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The Guardian
7 days ago
- Health
- The Guardian
Fresh produce made bold with pantry staples: two recipes to spice up winter
Looking for a recipe that warms the body and soul, or one with knockout flavours you can pull together midweek? Cookbook author, food writer and chef Lara Lee insists you don't have to choose. 'My food philosophy is: lean into the time you have,' Lee says. 'If you have a weekend, then make the soul food that brings you joy, and if you have a window of 30 minutes, you can still make an amazing meal.' Either way, Lee's hot tip is to spice up fresh produce with condiments. 'Cooking doesn't have to be overly complicated, and it helps to have a well-stocked pantry,' she says. 'There are certain staples, like soy sauce, rice vinegar, miso paste or chilli oil – accessible ingredients you can pick up at your local IGA – that transport fresh ingredients.' There aren't many people who need convincing that lasagne is one of the greatest dishes, but many of us do need a little extra encouragement to get this labour of love on the table. These thoughts motivated Lee to reinvent this much-loved classic. 'I was thinking that kimchi and cheese is an incredible pairing; it's so comforting and mouthwatering,' Lee says. 'So, I got inspired by the idea that kimchi lasagne is going to do some breathtaking things.' The proof is in the oozy umami decadence. 'It's the kind of dish that people will talk about for months after,' Lee says. At the other end of the culinary continuum, Lee uses pork mince, instant noodles and an aromatic sauce lifted with orange zest to deliver quick, flavour-packed results. 'I'm a huge fan of pork mince,' she says. 'To me, pork is life! It has so much flavour. Combine it with noodles and the bold, punchy sauce, and you've got a dish with real depth and complexity, ready in just 15 minutes.' Whatever time you've got, Lara Lee's recipes promise home-cooked comfort this winter, with a kick. Photo supplied. Prep 20 minCook 30 minServes 8-10 people Ingredients For the kimchi sauce 1 tbsp olive oil 250g lean beef mince 6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 450ml tomato passata 1 tbsp fish sauce 600g kimchi, roughly chopped¼ tsp fine salt ¼ tsp ground white pepper For the bechamel sauce 2½ cups whole milk 70g unsalted butter 6 anchovies ½ cup plain flour 2 tbsp gochujang 200g cheddar cheese, grated3 spring onions, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish¼ tsp fine salt 6 fresh lasagne sheets 100g parmesan cheese, grated Photo supplied. Method Preheat the oven to 220C fan. To make the kimchi sauce, heat the oil in a large frying pan on a medium-high heat. Add the beef mince and cook until browned, stirring regularly, for four to five minutes. Add the garlic and cook for a further minute, stirring to combine. Stir in the passata and fish sauce, then cook for two to three minutes until slightly thickened. Add the kimchi to the pan and cook for two minutes, stirring to combine. Season with the salt and white pepper, then remove from the heat. To make the bechamel, warm the milk in a medium saucepan on a medium-low heat until just warmed through, then remove and set aside. Wipe the pan, then add the butter and anchovies on a medium-low heat. Lightly mash the anchovies with a wooden spoon as they melt with the butter, stirring for one to two minutes. Add the flour and mix for one minute, until fully incorporated. Add half a cup of the milk and stir vigorously, using the back of the wooden spoon against the side of the pot to smooth out any lumps. Once all lumps are removed, add the remaining milk, stirring continuously as you pour. Increase the heat to medium, stirring occasionally until it thickens, about six to eight minutes. Add the gochujang and stir for one minute, then remove from the heat. Add the cheese, spring onions, and salt, stirring until the cheese melts, which takes about one minute. In a 20cm x 30cm baking dish, spread one cup of kimchi sauce over the base. Evenly top with two fresh lasagne sheets; it's OK if they overlap. Spread the sheets with 1½ cups of kimchi sauce, then cover the kimchi layer with one cup of bechamel sauce. Add two more lasagne sheets on top, then spoon over the remaining kimchi sauce and one cup of bechamel sauce. Layer the remaining lasagne sheets on top. Finally, cover the sheets with the remaining bechamel sauce and sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese. Place the lasagna in the oven and bake it uncovered for 30 minutes, until the cheese is browned and the sauce is bubbling. Remove from the oven and cool for at least 10 minutes to allow the lasagne to set. Sprinkle over the remaining spring onions to garnish. Use a sharp knife to cut the lasagne and serve hot with a side salad or vegetables. Photo supplied. Prep 15 minCook 10 minServes 2 people Ingredients For the chilli crisp sauce 3 tbsp chilli crisp with the oil 1½ tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp white miso 1 tbsp tahini 1½ tsp sesame oil ½ tsp white sugar Zest of 1/4 medium-sized orange For the crispy pork 2 tbsp neutral oil, such as canola or peanut oil250g lean pork mince 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 2 tsp ginger, peeled and grated½ tsp fennel seeds ½ tsp ground cumin ½ tsp ground coriander 2 x 85g packets of instant noodles, such as Indomie or Maggi (noodles only; save the flavour sachet for another use) Small handful of coriander leaves Small handful of crispy fried shallots Photo supplied. Method In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients for the chilli crisp sauce and stir well. Set aside. