Ruby Chocolate

Until our visit to England last year, I never heard of Ruby chocolate. It is made by secret natural chocolate alchemy according to the package. Fortnum's Ruby Chocolate was one that I could not ignore since it was so strategically place near their entrance door. At that time and upon first glance, it seemed to be to a budding new edition to the world of chocolate. Something that could single handedly change and mould our perception about chocolate. With its 47% cocoa solids from specially selected cocoa beans and its intense berry fruit, tart and subtly sour-sweet flavour. What is there not to get intrigued about?... However...     

Returning back to Canada, unfortunately, Ruby chocolate seems to be something of a moot thing. I suppose I had my skepticism, a long with my curiosity, as I only purchased one bar. I should have at least applied the unwritten golden rule of likeable and unique things... buy two!   

Hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day. - JD 

Tea at Fortnum and Mason

I remember reading about this book through the Fortnum's website. Thinking what a lovely little book, with classic British afternoon tea recipes and insightful information regarding tea.

The book is only 128 pages however deals with the art of the afternoon tea, high tea, and taking tea. The photos are so inviting and the 45 recipes give more than the traditional scones, delicate sandwiches, tarts and sponge cake. Making it easy to have a bit of Fortnum's at home. There are anecdotes, stories, and the history of tea to delight and entice the even regimented tea drinker.  

This is the hamper that our dear and wonderful friend sent us for our wedding, The English Essentials Hamper. With loads of delicious teas, preserves, condiments, chocolates and biscuits, all in a reusable wicker basket. And of course, the book, Tea at Fortnum and Mason. To find out more about Fortnum and Mason and the delicious items that await you click *HERE*  Enjoy! - JW 

Turkey Leek Burger

Once I get a craving for a burger I can not replace it. This burger was in part inspired by the Scottish poet, Robert Burns. A food ode to him one might say. I took extra lean ground turkey and added some chopped leeks, a bit of oatmeal, an egg, sage, salt, pepper and a couple of good shots of Scottish whisky. Mixed it all up in a bowl. Shaped the mixture into five patties. Grilled them in a pan until golden brown and cooked all the way through.

This is how I plated it. With a simple kale salad and dressed the burger with Fortnum's Piccadilly Piccalilli. Moist, flavourful and it satisfied the craving  just nicely!