To celebrate their functionality, here are some amazing air fryer recipes that are sure to bring smiles to your dining table. Keep in mind that all air fryers are different, so some recipes may need to be slightly altered to work properly.

Air fryer mini banana pancake dippers

Pancakes are almost always a crowd pleaser for the whole family. While they probably aren’t the healthiest breakfast option, they are a nice treat every once in a while. What’s great about pancakes is that you can top them with anything you want.

This banana pancake recipe opts for a ‘stuffed pancake dipper’, which can be dipped in melted chocolate, Nutella or maple syrup. To make the recipe easier, you can use a pre-made pancake mix instead of making batter from scratch. Just make sure to mix yours to a thicker consistency than normal pancake batter.

Air fryer personal pizzas

If you’re in a pinch and need a definite crowd pleaser, you can’t go wrong with pizza. What’s great about this recipe is that it makes perfect, personal-sized pizzas. That means that every member of your family can top their pizza to their own liking.

While assembling your pizza in the air fryer can be a bit tricky, the reward of crispy dough and oozing cheese is incomparable to oven-baked pizza, which can be finnicky, unless you have a dedicated pizza oven. Just make sure to cook the dough on its own in the air fryer first, and you’ll be amazed by the final result.

Air fryer pork belly bites

Pork belly is one of the most delicious pieces of meat you can get your hands on. It’s made from the same part of the pig as bacon, but it’s thicker. It’s best served as crispy as you can get it, so air fryers are naturally one of the best ways to cook it. Also, because pork belly has so much natural fat, you arguably don’t have to use any oil.

While this pork belly bite recipe includes oil, I’ve seen other recipes that omit oil. With the calorie savings from less oil, you can afford to make yourself a sauce for the bites once they’re done. There are many sauces that would complement pork belly, but a few of the best options would be chipotle sauce, ponzu sauce and honey garlic sauce.

Air fryer tahini black bean fritters

Swinging the pendulum back over to the healthy side, why not try some vegan fritters that are packed with protein and veggie goodness? Not only are they healthy, they’re also delicious, with flavours like miso, garlic, tahini and white wine vinegar.

What’s great about these tahini black bean fritters is that they can be served in a bun like a burger, in a pita, or on their own with sauce drizzled overtop. Have these for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and enjoy the healthy invigoration.

Air fryer steak and chips

Getting your steak cooked just the way you like it every time can be a bit tricky, especially for less confident cooks. Air fryers can help you take the guesswork out of cooking steak. This recipe can help you with a good starting point, and with the rest of the steps along the way. Once you figure out which temperature and time works best for your air fryer, you can simply use the same setting every time.

If you have a dual-tray air fryer, you can also fry some chips to go with your steak. This recipe can take around 35 minutes. Start before you cook your steak, perhaps while your steak is warming up to room temperature. Just remember to check and shake the chips regularly to ensure that all of them get nice and crispy.

Air fryer potato kievs

While many people have tried chicken kievs before, don’t underestimate potato kievs. They pack delicate, buttery, and cheesy goodness into every bite, and your family will love you for it. However, because they’re packed with butter and cheese, you probably shouldn’t have them every night – though you will want to.

While this recipe calls for garlic butter as the stuffing, there are endless combinations you could try. One enticing option is stuffing your kiev with basil pesto.

Air fryer salmon

Salmon is packed with, protein, vitamins and minerals, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish, like salmon, are part of a balanced diet. But many people prefer the taste of chicken or red meat to salmon, so sadly most people don’t get enough of the nutrients that salmon provides.

However, this maple soy salmon recipe is here to change your mind about salmon. Get ready for a taste-bud adventure, and enjoy it in under 10 minutes of cooking time. With just four ingredients, it’s hard to imagine a meal that’s easier and healthier. You can also use any excess maple soy glaze as a sauce to cook your side vegetables in.

Air fryer beef and broccoli

Who said Chinese takeaway needs to come from a Chinese restaurant? With this recipe, you can emulate the perfect beef and broccoli in the comfort of your own home. The sauce is really the star of the show. Make sure you get all of the ingredients and follow the instructions carefully.

This recipe uses an air fryer, a pot (or instant pot), and a pan, so there is a bit of washing up to do afterwards. But don’t let the ingredient list or washing up stop you – this meal will be a hit with your family.

Air fryer doughnuts

After eating all of those amazing air fryer meals, you might be craving some dessert. But instead of reaching for store-bought sweets, you could try out this air fryer doughnut recipe!

What’s great about homemade doughnuts is that you know exactly what is in them. This means you can adjust the sweetness level to your liking. You can top your doughnuts with whatever you like, but this recipe uses a vanilla glaze – a certified classic.

The possibilities with air fryers are endless, and with these recipes, you can treat your friends and family to a number of flavourful feasts.

The post Best air fryer recipes you need to try today appeared first on Checklists.

Air fryers have become the small appliance success of recent years and there’s not many kitchens that don’t have one. They are now the third most used cooking appliance across the UK and it’s estimated that more than 60% of households own this handy machine.

For those of us already on board, the facts come as no surprise. Air fryers are less expensive to run and quicker to cook with than a conventional oven. There’s also a range of sizes available so whether you’re cooking for one or a family, you’ll find one to suit.

Of course, they’re smaller than an oven, so for large meals the oven will win. But for quick dinners you’d be hard pressed to beat an air fryer. And because they use little or no oil in cooking, they’re healthier.

Here’s our pick of the best air fryers available to suit a range of family sizes.

