Here is my gift guide with 20 vegan & sustainable gifts, that is great for all budgets, ages and genders. I have included some small business owners as its good to support small businesses at this time. Please share this blog post on social media, via whatsapp etc with your friends and family. Oh yes and I'd love if you could leave a comment in the comment section below. So shop early for Christmas and buy an extra gift for someone in need if you can.
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Crumble (also called Brown Betty) is a traditional English desert. The original version is made with apples (apple crumble) but my version celebrates the range of orchard fruits that can be found in the UK and in other countries throughout the world. Crumble can be made sweet or savoury depending on the ingredients used, although the sweet version is much more common. In some recipes the topping is made from crumbled biscuits or cookies. Oats can be added to the topping as well, but this is not traditional. Crumbles have only really been made in UK since the 1940's.
This recipe came into existence during the second world war. In the UK there was strict rationing of basic ingredients needed to create a basic pie and these were often not available. A pie requires a lot of flour, sugar and butter to make the pastry. So during the 2nd World War people had to be creative and made a simple mixture of flour, margarine and sugar and used this to make the top of the crumble. This is a lovely easy-to-make desert that can be served with ice cream, custard or just on its own. Ingredients 2 ripe apples chopped into small pieces 2 ripe pears chopped into small pieces ½ cup of ripe black berries ½ cup of ripe raspberries 5 tablespoons water 4 tablespoons wholemeal flour 1 tablespoon vegan margarine 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon cloves 5 digestive biscuits (can also use graham crackers) Method 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C. 2. In a saucepan, over a gentle-moderate heat, cook the apples and pears in the water until soft and stewed. 3. Keep stirring to prevent from sticking to the bottom of pan. 4. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, rub together the margarine and flour with your fingertips until it completely blends together and you get a fine crumble. 5. Add the 2 tablespoons of the sugar and digestive biscuits (or graham crackers) and stir the mixture well. 6. When the apples and pears are stewed, add the leftover tablespoons of the sugar and the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and stir in until the sugar dissolves. 7. Put the apple and pear, mixture in a bowl and stir in the blackberries and raspberries then place in an ovenproof dish and cover with the crumble topping mixture 8. Bake for approximately half an hour or until the crumble is golden brown. I love, love, love to see photos of my recipes, so if you make any of them please take a photo, post it on social media and tag me please Instagram @KirlySuesKitchen Facebook Kirly.Sues.Kitchen twitter@KirlySuesKiitchen linkedin Kirly-Sue's Kitchen
I thought it would be really useful to share with you five tasty recipes that are low cost, easy-to-make and of course plant based. At the time of writing this blog, there is a possible second lockdown coming to the UK where I live. In addition there is mass unemployment and many people working from home.
According to an article in the Independent Newspaper, more than a fifth of people in the UK are cooking every meal from scratch due to the coronavirus lockdown. I understand the struggle, so I've put together 5 plant-based budget-friendly recipes These meals are great for
With that in mind I wanted to share some recipes with you that can add to your recipe bank of midweek meals. The meals I have for you today are as follows:
Butterbean & Lentil Curry
INGREDIENTS
1 onion chopped 1 inch piece of ginger minced 2 cloves of garlic 1 medium tomato 1 teaspoon all purpose seasoning 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 a vegetable stock cube I tin butter beans 1/2 cup red lentils Coconut cream to taste METHOD
Sweet Potato Roti
INGREDIENTS (5-6 roti)
Vegan Jamaican Pulled Jack fruit
INGREDIENTS
• 1 400g tin of young jackfruit • 1 medium onion chopped • 1-2 inch piece of ginger • 1 teaspoon season all (all purpose seasoning) • 1 spring onion (scallion) chopped • 2 teaspoons coconut aminos (can also use soy sauce) • 1 vegetable stock cube ( I use the low salt ones) • a dash of black pepper • ½ cup of water METHOD
Chickpea Nuggets
INGREDIENTS
VEGAN BROWNIES
INGREDIENTS
So those are my 5 budget friendly plant based dishes, I love, love, love to see photos of my recipes, so if you make any of them please take a photo, post it on social media and tag me please Facebook, twitter, or Instagram
In the UK we dispose of more than 26 million tonnes of paper, glass, plastic, wood, food, metal, clothing, electronics and other refuse annually. The problem of managing mountains of waste may seem overwhelming, but experts note there are easy ways for consumers to make a difference every day. I came across this really lovely vegan friendly company recently called UpCircle Beauty Each of the products in their range is sourced from by-products from other industries – the food and drink industry in particular. In recent years there has been a dramatic rise of natural, then organic, then vegan and cruelty-free beauty, but UpCircle Beauty believe circular / by-product beauty will be the next step –and not many can disagree with that They have many products in their range including cleansers, moisturisers, serums, exfoliants, scrubs soaps etc. I was able to try a few o their products and was pleased with the results. This is because I have really sensitive skin so I am always cautious what I use. The products I tried are as follows: Coffee and Citrus Oil face scrub £12.99This face scrub didn't disappoint as it left my face feeling so soft and smooth. It didn't leave me with that tight and dry feeling that some face scrubs leave you with. I would definitely get this face scrub again.
