Apple Nachos....

I love a challenge almost as much as I love a sweet treat so when the opportunity arose to mix the two how could I resist? So with the challenge accepted I wondered how could I make a mid morning snack vegan, gluten free, suitable for a diabetic and more adventurous than just a banana?! Giant mug of coffee in hand (made with chai choc almond milk – try it, its heaven in a mug!!) and the cats curled up next to me, I scoured recipe books, Pinterest and my favourite vegan blogs for inspiration. And there was plenty! Sweet or savoury? Nibbles or actual snacks? Was it too much / big / small for a snack? Does it contain ingredients I actually have in (it was raining outside and I am shamefully a fair weather biker…) I finally stumbled upon this beauty of a recipe. Sadly I read that much and made endless notes to the point I am not sure where I found this little delight but who ever the author is please know I adore you and thank you for saving the day with this yummy plate of awesomeness. Apple Nachos –

 

Apple Nachos (serves 2)

• 3 apples of your choice
• Nut butter of your choice (we used hazelnut butter)
• Sweet Freedom Choc Shot
• 2 square of your favourite dark vegan chocolate (we used raw cacao with stem ginger)

 

How To –

• Chop the apples in to wedges and arrange on a plate.
• Drizzle nut butter and choc shot all over the apples.
• Grate / bash the chocolate up and sprinkle on top.
• Grab, your friend, 2 forks (it is a bit messy for finger food), your cups of tea & enjoy!

Small Business Saturday- East Coast Bicycles.......

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday – 

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

 Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

 So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Nick of East Coast Bicycles, he says – 

East Coast Bicycles is an award winning Bicycle Boutique and Emporium specialising in cool, retro and vintage style bicycles, Dutch bicycles, single speed and American beach cruiser bicycles. We have a good range of unique accessories including hand made wicker baskets and gorgeous hand made leatherette panniers. We encourage individuality and promote social cycling to all ages and organise weekly, monthly and yearly cycle events for customers and the general public. We even have a little shop dog called Lily Dog who has her own blog!

The store features -

• *Trained bike mechanics

*Bike servicing

• Sale bikes included

*Click and collect

• *Home delivery  

If you fancy the ride on a Tuesday night it does not matter what colour your bike is just as long as it is fixed wheel or single speed! Then you can join the ECB Knights fixed wheel/single speed ride this every Tuesday eve. Meet at East Coast Bicycles for a 7pm leave. Bring lights and beer money as we go to Queens after the ride.

www.eastcoastbicycles.co.uk

53 Princes Avenue, Hull HU5

01482 342894

Chickpea Flat Bread - vegan & gluten free.....

Healthy, delicious, vegan, gluten-free & Italian. Need I say more? I mean, really? With so many wonderful things all packaged up into one, it might seem almost too good to be true. If I told you also, just how mind-bogglingly easy this recipe was, well you might just freak right out. Don’t do that. Instead, read on to find the recipe that could literally help you simplify your life, be healthier, all the while impressing your friends and family as well. Lofty promises I know.

CHICKPEA FLAT BREAD:

• (2.5) cups chick-pea flour* (also called gram or garbanzo flour)
• (3.5) cups fresh cold water
• (1 tsp) salt & black pepper, or to taste
• (1/4) cup extra virgin olive oil

First, prepare to be blown away in a few hours, as this recipe calls for the mixed batter to sit a little while. I’ve made this recipe now several times and have had great success with mixing it up mid-day on a weekend for cooking in time for dinner.

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the flour. Add the water gradually as you whisk the flour to keep any lumps from forming. Once all the water has been added, mix until completely smooth and add salt and pepper as desired (just not too much salt and this recipe doesn’t need much).

*You can make your own freshly ground chickpea flour in a high powered blender. Simply take good quality dried chickpeas and add 2 cups at a time to a Blender - mines a Kitchen Aid one and does a great job. Blend on high until it makes a very fine powder.

Let the mixture stand on the counter for 3 hours or so. When ready to bake, heat the oven to 350 degrees. Gently skim off any froth that forms on the surface of the mixture with a slotted spoon. Prepare a large rimmed cookie sheet by pouring the olive oil onto the bottom (if you can, do not be shy or skimpy here with the olive oil, it is wonderful in this recipe).

Once the oven is hot, pour in the batter, making a layer about (1/4) inch deep. Careful, this is going to move a lot when you pick it up! Bake at 350 for 30 minutes, until golden. Remove from the oven when done and let cool a little before cutting & serving.

We played about using different infused oils & letting home made pesto rest on top when it was warm as well as putting olives, vegan cheeses & sundried tomatoes. Amazing!!