Cosori Dual Blaze Twinfry 10L Smart Air Fryer, £239.99 

You can fit an awful lot of frozen chips in this air fryer, but it does so much more than that. It’s versatile – use just one section, use both, or use the entire cooking compartment. This grandzone is big enough to cook a large chicken, which I found came out better than when cooked in my oven. There’s four separate elements and Cosori says they cook up to 65% faster than a traditional oven. There’s also six pre-sets: air fry, roast, bake, grill, reheat and dry. The sync and match functions means everything is ready together – and you can connect to the VeSync app to control the fryer, as well as for tips and recipes.

Salter VertiCook View Air Fryer 9L, £99.99

With this air fryer you get two stacked drawers, so you only need a footprint for one on your worktop. Each drawer holds up to 4.5 L, so that’s 9L in total. That’s large enough for a family of four to six. There’s 12 presets, including fries, steak, fish, bake and pizza, and sync and match settings. As someone who finds it difficult to cook so everything’s done at the same time, this is a godsend. I also love how I can see the food through the viewing windows, so I don’t need to open the drawers to check so often. You can also cook food on two levels in each drawer. Just make sure to cook whatever you want crispy on top though, with veg on the bottom.

Daewoo 9L XL Digital Double Drawer Air Fryer, £79.99

The touch display on this air fryer is logical and simple to use. Press to switch on, choose left or right drawer (or both), select your functions, adjust the temperature and time, and off you go. It’s large enough for a hungry family and there’s eight presets to choose, including fries, fish, bake, roast and dehydrate. And of course, you’ll find the all-important sync function, so whatever you’re cooking in each drawer is ready at the same time. There’s a handy beep to remind you to shake the drawers so food browns evenly, and for fries fans, each drawer can hold up to 1kg of chips. The baskets are substantial, but I love that they’re not heavy, which makes serving up food easier. I can tip the contents on to plates without having to faff around with tongs or serving spoons. Delicious!

Tefal Easy Fry Pizza FW4018G0 Air Fryer 4.5L, £99.99

If there’s one thing that air fryers generally lack, it’s the ability to cook pizza. They’re just not built to accommodate a large circle of dough. Yes you can cut it into pieces then cook it, but it’s just not the same. So that’s where this air fryer excels. It’s been designed specifically with pizza lovers in mind and can hold a medium base up to 27cm. What’s more, the viewing window means you can crisp it to the perfect finish for you. As well as settings for both fresh and frozen pizza, there’s also presets for chips, chicken, fish, veg, bake and dehydrate. You can also sign up to the app for further inspiration and recipes. The air fryer has a max capacity of 4.5L, so not as big as others, but if pizza is your preferred food then this is for you.

Vonhaus Vonshef Fika Black & Wood 6L Air Fryer, £64.99

Not everybody lives in a large household so not everybody wants a huge air fryer. This version from Vonhaus is generous, with a 6L capacity, but not overwhelming when there’s just one or two to feed. Its compact size doesn’t take up much room on the worktop, yet it still incorporates all those must-have buttons. There’s pre-sets for popular foods, such as fries, chicken and fish, not to mention bake, reheat, broil, dehydrate, roast and keep warm functions. The touch screen is easy to use, while the matte black finish with wood-style handle adds a designer touch to a practical appliance. And if you want to coordinate your kitchen, there’s a range of other Fika items available, including a kettle, toaster and microwave.

Fritaire Self Cleaning Glass Air Fryer, £179

It’s rare to see an air fryer in anything but black, grey, silver and occasionally white, so the Fritaire fryer certainly brightened my day. This vibrant pop of beauty has a retro vibe and comes in teal, orange, cherry red, lily white and yes, black, to make a feature in your kitchen. Don’t go thinking it’s all style with no substance though. The appliance delivers and has something of a cult fan following. Cook on the wire stand, choose the rotisserie for chicken, or the rotating cage for evenly done chips without shaking. You can watch the cooking process through the glass bowl, and when you’re finished simply fill with soapy water and let the machine clean itself. It’s PFAS, teflon and BPA-free, has a 4.7L capacity and has six functions: meat, chicken, fries, fish, dehydrate – and it even makes toasties!

Cuisinart Tri Zone 13.6L Air Fryer & Oven, £199

Get the best of all worlds with this triple drawer air fryer. Not only can you cook a meal in the top two baskets, each of which holds up to 4.3L, but you can use the full-width bottom drawer for larger items such as pizzas. Each of the baskets can air fry, grill, bake, roast, dehydrate and reheat, while the large bottom section has pizza, toast and manual settings. You can also keep an eye on progress through the viewing windows in the baskets, and there’s sync and match functions, so you can time your meal to perfection. Each cooking zone works independently of the others so you can use as little or as much of the space as you need.

And off you (air) fry!

The post Which air fryer to choose? Here’s a few to consider appeared first on Checklists.

Sticky marmalade loaf cake

A homely and comforting addition to your afternoon cuppa, this moist and zingy sponge will satisfy the entire family.

Ingredients:                           
175g softened unsalted butter
150g light brown sugar
Three large eggs
225g self-raising flour
Zest of one orange
Four tablespoons of La Vieja Fábrica Fine Cut Marmalade
One teaspoon of vanilla extract
Two to three tablespoons of milk (enough to make a batter consistency)
Pinch of salt

Glaze:
Two tablespoons of orange marmalade
One tablespoon of water

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan) and line a 2lb loaf tin with greaseproof paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour if the mixture begins to curdle.
4. Stir in the orange zest, vanilla and marmalade.
5. Fold through the flour and salt, adding a splash of milk to loosen if needed – the batter should be smooth and drop from the spoon.
6. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. While the cake is still warm, heat the marmalade and water together until loosened, then brush over the top for a sticky glaze.
8. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Marmalade chicken kebabs

Perfect for BBQs or prepared the night before as a quick mid-week dinner, these marmalade-infused kebabs bring a touch of sunshine to mealtimes.

