sauce mixture through. Top with more shredded cheese and the breadcrumbs, and put in the oven for about 30 minutes, until the top has browned.
  • Serve with some greens.

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]]> An Easy Recipe for Simple Roasted Veggies https://thedancingcucumber.com/an-easy-recipe-for-simple-roasted-veggies/ Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:38:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9031 Roasted veg is one of the easiest dishes to create, but is so satisfying and delicious. This comforting and healthy recipe will go with a huge range of meals. Stir it through pasta with some fish, or have it with some mashed potatoes and sausages. It will also work well as a component of a […]

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]]> Roasted veg is one of the easiest dishes to create, but is so satisfying and delicious. This comforting and healthy recipe will go with a huge range of meals. Stir it through pasta with some fish, or have it with some mashed potatoes and sausages. It will also work well as a component of a tapas-style meal.

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 large onion 
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350℉.
  2. Chop up all the veg into similar-sized pieces.
  3. Place all the veg into a large bowl. Add the extra virgin olive oil and stir thoroughly. Then gradually add the paprika, basil, and seasoning, making sure to stir well.
  4. Once the veg is evenly coated with oil, spices, and herbs, transfer it to a large ovenproof dish. Put in the oven for 20 minutes, and then give it a good stir. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes, or until all softened and browned. 
  5. Serve this up with your choice of accompaniment. 

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