Being a parent is a whirlwind adventure, and sometimes a simple coffee and cake break can feel like a pipe dream. But fear not, Edinburgh mamas and papas! This city boasts a fantastic selection of cafes that cater to both tiny terrors and weary grown-ups. So, grab your little ones and check out these 5 top-notch family-friendly cafes:

Top 5 Tots-tastic Cafes in Edinburgh: Keeping Calm and Carrying On with Coffee (and Cake!)

• TurtleDoves Play Café (Davidsons Mains): This haven is designed specifically for under-sevens. With a vibrant play area stocked with safe and stimulating toys, your little one can burn off energy while you relax with a well-deserved cuppa. Bonus points for their free Wi-Fi – perfect for catching up on emails or social media between playtime supervision stints!

See full review HERE – Turtle Dove Play Cafe, Edinburgh-Review – MUMFORCE

Turtledove Play Cafe | Edinburgh | Facebook

• The Storytelling Cafe (Old Town): Nestled within the Scottish Storytelling Centre, this café offers a tranquil escape from the Royal Mile bustle. Children can delve into the Story wall and activity boxes while you savour delicious cakes and sandwiches. Keep an eye out for special family events throughout the year, too!

Home – Scottish Storytelling Centre

• Quick & Plenty Cafe (Leith): This vibrant spot is a winner for the whole family. Their extensive menu features delicious sweet and savoury options, with plenty to keep little taste buds happy. Highchairs and baby changing facilities ensure a stress-free visit, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind and chat with fellow parents.

Quick & Plenty Cafe – Edinburgh – Breakfast (quickandplentycafe.co.uk)

• The Edinburgh Larder Cafe (Morningside): This neighbourhood gem offers a warm welcome to families. Their focus on fresh, local produce shines through in their tasty breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks. The relaxed atmosphere and spacious layout provide ample room for buggies and boisterous play, making it a great choice for a relaxed catch-up with friends and little ones.

Edinburgh Larder – Café and Takeaway Serving Locally Sourced Food

• Mimi’s Little Bakehouse (Stockbridge): Calling all cupcake connoisseurs! This bakery is a wonderland of sweet treats, perfect for an after-school pick-me-up. While the kiddos devour their rainbow cupcakes, parents can savour specialty teas and artisan coffees. Mimi’s also offers a delightful selection of sandwiches and light bites, making it a versatile option for any time of day.

Edinburgh Cake Shop | Bakery in Edinburgh | Mimi’s Bakehouse (mimisbakehouse.com)

Bonus Tip: Many cafes in Edinburgh offer highchairs and baby changing facilities, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond this list! Remember to check online reviews or call ahead to confirm if you have specific needs.

So next time you’re craving a caffeine fix and quality family time, head to one of these fantastic cafes. With delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty to keep the little ones entertained, you’re guaranteed a happy outing for everyone. Now go forth, Edinburgh parents, and conquer that coffee break!

Top 5 Tots-tastic Cafes in Edinburgh: Keeping Calm and Carrying On with Coffee (and Cake!)

The post The Best Family Friendly Cafes in Edinburgh first appeared on MUMFORCE.

As a mum, maintaining a strong immune system is crucial, especially during the winter months when colds and flu are more prevalent. The demands of parenting can take a toll on your health, making it essential to prioritise immune health. In this article, we’ll explore four practical tips to boost your immune system and introduce four effective products to help shield you from illness this January.

Tips To Strengthen Your Immune System Now

1. Prioritise a Nutrient-Rich Diet:

Start with the foundation of good health – your diet. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides essential vitamins and minerals that support your immune system. Key nutrients include vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and antioxidants. Incorporate immune-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts into your meals to ensure a well-rounded and nourishing diet.

2. Hydrate for Optimal Wellness:

Proper hydration is often overlooked but plays a vital role in supporting your immune system. Water helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your organs functioning optimally. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day and consider herbal teas for added benefits. Hydration is a simple yet effective way to enhance your body’s natural defence mechanisms.

3. Prioritise Quality Sleep:

Amidst the chaos of parenting, it’s easy to neglect your sleep, but it’s a cornerstone of a robust immune system. Lack of sleep can compromise your body’s ability to fight off infections. Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a relaxing bedtime environment, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate rest is a powerful ally in boosting your immune resilience.

4. Regular Exercise for Immune Resilience:

Physical activity contributes to overall well-being and can enhance your immune function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a home workout, or a fitness class, staying active supports your immune system, reduces stress, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Tips To Strengthen Your Immune System Now

Must-Have Products for January Immune Support:

1. Vitamin C Supplements:

• Look for high-quality vitamin C supplements to boost your immune system.