Ingredients:
500g chicken thighs
50g-75g St Clements Marmalade
One tablespoon sesame oil
Two tablespoons of soy sauce
One tablespoon of mustard

Method:

1. Slice each of the chicken thighs into six pieces. Place in a bowl with all the marinating ingredients and leave to sit for at least an hour in the fridge or overnight.
2. Take the chicken out of the marinade and place on a tray. Put your grill on a medium-high heat and cook for five to seven minutes until the chicken pieces start to slightly catch and char. 
3. Turn the pieces and repeat for another five minutes until completely cooked through.
4. Remove from the heat and leave to rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve with rice noodles, carrot ribbons, and lettuce cups, or a side of your choice.

Marmalade glazed sausage rolls

Golden puff pastry wrapped around juicy sausage meat and glazed with a sweet and tangy hint of marmalade for mouthwatering balance of savoury and citrus, they can also be made vegan using plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients:
Eight sausages of your choice
One small red onion, finely chopped
One garlic clove, minced
One teaspoon of smoked paprika
Half a teaspoon of ground cumin or allspice (optional)
One and a half tablespoons of No Peel marmalade
One tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or sage
Salt and pepper, to taste
One sheet of vegan or standard puff pastry (ready rolled)
Your choice of milk, for brushing
Optional: sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Line a tray with baking paper.
2. In a small pan, sauté red onion and garlic until softened (about five minutes). Add the paprika and optional spice, stir for another minute, then remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, mash the sausages with a fork. Add the onion mixture, marmalade, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Unroll the puff pastry and cut into two–three long strips, brushing lightly with marmalade (depending on size preference).
5. Spoon the filling in a log shape down the centre of each strip. Fold over and seal the edge with a fork. Slice into rolls.
6. Brush with milk and sprinkle with seeds if using.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Marmalade bread and butter pudding

A cosy twist on a British classic, layers of buttery brioche are spread with marmalade and baked until golden and custardy. Comforting, citrusy, and just the right side of indulgent.

Ingredients:
Eight slices of slightly stale white bread (brioche, challah, or sandwich loaf all work)
75g unsalted butter, softened
100g thick cut marmalade (plus one or two tablespoons extra for glazing)
Four large eggs
300ml whole milk
300ml double cream
75g caster sugar
One teaspoon of vanilla extract
Zest of one orange
Pinch of salt
Optional: handful of sultanas, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips

Method: 

1. Lightly butter each slice of bread and spread with a thin layer of marmalade. Cut into triangles or halves.
2. Arrange the slices in a greased medium baking dish, overlapping slightly. Scatter with dried fruit or chopped chocolate if using.
3. In a jug, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla, orange zest, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and gently press the slices down so they soak up the liquid. Leave to stand for 30 minutes (or cover and chill for up to four hours ahead).
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Place the baking dish in a roasting tin, pour in boiling water halfway up the sides, and bake for 35–40 minutes, until puffed and golden but still slightly wobbly in the centre.
6. Warm the extra marmalade in a small pan or microwave, then brush over the hot pudding for a glossy finish.
7. Serve warm with pouring cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
   

Marmalade-glazed cocktail sausages 

Sticky, glossy and made for sharing — these cocktail sausages are coated in a smooth orange marmalade glaze that clings beautifully and finishes shiny and irresistible.

Ingredients:
450g cocktail sausages
Four tablespoons of thin cut orange marmalade
Two tablespoons of soy sauce
One tablespoon of wholegrain mustard
One tablespoon of honey or light brown sugar
Freshly ground black pepper

Method: 

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).
2. Mix the marmalade, soy sauce, mustard, honey and black pepper until smooth.
3. Place the sausages in a shallow baking dish, pour over the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until golden and sticky.
5. Spoon over any extra glaze from the dish and serve warm.

Marmalade fizz

Bright, lightly sweet and beautifully refreshing, this sparkling citrus cocktail is finished with chilled Cava for an elegant aperitif.

Ingredients per cocktail:
One tablespoon of No Peel orange marmalade
30ml gin or vodka (optional)
10ml fresh lemon juice
Cava, to top up
Ice
Orange twist or slice, to garnish

Method: 

1. Add the marmalade and lemon juice to a glass and stir until smooth.
2. Pour in the gin or vodka if using and stir again.
3. Add ice, then top slowly with chilled Cava.
4. Give a gentle stir, garnish and serve immediately.

Recipes supplied by La Vieja Fábrica

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Nutrition

Nutrition affects how hormones are made, how effectively they work — even how they’re cleared from the body. A balanced diet keeps blood sugar steady, supports gut and liver health, boosts energy and mood, reduces inflammation and provides the fuel our bodies need for balance. With this in mind, prioritise protein and healthy fats to give your body the building blocks it needs for hormone production. Slow-release carbs like oats, sweet potatoes or quinoa also make a difference, as do a wide variety of whole foods.

Exercise

Exercise is another cornerstone of hormone health. Strength training supports growth hormone and testosterone, both of which contribute to energy, strength, and body composition, while gentler forms of movement such as yoga, Pilates, or walking help regulate cortisol, the stress hormone. The key is balance: although movement is essential, over-exercising can stress the body and push your hormones further out of sync. Focusing on consistency rather than intensity is the best way to support sustainable energy and vitality.

