When it comes to enjoying the tangy and spicy kick of kimchi, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. Kimchi, with its vibrant fermented flavours, pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its unique taste. Here are over 21 of the best sides to serve alongside kimchi.
Firstly, consider classic staples like steamed rice, which balances the spiciness, or noodles tossed in sesame oil for a delightful texture contrast. For those seeking crunch, fresh vegetable sticks such as cucumbers and carrots provide a refreshing bite. If you're in the mood for something hearty, try Korean pancakes (jeon), which offer a satisfying savouriness.
Other delectable options include grilled meats, particularly marinated beef or chicken, which harmonise perfectly with kimchi’s zest. Additionally, serving tofu, whether fried or steamed, can add a lovely protein element to your meal. Don’t forget to include pickled vegetables – their acidity nicely balances kimchi's flavour.
For a lighter touch, a simple salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast. Each of these sides invites you to explore the wonderful world of flavours that kimchi brings to the table, making every meal a celebrated experience of culinary delight.
Soup Safety 101: Can You Put Raw Chicken in Soup?
When it comes to preparing a hearty bowl of soup, the question of whether you can add raw chicken directly into the pot is one that many home cooks ponder. The short answer is yes, but with important safety precautions to bear in mind.
Raw chicken can infuse the soup with rich flavours while simultaneously cooking through in the simmering broth. However, it is crucial to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to eliminate any harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella. To achieve this, allow the soup to simmer for an ample amount of time. Typically, a good 30 minutes to an hour should suffice, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
Additionally, always remember to practice proper hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken, and use separate utensils and chopping boards to avoid cross-contamination. Following these guidelines will ensure that not only is your soup delicious, but also safe for everyone at the table.
25 Easy Recipes to Eat with Hummus
Hummus, with its creamy texture and rich flavour, has become a staple in kitchens around the world. This versatile dip not only pairs beautifully with an array of dishes but also elevates simple snacks to gourmet treats. Here are 25 easy recipes to enjoy with hummus that will tantalise your taste buds and inspire your culinary creativity.
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Vegetable Crudités: A classic pairing, an assortment of crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers provide a fresh crunch when dipped into hummus.
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Pita Chips: Bake or fry pita bread until golden and crispy for a satisfying and dippable treat.
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Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini bell peppers with feta cheese and herbs, then serve alongside a bowl of hummus for a delightful contrast of flavours.
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Falafel Wraps: Combine crispy falafel balls with salad greens and drizzle with hummus inside pita bread for a fulfilling meal.
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Roasted Cauliflower Bites: Toss cauliflower florets in spices, roast until golden, and serve with hummus for a warm and hearty snack.
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Cucumber Sandwiches: Spread thick slices of cucumber with hummus and top with fresh dill for refreshing finger sandwiches.
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Hummus Toast: Top whole grain toast with a generous layer of hummus and avocado slices, followed by a sprinkle of chilli flakes.
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Zucchini Fritters: Crisp up these comforting bites and serve with a dollop of hummus for dipping.
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Grilled Halloumi Skewers: Marinate halloumi cheese, grill it, and serve drizzled with hummus for a taste of the Mediterranean.
- Chickpea Salad: Mix chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, and cucumber, then serve alongside a bowl of hummus for extra creaminess.
These recipes showcase the limitless potential of hummus, turning everyday snacks into memorable experiences. Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these easy ideas will ensure that your love for hummus is beautifully satisfied.
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30 Minute Prawn Rice - Savvy Bites with Aldi Ingredients
When time is of the essence but you still want a delicious meal, this 30 Minute Prawn Rice recipe is your go-to dish. Using only ingredients from Aldi, you can whip up a comforting and flavoursome dinner that doesn't skimp on taste or quality.
Start by gathering your ingredients: frozen prawns, jasmine rice, a medley of frozen mixed vegetables, garlic, and soy sauce, all available at your local Aldi. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed—perfect for a busy weeknight.
In a large pan, gently sauté minced garlic in a splash of vegetable oil until fragrant. Add your rice and pour in double the amount of water, allowing it to simmer until almost cooked. Next, stir in your frozen prawns and mixed vegetables, and drizzle with soy sauce for an umami kick. Within minutes, you’ll have a vibrant one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and economical.
Serve it garnished with a sprinkle of spring onions, and enjoy a delightful dinner that showcases the best of Aldi’s offerings—all done in just half an hour. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious!
38 Make-Ahead Appetisers to Always Have
When it comes to hosting, being prepared is half the battle, and what’s better than a selection of make-ahead appetisers to impress your guests? These delightful nibbles not only save you time on the day of your gathering but also allow you to enjoy the company of your friends and family without being stuck in the kitchen.
From tasty mini quiches to delectable stuffed mushrooms, these appetisers are perfect for any occasion. Opt for classic flavours like smoked salmon blinis or vibrant Mediterranean mezze platters featuring hummus, olives, and roasted red peppers. For something a bit heartier, consider baking a batch of cheesy pinwheels or savoury scones that will keep your guests returning for more.
Batch cooking and storing these appealing bites in the freezer or fridge means you're never caught unprepared. Simply thaw or reheat, and voilà! You have a stunning array of appetisers ready to serve. So, grab your apron and let's get cooking – because nothing says “welcome” quite like good food shared among friends.
Indulge your sweet tooth with this sumptuous Fantasy Fudge recipe, requiring just six simple ingredients and only 15 minutes of your time. Imagine velvety smooth chocolate, rich and luscious, coming together effortlessly in your kitchen.
Start with the basics: condensed milk, butter, and a generous helping of chocolate chips. A sprinkle of marshmallow fluff adds a delightful creaminess, while vanilla extract brings everything together with a hint of warmth. For a touch of decadence, consider tossing in some chopped nuts or a swirl of peanut butter.
