Happy New Year Everyone

February 1st, 2011

Yes, I know it is actually February, it's been a busy summer so far. We started BBQ & Lunch & Learn Cook classes early to meet demand, keeping me on my toes, January certainly zipped by.

My usual "Trip" to Italy to cook with Mama at the Umbria Cook School is scheduled earlier this year in July so we can all be home in time for the World Cup. We have always been in September so it will be great to experience late spring, early summer. There is just a couple of spaces still left, if you are keen to experience this great, fun fabulous trip, contact Pam Young ( House of Travel ): pammy@hot.co.nz our wonderful travel partner for more detail. Flying Emirates to Dubai for a few days, on to Rome, then a short bus trip to our lovely Villa in Umbria for 8 fabulous days experiencing this gorgeous part of Italy with the wonderful "me" & Mama cooking experience.

In the Kitchen Shop & Online our product of the "year" is a great new bowl set of 3, which are my favourite RED with a shiny metal lining and believe it friends they go in the microwave. They are so useful & too smart on the table - perfect for dips & nibbles!! Sorry it'll be tomorrow for photo and "online" detail.

The favourite summer treat in our family has been Sweet Chili & Tamari Nuts & Bolts. Makes 4 cups. 3 cups mixed nuts - almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, brazils and peanuts. I cup of seeds - pumpkin, sunflower plus a few pine nuts 1 egg white ( beaten to a frothy stage ) 1/4 cup Tamari Soy Sauce 2 tablespoons Sweet Chilli Sauce 1/2 teaspoon salt ( just to taste as the Soy is quite salty )

Pre heat oven to 170 degree, line a large roasting tin or slice tin with a sheet of Non Stick Baking paper. Toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated then lift the nutty mixture out using a small sieve or slotted spoon to shake off the excess liquid - spread on the paper & roast about 20 - 25 minutes. Stirring often to evenly roast the mixture. Cool & store in airtight jar. Great served in one of the little bowls.

Anyway, enough for now, a busy day looming. Hope you have had a great holiday and have a fabulous year planned. Fondest love Jo