Sleep

During rest, hormones reset and repair: without enough quality rest, your energy levels inevitably suffer. Overall sleep quality is paramount, as deep sleep is when our bodies fully reset. Create an evening routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down. Dim lights, avoid screens, or practise calming rituals such as reading or journaling. Supporting your circadian rhythm by waking up and going to bed at similar times each day and getting morning sunlight exposure can also regulate cortisol and keep energy levels more balanced.

Stress

Managing stress is another piece of the puzzle. Chronic stress leads to persistently high cortisol and adrenaline, which not only drains energy but can also impact everything from sleep quality to digestion and skin. Simple daily practices like meditation or breathwork can help regulate your nervous system and bring stress hormones back into balance. Setting boundaries and protecting time for genuine rest is equally important, as is leaning on our support networks like friends and family.

Supplements

Supplements can also be helpful for supporting hormone health, particularly if your diet lacks certain nutrients. Omega-3 fish oils, vitamin D, and magnesium are often recommended for energy, mood, and hormonal balance. Starflower or evening primrose oil is also sometimes used to support women’s health, while probiotics can benefit gut health, which is closely linked to hormone regulation. However, supplements should never replace a balanced diet, and it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different. Always check with your GP or a qualified health professional before introducing new supplements to ensure they’re safe and suitable for your individual needs.

The post Hormones: your key to a better balance appeared first on Checklists.

Merguez Meatballs

“These French-inspired meatballs are both quick and economical. They’re gently spiced, wonderfully fragrant, and also come together in minutes — perfect for busy evenings. Serve them with couscous, rice, a simple green salad, or even tossed through spaghetti for a bistro-style supper”. 
Serves 4. Prep time: 15 minutes; chilling time 60 minutes; cooking time 12 minutes.

Ingredients

• 500g lamb mince
• One onion
• Two large cloves of garlic
• One heaped tablespoon tomato paste
• Three teaspoons smoked paprika
• One teaspoon salt
• One teaspoon ground cumin
• Half teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Half teaspoon ground coriander
• Half teaspoon ground cayenne
• Zest of one lemon
• One to two tablespoons olive oil

Method
1 Peel and finely grate the onion and garlic into a large bowl. Next, add the lemon zest and all remaining ingredients. 

2 Using your hands, massage the spices into the mince. If you have the time, let the mince rest for one hour, which will give the spices time to infuse the meat. 

3 If refrigerated, remove from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking. Divide mince into 12 equal portions and then roll into balls.

4 Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs for several minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Serve immediately.

Get ahead! The seasoned mince can be prepared a day in advance. Alternatively, after the one-hour rest, roll the mixture into balls and then freeze. Place them on a tray to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid (this prevents them from sticking together).

Red velouté with herb butter baguettes

“This velouté is proof that the humblest cupboard staples — red lentils and tinned tomatoes — can be transformed into something silky, soothing and deeply satisfying. It’s nourishing, naturally economical, and comes together with very little fuss. Paired with herb butter baguettes, warm and fragrant from the oven, it feels far more luxurious than its ingredients suggest”. 
Serves 4. Prep time: 15 minutes; cooking time 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• Four onions, peeled and finely sliced
• Four tablespoons olive oil
• One heaped table spoon tomato puree
• 200g red lentils
• 1000ml good quality vegetable stock

For the herb butter baguettes:

• 250g butter (plant based if desired), very soft 
• Large handful of fresh parsley or 40g frozen parsley, defrosted
• One shallot
• Generous pinch of sea salt
• Four small baguettes or one large baguette 

Method

1 Fry the onions in the oil for about 10 minutes, until soft and starting to turn golden. Stir in the vegetable stock, lentils, and tomato puree. 

2 Simmer for 10 minutes or until the lentils are very soft, then blend until smooth. Pass through a sieve to make the soup extra smooth.

3 While the soup is cooking, make the herb butter baguettes. Preheat the oven to  180°C fan. Peel and finely chop the shallot. Finely chop the parsley (if using fresh) and then beat with the shallot, salt and the butter until it’s well combined. Use immediately or form into a block or sausage shape.

4 Next, every 2cm cut halfway through the baguette (not all the way through) to be able to put slices of the garlic herb butter in. Bake until the butter is melted and the baguette is golden.

Get ahead!
The soup can be made a couple of days in advance or be frozen for a month. Add some extra vegetable stock to get the desired consistency (the soup tends to thicken when chilled). The butter Can also be kept well sealed in the fridge for a week or frozen for a month.

Spring garden gratin with Kettle Chips crust

“This spring garden gratin is homage to those Parisian bistro classics that I adored during my time in the City of Light. The combination of tender spring vegetables in a pull-apart cheese sauce is casual French cooking at its best. It’s not too fussy and bursting with flavour. What makes this a truly special dish is the clever crust made from Kettle chips, arranged on top with vegetables peeping out like little garden plants. Bon appétit! 
Serves 4 as a side or starter. Prep time: 20 minutes; cooking time 10 minutes.

