Southsea LIFESTYLE
Southsea LIFESTYLE
This winter, we invite you to celebrate the joy of reading and writing at Portsmouth Bookfest (p.30). This annual event promises to ignite your passion for literature, featuring a diverse lineup of authors, engaging workshops, and captivating discussions that are sure to delight book lovers. Check out our What’s On section on page 27 which includes details of writing workshops, and the new Love Portsmouth pop-up at Gunwharf Quays.
In this issue, Neil Maxwell ponders house buyers challenges this year (p.14). We also have a special treat for food enthusiasts. Dive into Sally’s deliciously comforting Sriracha recipe (p.34), perfect for warming up those cold winter nights. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply looking to spice up a cosy meal at home, Sally’s recipe is sure to add a flavourful twist to your culinary adventures. Happy reading!
Zirrinia Austin Editor & Creative Director
CALLING ALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Southsea Lifestyle is the only lifestyle magazine delivered to people’s homes across the city. Affordable advertising rates and a loyal readership, no wonder 75% of our advertisers have been with us for 2 years or more. Just request a media pack for our April/May edition. email: info@southsealifestyle.com www.southsealifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Sally King is founder of Mango Wellbeing. She runs ‘Good Mood Food’ cooking workshops in Southsea, alongside her Pilates Core & Calm classes at CourtX
Neil Maxwell is director of Fry & Kent Estate Agents, and a volunteer crew member of the RNLI
Elios Stone is a Southsea based holistic health practitioner, specialising in shadow work, nutrition and breathwork
William Sutton is a writer, musician, playwright, raconteur, bon-vivant and, most importantly, author of the Campbell Lawless series of Victorian mystery novels
Marketing & Operations: Elios Stone Web design: Daniel Sweeney
PERCY HARRISON OPTICIANS
Our Happy New Year offer20% off complete spectacles including prescription lenses when quoting the code SOUTHSEALIFESTYLEHNY!
*valid with the purchase of new frames
*Offer valid until 29 March 2025
74-76 Osborne Road, Southsea PO5 3LU info@percyharrisonopticians.co.uk 023 9282 6831
CLOSING DOWN SALE AT THE GOODS YARD
Colin Macleod
Having traded on and off in Goldsmith Avenue for the past 50 years, I have decided to cease operations from the warehouse. However, I will continue to operate from my reclamation yard adjacent to the Johnstone’s Paint car park, where I am currently located. My focus will shift to reclamation, with a smaller selection of antiques.
From February until April this year, I will be holding a genuine closing down sale . Everything will be available at discounted prices, and no reasonable offer will be refused. I will be open from 10am to 4pm, except on Sundays. For inquiries, please contact me at: 07503146108.
THE OMEGA ART SCHOOL
Omega Centre, 2 Omega Street, Southsea PO5 4LP
SUMMER TERM BEGINS 21ST APRIL 2025
Have you always wanted to paint and draw, then The Omega Art School could be just what you are looking for?
From absolute beginners to experienced artists, we have courses to suit all abilities. Our classes are fun, inspiring and affordable.
Learn new skills and techniques, and progress with confidence. Taught
THE MINDSET MYTH: EXPOSED
Elios Stone
There are countless books written by health and lifestyle gurus about cultivating a positive mindset. However, if you believe that mindset books alone will change your life, you may find yourself deeply disappointed. While the right mindset is important, it often overlooks the realities of the physical body
From my experience with clients, mindset alone cannot change how you perceive reality or how you feel in your body. Many of my clients have read all the latest books, including long-standing classics, yet they still find themselves stuck.
THE MINDSET FALLACY
The mindset fallacy persists because many books and theories suggest that if you think positively, you’ll become positive. Unfortunately, tension, stress, and trauma become trapped in the body –both energetically and physically.
No amount of positive thinking can release these stored tensions. The only way to release tension in the body is by moving the body itself. Any practice
involving movement is considered somatic. Breathwork, for example, is a somatic process that changes the gases in your body and targets areas where tension is held, such as the psoas muscles, while also activating the vagus nerve in your nervous system.