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to the boil. Heat a medium frying pan over high heat with the oil. Once hot, add the pork mince and cook until it begins to turn golden brown, stirring regularly for five to six minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, ginger, fennel seeds, ground cumin and ground coriander. Cook until fragrant, stirring often for one to two minutes. Remove from the heat. Add the instant noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the packet instructions. Drain, reserving a little of the cooking water. Divide the chilli crisp sauce and crispy pork between two serving bowls, then add one tablespoon of noodle water to each bowl. Divide the noodles between the two serving bowls. Just before serving, mix well to combine, and garnish with the coriander leaves and crispy shallots. Shop for fresh, seasonal ingredients at your local IGA. IGA is the Australian launch partner for the Guardian's cooking and recipe app, Feast. Download Feast on the App store for Apple iOS or Google Play for Android to follow each of these recipes step by step.
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Travel + Leisure
01-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
I'm a Paranoid Traveler Despite Having Been to 30+ Countries—but These 13 Safety Devices Give Me Peace of Mind
I have lived in New York City my entire life, so you'd think I feel safe traveling just about anywhere. But despite spending over four decades in one of the world's most famous metropolitan cities, I still get pretty paranoid in my work as a food and travel writer. I love traveling. But as much as I enjoy these experiences, I'm also acutely aware of what can go wrong on the road, especially as a solo traveler. Maybe it's my NYC street smarts disguised as travel anxiety, but I've learned to be vigilant about personal safety, identity theft, and protecting my devices from data breaches. If you're gearing up for your next big adventure, it's smart to plan for all the fun—delicious food, great sights, and unforgettable memories. But it's just as smart to prep for the not-so-fun stuff. That's why I always travel with a few tried-and-true travel safety essentials. On long travel days, I'm constantly scanning for power outlets before my phone dies. But public charging stations can come with hidden risks. 'Juice jacking' is when hackers exploit USB ports to install malware or steal data, and it's a real threat. This simple tool allows you to safely charge your devices without exposing your data. It works with iPhones, Androids, tablets, and most USB gadgets. One reviewer said, 'I use these at hotels, on airplanes, and when I don't want my phone transferring data to a rental car. Easy and effective.' This sleek laptop backpack checks all the boxes. It's spacious, lightweight, and built with anti-theft features like combination-lock zippers and an external USB port—so you won't have to unzip the bag to stay connected. One reviewer called it 'the best backpack ever,' adding that 'it's secure, durable, and the slim fit makes it easy to carry without feeling bulky.' These slim sleeves might look like simple card covers, but they're an essential line of defense against digital theft. RFID-blocking technology shields your credit cards, IDs, and passports. 'I had to replace multiple cards due to unauthorized charges,' wrote one reviewer. 'These sleeves give me peace of mind.' As a digital nomad, I rely heavily on public Wi-Fi, and that comes with risks. This compact travel router boosts cybersecurity by creating a secure, private connection. 'This will make business travel a lot easier,' said one reviewer. 'Now I can safely connect my laptop using the hotel's Wi-Fi without worry.' These multi-sized Faraday bags go beyond waterproofing. They also block Bluetooth, GPS, and RFID signals to keep everything from your phone to your passport secure. 'I tested Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth—these bags blocked all signals,' said one shopper, who promptly bought another set. Hidden cameras are, unfortunately, a real concern in hotel rooms and Airbnbs. This compact detector scans for hidden bugs, GPS trackers, or listening devices. 'I couldn't be happier,' said one reviewer. 'It's easy to use, very sensitive, and makes me feel much safer when traveling solo.' Money belts may feel old-school, but this RFID-blocking pouch is a smart, modern upgrade. Slim enough to wear discreetly, it has mesh pockets for cards, passports, and cash. One reviewer shared, 'It's comfortable even on hot, long travel days, and the organization is ideal.' Whether I'm writing in-flight or catching up on emails at a cafe, I don't want my screen exposed. This easy-to-attach privacy screen limits viewing angles, helping to keep my personal and financial info safe. One reviewer called it 'subtle yet sturdy,' and they love how easily it attaches via magnets. Power = safety. This fast-charging portable battery can get your phone to 50 percent in under 30 minutes—perfect for calling an Uber or accessing maps when you're far from a power outlet. With a built-in USB-C cable, it's compact and hassle-free. 