Growing radishes

Radishes belong to the Brassica family and  are one of the most common garden vegetables, widely cultivated throughout the world. They vary in colour and shape from red, white, purple or black and can be round or long and cylindrical. Like other members of the Brassica family they contain sulforaphane and indole-3 which are thought to be protective against cancer when eaten raw. They are also … Continue reading Growing radishes

Stuffed Zucchini Flowers

Zucchinis are blooming and the blossoms make a delicious dish when stuffed with feta and mint in the classic Greek way. Both forms of the flower can be used and the immature zucchini left attached will yield a crunchy element to the crispy battered blossoms. Stuffed Zucchini Flowers Ingredients 12 zucchini or squash blossoms with the immature zucchini attached where possible or just the flower … Continue reading Stuffed Zucchini Flowers

Curried Egg Salad

This is another single serve salad for work.  Its lightly curried flavour and the variety of vegetables make for a delicious lunch with some crusty bread. Curried Egg Salad Ingredients Dressing: 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated 2 tsp generous whole egg mayo 2 tbsp cottage cheese 2 tsp whole grain mustard Sprinkle of nutmeg 1/2 tsp curry powder Salad: 1 hard boiled egg cut into … Continue reading Curried Egg Salad

Buddah’s Hand Citron

On a visit to the garden of our friend Merren we discovered this rare and interesting fruit tree, the Buddah’s hand citron. It is grown  in Asia where there are many cultivars and variations of this plant and it was exciting to find it growing so well in Sydney. The gnarled fruit, when mature, looks like a hand with fingers. The  fruit pictured is still to … Continue reading Buddah’s Hand Citron

Growing Sunflowers

Sunflowers come in a variety of sizes and they all add a splash of sunshine  to the garden and attract bees. They are easy to grow and an excellent way to introduce children to gardening. Growth habits and planting needs As Sunflowers are allelopathic, that is, they produce toxins that prevent the growth of other plants, care should be taken about the location chosen to … Continue reading Growing Sunflowers

Cherry Sauce with Brandy

Cherries are still easily available and this sauce can be used with your favourite meats to add a little zest and contrast in flavours. Cherry Sauce with Brandy Ingredients 500 g dark ripe cherries 3 tblsp orange juice 1 tsp lemon juice 1/4 cup brandy 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 2 1/2 tblsp of butter 2 french shallots, chopped finely 1/4 cup good cherry juice salt … Continue reading Cherry Sauce with Brandy

Growing Turnips

Turnips are an easy crop to grow, quick to mature and sown in January will be ready in Autumn. The turnip roots are rich in vitamin C. The turnip leaves however, are even richer in vitamins and minerals being a good source of vitamin K, A and C, B complex and an excellent source of important minerals like calcium, copper, iron, potassium, and manganese. If harvested … Continue reading Growing Turnips

Baked Chicken Roulade

A baked Chicken Roulade is a great cold meat for picnics or with your favourite salad on those hot summer days. It is also delicious served warm with your favourite sauce and baked vegetables.  Why buy cold meats when you can prepare your own using the freshest ingredients and home grown herbs.   Baked Chicken Roulade Ingredients 1 full chicken breast 8 full rashers of … Continue reading Baked Chicken Roulade