Simple tips for smart food…VANILLA SEEDS The seeds from the vanilla pod have the most concentrated vanilla flavour. They can be used in any recipe as a substitute…

Sambal is a fresh pepper or chilli paste from Southeast Asia, most commonly made with ground chilli, salt and vinegar. A more elaborate sambal can be spiced with…

Simple tips for smart food…Put the aubergines in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Leave to drain for about 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the…

Salsa verde is a cold Italian sauce used as a condiment or dipping sauce. It adds zest to boiled meat and potatoes and is particularly good with fish.Soak…

There is no doubt about it – the humble hamburger offers a lot of scope, especially when it’s made at homeBeetroot burger: An Australian favourite is to serve…

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll 1 x 400g ready puff pastry out on a lightly floured working surface. Cut the pastry into three thick strips. Sprinkle sesame…

Crisp, melt-in-your-mouth meringues are easy to make. All you need is patience, time and these essential tips. How to make meringues MAKES about 20 INGREDIENTS 3 egg whites…

Simple tips for smart food…This gorgeous frozen presentation is great for serving cold soups, fruit salads or canapés such as oysters. Place a glass bowl on a baking…

Grilled, fresh and poached, GRILLED NECTARINES WITH BROWN SUGAR AND BRANDY Using 1 ripe nectarine per person, halve the nectarines and remove the pip as carefully as possible.…

Simple tips for smart food…Pour 125ml dry white wine, 125ml water, 20ml chopped fresh dill, 40ml chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley and 2 finely chopped spring onions in a…