Cinnamon & Ginger Soap - £6.99I am not able to use any old soap so this was a real treat. I must say the smell is a bit Christmassy for me but hey who doesn’t love Christmas. It is a little pricy but it’s worth it as it has all of the following attributes:
Pamper Kit - £5.99I have saved the pamper kit, which has samples of the full UpCircle face range for when I next travel. However it make a great mini gift set and perfect for those ethical and cruelty free stocking fillers. www.UpCircleBeauty.com
I enjoyed trying this range of ethical and sustainable beauty products. I love the whole up cycling element to this range too. Sustainability starts with you and me, because the smallest change you make in your own home or office can have a huge effect further up the chain. Simply by buying the right products such as those in the UpCircle range you can help you and your family help the environment through these purchases. Join me for a vegan sponge cake baking session via zoom at 7pm (UK Time) on Thurs 3 Sept 2020 click link here now to book Join me for a virtual vegan cooking lesson which will teach you how to make a vegan sponge cake This culinary experience will take your breath away, dazzle your taste buds, and deepen your sense of community. I am a vegan cook, author and presenter who has a vegan cooking show on Amazon Prime”. You don’t want to miss this Sign up now! click here Join from the comfort of your own home as you learn to make a vegan sponge cake. The recipe uses easy to find ingredients and I will walk you through how to make a really quick and simple vegan sponge cake. I will also answer any questions you have and you can virtually meet new vegan foodies without leaving your home! Once you purchase a ticket, you will be emailed a list of ingredients and the Zoom link. If you have any questions please email me on info "at" KirlySuesKitchen.co.uk What to Expect: - A 1 hour culinary experience with high energy, fun, and interaction with AMAZING classmates. - You will get a list of ingredients, cooking tools, and a shopping list upon confirmation. (A separate email will be sent) - You will also get the full recipe sheet after the class plus an information leaflet on replacing eggs when baking Zoom instructions and link for class will be sent upon confirmation. A new vegan cooking show entitled Kirly-Sue’s Global Kitchen debuted on Amazon Prime Video in the United Kingdom and United States this week. Hosted by vegan cook author, presenter & YouTuber Kirly-Sue, the show highlights how easy it can be to cook tasty vegan meals using fresh ingredients. The 3 part series filmed in the UK and on location in Montego Bay Jamaica, brings together vegan cooking, travel and a panel of taste-testers for a show that is both informative and entertaining. The series follows Kirly-Sue as she travels from the UK to where the food is grown overseas and also to see how it is cooked locally. Kirly-Sue then shows you her version of the dish back in her UK kitchen and then features a panel of non-vegan taste testers who taste and rate the dishes. Kirly-Sue (aka Susanne Kirlew) also has executive producer credits on the show. In addition the show will also have a teaching element to it and encourage viewers to try fun, new, recipes for themselves. There have been a few vegan cooking shows on TV recently but there has been nothing on this scale, shot on location in the UK & Jamaica, with drone camera and involving the hard work and dedication of more than 20 people who contributed their unique talents because of their passion for vegan food. Throughout the series, that has more episodes in the pipe line, Kirly-Sue will try different cuisines and also introduce new foods to her expansive fan base. Kirly-Sue said. “This is a good time for a cooking show like this because of the huge interest there has been in vegan / plant based cooking. The last couple of years have been great when it comes to the heightened awareness in society of plant-based alternatives. View Kirly Sues Global Kitchen on Amazon prime now by clicking here UK click here & USA click here ~ENDS~ Vegan cook & author Kirly-Sue hosts a plant-based healthy cooking show in which she travels to the country where the food is grown overseas and also to see how it is cooked locally. Kirly-Sue then shows you her version of the dish back in her UK kitchen and then finishes with non-vegans tasting the dishes. The programme also gives viewers the opportunity to do a free online healthy eating course. The first 3 episodes are filmed on location in Jamaica and also in London, England. With tasty and easy to follow recipes, “Kirly-Sue’s Global Kitchen” reveals a glimpse into the inner workings of her philosophies. There are updates of time-proven favourite recipes, inventive new ideas and contemporary twists on some multi-ethnic dishes from around the world. More than just a TV show, “Kirly-Sue’s Global Kitchen” is a testament to Kirly-Sue’s conviction that plant based Cooking is possible for almost anyone in today’s world—with the right mix of creativity, persistence and innovative thinking. Here is episode 1 of the series Kirly-Sue said “I am excited about this series that will help people to make plant based meals for their families. In addition it shows how tasty dishes can be made use simple ingredients This series is a personal journey with Kirly-Sue, featuring some of her own personal anecdotes and the sources of her inspiration. It is an indispensable guide for new cooks and at the same time, a remarkable resource for the experienced home cooks. The Inspirations behind “Kirly-Sue’s Global Kitchen” features lots of memorable dishes representing the best of plant-based recipes by Kirly-Sue. For more information and to order episodes for your TV channel or broadcast platform please contact now by clicking here Vegan cook & TV presenter Kirly-Sue has a new plant based cook book out entitled “Cooking with Kids”. The tasty and easy to follow recipes are all suitable for vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians and for those meat eaters who would like to try something new.
