Who doesn’t love a good Cheese Platter? I know at all my social events with friends and family they go down a treat. But doing the same thing over and over again can become quite mundane. Well this post is your guide to help you have your next cheese plater go that next level up!
There are many types and brands of cheese out there. It is up to you what type you choose. However, most cheese falls into 4 categories.
You can also add cream cheese. It also good to look out for different textures and milk the cheese is based off so to have the variety. But the key is to have one cheese most people should know.
The amount of cheese will depend on the event. Is this the only pre-lunch/dinner food available or will there be other types. How many guests are coming. How long before the main meal. If you wanted one of each type of cheese above then we recommend a minimum of 12 people.
Or relish or jam or pickles. Really the choices are endless and it depends on you (and your guests)
A soft cheese needs a soft companion, that’s why we recommend a Fig Jam or Quince Jam.
With a firm cheese, try having a Fruit Chutney, Tomato Chutney or Onion Jam.
A Blue cheese is good on its own because of its strength and texture.
For an aged cheese, cutting through the sharpness with something sweet like Beetroot Relish is a good combination.
That’s it. Some simple tips for making your next Cheese board or platter go that next step up. Enjoy 😊
Elderflowers scientific name is sambucus nigra. Elderflower comes from the elder plant and has a white or cream flower. In spring, the plant grows black/purple berries. The plant can be found around the world however it is most common in the Northern Hemisphere.
There are various species of elder, the most commonly known being black elderberry, often used medicinally. In ancient folklore, the elder tree was also supposed to ward off evil spirits. Sambucus appears in Ancient Greek texts and plays most commonly in Pliny’s writings.
Both the Elder flower and berries are mentioned in European and Chinese medicine for healing. In British history, it has been used for respiratory health In Chinese medicine, it is known to help with joint pain and inflammation. It is said to be used in medicine since the stone age.
Elderflower is currently used in several different medical areas including Cold and Flu, Hay Fever, Constipation ad immunity.
Today, Elderflower can be used in cooking as well as medicine. Below are some yummy recipes that have elderflower as the star.
oil, for greasing
6 medium Eggs
100g natural yoghurt
50ml Milk
450g butter
450g golden caster sugar
450g self-raising flour
finely grated zest of 1 Lemon plus juice
3 tbsp elderflower cordial
250g Butter, softened
300g full fat cream cheese
700g icing sugar
finely grated zest of 1 Lemon
fresh flowers to decorate
bunch of Asparagus (about 8 spears), woody ends removed and discarded (or save to make soup), cut in half lengthways
200g pack sugar snap pea
140g fresh or frozen Pea
1 small cooked Chicken skin and bones discarded, meat shredded
250g Radish (use mixed colours and shapes if you can), sliced
1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1 large curly round Lettuce or 2 Little Gems, torn
handful Pea shoots (optional)
2 tbsp elderflower cordial
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
zest and juice 1 large lemon
3 tbsp extra virgin rapeseed oil
Follow the hyperlinks to find some yummy adult only drinks.
Below are some ideas on how to add Elderflower to your everyday items to lift the flavour.
For more information please follow the hyperlinks and enjoy cooking 😊
Recently I have been listening and reading about Dr Nural Cokcetin's research into the Benefits of Honey. Below is a list of my top 5 😊
So there you are, Benefits of Honey. I hope this has been informative and useful.
***DISCLAIMER***
For more information, please speak to a medical professional before making any medical decisions. If you would like more information on the points above, see the links below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFRFwDy3tT0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkY6BI1DByk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLhm0NhJE7c
https://www.well-beingsecrets.com/health-benefits-of-honey-ultimate-guide/