ZOOKI VITAMIN C -Get Here

1. Probiotics for Gut Health:

• Maintain a healthy gut with probiotic supplements.

Get it here – OPTIBAC PROBIOTIC

1. Vitamin D3 Supplements:

• In winter, when sunlight exposure is limited, vitamin D becomes crucial.

Get it here – NUTRTION GEEKS VITAMIN D3

1. Elderberry Syrup:

• Known for its immune-boosting properties, elderberry syrup is a tasty and natural option.

Get it here – SAMBUCOL

Tips To Strengthen Your Immune System Now

This January, empower yourself with these practical tips and immune-boosting products to fortify your defences against common illnesses. By adopting a nutrient-rich diet, staying hydrated, prioritising sleep, and incorporating regular exercise, you can lay the foundation for a healthier, more resilient you. Combine these lifestyle choices with top-notch immune-supporting products to ensure you are well-prepared for the challenges of the season. Stay well, mums, and make this January a month of immune strength and vitality.

• POST CONTAINS AFF LINKS

The post Tips To Strengthen Your Immune System Now first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Learn how to make a delicious and creamy hot chocolate with simple ingredients. This easy recipe will warm you up on a cold day. Try it now!

Ingredients

Essential kit

You will need a food processor.

Method

Place the chocolate in the fridge for 30 minutes, then unwrap and blitz until fine in a food processor. Add the rest of the ingredients with a good pinch of sea salt, and pulse until nicely mixed. Decant into an airtight jar, pop the lid on and give it a good shake up, then pop on your shelf until you’re ready for the perfect mug of chocolatey heaven. To make a hot chocolate, simply put 2 heaped tablespoons of mixture and . mug of milk per person into a pan. Bring to a simmer over a medium heat for 5 minutes, whisking regularly, then pour your thickened, silky, frothy hot chocolate into mugs and top with an extra grating of chocolate. Leave to cool just a little, then sit back, relax and indulge. Feel free to embellish your mug of hot chocolate with a little extra deliciousness – a few marshmallows, a dollop of whipping cream, a pinch of cinnamon, a little grating of white chocolate or nutmeg, even a bit of orange zest – the choice is yours.

Learn how to make a delicious and creamy hot chocolate with simple ingredients. This easy recipe will warm you up on a cold day. Try it now!

The post The Ultimate Hot Chocolate Recipe first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Get into the holiday spirit with our delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies! Perfect for festive gatherings, these cookies are not only delicious but also fun to decorate. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the magic of Christmas to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts:
   • Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract. Add almond extract if desired for extra flavour.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined. If the dough is too dry, add buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time.
6. Chill the Dough:
   • Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
7. Roll and Cut:
   • Preheat the oven again. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
8. Bake:
   • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool and Decorate:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, unleash your creativity and decorate with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter.

Enjoy the sweet aroma of freshly baked Christmas Sugar Cookies that are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a joy to share during the holiday season. Happy baking! 🎄🍪

The post Recipe of the week – Homemade Christmas Sugar Cookies first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Ingredients:

1. 200g softened unsalted butter
2. 200g caster sugar
3. 4 large eggs
4. 200g self-raising flour
5. Zest of 2 unwaxed lemons
6. For the drizzle:
7. 85g granulated sugar
8. Juice of 2 lemons

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. Beat together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the eggs, beating well after each addition.
4. Fold in the self-raising flour and the zest of two lemons.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 45-50 minutes until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is still warm, mix together the granulated sugar and lemon juice, then pour this over the cake.
7. Leave the cake to cool in the tin, allowing the drizzle to soak in.

Serving Suggestion:

Slice the cake into generous portions and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a refreshing cup of tea. This cake is perfect for afternoon tea with friends or as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal.

Indulge in the zesty goodness of this lemon drizzle cake, a delightful treat that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours, it’s bound to become a favourite among your friends and family.

Keywords: Lemon drizzle cake, citrus dessert, easy cake recipe, tangy treat, delightful baking, sweet and tangy flavours, afternoon tea, dessert recipe.

The post Recipe Of The Week – Lemon Drizzle Cake first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Who Said Sober Date Nights Have to be Boring?

