Foreword

Here are a few recipes which have been cooked, tried out, exchanged, requested and loved. All recipes are associated with a little story and are close to my heart and probably to yours too for a reason or another. Some of them have their secrets and tips revealed here, some of them have been modified to accommodate our lifestyle (ie: what was available in the cupboard at the time) while others simply enter the “classics and favourites” categories. The storage cupboard recipes such as the Lisa’s dal - truly wonderful- and flapjacks have rescued our dinners and breakfasts many times.

You’ll notice the baking recipe is rather large and I have been conservative with the selection: you’ll find only the best! In particular I’ll mention the semolina and lemon cake, the cheese and potato bread, the chocolate cheesecake, the caramel and date slices requested by Keiko, Karen, Ann and Lisa respectively, while the orange and poppy seed cake is a general favourite. The tiramisu beats all italian ones and the rhubarb and ginger muffins are the “muffins of the year, well in!”, the ginger addition being a personal touch.

The savoury recipes are not too be neglected with contributions from great cooks including my Mum and Ann’s Mum. To finish, don’t forget to season (most of you will have your little pot of sea salt by now!!) and if in doubt use butter over margarine.

Enjoy the cooking and the eating! With much love, Julie