Small Business Saturday - Tea & Bisque........

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday –

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

 Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

 So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Tracy and  Debbie  of Tea & Bisque, they say –

The Tea & Bisque-it pottery painting studio is a family friendly venue for adults and children of all ages and all abilities to come and enjoy creating / designing and painting their own art onto a large selection of pottery, ranging from cups and saucers, to animals, clocks, and even Doctor Who money-boxes, and we can do paw prints as well as child hand and foot prints. The range of our bisque pottery is wide so please visit us to have a look around at all the designs subjects and themes we have available for you to paint and create.

If you have ideas or requests for parties or themed pottery / painting events please feel free to ring us on (01482) 653611 or pop-in (or send us a message on Facebook) and have a chat with Tracy or Debbie about it, and if it is possible we will do our best to make it happen - Please note there may be an added cost if we need to buy-in a small-run of pottery which we wouldn't normally sell.

At Tea & Bisque-it we love cake, so whilst you are having a short break from your pottery painting - maybe as a moment of consideration and inspiration, why not have a lovely slice of cake, or some flapjack or a scone to help get those creative juices flowing... If Tracy has the time to bake we also have a variety of home-made cookies cakes and flapjacks available, some gluten free, as well as a 'Daily Special' to choose from. We serve a variety of savoury snacks on weekends and during school holidays.

If you just fancy a drink we have fresh bean Fairtrade coffee supplied by the Wilberforce Freedom charity, as well as a wide selection of speciality teas, and cold drinks. You do not have to be painting to use our café facilities; everyone is welcome to call in... And last but not least, please remember that the café IS dog friendly.

Example of some of their gorgeous pottery...

 So please come along and try your hand at creating your own little masterpiece... You can come on your own or with friends and family to create a wonderful gift for a loved-one or something to put on show in your house. Whichever you decide we can guarantee you will have a great time choosing, designing and painting your own personal piece of pottery, something which you can be extremely proud of and which by visiting us again and again you can add to as time goes by.

Example of some of their gorgeous pottery...

Example of some of their gorgeous cake.....

Contact details –

Tea & Bisque-it, 155 Kingston Road, Willerby, Hull HU10 6AL.

Tel: (01482) 653611

www.facebook.com/teaandbisque

instagram.com/teaandbisqueit

Brown Rice & Mushroom Burger (Vegan and Gluten Free)......

Since going vegan I have learnt that the summer BBQ with friends, whilst loads of fun and not to be missed –isn’t, by nature vegan friendly. So as BBQ season approaches every vegan should have a stash of home made no meat burgers tucked away in the freezer that they can quickly heat up and enjoy with yummy salads and baked potatoes. After some initial trial and error I created this perfect vegan burger. Firm, tasty, holds well in a bun and easy to make I now have a freezer full ready for some fun filled BBQ summer nights.

Mushroom & Brown Rice Vegan Burgers (makes 2)

·        1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

·        A pinch of each: turmeric, garlic powder and pepper

·        150g of  mushrooms cut up

·        A pinch of salt

·        1  can organic black beans, drained and rinsed

·        3 tablespoons of cooked brown rice

How To –

·        In a pan heat the oil and add the mushrooms, spices & salt.

·        As they brown roughly mash the beans in a separate bowl.

·        Add the rice and mushroom mix to the mashed beans and mix well.

·        Using a handful of the mixture shape into burger shapes.

·        Place them in the same pan that you had used and cook on both sides.

·        Serve in a bun with your favourite toppings – avocado, tomato and onion are a favourite of mine. Enjoy!

 

 

Almond Icecream (vegan and gluten free)......

A few weeks ago I posted a blog with a recipe for the most amazing raspberry and dark chocolate flapjack which I served with almond icecream. Since then I have had lots of requests for my vegan gluten free icecram recipe and I am only too happy to oblige. Make, eat & enjoy!

Create your ice cream base:

 ■full fat organic coconut milk

 ■non-dairy milk (almond, cashew, hemp etc)

Select a sweetener:

 ■dates

 ■coconut sugar

 ■agave syrup (I used sweet freedom)

 Optional add-ins:

 ■vanilla extract

 ■vanilla beans

 ■cacao or cocoa powder

 ■dark chocolate pieces or sauce

 ■cookies, brownies or other baked goods (vegan / gluten free friendly of course)

 ■nuts

 ■fresh or dried fruit

 ■spices

 ■herbs and botanicals

 ■nut butters

 ■toasted coconut

 ■coffee

 ■and sooo much more!!