Ingredients

• 200g asparagus
• 75g fresh peas or sugarsnaps
• One large leek, washed thoroughly and finely sliced
• One clove of garlic
• 20g unsalted butter

For the cheese sauce:

• 25g unsalted butter
• 20g plain flour
• 250ml whole milk, warmed
• 100g Comté cheese, grated
• 750g Reblochon cheese, grated
• A sprig of fresh thyme
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the crust:

• 150g Kettle Chips Brie and Caramelised Onion flavour
• A bunch of chives

Method

1 Peel the garlic, cut it in half and then rub the cut half all over the insides of four ramekins.

2 Bring a pot of water to the boil with a generous pinch of salt. Remove the woody part of the asparagus and chop the stalk into 0.5cm rounds, leaving a 3cm long tip. Once the water comes to a boil, add the fresh peas or sugarsnaps and asparagus tips, boiling for two minutes then drain.

3 Add the butter to a pan and place on a medium heat. Once melted and bubbling add the sliced leeks and asparagus rounds. Cook until soft, stirring occasionally. 

4 For the cheese sauce, place a pot on medium heat. Add the butter and once melted, stir in the flour. Take off the heat and whisk in the milk gradually. Place back on the heat and continue to whisk, also making sure to scrape the edges and base of the pan so the sauce doesn’t burn. Once the sauce starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and whisk in the pepper, nutmeg and cheese. Stir in the leek mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if required.

5 Divide the cheesy vegetable mixture between ramekins and arrange the Kettle chips on top followed by the blanched asparagus tips, sugarsnaps and chives. Serve immediately.

Chicken paillard sandwich with brown butter crispy capers

“Using the French paillard technique, you gently pound the chicken breasts until thin, helping them cook in minutes while making the meat go further. The brown butter and crispy capers add a nutty, salty richness, balanced by a crunchy slaw and vibrant mango dressing. Serve with crusty while rolls and mayonnaise.”
Serves 4; preparation time 30 minutes; cooking time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• Two chicken breasts with skin (approx. 300g total)
• Two tablespoons olive oil
• 50g unsalted butter
• Four tablespoons capers
• Generous pinch of salt
• Pepper

For the slaw:

• 200g green cabbage, thinly sliced
• One small onion, peeled (approx. 40g)
• One tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For the mango dressing:

• 250g mango flesh, roughly chopped
• One lime
• One tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• One tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Method

1 Prepare the slaw by thinly slicing the cabbage and the onion and then tossing in a tablespoon of olive oil and a generous pinch of salt.

2 Next, make the mango dressing by combining the chopped mango, lime juice, vinegar and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3 Place each chicken breast between two sheets of cling film and using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it is about 1cm thick. Season both sides.

4 In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for three to four minutes, skin side down, or until golden brown. Turn over and cook again for three to four minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Cut each chicken breast into two. 

5 Finally, make the brown butter using the same frying pan. Add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the capers. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about three to four minutes) and the capers have also crisped up.

6 Serve by spreading a spoon of mayonnaise onto the bun followed by the cabbage, chicken, mango dressing and bun top.

Recipes from Rachel Khoo’s weekly Substack newsletter Thank Me Later brings you weekly, feel-good recipes. www.rachelkhoo.substack.com

The post Rachel Khoo’s thrifty-but-delicious dinners appeared first on Checklists.

An estimated 1.25 million people in the UK are affected by eating disorders, with bingeing the most common. Though hard to identify, experts suggest binge eating is considered a disorder when it happens several times a week (over the course of a few months), causes distress, and negatively affects quality of life. Then there’s employment, which can also have an impact on the food you eat. But why can your job affect your diet – and what can you do to help? The findings below may well be different from what you think.

Stress in the workplace

Thirty-six per cent of UK employees eat for convenience over health when stressed or pressed for time. In fact this is the most common workplace habit, with 37.2% of men and 38.1% of women reporting this. It’s also far more common among workers aged 45-55+, as younger employees (18-44) are likely to eat more than usual to cope with work stress.

Comfort eating

Eating for comfort is also a common response to stress, and work can often trigger it. HR professionals are the most likely to eat for this reason, with 16.5% doing so daily. Those in IT (14.1 times per month) and Arts & Culture (14.1 times per month) also rank among the highest, with around one in eight eating for comfort every day. When it comes to snacks, the education sector are the biggest snackers. Nearly four per cent snack more than four times a day.

Skipping meals and convenience

The findings also show clear differences across industries. Arts & Culture employees are most likely to skip meals under pressure (45.2%). Those in education (42.7%), finance (42.4%), and IT (40.5%) tend to grab convenient – and often unhealthy – options. Notably, finance professionals are most likely to eat more than usual when stressed (40.4%).

The rise of weight-loss medication

Over 60% of Brits have considered using weight loss injections, with retail the most likely. The survey also revealed 77.3% of employees in the legal industry have considered this because of their eating habits. Then there’s seven in 10 employees in HR, IT and telecoms, finance, and Arts & Culture who also answered “yes”. 

How to manage the issue

“Humans are motivated by food,” says ZAVA’s medical expert Dr Crystal Wyllie. “However, ‘food noise’ we experience is when we’re not physically hungry, but associate eating with emotions or routine.” Here are four ways you can help manage what you choose to fuel your body with.

1 Practise mindfulness. Reduce work-related stress through mindfulness techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises.

2 Eat balanced meals. While many Brits reach for convenience foods at work, meals rich in fibre, protein, and healthy fats keep you fuller for longer and help curb cravings.

3 Change your environment. Whether you’re at home or in the office, take regular breaks away from your screen and the snack table. Simply being around food can make you feel hungry.

4 Prioritise sleep. Poor sleep has been linked to stronger cravings for high-calorie foods. Establish a calming bedtime routine by limiting screens and caffeine before bed.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or lifestyle. If you or someone you know might be struggling with an eating disorder, there is support and information available at Beat Eating Disorders, as well as from the NHS.