Kirly-Sue’s expertise has afforded her the opportunity to work with companies in the UK & the USA. This includes being an international keynote speaker in the USA, Singapore, Dubai, Norway etc. and a TV presenter on a vegan cooking show in the USA. for 4 seasons. The Inspirations behind “Cooking With Kids” features lots of memorable dishes representing the best of child friendly recipes by Kirly-Sue. Kirly-Sue said I am excited about my book that will help parents make plant based meals for their children. In addition children can make the dishes along with a parent or guardian” This book can be viewed as a recipe book that you use daily, a book that you use all the time. To get your copy click here With stunning food photography and more than 75 individual recipes, “Cooking With Kids” reveals a glimpse into the inner workings of her tv shows and philosophies. There are updates of time-proven favourite recipes, inventive new ideas and contemporary twists on some multi-ethnic dishes from around the world. More than just a cookbook, “Cooking With Kids” is a testament to Kirly-Sue’s conviction that plant based Cooking is possible for almost anyone in today’s world—with the right mix of creativity, persistence and innovative thinking. This 182 page book is a personal journey with Kirly-Sue, featuring some of her own photography, personal anecdotes and the sources of her inspiration. It is an indispensable guide for parents and children home cook and, at the same time, a remarkable resource for the home cook. To get your copy click here DAZZLING LITTLE VEGAN HANDBAG (BLACK) This exquisite vegan patent leather handbag with stunning metallic detail and diamante hasp is the perfect accessory for any party look. It is as robust as it is chic, and its square-shaped design gives generous space for all your party essentials - makeup, phone, keys, maybe even a few glowsticks? Size: 20L X 11.6H X 12W cm Main Material: High Quality Vegan Patent Leather (PU Faux Leather) Lining Material: Polyester Number of Handles/Straps: Two Closure Type: Hasp Interior: One pocket for more info click here here Cleverly designed vegan leather box bag for a smart professional or elegant evening look. This neat little bag comes with a shine to complement any party look, yet its elegant square shape make it suitable to accessorize any work outfit, or just to feel special on everyday outings. The tidily organized compartments and pockets give you plenty of room for all your basics - keys, makeup, purse and phone. With double handles and an adjustable long belt it can be carried or worn over the shoulder, depending on your mood. Size: 24L X 16H X 10W cm Main Material: High Quality Vegan Patent Leather (PU Faux Leather) Lining Material: Polyester Number of Handles/Straps: Double Shoulder Handle & One Adjustable Long Belt Closure Type: Hasp Interior: 1 Slot Pocket/ 1 Zipper Pocket/1 Zip Compartment for more information click here Vegan Cookbook For Kids Vegan cook & TV presenter Kirly-Sue has a new plant based cook book out entitled “Cooking with Kids”. The tasty and easy to follow recipes are suitable for vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians and for those meat eaters who would like to try something new. “Cooking With Kids” is a plant based cook book for parents and kids. From bibimbap to beany balls, and from plantain porridge to banana bread, there are soups, salads, breakfasts, dinners, smoothies and desserts galore in this charmingly illustrated healthy cookbook. With stunning food photography and more than 75 individual recipes, “Cooking With Kids” reveals a glimpse into the inner workings of her TV shows and philosophies. There are updates of time-proven favourite recipes, inventive new ideas and contemporary twists on some multi-ethnic dishes from around the world. Who knew that vegan cooking could be so much fun . . . ? click here Get Your Copy Now MINI CROSSBODY WRISTLET CLUTCH BAG Popular bag, this mini clutch in its fresh colors and sleek silhouette is as gorgeous as it is versatile. Features include a polished turn lock, six card slots and interior zipper for change. Can be styled in many ways, with removable straps for alternating between wallet, cross body and wristlet. Color: L8000-63 Biscotti for more info click here Vegan Cookbook The vegan revolution is here to stay and now it is easier than ever to ditch