THE SOCIAL MEDIA TRAP
Social media often feeds a busy mind, offering endless videos and information about achieving a positive mindset or living your best life by observing others
However, no amount of thinking will allow you to master your mind if your body continues to have physical responses to certain triggers. For example, if someone at work says something that causes a physical reaction – starting in your stomach, rising to your chest, leading to hot flashes or panic – thinking alone cannot stop this. These are physical responses from the body and require a physical approach to find healing and resolution.
FREE YOUR BODY, AND YOUR MIND WILL FOLLOW
Many of my clients experience profound relief during connected breathwork sessions or tailored meditations incorporating breath techniques. Addressing the body’s needs allows the mind to naturally quiet itself.
Here’s a simplified version of one of the first embodied practices I teach new clients, which I also offer during a free initial consultation. It’s called Calming Breaths:
1 Find a quiet place to sit. Place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest, then close your eyes.
2 Focus all your attention on breathing in and out through your nose.
3 Gradually deepen your inhale and lengthen your exhale.
4 Slowly expand each breath.
5 When your breath feels like it’s filling your belly and chest and wants to overflow, exhale fully through your mouth.
6 Take a deep breath in through your nose, then exhale through your mouth.
7 To go further, slow your exhale through your mouth, letting the air gently be released through pursed lips until your lungs are empty
8 After just 5 minutes, you should notice your body beginning to relax.
TESTIMONIALS
“I was sceptical at first as I struggled to still my mind and meditate for five minutes, let alone have conscious contact with myself for an hour. I've now done four sessions, and it has been transformational. I feel safe, and my anxiety is soothed.” — Louise, Online
“I doubted that I could ever get ‘unstuck’ from old patterning, negative thinking, stress, and anxiety. After being taught how to breathe properly and meditate, I was finally able to move through my thoughts and feelings and have a lighter way of looking at my life.” — Joanna, Southsea
“I have had a chronic disease for 6 years, undergone 2 major operations, and seen numerous doctors. I was on the verge of giving up. I was very nervous, but Elios helped me feel calm. The changes have been amazing! I have learned how my body reacts and am learning how to deal with those moments using the techniques.” — Lorna, Southsea
ELIOS STONE is a transformational facilitator specialising in breathwork, meditation, and shadow work. He helps individuals transform their lives by relieving the effects of stress, anxiety, dread, sadness, and trauma.
INDEPENDENT TILE SHOWROOM IN SOUTHSEA
VICTORIAN STYLING: The Victorian-Style is definitely one of the most desired looks we get asked about, mainly due to the predominant amount of period properties in the Southsea area. The Victorian era symbolises timeless elegance, and a step back in time. The use of Victorian colours and design features including freestanding baths, washstands and tile accessories such as dados and tiled skirting can give the impression of opulence, a sense of sophistication and luxury.
VICTORIAN FLOOR TILES: This new range of tiles come in 6 different colours including Forest Green, Terracotta and Sky Blue. They can be mixed with one of 5 other plain options to create a design typical of this era as shown in this photo. The pre-scored tile provides a mosaic effect when laid but has a quicker and easier installation process.
VICTORIAN COLOURS: The Victorian colour palette was very dark and rich, with lots of deep blues, burgundy, forest green and brown. The aim was to convey a sense of luxury and decadence. This rich emerald green is typical of this period. Often seen on external pubs walls throughout Portsmouth.
ADDING PERIOD FEATURES: With a nod to the Victorian style you may consider adding in tiled dado tiles, coloured beading or tiled skirting. This works beautifully with the simple black and white look too.
NAVIGATING
THE PORTSMOUTH
PROPERTY MARKET IN 2025: CHALLENGES FOR BUYERS
Neil Maxwell
The Portsmouth property market in 2025 presents a unique set of challenges for prospective buyers. As the city continues to grow and evolve, understanding these hurdles is crucial for anyone looking to invest in a home here. Let’s explore the key issues facing buyers in Portsmouth this year.