The post Can your job be a reason for bad eating habits? appeared first on Checklists.

WHAT AVOCADOS DO

“Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrients, and the perfect addition to breakfast or lunchboxes for busy brains and bodies going back to school,” begins Lucy. “They literally deserve an A+ in nutrition – and here’s why.”

Brain Development

Avocados are a rich source of healthy monounsaturated fats that can support brain cell structure and function, essential for learning and memory.

Vision Support

Avocados have a high content of lutein, which can help maintain eye health, a plus for long hours of reading and screen time.

Steady Energy

With fibre, potassium, and healthy fats, avocados release energy slowly, keeping kids fuelled through lessons and playtime without the sugar crashes.

Long-Lasting Fullness

Studies show that including avocado in a meal can increase satiety by over 20% and reduce the desire to snack for up to five hours^, helping children stay focused through the school day.

Immunity Boost

Vitamin C, E, and antioxidants help strengthen young immune systems, a must-have during the back-to-school cold season and viruses.

RECIPES FOR FUSSY EATERS

Got a child who’s picky at what they will and won’t eat? “You can easily incorporate avocado into meals to fuel the school day,” continues Lucy. “For example, spread it on whole-grain toast at breakfast or blend it into a smoothie. At lunch, you could mash into wraps and sandwiches instead of butter, dice into lunchbox salads or sushi rolls, or make a quick guacamole for dipping breadsticks, crackers or vegetables.”

Little one still unconvinced? With these recipes they’ll enjoy avocados’ many benefits without them realising what they’re eating!

Air fryer avocado crisps

45 Servings

Ingredients

1 large avocado or 2 small avocados

80g grated Parmesan cheese

15g breadcrumbs

1 tsp crushed garlic

1 tsp crushed onion

Salt and black pepper

Method

1. Mix the cheese, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, crushed onion and salt, then season to taste.
2. Cut the avocado(s) in half, remove the pits and skin, and mash.
3. Add the previous mixture and stir until combined.
4. Place fine slices onto baking paper, spread them out, sprinkle with more breadcrumbs and put them in the air fryer basket.
5. Set the air fryer for 6-8 minutes at 160C, flip, and set for a further 6-8 minutes.
6. Repeat as many times as necessary until the dough is ready.
7. Let the crisps cool before serving.

Chocolate avocado treat balls

18-20 Servings

Ingredients

½ a large avocado or 1 small avocado

180g cooking chocolate

A pinch of salt

Grated coconut for coating

Method

1. Melt the chocolate.
2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit and skin, and mash.
3. Mix both, then add a pinch of salt.
4. Refrigerate for several hours until the mixture thickens.
5. Take portions of the dough and shape them into balls.
6. Coat in grated or desiccated coconut.

The post Food for thought: why avocados are great for kids appeared first on Checklists.

With over 800 cities to choose from, here are a few of the most romantic places to visit.

Verona, Italy ­– the Romeo and Juliet experience

Is there a better love story than Romeo and Juliet? Probably not. A visit to Verona could be one of the most classically romantic places to visit, even if Romeo and Juliet – who aren’t real – never strolled through the market squares and baroque buildings.

What makes this place special isn’t the Shakesperean tales. Verona is a beautiful city with a good balance of restaurants, architecture, and things to do. It also isn’t as crowded as some of the bigger Italian destinations like Rome and Venice.

Some of the best things to do include watching an opera at Verona Arena, navigating the maze at Giardino Giusti, and visiting Juliet’s House – if you can avoid the crowds. There are also picturesque market squares, elegant restaurants with candle-lit dinners, and bars with endless Italian wine.

Bruges, Belgium – canals and classic architecture

Bruges might not have the literary history of love stories like Verona, but it has plenty of romantic charm within its walls and canals. The city is just a short ride from Brussels and has its own fairytale story to tell.

If you’ve ever seen the movie, In Bruges, you know that Bruges fits the mould of the perfect city break for the right type of person. Those that enjoy canals, churches, and strolling through alleyways marvelling at old buildings will fit right in.

Some of the best things to do are delight in Belgian chocolate, stop at Lover’s Bridge and Lake of Love, cruise the canals, and tour the streets in a horse-drawn carriage.

Porto, Portugal – port and river cruises

Porto is a place of discovery. Every place you go, you can discover something truly amazing. The city has many unique romantic qualities that you can’t quite find in other parts of Europe – the McDonald’s could be one of the most beautiful in the world.

Most days in Porto begin by the Douro River. Here, you can stroll or take a boat ride to see the city from a different viewpoint. You can also cruise into the Douro Valley and tour the world-famous wineries. If you haven’t had enough, you can also tour the port wine cellars that are dotted along the river.

If port isn’t your speed, or if you want to change things up after a day of wining and dining, there’s plenty more to explore. You can enjoy a morning at a café eating pastel de nata, experience the pure emotion of a Fado show, and finish the evening basking in the sunset with an amazing view of Porto at Jardim do Morro.

Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain – food lover’s paradise

Many say that food is the way to the heart. If this is you, or your partner, Donostia-San Sebastián could be your ultimate destination.

Spain itself is a place with renowned food and weather, and Donostia-San Sebastián is quickly becoming a world-leading food destination. It has the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in Europe – but don’t underestimate the barras de pintxos (tapas bars) either.

The city, however, offers so much more than dining. You can also take a sunset cruise in the Atlantic, relax on the beach or stroll through the charming streets of the old town.

