Aunt Edna's cookery school
Dear readers,
I was delighted to learn that in these difficult economic times more of us are buying cheaper cuts of meat – the kinds I can remember my mother cooking when I was a child. So in this issue I'd like to reintroduce you to some old-fashioned favourites of mine and show you how to use them to make delicious and economical meals for the family.
A cut above the rest
In recent years certain cuts of meat have fallen out of fashion. But as we all try to reduce our food bills, we shouldn't overlook low-cost alternatives.
- Breast of lamb is cheap and cheerful. For a medium breast, roast at Gas 4, 180°C, fan160°C for 25 minutes per 500g plus an extra 25 minutes.
- Pork belly joints (right) are naturally succulent and ideal braised or roasted slowly with apples, leeks or garlic.
- Stewing steak is ideal for a warming casserole or used to make a curry. Add any leftover vegetables to it too.
- Pork shoulder joints make a great economical roast. Cook them slowly and serve with crispy, golden crackling. Don't forget to keep any leftovers in the fridge and add to stir-fries for midweek suppers.
For more great leftover ideas, go to www.lovefoodhatewaste.com.
Write to me
When it comes to cooking, there's not much I don't know. Send me your probing culinary questions, or share your tips by emailing Aunt Edna at tesco@tescomagazine.co.uk,
or writing to Tesco magazine, Cedar Communications Ltd, 85 Strand, London WC2R 0DW.
Back to school
Get the new school year off to a good start by giving your kids nutritious meals. Here are my top tips for keeping their energy levels topped up.
- Brainy breakfasts Experts say eating breakfast helps children perform better in school and makes them happier*. So instead of sugary cereals opt for porridge, boiled eggs with wholemeal toast and homemade smoothies.
- Power lunches Pack plenty of fruit, vegetables and grains into lunchboxes – children need carbohydrates to keep them going through the day and help them concentrate. Bananas, wholemeal bread, and pasta are excellent choices.
- Greener eaters To reduce waste, pack lunches in food containers and flasks instead of plastic bags and foil. Use last night's leftovers for an easy lunchbox filler.
*E Pollitt et al, Journal of the American Dietetic Association
Host a roast
Spend some quality time round the table with your family by taking part in Age Concern and Help the Aged's Great Sunday Lunch on Sunday 18 October, supported by Aunt Bessie's. There’s little that's better than a good roast and by taking part you can help raise funds for older people too. For more details visit www.greatsundaylunch.org.uk.
