Pantry items

Tuesday, 16 April 2019


Bell peppers are also known as sweet peppers or capsicum. They come in various colors like red, yellow, green, orange, white, purple and even mixed colored peppers which exist during parts of the ripening process. Green peppers are less sweet and slightly more bitter than yellow, orange or red peppers. Bell peppers are made up of water which is 94% and carbs like fructose, sugars and glucose. They also contain nutrients like vitamins, minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and sodium. You can cook bell peppers in so many ways. You can skewer with meats or veggies to make kabobs, you can shred into thin strips and add to your coleslaw.

Sunday, 3 February 2019


Making your own spice mixes is the best decision you can ever make for yourself and your family. Homemade is the best because you know what exactly you have in the mix and to what quantities you like. Pumpkin spice mix is a mixture of some of the warm spices that are readily available anywhere in the market. Spices bring life and flavor to food, whether you are using a single spice or mixing it up to ump the flavor and intensity, spices should be an integral part of your pantry. Spices not only add these wonderful memory invoking taste, they are healthy as well, and combining the spices gives you the added benefit of getting the most out of the nutrients the spices provide. It really takes  few second to make this awesome spice blend and will keep for several weeks if you do not use it regularly. Use pumpkin spice mix for several recipes like pumpkin pie, pumpkin latee or even to flavour teas. I love how fragrant and warm this mix is, gives you the feeling of seeping a warm cuppa tea, legs crossed over your sofa on a dreary rainy day, so comforting. 

Wednesday, 2 January 2019


Salmon is the common name for several species of ray-finned fish in the family Salmonidae. Other fish in the same family include trout, char, grayling and whitefish. There are different types of salmon including Atlantic salmon, Chinook salmon, Chum salmon, Coho salmon, Masu salmon or cherry salmon, Pink salmon  and Sockeye salmon. 

Tuesday, 1 January 2019


The poblano is a mild chili pepper originating in the state of Puebla, Mexico. Dried, it is called ancho or chile ancho, from the Spanish word ancho ("wide"). Stuffed fresh and roasted it is popular in chiles rellenos poblanos. While poblanos tend to have a mild flavor, occasionally and unpredictably they can have significant heat. Different peppers from the same plant have been reported to vary substantially in heat intensity. The ripened red poblano is significantly hotter and more flavorful than the less ripe, green poblano.  Preparation methods include: dried, stuffed, in mole sauces, or coated in whipped egg (capeado) and fried. After being roasted and peeled (which improves the texture by removing the waxy skin), poblano peppers are preserved by either canning or freezing.

Sunday, 30 December 2018


I love green grams, what we call "ndengu" in Kenya, and mostly eaten with Chapati or rice


Making your own herb rub is the best feeling in the world! I mean, apart from having your own quantity you have the herb rub fresh. Plus the added advantage of smelling the sweet aroma as the spices meld together while blending. So far my best homemade rub I have made so far.


Herbs enhance the flavor of food, make it aromatic and give it that lovely delicious bite.



This dry herb rub is the best thing to happen to my meat dishes. Herb rubs usually combine dried herbs, spice and even sweet elements like brown sugar. In this garlic herb rub I used garlic powder but you can mince the garlic and mix into the other herbs. 


The best seasoning for Asian cooking.

Friday, 30 November 2018


Tiny but mighty, flax seeds have been praised for centuries for their incredible health benefits and versatility in everyday cooking. These small, brown or golden seeds may not look like much at first glance, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition. Whether you're sprinkling them on your smoothie bowl, baking them into muffins, or mixing them into your morning oatmeal, flax seeds are one of the easiest ways to add a healthy boost to your meals.

Wednesday, 28 November 2018


Bold, warm, and unmistakably sharp, black pepper is far more than just a table condiment. As our Spice of the Week, this humble pantry staple deserves the spotlight for its rich history, powerful health benefits, and ability to enhance nearly every savory dish. Whether you’re seasoning a soup, rub, or roast, ground black pepper brings depth, heat, and balance to your culinary creations. Don’t underestimate the power of this kitchen staple. Black pepper, often dubbed the “king of spices,” is not only one of the most widely used spices in the world but also one of the oldest. Found in nearly every kitchen and on almost every dining table, this humble black granule is far more than a simple seasoning, it’s a spice with a rich history, remarkable health benefits, and unmatched culinary versatility. This week, we shine the spotlight on ground black pepper and why it deserves all the hype.

Tuesday, 27 November 2018



Discover why chickpeas are the perfect grain of the week! Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, plus easy recipes to enjoy their versatile flavor. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a powerhouse grain that deserves the spotlight as our Grain of the Week. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, chickpeas support digestion, heart health, and sustained energy. Their nutty flavor and satisfying texture make them a versatile ingredient perfect for salads, stews, hummus, and more. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to plant-based eating, chickpeas are a delicious way to boost your meals with wholesome nutrition.

Friday, 16 November 2018



This week’s spotlight herb is Oregano, a bold, aromatic staple in Mediterranean and Mexican cooking. Known for its slightly peppery, earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness, oregano adds depth to everything from pizza sauce and marinades to grilled meats and stews. Beyond its culinary versatility, oregano is rich in antioxidants and offers antimicrobial properties, making it a powerhouse in both the kitchen and natural wellness circles. Whether you use it fresh or dried, oregano is a must-have herb that transforms simple dishes into savory delights. Good-quality oregano may be strong enough almost to numb the tongue, but cultivars adapted to colder climates may have a lesser flavor. Often referred to as the “pizza herb,” oregano is far more versatile than its nickname suggests. With its earthy, slightly bitter, and robust taste, oregano adds depth to dishes and offers a range of health benefits that earn it a well-deserved spot in your pantry and herb garden.