Budva, Montenegro – charming old town and seaside adventure

If your idea of romance consists of thrilling adventures with your partner – but still with the charm of old towns and fine wine – Budva could be the place for you. The charming island of Sveti Stefan is just around the corner as well.

While Montenegro is close to the often-visited Croatia, enveloping destinations like Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik, it has its own personality as well. Besides Budva, Montenegro has beautiful destinations including Kotor, Herceg Novi and Perast. With all of these beautiful seaside towns, if you decide to head to the country known as ‘black mountain’, you will be spoilt for choice.

Local attractions for thrill seekers include solo kayaking through caves, paragliding off the mountains to glide over Sveti Stefan, and sea cruising to explore the famous Blue Cave. When the night is winding down, the best place to head is old town. With secluded alleys, restaurants, and live music, it’s a great place to relax with that special someone.

Ljubljana, Slovenia – diverse wine culture and local delicacies

If you want to experience a city that keeps everything as romantic and authentic as possible, Ljubljana is your spot. This city might not have the same iconic attractions or food as other European counterparts, but the meaning of its name is ‘the beloved’ – and it’s known in some circles as the city of love.

Ljubljana’s specialty is its insistence on using sustainable, local ingredients – ingredients that are found in the local area, and sometimes, just in the yard – so you can taste the love in every bite. But it doesn’t end at local ingredients. Slovenia sports 52 varieties of grapes within its borders. If you want to taste some of the most unique, local wine, Ljubljana is a good place to do it.

If you have some time between meals and wine tasting, you can cruise the Ljubljanica River, explore Ljubljana Castle, or venture out to the lush countryside.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany – medieval charm in an old, walled town

It would be hard to compile a list of romantic cities without including one from Germany’s Romantic Road. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is on the famous road, and it’s one of the best-preserved walled towns in Germany.

What used to be filled with barns and farm animals now consists of hotels and year-round Christmas markets. Even though the town can get quite touristy, it’s still the one of the most charming medieval towns. Walking the walls is one of the best ways to experience the beautiful buildings, with a preferred view from above.

You won’t find many adrenaline-pumping activities in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. It’s a place where you can feel like you’ve gone back in time. You can stroll the streets, visit the amazing shops, and if you want to try something a bit different, you can try the Night Watchman Tour.

Bath, England – historic roman culture close to home

If you fancy a romantic city break but don’t want to catch a flight, you could venture out to Bath for a romantic getaway that’s just a train ride away. The city has plenty to see, including the iconic Roman Baths and beautiful architecture. But there’s more to Bath than that.

The Roman Baths are beautiful, but they aren’t accessible to the public. However, if you still want to experience thermal springs, you can do so at Thermae Bath Spa. With a rooftop view and water sourced from the natural thermal springs, there isn’t a better way to relax with your loved one.

Once you’ve relaxed in the thermal pools, there are still plenty of things to do around town. You could catch a movie at Little Theatre, float in a hot air balloon, or punt down the River Avon.

In fact, the UK is home to an abundance of incredible travel destinations – if you’re set on a getaway closer to home.

Europe has seemingly endless opportunity for romantic getaways. Choosing a destination can seem daunting at first, but there is fun to be had around every corner.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging, please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top underrated romantic getaways in Europe appeared first on Checklists.

It’s so easy to make and experts in this foodie trend, Sushi Daily, have shared a delicious super salmon burrito recipe with Checklist readers. Have a look at the recipe below and try it for yourself.

Ingredients

• 1 full sized nori sheet (or 2 small)
• 130g sushi rice
• 30g cream cheese
• 40g sushi grade salmon fillet
• 40g ripe avocado
• 40g picked red cabbage
• 20g shelled edamame beans
• 5g fried onions

Method

1. Place one nori sheet on a sushi rolling mat on top of a chopping board.
2. If you can only get small sized nori, you can stick two together. Place the sheets on the mat and overlap the long side by about a centimetre, then use a few sticky rice grains to press the seam together.
3. Use the crushed sushi rice to ‘glue’ the nori sheets together, with a 1cm overlap.
4. Spread the sushi rice on the nori, leaving 5cm at the top uncovered.
5. Use the back of a spoon to spread the cream cheese across the middle of the rice.
6. Add the salmon and avocado, lying it along the cream cheese layer.
7. Add the pickled red cabbage and edamame beans (or any veg of your choice!), creating a layer on top of the salmon and avocado.
8. Finally, sprinkle the fried onions on top of the rest of the ingredients for a more in depth taste.
9. This is the moment you’ve been building up to! Use the rolling mat to roll the wrap away from you, ensuring the bottom edge of the nori sheet meets the nori lying flat on the mat.
10. Press tightly so the nori sheets stick together, then trim both ends for a neat wrap and slice in two, diagonally. Then plate up and enjoy with your favourite sauces!

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The 10 steps to making an on-trend sushi burrito at home appeared first on Checklists.

Do you spend lots of time in the countryside?

I like the city but I’m a country boy at heart because I was brought up on a pig farm. Farming, food and countryside is in my blood. I’ve always been passionate about the countryside and I’m quite fortunate to live just outside of Winchester in rural Hampshire so we’ve got outdoor space right on our doorstep.

Tell us about your working cocker spaniel, Cooper.