animal-based foods and embrace a natural, healthier and more environmentally-friendly way of life. This substantially updated new edition of a best-selling book brings the advice on key nutrients up-to-date and, along with favourite vegan mainstays, offers new exciting recipes to prove that being vegan does not mean excluding comfort food, sweet treats, or wickedly savoury delights. The 140 recipes range from Granola Breakfast Bars and Vegetable Seaweed Dahl to Roasted Squash and Mushroom Ramen and Apple Chia Puddings - there has never been a better, and easier, time to go vegan! A complete guide to planning and enjoying a healthy vegan lifestyle for people wanting to give up meat, fish and dairy, a concise introduction advises you on key nutrients and where to find them in your food, easy-fixes for packed lunches, pitfalls to avoid when eating out and much more. Recipes include Yellow Pea and Lentil Soup; Roasted Kale Crisps; Thai Noodle Salad; Malaysian Tofu and Quinoa Laksa; Spiced Greens with Hemp Seeds; Chocolate Beetroot Cakes; and Morel, Garlic and Asparagus Focaccia. 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Lime & Aloe Vera: a refreshingly fruity, fabulous combination, we think you’ll agree. It doesn’t just smell good enough to eat-it’s also 100% hypoallergenic, so it’s ultra-gentle on skin. This fast-acting favourite is tested to BSEN1276 (food grade standard) – it neutralises 99.9% of harmful bacteria including E.coli, Salmonella and MRSA, while still being gentle on skin. for more information click here f ![]() My parents came to the UK from Jamaica in the 50's and 60's like many African-Caribbean's of my generation. I was born and raised in London and the term "Multi Ethnicity" has a number of interpretations for me. I see myself as a black woman but if I am going to be more specific, I am of mixed heritage, as both my parents are mixed race. My mother is Black and Indian and my father is half Black and half White Jamaican. (all four of my grandparents are Jamaican) Growing up with Caribbean parents, meant I ate mainly Caribbean food at home and growing up mainly in London meant I ate English food at school. As a Londoner, I grew up exposed to the Asian culture as there are a huge number of Indian restaurants and people in London. In addition I lived and went to school with a significant number of Greek and Jewish children. This gave me a multi- ethnic approach to food and my food experience. To further explain my multi ethnic culinary experience, I am proud to have had the opportunity to travel to over 36 countries. In addition I have lived in England, Jamaica, Crete & Thailand. I lived in Jamaica from the age of 5yrs -10yrs. I was born and raised in London, England. I have also lived in Crete & Thailand on a Gap year as a Student Missionary (through my church) before I went to University. This recipe is a fusion of English and Jamaican favourites. This is a Caribbean spin on the classic apple crumble, but with additional tropical fruits and some spices to give it a bolder flavour. I also have a YouTube Video showing you how to make it…..just go to YouTube (my channel is called Kirly Sue) and search for apple, mango and pineapple crumble. Apple, Mango & Pineapple Crumble Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Serves: 8 portions Ingredients • 2-3 apples • 1 large ripe mango (can also use 9 oz or 250 g of tinned mango puree) • ½ medium pineapple (can also use 9 oz or 250 g of tinned pineapple) • 4- 6 oz or 170 g brown sugar • 6 oz or 170 g vegan butter or margarine • 10 oz or 280 g plain flour Optional Ingredients • ¾ tsp ground cinnamon • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg • ¼ tsp cloves (crushed) • 2 oz or 50 g rolled oats • 1 oz or 25 g digestive or ginger biscuits (crushed) Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F, 200°C or gas mark 6. 2. Peel the apples and roughly chop. 2. Place in a pan with 4-6 tbsp of water and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until softened. 3. Add the mango and pineapple and set aside in an oven proof dish. 4. Cut the margarine or butter into small cubes and add this to flour. 5. Mix with your fingertips until it resembles an even crumb texture. 6. Cover the fruit with the crumble mixture. 7. Bake for approximately 20 - 30 minutes until the crumble is golden and the fruit mixture is piping hot. |