RISING PROPERTY PRICES
2 SUPPLY AND DEMAND IMBALANCE
One of the most significant challenges is the continuous rise in property prices. Over the past few years, Portsmouth has seen a steady increase in house prices, driven by high demand and limited supply. This trend is expected to continue in 2025, making it increasingly difficult for first-time buyers to enter the market. The average house price in Portsmouth has now reached levels that require substantial deposits, often beyond the reach of many young buyers
1 AFFORDABILITY AND MORTGAGE RATES
Affordability remains a critical issue. While wages have seen some growth, they have not kept pace with the soaring property prices. This disparity makes it challenging for buyers to save enough for a deposit and secure a mortgage. Additionally, mortgage rates have been fluctuating, with current rates expected to stabilize around 4-5%.
STAMP DUTY CHANGES
Recent changes to stamp duty have added another layer of complexity. This government has introduced higher stamp duty rates for second-home buyers and landlords, while lowering the nil-rate band for first-time buyers.
This means that first-time buyers now face higher upfront costs, which can be a significant barrier to homeownership. The increased stamp duty for additional properties also impacts investors, potentially reducing the availability of rental properties in the market
COMPETITION AND SPEED
The Portsmouth property market is highly competitive. With a limited number of properties available, buyers often find themselves in bidding wars, driving prices even higher. This competition means that buyers need to act quickly and be well-prepared. Having mortgage preapproval and a clear understanding of your budget can give you an edge in this fast-paced market.
The imbalance between supply and demand continues to be a major issue. New developments are not keeping up with the growing population and demand for homes. This shortage of available properties puts upward pressure on prices and makes it harder for buyers to find suitable homes. The local government and developers need to work together to address this issue and increase the housing supply, but as the leader of the Council Steve Pitt said recently this is an Island where there’s only a limited amount of space that can be utilised without severely impacting on recreational areas.
On the plus side, if you are a homeowner, it does mean your property maybe worth more than you think. Get in touch if you want some personal guidance on values and the local housing market?.
3 ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY
Economic factors also play a significant role in the property market. The broader economic environment, including inflation rates and geopolitical events, can impact buyer confidence and market stability. While the UK economy has shown resilience, uncertainties remain, and buyers need to be mindful of these factors when making purchasing decisions.
PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR BUYERS
Given these challenges, what can buyers do to navigate the local property market successfully? Here are a few tips:
• Get Financially Prepared: Ensure you have a clear understanding of your budget, including all associated costs such as stamp duty and legal fees.
• Seek Professional Advice: Work with experienced estate agents and mortgage advisors who can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions
• Be Ready to Act Quickly: In a competitive market, being prepared to make quick decisions can give you an advantage.
• Consider Long-Term Plans: Think about your longterm goals and how the property fits into them. This can help you make a more strategic investment.
Navigating the property market in 2025 may be challenging, but with the right preparation and support, buyers can still find their dream home in this vibrant city.
BRUCE ROAD, SOUTHSEA -
£1,650,000
• At over 4,500 sq ft, this detached Edwardian villa is located in the Craneswater & Eastern Parade conservation area, blending period features with modern kitchen and bathroom fittings. It offers access to Southsea Esplanade, the beach and Canoe Lake.
• Spanning four floors, the property includes five double bedrooms, two en-suites, a luxury family bathroom, grand reception rooms, and a modern kitchen with garden views. The versatile lower ground floor offers potential for a self-contained annexe, perfect for guests, or additional income.
• The property features landscaped gardens, off-road parking, and a garage with security roller shutters. Other highlights include a 30ft entertainment room with annex potential and a concealed indoor pool that could be recommissioned. EPC rating D
BROAD STREET, OLD PORTSMOUTH – O.I.T.R
£850,000
• At over 1,400 sq. ft, this Grade II Listed Georgian townhouse is located in this highly requested conservation area. Overlooking the historic Hot Walls Art Studios, with superb southerly views of the Solent, and the Isle of Wight from the top-floor bedroom and roof terrace. This prime location is within walking distance of cafes, bars, Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth Cathedral,.