'I bought two for overseas travel—sleek, powerful, and so convenient,' said one reviewer. Sometimes I find myself walking alone at night while traveling, and this compact safety alarm gives me peace of mind. Just pull the top pin to activate a siren and flashing light. 'It's a small step that makes a big difference,' said one traveler. 'I keep it on my keychain and bring it everywhere—gas stations, airports, even grocery stores.' Not every hotel room has a safe, and this portable lock box is a solid backup. It's great for securing passports, cash, and even small electronics. With a combination lock and sturdy design, it's a travel must-have—especially if you're hopping between accommodations or hostels. It's a travel conundrum: You want your luggage secure when it's out of sight—but it still needs to be accessible for TSA inspections. This lock does both. It's TSA-compliant, easy to set up, and built to last. The best part? It features an indicator that pops up if TSA has opened your bag, so you're never left wondering. Amazon shoppers rave about the thoughtful design and solid construction. 'Wow, just got a four-pack of these TSA locks and love the design,' wrote one reviewer. 'Easy to read, easy to set combination, easy to operate. Solid design, good looking, and even a pop-up indicator if a TSA agent opens one with their special tool.' From minor scrapes to unexpected mishaps, it pays to be prepared. This compact, well-stocked kit is perfect for travel—whether you're tossing it in your suitcase or slipping it into a tote. It includes everything from bandages to burn relief, all packed in a cute, durable pouch. 'Exactly what I was looking for,' one Amazon reviewer noted. 'Perfect size, fits in my large purse, and has everything I might need. Plus, the bag is super cute. So worth it.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Telegraph
29-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Being called a nepo baby is hurtful, says Sainsbury's great-granddaughter
A food writer who is related to the supermarket Sainsbury family has called being described as 'a nepo baby ' unfair. Ella Mills, a blogger known for her recipe blog and brand Deliciously Ella, is the great-granddaughter of Lord Alan John Sainsbury, of the supermarket-owning family. She told Good Housekeeping UK magazine: 'I passionately wanted to do Deliciously Ella on my own. Of course, it didn't take journalists long to link the dots and I felt so bad in retrospect. 'I knew people would say I was just a nepo baby, but you don't sell 100 million products because 40 years ago Sainsbury's went public. At the same time, having that connection meant I had a subconscious wish to do something quite different, against the odds, as my great-grandfather had done.' In the mid-2010s, Mills was touted as a pioneer of the 'clean eating' movement, despite telling a magazine in 2016 that 'I would never use the word 'clean''. The concept, promoting minimally processed foods, was controversial, with Nigella Lawson telling BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour that 'behind the notion of clean eating is an implication that any other form of eating is dirty or shameful'. During this time, Mills received backlash for her gluten, meat and dairy-free recipes, as well as her personal wellness journey, which was associated with the clean eating movement. She told the magazine: 'It [the backlash] was instigated more by the media than by social media. I don't have it as bad as some people who've been trolled, but I'm aware that a fair share of people don't like me, for sure. 'I accept that if you have a public platform and you share your opinion with the world, the world is quite right to have an opinion back. If I can help people to eat more plants and have a more natural diet, then that's more important than anything a troll can say about me. 'You have this bizarre, quite ironic dichotomy – as our collective health gets worse, the wellness industry gets bigger, noisier, more confusing and more niche. If you go online, people are following these extreme morning routines, achieving so much by 9am. Plants 'changed my life' 'My concern is that too many people think that their health is synonymous with expensive powder and wildly elaborate routines. Everything I suggest is evidence-based. It's not about gimmicks or fads. I changed my diet [to plant-based] and it changed my life.' In the summer of 2011, Mills was diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, which is when the heart rate increases very quickly after getting up from sitting or lying down, according to the NHS website. In her book, Deliciously Ella, published in 2015, she said that changing her diet meant 'in less than two years I was off all the medication I should have been on for life'.
