Hello, everyone!
Caroline Oldham
I hope everyone is having a good January so far; one of the many hot topics this month is 'Veganuary', aka 'vegan January'. We have been posting some fantastic recipes on our Facebook and Twitter accounts for those doing Veganuary.
There are so many wonderful things you can make if you are vegan or trying a vegan diet, many people see the things you can't eat and panic but there are so many substitutes. Eggs you can use applesauce, meat you can use Quorn or vegetables, the list is endless you just need to seek guidance for recipes and ideas.
One of my favourite vegan recipes is these vegan potato skins, really easy to make and so tasty, give them a try and see what you think: http://blog.biteappy.com/blog/vegan-cheese-leek-potato-skins/
- Restaurant Hangout of the Week
I had the pleasure of spending the evening with some friends and industry influencers for the night at the Chicago Rib Shack in Clapham North, London. I arrived and I usually go for water, not being an alcohol drinker, however, I decided to try one of their interesting soft drinks so I went for a Cherry Soda, which was lovely, a really good choice and refreshing for a hot summer day.
I spoke to the restaurant manager about food allergens and he took me to the kitchen where the staff and chefs huddled around me with all their allergen guides and booklets.
The staff also informed me they all had training and they know exactly what is in the food they serve, so they can offer a premier service to those with allergens and/or intolerances. I was so happy to hear this along with the passion in their voices; it was obvious they take the importance of safety for customers very seriously.
When we came to ordering, the supervisor came straight over and asked if I needed any help or guidance, the table were having an array of starters so they would bring me some adapted. I was delighted to be offered calamari, which they fry in gluten free flour. My mouth was watering before the food was even ordered.
The starter was delicious, the calamari with fresh lemon and chili had a lovely flavour and was cooked really well, the nachos were delicious, I am a huge fan already so I was delighted these were on my plate, the chicken wings were soft and sticky and it was lovely to be able to eat the marinade too, usually, I am stuck with dry, plain wings, but not at the Chicago Rib Shack. We also had a vegetarian on our table and even though you would consider this a 'meat eater' restaurant they had some lovely veggie options.
Next up was the main course, as you can see from the portion size I only wanted something small so they recommended the flat iron chicken wrapped in grilled gem lettuce, such an excellent suggestion, it was well seasoned and so succulent and perfect for what I needed.
Then it was pudding time, my most fearful time of the meal, the chef came over with a selection of puddings, he also gave us a salted caramel tequila shot which was an exclusive pudding they haven't launched yet. The chef informed me that he does gluten-free and lactose-free puddings separately but nothing that eliminates both of the allergens yet. Usually I am disappointed but to be honest, I am grateful they, at least, offer options for people with singular allergies and intolerances. A great meal and great staff, I would highly recommend if you are heading to London.
- Top Tip of the Week
If you are like me and struggle with lactose and soya, then here are some great alternatives, coconut yoghurt, coconut, almond or hazelnut milk are all great alternatives for cereal or for your cups of tea and coffee. Starbucks have even introduced coconut milk for their coffees, which is great.
Tagged in Caroline Oldham