• Spanning four floors, including a 31ft dining/kitchen area with double doors to an enclosed courtyard garden, a first- floor living room with bay window, a fitted study/bedroom, main bathroom, a master bedroom, a second bedroom with en-suite, and a topfloor family/guest bedroom with access to the roof terrace.
• The property is offered with no forward chain. The enclosed courtyard garden includes a convenient w.c. and side gate access, making this home a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern practicality in an unbeatable location. EPC: Exempt
EASTERN VILLAS ROAD, SOUTHSEA
- £715,000
• Stunning renovation & prime location: beautifully renovated four-bedroom terraced house, steps from Southsea Seafront, Albert Road, and Palmerston Road’s shops and restaurants.
• Arranged over three floors, the property features a sitting room, a modern open-plan kitchen/diner with integrated appliances, and a lower ground floor with additional storage space. The first floor offers three double bedrooms, including one with an en-suite, as well as a separate family bathroom, while the fourth bedroom is located on the second floor.
• Desirable extras: south-facing garden, off-road parking, and additional storage on the lower ground floor EPC rating E
THE DENTAL WAVE – WHERE GERMAN ‘FORSPRUNG
DURCH TECHNIK’ MEETS ENGLISH HUMOUR!
Or should we say, where Audi meets the classic British Mini?
A little gem, conveniently located in the heart of Southsea, Dr Antonia Salzl has established a warm and welcoming, award-winning dental practice, that delivers exceptional care to patients who value quality, and long-term results.
Antonia qualified as a dentist in Germany in 2006, and has built a team of experts in dentistry, who are here to support you and make the dream of a life changing smile come true!
Whether you are looking for cutting edge cosmetic treatments, preventative care, implants, emergency dental services or you are very anxious, The Dental Wave is the right place for you.
WHY CHOOSE THE DENTAL WAVE?
The whole team at The Dental Wave believes that great dentistry is about more than just teeth–it’s about enhancing lives. ‘Refresh your Smile, Refresh your Life’ is their motto. Here are some thoughts form the team:
As a team we share the same passion for making a change in people’s lives, we take pride in achieving this through:
1 EDUCATING PATIENTS FOR INFORMED DECISIONS: Our ethos revolves around empowering you with knowledge. We believe that an informed patient is a confident patient. Our team takes time to explain every treatment option, showing you with cameras and scans, exactly what is going on in your mouth and which options you have to fix any problems.
2 QUALITY AND LONG -TERM RESULTS: Invest once, Invest right! We focus on providing high-quality longlasting dental solutions tailored to your needs. We prioritise precision and durability to give results that stand the test of time.
3 TECHNOLOGY FOR BETTER CARE: We embrace the latest advancements in digital dentistry, our cutting-edge tools ensure faster, more precise treatments with less discomfort.
4 MEMBERSHIP PLANS FOR PEACE OF MIND AND MORE CONVENIENCE: Join our exclusive membership program for affordable, proactive dental care, which includes perks like priority booking, out of hour and worldwide emergency cover, hygiene appointments and large discounts on treatments.
5 CONVENIENT ACCESS AND EXTENDED HOURS: We understand that life can be busy. That’s why we offer extended working hours, including Saturdays, to accommodate your schedule.
6 A WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE: At The Dental Wave we are always accepting new patients with open arms. Our warm and friendly team is dedicated to making every visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
WE ARE NOT JUST ABOUT TEETH – WE ARE ABOUT CREATING A COMMUNITY OF HEALTHY, CONFIDENT SMILES!
JOIN THE DENTAL WAVE TEAM!
As a fast-growing practice, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our patients and community, we are always on the lookout for new team members who take pride in their work, are creative, passionate about making a difference, and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. If you are ready to join a close-knit, supportive team, dedicated to excellence, we would love to hear from you!