When you have made all those decisions this is the easy part – mix all the ingredients together with a blender / electric whisk and pour into a freezer friendly container. Check every hour and mash with a fork each time you do. It takes approx. 4 hours to get it to the right constancy. Get a  big scoop and enjoy!

Picnic Time...... (no bears were harmed!)

Those of you who follow my blog will know I have recently got myself a beautiful new bike (a Dawes Duchess in Roses!) and I am totally in love. As we get older we treat ourselves less so it is nice sometimes to put yourself first and get something you have wanted for a long time. As I have touched on in my previous blog there are many amazing reasons to cycle. But as the sun is shining, the infamous British summer has begun and I have a basket on the front of my bike I felt it was time to take some cruelty-free cooking to the park, the beach and wherever else you would want to picnic this summer. Loaves of bread stuffed with veggies and vegan pesto, pinwheels, potato salad and kale chips are just a few of the dairy-free dishes you could be enjoying on your summer adventures. From sandwiches to cakes, these fresh, flavourful and creative vegan picnic recipes will impress even your most sceptical omnivore friends and family. These are some of my favourite ideas -

·        Stuff a partially hollowed-out loaf of bread (gluten free if needs be) with all of your favourite fillings, wrap it up and refrigerate it overnight with a heavy weight on top for condensed picnic sandwiches that won’t fall apart when you try to eat them. This version by The Daily Mail layers pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, artichoke and grilled marinated tofu or substitute for  another favourite vegan ingredient like avocado, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers or hummus.

·        Vegetable pinwheels are a fun alternative to plain old wraps and sandwiches and can be made with any of your favourite veggies. You just spread a mixture of vegan cream cheese and finely diced vegetables onto gluten free wraps, roll them up, slice them and wrap each resulting ‘pinwheel’ individually. Another option switches out the cream cheese and diced raw vegetables for hummus and grilled veggies.

·        Pretty much any potato salad can be made vegan by omitting dairy-based mayonnaise – be creative! Many potato salad recipes use vinaigrette and/or mustard instead of mayo to dress the veggies, or you could just use vegan mayonnaise. Try adding dill and pickles for a flavour boost, and toss in any veggies you have laying around.

·        Homemade kale or sweet potato chips make a lovely addition to any picnic and are great for nibbling along the way if needs be. Simply follow the recipes on my previous blogs and enjoy!

·        No picnic is complete without pudding. The British summer favourite has to strawberries, picked fresh from your local farm ideally and dipped in champagne while nibbling some dark chocolate. Perfect. Realistically however I’d rather see how much cake I can eat before I start to feel sick (let me tell you it is quite a lot!) brownies, flapjack and carrot cake bites all work as they travel well, can be cut into pretty bite size chunks and are perfect for sharing (if you want to share!)

Small Business Saturday - The Vegan Good Life..........

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

 And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday –

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

 Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

 2. It is the ethical choice

 Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

 5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Louise Stout Founder and CEO of Vegan Good Life, she says  –

Michelle Louise Stout - Founder & CEO

WELCOME TO VEGAN GOOD LIFE OF YORKSHIRE. A Dairy-Free Chocolate & Marzipan Company and Ethical Higher Consciousness Living.

We are a heart-centred business of creativity, love, value and contribution. Passionate about all things vegan and our decadent dairy-free vegan chocolate that is better for you. We care about people, the animals, and this beautiful planet earth. We are proud and passionate about our hand-crafted chocolates and sculptured gifts, sweet vegan treats that are loved by many across the United Kingdom.  We produce in small batches so they always arrive at your door nice and fresh and at their very best. Our chocolates and sculptures are lovingly hand-made with expertise care and attention by our chocolate connoisseurs with many years’ experience (myself included). We know a thing or two about creating delicious vegan chocolate that is none bitter, and our marzipan sugar craft design modelling. Therefore you can expect a high quality and delicious intensity product.

Peanutbutter & Jelly - my fav!

Human beings can live and be healthy without killing and enslaving animals. One who eats animal flesh participates in taking life merely for the sake of appetite".  The kindest thing you can do for animals is to refuse to eat them! Health and well-being from a heart centred perspective, mind body and spirit are important to us, as are the animals, the planet and making a difference. I cannot thank you enough for caring about the message that we are all trying to give the world.  There is no greater gift than to give yourself the gift of health and well-being, and to know that you are not contributing to the cruelty and untold suffering of the beautiful creatures that we share this planet with. We are inspired to take action against the cruelty to animals where ever it occurs in the world and by promoting the vegan lifestyle. To live without a vision is to live without a purpose. It is not so much the length of life, but the depth of life lived with enthusiasm and passion to make a difference. Vegan Good Life was born out of deep love and desire to help as many animals around the world as possible to stop their abuse and slaughter. We are ethically and passionately driven to make a difference for animals, people and the planet.  Choosing to buy animal friendly products benefits everything everywhere and vitally important your health, well-being and spirit.