Where one in three people increased their alcohol consumption during lockdown, globally, alcohol consumption fell for a lot of people in 2020. Bars and restaurants had shut their doors, and many of us took to finding new hobbies that didn’t involve drinking. Because of this change, some of us have decided to drink less from now on, being mindful of our consumption and focusing on health and well-being. This has led to us opting for an adult soft drink or fun nights out (or in) that don’t require alcohol.

What does this mean for the dating world? Dating when sober may be a new concept for some people – going out to a bar for drinks is certainly the norm for many singles, as they feel like alcohol is a social lubricant.

But there are several reasons why people may want to retain their new alcohol-free lifestyle and ditch the dating drinks. As well as those focusing on their health, some might not drink for personal reasons, for safety when out meeting someone new, or due to pregnancy.

Here, we look at how you can have sober fun in the dating world.

Non-alcoholic drinks don’t need to be boring

There may be obstacles to overcome when it comes to sober dating. The person you are chatting to might suggest you grab a drink, which can leave you feeling unsure of what to do. You can, of course, still take up their offer – just opt for somewhere that doesn’t sell disappointing flat pop from the gun. Research around your area for a bar that sells alcohol-free drinks, mocktails, or adult soft drinks.

A decent bar will sell craft-style sodas with cool packaging, natural ingredients, and unique flavours. There are even flavourful tonic water options that you can enjoy on their own. Gin’s bitter partner has become popular recently and has been recognised as one of Britain’s fastest-growing soft drinks with a range of botanic tastes. These sorts of drinks are becoming even more popular, so expect options to keep improving and evolving as more people get on board with the NoLo alcohol trend.

Alternative activities

Some dating apps, such as Match, Bumble, and Hinge, allow you to state on your profile what sort of things you like to indulge in, including if you drink alcohol. Nine per cent of Hinge daters marked their profile as non-drinker in 2020, which makes it easier for those looking for like-minded individuals and can also avoid the intrusive questions that sometimes follow when you inform someone that you don’t drink. When you do find someone who isn’t interested in drinking, this opens up a realm of opportunities for your date.

Your date can be a:

• Coffee date
• Walk in nature or on the beach
• Going for a nice meal
• City tour
• Mini golf
• Dance class
• Cooking class.

This list could continue indefinitely – think about your hobbies or something that can show off your personality and interests. This is a great opportunity for you to get to know the person truly.

Who Said Sober Date Nights Have to be Boring?

Breaking the ice when sober

If you’re yet to date sober and are nervous about breaking the ice, this is totally expected and normal. First dates often bring feelings of anxiety, but it is important to remember that the person you’re going out with will likely feel the same. Everyone dating feels under pressure to show their authentic self in the best way possible, but that is what makes it exciting. Single people everywhere are looking to find someone best suited to themselves – and if it doesn’t work out, it wasn’t meant to be. While people who drink will also feel nervous before they start to feel the effects of the alcohol, while sober, you will ease into the date once you’ve chatted for a bit and have warmed up.

If your social skills have been dampened during lockdown and you’re nervous about interacting with someone new, why don’t you warm yourself up with some mate dates so you can build your confidence by being sociable again? See if you can arrange some friendly group activities with people your friends go out with so you can practice introducing yourself to somebody who doesn’t know you.

For sober individuals, you can wake up from your first date without a hangover or second-guessing what happened the night before. After a bit of experience, they will only become better as you connect with new people after a year of strict lockdowns. There are also some light-hearted Instagram accounts you can follow about sobriety, such as SOBER GIRL SOCIETY.

Sources

https://www.cambridgeindependent.co.uk/news/one-in-three-increased-alcohol-consumption-during-lockdown-cambridge-study-finds-9146617/

https://www.fentimans.com/drinks

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/new-study-reveals-how-first-lockdown-impacted-alcohol-consumption

https://www.sun-strategy.com/news-and-views/the-drinks-market/

https://www.gq.com/story/dating-without-drinking-doesnt-have-to-be-weird

The post Who Said Sober Date Nights Have to be Boring? first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Make a simple, creamy dessert for a dinner party with very little effort. Pairing this white chocolate cheesecake with fresh fruit offsets the richness

Ingredients

• 300g digestive biscuits
• 150g unsalted butter, melted, plus extra to grease
• 400g white chocolate, broken into pieces
• 300g full-fat cream cheese (we used Philadelphia)
• 250g mascarpone
• 300ml double cream
• 200g strawberries or raspberries, to serve

Method

• STEP 1Crush the biscuits in a food processor until completely ground. Add butter and whizz again until you have the desired crumbly consistency.
• STEP 2Grease and line the base of a 23cm deep, loose-bottomed cake tin. Add the biscuit mixture to the cake tin and pat it flat. Leave to set in the fridge for approximately 30 mins.
• STEP 3Begin melting the chocolate in a heatproof glass bowl over a small pan of hot water on a low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove from the heat and leave to cool for 10 mins until barely warm but still liquid.
• STEP 4Meanwhile whisk the cream cheese and mascarpone together. Add double cream and keep whisking until the mixture is just holding its own shape. Finally, add the melted chocolate and whisk until just combined.
• STEP 5Spoon the mixture over the cooled and set biscuit base, then smooth the top. Return to the fridge to cool for at least 6 hrs until the topping is set. Finally, decorate with fruit.