We are currently looking for a nurse for our lovely hygienists and therapist! If you would like to know more, please call or text Kerry on 07983895130 or simply email her to operations@thedentalwave.co.uk
We are looking forward to seeing you soon!
The Dental Wave
27 Highland Road, Southsea PO4 9DA
“Great and trustworthy service. Booked in for an MOT staff were friendly and professional and I was able to pick my car up the same day.”
BACK PAIN? HAVE
YOU TRIED THE CLASSICAL
PILATES METHOD?
Are you active but still experiencing back pain? Perhaps you’ve tried everything but can’t seem to alleviate that persistent sciatic pain running down your leg. Or maybe prolonged sitting has left you stiff and unsure of what to do next. Amy once believed back pain was just part of an active lifestyle. She enjoyed lacrosse, hockey, and gym workouts, but she woke up in pain every morning – until she discovered Pilates. Not just any Pilates, but Classical Pilates – a method designed to support the body’s natural movement, strengthen the core, and improve flexibility.
Within months, her morning pain disappeared, and the results changed her life. Inspired by her experience, Amy knew she had to share this transformative system with others.
Fifteen years ago, Amy Kellow turned her passion into action by founding Everybody Pilates – a dedicated space where people from all walks of life can experience the benefits of Classical Pilates under the guidance of skilled, experienced instructors.
At our Southsea studio, we offer a variety of solutions to help you renew and restore, improve posture, and build a stronger, more mobile body. Our classes include Mat, Tower, and Reformer Pilates, each tailored to meet you wherever you are on your journey to better movement.
HERE’S WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING:
“The teachers are fantastic! They’re knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging, and they always make sure everyone gets what they need from each session.”
“Thank you so much for the work you do here; this has really changed my life and body for the better. I’m stronger, my back pain is nearly gone, and this all makes me feel more confident in general.”
If you’re ready to start your Pilates journey but aren’t sure where to begin, our New Client Package could be the perfect first step. Scan the QR code opposite to get started and discover how Classical Pilates builds strength, fosters long-term mobility, and offers greater connection to your body.
WITH STRENGTH, CONTROL, AND CONFIDENCE
WHAT’S ON & BUSINESS DIRECTORY
BOOKFEST EVENTS
Tickets & info: william-sutton.co.uk/events/ or scan the QR code a WRITE YOUR NOVEL Get a clearer idea of how to write your book: crime novel, literary fiction, memoir. Set realistic aims and get down to writing. “Enjoyed being challenged and encouraged.”
£20/£10 conc. 2–4 pm, 28 Feb NEW THEATRE ROYAL
PORTSMOUTH FAIRY TALES REVISITED Readings, music, discussion to celebrate the tenth anniversary of this collection of fabulous stories (for grown-ups) and its influence on Portsmouth’s vibrant writing scene. Join the writing community. £4/£2 conc 6.30 pm, 5 March GUILDHALL
WRITING FOR PROCRASTINATORS Mañana, mañana. Do writing projects linger in your drawer? Come and be coaxed into breaking through. Several recent participants now published. “What a brilliant workshop.” £20/ £10 conc/free, Online, 6–8pm, 6 March; in-person 10am, Fri 28 Feb COSHAM LIBRARY
WRITING RETREAT Targets, encouragement, one-to-one mentoring – and the camaraderie writers often miss “I edited 5000 words in a weekend.”