My own personal story and journey to becoming vegan was a work in progress, conscience versus social programming and brainwashing.  Long before hearing and learning about the huge health benefits of a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle, it was the witnessing of horrific cruelty to animals across a vast spectrum that brought about my switch to an all vegan diet. I knew deep down it was the right thing to do giving up eating animals, and wearing fashion clothing, accessories made from leather, wool. and cosmetics, perfumes that animals are used, tested on and horrifically exploited and murdered for...the list goes on..

History, religion, social, cultural programming passed on from generation to generation is the main reason evil continues across the globe. We are harming this planet and in the process harming ourselves! We must start taking a deeper look into our own habits and beliefs if we want a better world for ourselves, our children, the animals, the Oceans and all life on this beautiful blue planet.  A worldwide movement is underway and when we all come together, this dreadful horror house of slaughter and injustice will be dramatically reduced and eventually faded out from the mainstream.  It will no longer be considered 'Vogue' to eat animal flesh or wear clothing and other items made from them. The chefs of tomorrow will become creative vegans producing menu wonders that we have yet to experience, in place of the current flow of promoting animal slaughter, bloodshed and suffering for their dishes. And the same holds true for the fashion and beauty industry. The planet will begin to heal and human beings will become healthier in mind, body and spirit and truly start evolving for the better. We will have more love and less hate around the world.

Being compassionate was high on my list of things to do, it was a spiritual choice. It's a disgrace what is happening to the animals on our planet, and also to many people around the world.  A heart breaker and I say that in the deepest sense.  So I plead to everyone that has eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that feels to take a second look into the eyes of the suffering animals around the world and take a stand for what is RIGHT !

What does 'Love' and Compassion' really mean, if you don't extend it to include other creatures on the planet? They are not separate from you, and you are not separate from them.. everything in the universe is connected.

'YOU' THE EVERY DAY CONSUMER HAVE THE POWER TO TURN THE TIDE, AND THOUSANDS, THEN MILLIONS WILL ALSO JOIN 'YOU' AND THIS IS HOW ALL THINGS IN HISTORY GOT CHANGED. STEP INTO 'YOUR' POWER

 

IT ALL STARTS WITH THE POWER OF ONE.  YOU & ME!

To all the vegan's reading this, I salute you and thank you from the depths of my heart.  To those who do feel and care, but have yet to make the connection and commitment.  Please try to keep the awareness that an animal’s life is just as precious as your own. Animals feel fear and pain and desire comfort and love just like you do. 

REMEMBER: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Martin Luther King Jr

Those neat packets of flesh in the supermarkets and the butchers are filled with horror, cruelty and untold suffering. Keep this in mind the next time you shop.

THINK VEGAN, THINK HEALTH, THINK POWER, THINK LOVE..

Our Vision & Mission is to develop a rescue haven for these wonderful creatures that are disregarded by humanity as a whole! We are working to turn the tide and reverse this current reality.                                                               

support@vegangoodlife.co.uk

Tel: 01482 852899

Text: 07952824971

Pink phones, techo phobia & attempting to save the planet one ring tone at a time.............

Six months ago my mobile phone contract was up. Over the years this has been an event I have looked forward to and been excited by. This time however it filled me with dread. Despite a smashed screen, 2 faulty charging port repairs and a replacement battery being brought, the thought of the hassle of changing my phone made me want to hide. Lost contacts, pictures and no idea how to use the new one is not my idea of a good time. So I have held on until now and I started reading about mobile phones, the environment and effects on the planet. Armed with this info I made some decisions. Firstly being environmentally conscience I wanted to be mindful that the decisions I made would support this. Secondly I am a secret techno phobe. I don’t have a laptop (I use the local library), of the 2 TV’s in our house one belongs to my lovely man, the other my parents old one and the only camera I have is on my phone. I wouldn’t use a micro wave except we were kindly given one (I lived for years without one) and it is only in the last 6 months I have an electric kettle – I used to have a hob top Le Creuset one before this. So hundreds if not thousands of pounds on a top of the range phone just isn’t my thing nowadays. I would just rather have a plane ticket somewhere than have the latest gadgets.

With regards to being environmentally friendly it made sense to me that I should buy a refurbished phone. After looking round for a good deal I found one on line with a 1 year warranty included. I decided to get an Iphone as Apple seems to have the best policy on human rights as well as carbon emissions.