MORE FAMILY FAVOURITES HERE

The post White chocolate cheesecake first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Gut Health & Glowing Skin: How Probiotics Can Help Your Skin

Most of us have suffered from a skin flare-up at least once. Many people deal with regular breakouts, spot scars that just never heal, or acne – and they are downright annoying.

This can be even more frustrating when you’re washing your face twice a day, thoroughly, and have a consistent skincare regime that you’ve invested both time and money in. Just when we think we’ve found our holy grail product that keeps the red bumps and whiteheads away, a few months later the same thing happens again. Maybe it’s time to look at what we can do internally as well as externally to help our skin?

We are what we eat – and the foods we eat affect us in more ways than we think. Food is fuel for our bodies. If you fuelled a car with bad-quality fuel, it wouldn’t run as well as it would with high-quality petrol. The same applies to food – meals that are rich in nutrients and things like probiotics serve our bodies far better than poor-quality food.

Some key things to know first

Before we get into the effect of internal probiotics and nutrients on the skin, let’s clear up our external regime to avoid triggering flare-ups. While you may think you’re doing things to benefit your skin, you could actually be making it worse without realising.

• Over-washing our skin (more than twice a day) with harsh cleansers like foam can strip our skin of moisture and create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
• Exfoliating with harsh scrubs can cause microtears in our skin that allow bacteria to get in, as well as causing irritation. Stick to chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and glycolic acid no more than twice a week.
• Popping spots to get the pus out. This causes scarring and can also spread bacteria to other pores in the skin.
• Washing with water that is too hot dries out our skin and can even cause peeling.
• If you regularly use fake tan, exfoliate with a tan eraser before application. Use tan products that are tailored to be gentle and hydrating to the skin.

What are probiotics?

Gut health can impact everything, from our physical health to our skin. Did you know that even mental health can be affected by poor gut health, including leading to anxiety and depression?

A poor diet or unbalanced microbes in your gut can lead to pesky breakouts. No amount of care and attention you pay to your skin will work if your stomach isn’t happy. If you feel like you’ve tried everything for your skincare regime, then it’s time to look to the gut.

Probiotics are live bacteria that support the healthy ones in your body. Not all bacteria are bad – the good bacteria are vital for a functioning, healthy body. A healthy gut is down to the health of microbes, which is the collection of all the diverse bacteria in our gut, known as the gut microbiome. The microbiome has far-reaching health effects and can even help with acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

How can probiotics help my skin?

Through many different ways:

• Reduce inflammation of acne
• Rebalance gut balance by boosting good bacteria and prevent the growth of bad bacteria
• Strengthen the lining of the gut to stop “leaky gut”, which can lead to acne
• Promote gut health and maintain regular bowel movements – people with acne are more likely to have digestive issues too, including constipation and bloating. Helping with this can help heal acne
• Help manage the effects of stress – acne and spots can be triggered by stress. Supporting our mental health with a healthy gut can help our skin

Foods that are naturally rich in probiotics

You don’t need to splash a lot of money on fancy probiotic supplements – there are simple and easy foods out there that are rich in probiotics, and these are usually fermented foods. Fermentation is a food process where carbohydrates are naturally converted to organic acids using yeast or bacteria. It’s good for you and tastes pretty great!

• Kimchi – a popular Korean dish made from fermented cabbage, carrots, garlic, and other vegetables
• Sauerkraut – similar to kimchi with the same fermentation process but just with cabbage
• Kombucha – a fermented tea that is slightly fizzy and flavourful. You can get tasty flavours like strawberry and lemon and ginger
• Kefir – a cultured dairy product that tastes great in smoothies
• Miso – a seasoning in Japanese food, like miso soup and miso paste
• Probiotic yoghurt – look for yoghurts that contain live cultures and minimal added sugar (sugar can irritate the skin)

There are hundreds of types of bacteria in our guts, so eating a diverse healthy diet will help different species to grow and thrive. Unfortunately, the western diet isn’t very diverse and contains a lot of fat and sugar. Eating diverse cuisine can ensure you’re getting all the good bacteria you need for a healthy gut and glowing skin.