The beauty of this fudge lies not just in its simplicity, but in the sheer perfection of its texture and flavour. Melt, mix, pour into a lined tray, and allow it to set—before you know it, you'll have a heavenly treat that’s sure to impress. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself), this quick and easy Fantasy Fudge is a delightful addition to any gathering or a sweet moment to savour at home.
15 Dump & Go Instant Pot Dinner Ideas for Busy Nights
When time is tight but you still want a hearty meal, the Instant Pot comes to the rescue. These 15 dump and go dinner ideas are perfect for busy nights, making it easy to whip up something delicious with minimal effort.
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Chickpea Curry: Toss canned chickpeas, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and your favourite curry spices into the pot for a fragrant dish that’s ready in no time.
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Beef Stroganoff: Simply add strips of beef, mushrooms, onion, and a beefy broth, then finish it off with a swirl of sour cream for a comforting classic.
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Vegetable Risotto: Just combine arborio rice, vegetable stock, and assorted seasonal veggies. The Instant Pot does the stirring for you!
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Chicken Tacos: Dump in chicken breasts, taco seasoning, and salsa. Shred the chicken when it’s cooked for a quick taco filling.
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Pasta Primavera: Combine your choice of pasta, a mix of fresh veggies, and broth for a wholesome meal that cooks all in one go.
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chilli: This nutritious mix of sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, and spices makes for a filling dish that’s both sweet and savoury.
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Lentil Soup: A straightforward combination of lentils, carrots, celery, and herbs creates a hearty soup that satisfies and nourishes.
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BBQ Pulled Pork: Just add the pork, BBQ sauce, and a touch of apple cider vinegar. Serve it in rolls for a delightful dinner.
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Seafood Jambalaya: Combine shrimp, rice, sausage, and Cajun spices for a vibrant dish bursting with flavours of the South.
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Mushroom and Spinach Quinoa: Simply mix quinoa, mushrooms, spinach, and vegetable broth for a nutritious side or main course.
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Teriyaki Chicken: Toss chicken thighs, teriyaki sauce, and broccoli together for an Asian-inspired meal that’s quick and tasty.
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Beef and Broccoli: A quick mix of beef strips, broccoli florets, soy sauce, and garlic yields a delicious dish reminiscent of your favourite takeaway.
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Stuffed Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with a mix of rice, beans, and spices, then let the Instant Pot do the work.
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Coconut Rice and Lentils: Combine rice, lentils, coconut milk, and spices for a filling meal that’s ready to serve in a flash.
- Moroccan Chickpea Stew: This warming stew of chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices offers a delightful blend of sweet and savoury notes.
With these recipes, busy weeknights can become a time to relish home-cooked meals without the fuss. Just dump the ingredients in, set the timer, and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!
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Reheating nachos can be a bit tricky, as you want to avoid sogginess while ensuring the cheese is adequately melted. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the nachos in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If they're topped with toppings like salsa or guacamole, it might be wise to scrape those off before reheating, as they can make the chips soggy. Once the oven is ready, pop the tray inside for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the chips are warmed through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, but the texture won't be as crisp—heat them in short bursts of around 30 seconds, checking frequently. Serve them up with fresh toppings for that just-made taste!
20 Incredible One-Bowl Meals For Dinner Tonight
When you're craving a comforting dinner that requires minimal fuss and maximum flavour, one-bowl meals are the answer. These dishes not only simplify preparation and clean-up but also deliver a delightful medley of textures and tastes. From hearty grain bowls to vibrant stir-fries, here are 20 incredible one-bowl meals to consider for tonight's dinner.
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Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl: A nutritious blend of fluffy quinoa tossed with seasonal roasted vegetables, drizzled with a zesty tahini dressing.
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Spicy Chickpea Curry: A warming chickpea curry simmered in coconut milk and spices, served over fluffy basmati rice for a comforting finish.
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad: Pearl couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta, all lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
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Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry: Crispy tofu cubes stir-fried with vibrant broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, all coated in a sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce, served over noodles.
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Dahl with Spinach and Rice: A simple yet satisfying bowl of spiced lentil dahl paired with fresh spinach, served alongside fragrant jasmine rice.
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Chilli Con Carne: A classic hearty chilli made with tender beef or a plant-based substitute, kidney beans, and tomatoes, served with a dollop of sour cream on top.
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Poke Bowl: A Hawaiian-inspired dish featuring sushi rice topped with marinated raw fish, avocado, seaweed and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
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Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad: Cubes of roasted squash combined with massaged kale, toasted walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.
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Tandoori Chicken and Rice Bowl: Marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection and served atop a bed of aromatic rice, with a side of cucumber raita.
- Mushroom Risotto: Creamy risotto with sautéed mushrooms, finished off with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley.
Each of these meals is not only a feast for the palate but also a marvel of convenience, allowing you to savour the evening without the hassle of multiple dishes. So grab a bowl, dig in, and enjoy hassle-free dining tonight!
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Buttermilk Pancakes: How to Make Tall and Fluffy Pancakes!
Indulging in a stack of tall, fluffy buttermilk pancakes is a delightful way to start the day. The secret to achieving that perfect rise lies in the combination of buttermilk and baking powder. The acidity of the buttermilk reacts beautifully with the leavening agents, creating air pockets that make the pancakes light and airy.
To create these heavenly pancakes, begin by sifting together 200g of plain flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together 300ml of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 50g of melted butter until well combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser pancakes.
Next, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and brush it lightly with butter. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan, allowing it to spread slightly. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute or so until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the pancakes as you go.
Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of fresh cream, or a sprinkling of berries for an extra touch. Enjoy every fluffy bite!