£9/£4.50 conc. 10–1pm Fri 14 & Sat 15 March CENTRAL LIBRARY
BLACK DYKE BAND
The Portsmouth Grammar School will be hosting the Black Dyke Band, one of the oldest and best-known brass bands in the world, this will be the fourth time they have visited The Portsmouth Grammar school. The day will consist of masterclasses for pupils during the day, then in the evening the Black Dyke Band will be performing a public concert. With the last three concerts being a sell-out, we look forward to an evening that promises to be a wonderful musical concert given by one of the worlds top brass bands. Tickets are available from try booking at www.trybooking.com/uk/ECLT For more info. about the day please email info@pgs.org.uk Sat 18 June 7pm St Mary’s Church, Fratton, Portsmouth
HAMPSHIRE FARMERS MARKET
Sun 16 February, Sun 16 March10am-2pm Palmerston Rd precinct. Southsea PO5 3QE www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk
LOVE PORTSMOUTH GUNWHARF QUAYS MARKETS
During February & March Thursday to Saturday: 10am-7pm Sunday: 11am-5pm www.lovesouthseamarkets.co.uk
GIVE YOUR GARDEN SOME SPRING ZING
Martyn Cox
As the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to give our gardens some attention to ensure they look fantastic this spring and summer.
To help residents make the most of their outdoor spaces, I’m introducing a unique gardening business; offering mentoring, maintenance and consulting.
GARDENING MENTOR
Whether you want to improve your gardening skills or are a novice, I can help. Working together, I can teach you how to maintain your garden or focus on something new, such as growing food.
GARDEN MAINTENANCE
From one-off jobs to regular maintenance, I can make a big difference. This spring I can help with tidying beds and borders, pruning, planting, lawn care and getting
your garden summer ready.
GARDEN CONSULTATION
If you need some guidance or general advice, a garden consultation will generate plenty of ideas. Following my visit, I’ll send you a written report.
As a qualified gardener and garden media expert, your outdoor space is in safe hands. If I can help, please contact me.
QUEST FOR THE BEST OF BOOKFEST
Portsmouth Bookfest runs from 18 February to 9 March, kickstarting the city’s year of literature and literacy In Our Words 2025. Bookfest offers talks and performances for readers of all ages and tastes, alongside workshops for local authors at every level of experience.
Bookfest 2025 poses intriguing questions: “If all the world’s a stage… where are all the black actors, directors and producers?” Simon Hudson will speak about History through the Black Experience, his book on Black trailblazers of stage and screen (7pm, 6 March, Central Library). Historian Vernon Bogdanor discusses six politicians, from Bevan to Farage, who set the agenda of post-war British politics –but never became prime minister (7pm, 3 March, Central Library).
In half-term week, young people can join MOTIV8 SOUTH youth service for an immersive screening of The Book Thief; this interactive experience is inspired by the transformative power of words (3–8pm, 20 February). At Guildhall’s BASE, 11–16-year-olds can explore stories and poetry through
music and soundscapes (Soundtrack the Story, 10am, 21 February).
Award-winning poet Maggie Sawkins curates popular From the Heart recitals (6 pm, 2 March, Square Tower): people from all walks of life recite a poem they’ve learnt by heart; Les Kazoos d’Amour provide music. Portsmouth Fairy Tales Revisited celebrates the 2015 short story collection that launched many of today’s local collaborations (6.30 pm, 5 March, Guildhall).
Mystery readers will enjoy four Crime Bites sessions: from real female detectives, through cosy crime with authors Sarah Harris and Josie Lloyd, to Portsmouth bestseller Pauline Rowson, and DJ Simon Mayo’s new thriller. Comedian Helen Lederer discusses her brilliant memoir Not That I’m Bitter at Central Library (7pm, 28 February).
For aspiring writers, Richard Salsbury provides inspiration in his Short Story Workshop (10 am, 1 March, Central Library). Catch Writing for Procrastinators, with novelist William Sutton, online (6pm, 6 March) or in-person at Cosham Library (10am, 7 March). New Theatre Royal’s fortnightly writing workshops kick off with Write Your Novel (2pm, 28 February).
Loree Westron, convenor of
Portsmouth Authors Collective, interviews Christine Lord about her novel Women at War, inspired by interviews with WWII survivors (2pm, 4 March, Central Library). Loree says, “I value the chance to meet readers and writers; interesting workshops; and finding out about new books.” And that’s what Bookfest is all about.