Saturday, 10 November 2018


This week’s featured spice is Garam Masala, a fragrant and flavorful blend that lies at the heart of Indian cooking. Made from warming spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, garam masala brings depth and complexity to curries, stews, rice, and even snacks. Its name means “hot spice,” but it refers to the warmth it adds, not the heat. Beyond its culinary appeal, garam masala is believed to aid digestion and boost metabolism. Whether store-bought or homemade, just a pinch can transform your dish from simple to sensational. Garam masala is a fragrant and warming spice blend that holds a special place in South Asian cooking, particularly in Indian cuisine. The name itself comes from the Hindi words “garam,” meaning hot, and “masala,” meaning spice mix. However, the “heat” here doesn’t refer to spiciness but rather to the warming qualities these spices bring to the body. In Ayurvedic tradition, garam masala is believed to help stimulate digestion and improve metabolism, making it a flavorful and healthful addition to many dishes.

Wednesday, 7 November 2018


Elevate your Mexican dishes with this easy Taco Seasoning Spice Mix that you can make at home in minutes. Combining classic spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano, this versatile blend adds authentic flavor to tacos, fajitas, burritos, and more. Skip the store-bought packets filled with preservatives and customize your seasoning to taste, mild, spicy, or smoky. Whether you’re cooking beef, chicken, veggies, or beans, this DIY taco seasoning is a must-have pantry staple.

Thursday, 6 September 2018


Add a burst of citrus and warmth with orange spiced simple syrup. Easy to make and ideal for cocktails, teas, and desserts. Orange Spiced Simple Syrup is a vibrant and aromatic syrup that brings the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and cozy spice to your drinks and desserts. Made with fresh orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar, this syrup is easy to prepare and a fantastic addition to cocktails, iced teas, lemonades, or even drizzled over pancakes and desserts. Elevate your beverage game with this homemade syrup that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. 

Monday, 3 September 2018


The burst of flavours that come from this chutney are just out of this world! Chutney is uaually a condiment that originated from India, specifically East India and comes from the word "chatni" which means strongly spiced. Chutneys usually consist of a mix of vinegar, sugar, chopped fruit and spices and are traditionally served with curried foods. There are so many different ways of making chutney. When it comes to spices you can use cardamom, ginger, all spice, cinnamon, nutmeg and even cloves. For the fruits you can use raisins, peaches, mango, apricot, tamarind and even most citrus fruits would work well. Herbs that you can add to chutneys include coriander and even mint. All these wonderful combinations of tart, sweet flavours and a touch of aromatic spice really compliments strongly flavoured dishes especially meat. Serve the chutney as a side to accompany curries, meats one even breakfast options.

Saturday, 17 March 2018


Garlic might be small, but it is one of the most powerful and celebrated ingredients in kitchens around the world. Used in cuisines from Asia to Europe and everywhere in between, garlic brings a sharp, pungent aroma and a depth of flavor that transforms even the simplest dishes into something truly satisfying. Whether roasted, minced, sautéed, or crushed, garlic has a way of infusing food with rich, savory warmth that is hard to replicate.

Wednesday, 31 January 2018


Skip the store-bought blends and make your own Homemade Italian Herb Rub in minutes! This flavorful mix of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and garlic is perfect for seasoning meats, roasted vegetables, pasta sauces, and more. Whether you're meal prepping or elevating a weeknight dinner, this DIY spice rub adds authentic Italian flair to any dish—using simple pantry staples you already have.
Herb Rub is usually any mixture of ground spices that is used to rub on raw food before cooking it, especially food that is to be grilled, pan fried or even baked. The herb rub usually forms that coat on the food giving it that extra flavor and texture. When using the herb rub, food can be marinated in the rub so that the flavors can be incorporated into the food intensifying the taste.

Tuesday, 30 January 2018


Delamere Yogurt with Real Lemon Biscuit offers a delightful combination of creamy, smooth yogurt paired with the refreshing zing of real lemon. The tangy citrus flavor is perfectly balanced by the biscuit crunch, making each spoonful a satisfying treat. In this product review, we explore the taste, texture, and overall experience of this unique yogurt blend, ideal for anyone looking for a refreshing snack or breakfast option. Ever tasted yogurt so good that you literally had a foodgasm in your mouth? That o-m-g-what-is-happening-in-my-mouth kind of moment? I bet you haven't! That is what Delamere's Yogurt with real lemon biscuit does to you. There's yogurt, then there's flavored yogurt, then there's fruit yogurt, and then there's this yogurt that beats it all. When they say real lemon biscuit, it's real biscuits in the yogurt. You don't just get two or three pieces of the lemon biscuit in your yogurt; all those yummy biscuits are in every bite! I love the fact that the yogurt is thick and you can eat it with your spoon as you enjoy every flavor of its ingredients. I have made a Parfait Dessert with this yogurt and I must confess that was the first time tasting the Yogurt With real lemon biscuit and I got hooked!
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