Cooper has been in training with Jason Mayhew for four-and-a-half years. I’ve always been fascinated by man’s ability to train dogs. When I was a young kid, there was a gamekeeper in my village who used to look after the Castle Howard estate and he used to have an immaculately trained gundog called Jett. I was always so impressed by him. He would just sit there, without a lead and just wait for his owner to return. Now I finally understand what it takes for that bond to happen. I love picking-up on local shoots with Cooper. His special move is a 400-yard blind retrieve. He’ll also sit on a riverbank all day long watching me bother fish. He’s everything I ever wanted from a dog. Last year we took part in ITV’s The Pet Show which saw Cooper compete in an agility course, and he is still top of the leaderboard. At The Game Fair I will be taking part in a display in the main arena with Jason to showcase gundog training. I hope Copper behaves – he works better for Jason than me!

Do you get many opportunities to shoot, hunt or fish in your own time?

Fishing-wise, a friend of mine has a nice stretch on the River Test and another mate of mine has a bit of the River Itchen so I get out there whenever I can. I’ve really got into fishing but I think that’s an age thing as well, I was never really into it as a young kid. I think the older I’ve got the more I’ve realised what a special pastime it is. On one trip to Scotland I spent four days on the River Tay and caught nothing but a cold but just being there was something I’ll never forget. Shooting wise I enjoy pheasant and partridge shooting but mostly I love picking-up with Cooper. The Guns always look a bit surprised when they see me at lunchtime. At the end of the day I always take away 60-70 brace straight back to my restaurants.

Where else do you enjoy spending time outdoors in the UK?

Scotland is one of my favourite places on Earth, it really is. Orkney, Shetland and the Highlands, any opportunity that I can get to go up there I go because it’s just bloody spectacular. The west coast of Scotland is also amazing. Anybody who knows me knows that I love Scotland and Scotland has always been very kind to me over the years. I also love the New Forest, it’s beautiful. A chef mate of mine Gareth Ward has an amazing Michelin-starred restaurant called Ynyshirin in Mid-Wales and I love to walk up Snowdonia when I visit, it’s wonderful. 

What do you particularly enjoy about the larder of the British countryside?

I think we’ve got one of the greatest larders in the world. We’re fortunate enough to be on an island surrounded by water. From Scotland’s seafood – like scallops in Orkney, right the way down to Cornwall with Cornish sardines. I think there’s such a variety there and meat is exactly the same because of the topography of the land. You’ve got amazing beef up in Scotland, amazing lamb from Wales and then there’s fantastic garlic on the Isle of Wight. We have such a variety of weather north to south. I think that’s what makes Britain unique. As a chef you’ve got so many seasons, from the Jersey royal potatoes to Scottish raspberries – and of course game.

How often do you try to incorporate game into the dishes you cook in restaurants or at home?

When it is in season, I use it all the time. I use masses of feathered game and people know that I probably promote it more than anybody on television. Every week I’m cooking with pheasant, partridge, grouse and guinea fowl. I’m a big fan of it because I was brought up on it and I was surrounded by it. I think there’s a real myth surrounding game and a lot of people don’t necessarily understand it.

I think a lot of that is just about education and where I stand in terms of what I do for a living, hopefully I can teach the public there is something else out there. I have been working with Wild & Game to help them develop their recipes so we constantly get given little tasters and testers. I cook it a lot, frozen spatchcocked partridge on the BBQ is delicious in the summer. If you marinade it with a bit of yoghurt and some spices and put it in a tandoor, that’s my kind of thing.

You’ve been announced as the host for The Game Fair restaurant ‘The Enclosure’ for the fourth consecutive year. What keeps bringing you back to the event?

I have been attending The Game Fair for 20 years, so it is amazing to now be involved professionally. My day-to-day restaurant is usually a 100-seater so to walk into a marquee where you’ve got 300 covers in the middle of a field, that’s something very different indeed. I remember one of the times I attended The Game Fair I parked my motorhome in what I thought was next to the restaurant. When I woke up there were dozens of horses all around me. It was quite a surreal moment while I was still blurry eyed!

It’s an amazing event and the food is an essential part of it but it’s one of many parts that make it a very special show. The restaurant is in a great location as it’s at the epicentre of where things happen which is a cool place to be. I’ve worked with James Gower, The Game Fair’s Managing Director, for years and he really has faith in letting me just crack on.  You’ve only got to go to The Game Fair once to see why it’s so special.

What other areas of The Game Fair are you excited to see?

I really like seeing the birds of prey at the Falconry Village and the working dogs. I also like Gunmakers’ Row – walking the full length of it is the one thing you’ve got to do if you’re there haven’t you? It is pretty spectacular so I’m looking forward to that.

What can visitors expect to see on the menu this year?

We are going to do a bit of everything. Lamb has always been quite popular, so we’ll certainly be putting that on the menu. Buttermilk rabbit also worked really well last time so I might put that back on again, it’s like our own version of funky KFC. There’s got to be something for everybody so there will certainly be a little bit of fish in there and of course we will put game on there.

Partridge is always a winner and we’ve got a great supplier for that with Wild & Game, whose gamebirds are certified by British Game Assurance so they have the highest welfare standards. I used to go to The Game Fair as a punter and just have a wander round and now to see it on the other side and see all the infrastructure and planning that goes into it, is amazing. It’s great to be involved and hopefully for many years to come we can build up something really special.

Tell us something about yourself that not many people know.

I really want a tractor. Not to plough a field, I want to drive it to my local pub the Wonston Arms with Cooper and park it outside.

For the fourth consecutive year, chef James Martin is hosting ‘The Enclosure’ restaurant at The Game Fair, which is being held Friday, 29 July to Sunday, 31 July at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire.

To experience The Enclosure, you can purchase one of three available VIP packages which includes entry to The Game Fair here.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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