Tickets: librariesandarchives.portsmouth.gov.uk
Southsea Lifestyle spoke to environmental initiative
PENS OF THE EARTH founders, Helen and Richard Salsbury. Their “wild-seeded” collection, Wild Seas, Wilder Cities, showcases 54 writers and artists’ positive take on our relationship with the earth.
RICHARD: Portsmouth has formidable connections to the world of literature. It's great to have a festival that celebrates this and continues the legacy. I’d recommend Solent and Other Oceans poetry workshop, to express your love of nature through words. Alison and Sue are great teachers and experienced poets.
HELEN: Proceeds go towards ‘Seagrass Restoration in the Solent’. So, as well as getting lyrical, you plant the seeds of its future – in a new venue, the delightful Green House, Victoria Park (3pm, 26 February). We’ll be at the Local Authors fair (from 11am, 7 March, Southsea Library). And Richard’s short story
workshop is helpful for writers starting out and with more experience.
RICHARD: There’s always a great energy when you get creative people together, whatever their ability. My aim is to offer newcomers an encouraging environment, and a fresh approach for more seasoned writers.
HELEN: Maggie Sawkins’ poetry workshops are always playful and inspirational (Taking a Ride on the Bookfest Express, 3 pm, 27 February, Central Library). Jackie Green and Christine Lawrence’s Right Royal Tales offers an entertaining opportunity to get inspired (1pm, 1 March, New Theatre Royal). Bookfest is a great way to learn from other writers and discover Portsmouth’s history. As someone who mainly writes fiction, I love going to more imaginative, interactive workshops, where we get a chance to explore our craft.
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WSPICE UP YOUR LIFE (THE HEALTHIER WAY!)
Sally King
e are a household of chilli lovers and hot sauce ‘Sriracha’ used to be a staple in the King house… until I started to become a bit more label savvy. To my horror, the ingredients list of the shopbought bottle revealed some nasty synthetic substances including modified starches, flavourings, preservatives and emulsifiers, which may be harmful to the gut microbiome lining.
So, I took it upon myself to recreate a gut-healthy version of this must-have condiment and incorporate into my ‘Good Mood Food’ healthy cooking workshops. It’s a banger!
Delicious with scrambled eggs, rice and noodles dishes, roasted veg, fish, dressings and marinades –basically everything!
HOMEMADE ‘SRIRACHA’ HOT SAUCE
4 Red peppers (pointy or bell), cut in half down the
middle (keep stalks and seeds in)
4-6 Chillies red/green – left whole (number of chillies depends on your heat tolerance ;)
2 Red onions - skin on and cut in half
1 Whole bulb of garlic cut in half horizontally
Olive oil/cold pressed rapeseed oil for roasting
2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar (containing ‘the mother’)
1-2 tbsp Unrefined brown sugar/honey/maple
syrup – to taste
A dash of water
1 Preheat oven to 180C degrees
2 Place peppers, onions, chillies and garlic (seeds, stalks and all) in a roasting tin – all face down and skin-side up (if halved)
3 Coat with oil and season well with sea salt and black pepper
4 Roast for 30 mins until everything is softened and starting to caramelise
5 Allow to almost cool then squeeze the softened garlic cloves and onions from their skins, remove pepper and chilli stalks
6 Put all roasted veg into a blender. Add the apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil and sugar, plus a dash of water
7 Blitz until smooth, adding more water to loosen to desired consistency. If too runny, add more extra virgin olive oil to thicken
8 Taste check. Then balance the flavour with either more vinegar/lemon juice/sugar
9 Pour into sterilised air-tight jars or sauce bottles
Keeps in fridge for up to two weeks, then discard any uneaten sauce. Can also be frozen.
NOTE: Don’t be alarmed if your sauce is ‘blow your head off hot’ initially. The heat will soften significantly after a day or so.
Hot tip: Make a healthy sriracha mayo dip by mixing 1 tbsp hot sauce through 4 tbsp Greek yoghurt – yummy!
