Archive for April, 2010
Anzac Day two-up @ Dicks, Balmain
PC invited Mr L and me to join her, the two Ts and a few others for a spot of Anzac Day Two-Up @ Dicks Hotel, Balmain. We could hardly believe the crowds as we approached Dick’s. Outside Dick’s and the adjacent Exchange Hotel, the lines were massive (see pics) as people from far and wide came together to remember the Anzacs, while drinking beers and playing Two-Up.
Remembering our soldiers on ANZAC Day eve
Mr L and I met my friend Cassie in the Rocks today. While there, I took the following picture of a sandstone soldier carving. Though it’s of a soldier from Australia’s settlement period, it seemed fitting since ANZAC Day is tomorrow. I’ve been remembering my two grandfathers who both served their countries in world war two – as did many other men and women. I’ve also been thinking of the cab driver in Brisbane this week who told me that he’d been left for dead with two bullets in his chest in the Vietnam War. He was so glad to be alive – there was a spring in his voice seldom heard while people rush about their days, barely stopping to remember their manners in the street, or acknowledge others. This post has one purpose – to remember those who have gone to wars – whether by choice or not.
Travellers’ tricks – cooking while travelling
This week I’m in Brisbane. While it’s easy to get caught up with eating badly (and working late), I determined to cook my dinners while away this week. A simple concept, right? In fact, cooking while travelling is difficult, since (unless travelling with one’s whole pantry), it’s important to be able to produce tasty meals with limited ingredients. And in my case, ingredients that are gluten free. This post is the start of a series to inspire fellow regular travellers to cook, rather than order room service – to conserve their wastelines and improve the health of their wallets. Tonight’s recipe: garlic prawn and veggie stirfry with rice – is no mess, no fuss, no gluten and good for health. And what’s more, it takes less than 10 minutes to make, so it’s faster than delivery!
Karen Martini’s Persian Roasted Chicken with Hazelnuts and Saffron
This post follows on from Monday and last night’s blogs. The hazelnuts in this recipe bring an amazing dimension to it – roasty nutty flavour and serious crunch. And the Persian flavours remind me fondly of friends B + B! If you’re looking for a variation on your favourite chicken recipe or want to serve something a bit different to guests, consider this dish. If you’re nuts for nuts – this, you should try this dish!
Thai red duck curry – thanks to magical MIL, fantastic FIL and Karen Martini
Well – how lucky am I? And you too, really? Why? Thanks to my magical MIL and fantastic FIL I now have both the first Thai red duck curry and the Persian chicken recipes from last night’s blog in my hot little hand. Tonight, I’ll share the red duck curry recipe with you. Originally – it comes from Australian chef, Karen Martini. If you like to cook – make it. It’s one of the best Thai red duck curries I’ve had!
A duck’n'great time!
A super quick post tonight from the back of a cab in Brisbane! It’s not a review, nor a recipe, but the promise of at least one, if not three recipes. I know it’s a tease, but pics of two duck curries and Persian chicken are below to whet your appetite. This post also remembers two terrific friends, B+B.
Cacao fantasy – ooh yeah!
So I admit it. I pinch things from hotels. Well – I mean, they’re all things intended for my use, but I choose not to use them during my stay and instead take them with me. L’Occitane toiletries, exotic tea bags, the occassional double pack of scotch finger biscuits, shower caps and shoe shiners – they’ve all featured in my checkout cargo. After all – who knows when I’ll need them? I travel a lot – I don’t want to be caught out with dull shoes! Tonight’s post is about a stolen item – Douwe Egberts’ Cacao fantasy – fine drinking chocolate.
Tours with the magical MIL: cars, Japanese gardens, art and lunch @ Terrigal
Mr L and I are staying on the central coast with the L seniors this weekend, and while Mr L was off at a photography course today, I had the great pleasure of an impromptu tour with Mrs L senior, my magical Mother-in-law (MIL). Who knew at the start of the day that our travels would take us through Japanese gardens, art exhibitions, a car show, shopping and to a cafe at Terrigal beach?
Mosey on down to South Restaurant, y’all
Mr L and I were thrilled to be invited to our friend Tines’ birthday a few weeks ago @ South Restaurant in Neutral Bay. Turns out, so were a bunch of our other friends, and on a Tuesday night, we met up with great anticipation of the creole, cajun and soul food that South Restaurant is famous for.
Indian wedding chutney – the stuff of celebrations!
A very quick post tonight for Mr L and I have just returned from a tremendous dinner with BFs and it’s late. I think it’s important to tell you now about Indian Wedding Chutney. If you’ve not had it, you need it.
Nanna G’s lunchtime fave: Myer Cafe
My Mum (Nanna G) is a big fan of the salad sandwich. All salad sandwiches are good, but there’s one that she particularly enjoys from the Myer Cafe @ Macquarie Centre, North Ryde. My Dad (Pa) likes any excuse to have lunch out and about. So having lunch @ Myer Cafe is an excellent way to have lunch with them both!
Wildes Restaurant + 212 Margaret St, Brisbane
A short post tonight. Hopefully you agree that’s deserved after yesterday’s epic. This post is about a burger I discovered in Brisbane which surpassed my expectations. Although in an extended blogging hiatus, I knew it was photoworthy and I decided to follow up with this quick, but fond post.
Surprise! See you @ Spice Temple.
I’m a lucky girl. I’ve got two sisters in law and they’re both foodies. They’re both super generous and thoughtful, and I owe them both my thanks for two tremendous dinners that Mr L and I have enjoyed recently: at Spice Temple and Quay. Today, I’m remembering last night’s surprise dinner @ Spice Temple. Next week, I’ll reminisce with you about Quay.