Sources

Clapp, M., Aurora, N., Herrera, L., Bhatia, M., Wilen, E. and Wakefield, S., 2017. Gut microbiota’s effect on mental health: the gut-brain axis. Clinics and practice, 7(4), pp.131-136.

https://www.healthline.com/health/probiotics-skin-care

https://www.optibacprobiotics.com/uk/learning-lab/in-depth/general-health/can-probiotics-improve-skin-health

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-fermented-foods

The post How Probiotics Can Help Your Skin first appeared on MUMFORCE.

Pros:

A great choice of up to 40 recipes that change weekly, with a good mix of meat and veggie options. Recipes take under an hour to prep and cook, with lots of 10-minute meals available. Portions are generous, the meat is good quality and all dishes include an interesting mix of herbs and garnishes. Overall, it’s good value for money – £34 for four meals for two people (8 portions).

Cons:

Some recipes cost an additional £3.99. While this makes sense for more luxurious ingredients like steak and scallops, there is also a salmon & rice dish that in total works out at about £12.49 for two people, which feels quite expensive. There’s also some plastic in the packaging that could perhaps be avoided.

Overall rating 4.5/5

Read about how to sign up for the Gousto recipe box

What is Gousto?

Gousto is a recipe box company launched by Timo Boldt in 2012. The premise is to ‘make it joyfully simple to create delicious meals at home’, and boxes arrive with ready-measured, fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. They claim to source produce carefully, using 100% British meat and seasonal British vegetables.

Gousto has recently partnered with UK health influencer, Joe Wicks, to develop a range of recipes using lean proteins and up to four of your five-a-day.

Gousto recipe choices

There are 40 recipes on offer at any one time, with the menu rotating each week. There are plenty of familiar recipes, including cottage pie and chicken curry, as well as more adventurous dishes if you’re keen to expand your repertoire.

We chose a couple of dishes we’d never cooked before – a Persian-inspired beef & lentil stew and fried chicken burger with sriracha mayo – as well as a Thai chicken panang curry, to see how it compared to our own. We were also keen to try the vegan aubergine, harissa & chickpea stew.

Are there special diet options?

Yes. There’s a decent number of recipe choices for vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free diets (just under 10 each), as well as a handful of vegan recipes (about four).

Can you customise recipes?

No, you can’t customise the recipes.

How many recipes do you get in one delivery?

There are up to four recipes per delivery, so a two-person box contains eight portions, while a four-person box contains 16.

You can change the number of recipes you receive per box (two to four).

What’s in the box?

The recipes arrive in a large, sturdy cardboard box. Inside are the chilled ingredients, wrapped up in reusable cool bag that’s easy to transfer to the fridge, plus the cupboard ingredients. There are also four recipe cards and a free gift – in this instance, a Gousto-branded wooden spoon.

Are the ingredients good quality?

The vegetables are fresh, and the sell-by date on the meat we received wasn’t for another six days, meaning we’d have more than enough time to cook all four recipes. We were impressed by the quality of the branded items, too. Though we have had some issues with the freshness of one or two items but we were happy with the fast customer service. We received refunds for the spoiled items and replacements.

Are refrigerated ingredients kept sufficiently chilled in the packaging?

Yes, the ingredients were still cool when we took them out of the cool bag a few hours after their delivery. The bag was insulated with biodegradable Woolcool, and kept cool with an ice box.

What are the delivery options? If you weren’t in during time of delivery, was it left in a safe place?

You can choose the day of your delivery. Delivery was free for an all-day slot (8am–7pm). In some areas, you can pay a fee for a morning delivery (before noon) or evening delivery (6–10pm).

If you’re not at home at the time of the delivery, the box can be delivered to a safe place.

Can you customise your deliveries?

Yes, you can change:

• The frequency of your deliveries (weekly, fortnightly or monthly).
• The day of the week and time slot for your deliveries.

Are the boxes available nationwide?

Gousto delivers to much of the UK, although there are a few postcodes they’re not able to deliver to yet.

How much packaging is there?

Everything arrives packaged (apart from fresh vegetables) and it certainly looks like a lot of packaging when you get everything out of the box. There were two individually wrapped packets of mint rather than one larger packet, which seemed a shame. However, Gousto has pledged to reduce the plastic in its boxes by 50% by the end of the 2019.