The case was the fun part with R – Pet and Pela making gorgeous recycled cased from plastic bottles it was easy to be spoilt for choice and environmentally friendly.

I recycled my old phone with one of the many on line providers which meant I got some cash in my pocket and I had recycled too. Win win.

My last and final purchase was probably one of my favourite to date. A solar powered phone charger. No electricity, minimal environmental damage and portable. A bargain at £10 this nifty little thing just needs a session in a window with sunlight to charge any mobile device. Amazing.

Small Business Saturday - Homemade by Erica Jayne......

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

 Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

 Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

 Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

 Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday  I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Erica Jayne of Homemade by Erica Jayne, she says  –

Hi, I’m Erica Jayne, I trained as a Chef quite a few years ago now and have been working in the catering industry ever since. But most importantly I learned to cook as soon as my mum could sit me up at the work tops, she is a fabulous Yorkshire cook! I loved those days when the big pine kitchen table would be filled with baking and pies. And our family Piccalilli Recipe has gone down four generations in my family – it’s a closely guarded secret that I learned to make with mum and we are ever so proud of it.

Because of my many food allergies mum figured the best way to help me was to teach me all her skills so that I never had to rely on buying things that could make me ill, and she never, ever fed me junk or colourings, flavourings or preservatives (I’m hyper enough). This principle comes from the heart and as an advocate of shopping local and supporting local trade and craft I have decided to build a company making and selling sweet toothed treats, cooks ingredients and scrumptious chutneys and pickles. All of which are pure, made from ingredients that do not contain gluten or dairy and are free from artificial junk! Instead my stuff is made from ingredients that are as locally sourced as possible supporting local or ethical farming industries, and made in our kitchen at home which proudly has a 5* score on the door!

I have spent a lot of years living with dietary restrictions and learning to make treats that taste great and I wanted to bring them to you because we all deserve to have access to fairly priced, good quality food that tastes gorgeous and makes us smile! For that reason all of my products are also Veggie and Vegan friendly and contain no Palm Oil or animal derivatives, they are packed instead with loads of good quality flavoursome fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

We take the products to markets nearly every weekend and it’s ever so much fun, I love getting to meet everyone. If you have a look on my Google calendar you can track me down and find me, and I will keep tweeting images and news from the road too so please join in with our journey......

Pizza, detox's and Friday night in with the cat.................

So you may already be aware that this week I am on a detox. In true Kate style I was that excited to get on with it and reap the benefits I didn’t think that during my 7 day detox my monthly visit from the PMT monster was due. Ooops! Detox’s can be challenging enough without having an unwelcome extra, but not one to be defeated I decided that there was nothing else for it except to rise to the challenge…… how could I make PMT comfort food vegan, gluten free and detox friendly? Good job I love a challenge and a challenge this was. Inspiration struck as I went through the cupboards and spotted a bag of sweet potatoes. I had heard of a sweet potato crust pizza and this seemed a perfect opportunity to make it plus I had some homemade veggie sauce in the fridge that would be perfect for the base. Winning!  I have to say that this trumps the crazy popular cauliflower pizza base.  It holds together beautifully and, though sweet in taste, carries the more robust flavours of the seasoning better. It’s quick, simple and incredibly delicious. Top with whatever you choose; I did the basic olives, onion, garlic, mushrooms and tomato.  This base will handle quite a substantial topping so feel free to add as much as you like of whatever you fancy / have in. So with the pizza in the oven, my pj's on, the cat curled up next to me and icy infused lemon water in a wine glass it is a very happy Friyay!

Sweet Potato Crust Pizza (serves 1)

·        120g mashed sweet potato

·        120g ground almonds

·        1 tsp baking soda

·        1 tsp  dried herbs – (basil, oregano, thyme etc)

·        Pinch salt

·        Pizza sauce or tomato paste for topping ( I used the left overs of a home made one)

·        Any assorted pizza toppings of your choice.

 

How To -

·        Pre-heat your oven and a baking tray to 220 degrees.

·        Peel, dice and cook the sweet potato until it’s soft enough to mash.

·        In a largish bowl, mix all the ingredients.  It will look like orange, sticky dough.

·        Carefully remove the hot baking tray from the oven (I’ve found that pre-heating the tray makes for a crispier base) and line with baking paper.

·        Spread the mix into a circle to the thickness you like (obviously the thinner it is, the crispier it will be)

·        Bake for about 20 mins or until the edges start to brown.

·        Remove and top with your chosen toppings.

·        Put back in the oven or under a grill until the toppings are all golden and melty. Enjoy!