Makingendsmeet

Spice Up Your Life

This month, Paul Dickson demonstrates the versatility of a well-stocked herbs and spices storecupboard.

Madras Cottage Pie

Spice Up A Classic

When looking for inspiration for new recipes, don’t overlook the classicsthey’re staple dishes for good reason and instantly recognisable on menus for those looking for some comfort and familiarity. Adding spice in the right places can transform a classic whilst still keeping the essence of the dish. Try this spiced cottage pie which is a lovely warming hug on a plate for the colder months ahead.

Give it a

Go

’an

The blend of spices in Goan curries is really versatile and works so well with the coconut milk base that makes this the trademark dish of South-West India, in all its different varieties. I’ve added chick peas to create a rich curry which could be served on its own as a delicious vegan dish. Alternatively, I’ve added a slowbraised spiced lamb shank to add even more complexity of flavour. The lamb can really stand up against the strength of the spices.

Country Range spices and dried herbs are of particularly high quality and it’s all in the way they’re treated to ensure that oils are not being depleted unnecessarily, meaning that they keep their colour and flavour. Indian dishes are an obvious use of spices and there is so much variety in styles that you can never run out of new recipes to try. And don’t be shy when experimenting with flavours in classic dishes, both savoury and sweet.

Paul is a Home Economist and food stylist working in London and the North West, creating exceptional visual stories in film & tv, on social media and in print. All of the recipes and videos featured in the article can be accessed online at www. countryrange.co.uk/recipes or by scanning the QR code.

Sugar and spice and all things nice

Puffs

A Viral Hit

Have you noticed the trend for upside down puff pastry tarts? This is one viral hit that I can get on board with and this recipe for a savoury version with caramelised onions is an instant crowd pleaser.

I use Country Range dried herbs to get the intensity of flavour and some carefully chosen spices, such as coriander seeds make it sing. Country Range Puff Pastry Blocks create the perfect crisp pastry base. Serve with a fresh and zingy Greek salad to cut through the richness, using dried herbs in the dressing.

I love to incorporate spices into desserts and sweet treats and dark chocolate is the perfect match for bold flavours. These spiced dark chocolate truffles include ginger, cinnamon and cardamom to add warmth and depth of flavour. As we head into autumn, you can’t beat a warm apple and blackberry crumble, with a heady hit of cinnamon and why not add some cardamom to