Is the packaging recyclable?

Some of it, yes. Gousto uses ice packs and biodegradable Woolcool to keep the food cool. We put the ice pack in the freezer to use another time. The box and box dividers are made of cardboard and the tins can be recycled, too. Plastic pots containing harissa and tomato paste can be reused, but some plastic packaging had to be thrown away (e.g. spice packaging).

Does it offer good value for money?

Yes, if you choose four recipes per box.

• 4 person box – £47.75, £2.98 per serving
• 2 person box – £34 for four meals, £4.25 per serving

Two or three-recipe boxes cost more per serving.

How easy are the recipes to assemble?

Recipes are easy to make and don’t take longer than an hour to prep and cook, which was ideal when cooking after work. We enjoyed assembling them and serving with all the extra garnishes.

Are the instructions clear?

The instructions are easy enough to follow and include images of each step, which were helpful to refer to. As with a lot of recipes, you need to read it through before cooking, because a lot of the steps run concurrently.

What are the finished recipes like?

All of the recipes were really tasty. The roasted aubergine, harissa & chickpea stew was our favourite dish – it was richly flavoured, very satisfying and packed with vegetables. We loved the toasted seeds and mint garnishes, too.

The Persian beef stew was also a hit, with good-quality mince and a fragrant mix of spices. And thanks to the simple recipe, we also managed to produce perfectly fluffy rice, which isn’t something we always manage to do!

The portions were very generous with enough for seconds.

How many people does it serve?

Two to four people. It works out slightly better value for four.

What utensils did you need to make the recipes?

We used everyday equipment to make these recipes. Some of the recipes require a microwave or oven dish, but this is specified upfront.

Who would the product be most useful for?

Busy professionals or families who don’t have time to shop, and want something quick, easy and tasty. It’s also good for people who want to try cooking new dishes and need some inspiration.

What’s your favourite thing about this product?

The quality of the recipes and ingredients – we looked forward to cooking each dish.

What are the subscription terms?

When you first order, you’re automatically subscribed. However, it’s easy to change this in your ‘Subscription’ settings online.

You can either subscribe to receive a box at regular intervals (weekly, fortnightly or monthly), or you can pause your subscription and order one-off boxes. You must pause by noon, three days before your next delivery.

Overall star ratings

Ease of cooking 4.5/5
Quality of the finished recipes 4.5/5
Delivery options 3.5/5
Packaging 4/5
Quality of ingredients 5/5
Value for money 4.5/5

Discover how to sign up for the Gousto recipe box

The post Gousto recipe box Review first appeared on MUMFORCE.

These are a family favourite – my children love pancakes for breakfast, lunch or anytime really…

In the past, we called on boxed mixes. Not anymore. Boxed mixes are great, but everything needed to make delicious pancakes already sits in our kitchen. We said goodbye to the boxed mix and haven’t looked back since. This recipe is easy! The pancakes aren’t too sweet and are lightly scented with vanilla. They are delicious AND they are easily adapted to what you have in your kitchen. Let’s do this!

Ingredients

• 135g/4¾oz plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 130ml/4½fl oz milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp melted butter (allowed to cool slightly) or olive oil, plus extra for cooking

To serve

• maple syrup
• butter

Method

1. Sift the flour, baking powder, salt and caster sugar into a large bowl. In a separate bowl or jug, lightly whisk together the milk and egg, then whisk in the melted butter.
2. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and, using a fork, beat until you have a smooth batter. Any lumps will soon disappear with a little mixing. Let the batter stand for a few minutes.
3. Heat a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat and add a knob of butter. When it’s melted, add a ladle of batter (or two if your frying pan is big enough to cook two pancakes at the same time). It will seem very thick but this is how it should be. Wait until the top of the pancake begins to bubble, then turn it over and cook until both sides are golden brown and the pancake has risen to about 1cm/½in thick.
4. Repeat until all the batter is used up. You can keep the pancakes warm in a low oven, but they taste best fresh out the pan.
5. Serve with lashings of real maple syrup and extra butter, if you like.

Recipe Tips

Try our easy tips for giving the American pancake recipe a twist. For extra-fluffy pancakes substitute self-raising flour for plain flour and still use the baking powder. Serve the pancakes with fresh strawberries and good vanilla ice cream.

Use half buckwheat flour and half plain flour and serve with maple syrup and bacon. You can also add one teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the buckwheat batter and serve with caramelised apple slices and thick double cream.

More Family Favourites HERE

The post Fluffy pancakes first appeared on MUMFORCE.