cooking up a storm at the edge of the world
In 2023 I became the Karma Keeper (House Manager) of the Aald Harbour Hoose in Lerwick, Shetland. It was there I learned how much I love cooking for small groups of people. Here are some of the recipes I have cooked for my guests. If you’ve enjoyed a meal, do leave a comment on one of the recipes and let me know!
A great meal out, for me, is one that takes you on a small journey. That’s because, when you leave a restaurant after a fantastic experience, the sensation is similar to walking out of a cinema after seeing a good film or looking up from a book in which you’ve been totally immersed. And, after being transported to another world, even if only for a short while, there’s always that little jolt as you touch base with reality. It doesn’t matter whether or not the journey is a long one, either: I get that same jolt whether I’ve taken 20 minutes to bolt down some dim sum in Chinatown or spent an entire evening over one long, elaborate feast. – Ottolenghi
Green beans almondine (amandine) is a classic French dish of green beans with almonds. Almondine is a culinary term for an almond garnish. This dish pairs very well with beef bourguignon and creamy mashed potatoes and is one of my guests’ favourite recipes at the Aald Harbour Hoose. It’s a green bean recipe for people …
Discover this delicious vegan twist on the classic mushroom bourguignon recipe, created as a vegan option for my Aald Harbour Hoose dinner guests. Prep Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy I must admit the vegan recipe offering on my website is decidedly lacking. I’m not a vegan; it’s not how I eat. …
This traditional French yoghurt cake recipe is one of the easiest cakes to make, so much so that it’s often one of the first cake recipes French children learn how to make. This cake is light with a gorgeous crumb, and the lemon drizzle finish makes for a moist, zesty, lemony tea-time treat. This recipe …
Huffsie (or hufsi) is a traditional Shetland tea loaf that originated on the island of Whalsay. The recipe I use is made with tea-soaked dried mixed fruit, brown sugar, and treacle, but there are many variations. Served ‘klined’ (Shetland dialect for ‘spread’) with butter, it’s a delicious teatime treat whether on land or at sea. …
This light and fluffy carrot cake with cream cheese frosting recipe is delicious, straightforward to make and keeps fresh for five days in the refrigerator. It has become a firm favourite with my walking tour guests at the Aald Harbour Hoose in Lerwick, Shetland (What? Where? Walking tour guests?! Subscribe to my newsletter to learn …
In this recipe, local, organic Shetland lamb shoulder is rubbed in a blend of Moroccan spices before being seared and slow-cooked with tomatoes, chickpeas and apricots until the lamb is fall-off-the-bone tender. Includes both oven and slow-cooker recipe instructions. This recipe was originally published in January 2012 and was republished with new photos and information …
With just a few simple seasonal ingredients, create a warming, creamy potato and leek soup that pairs perfectly with salt beef bannocks or warm, crusty bread. Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Difficulty: Easy Tattie & leek soup, classic comfort food Nothing beats a bowl of thick, creamy, piping-hot soup to warm you …
This jewelled couscous recipe is a Persian-inspired dish made with spiced couscous, puy lentils, nuts, fruits, herbs and pomegranate arils. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Difficulty: Easy What is jewelled couscous? Jewelled couscous is a Persian recipe made with spiced couscous, nuts, fruits, herbs and pomegranate arils. Visually impressive, it is often …
This lamb bourguignon is a stove-top, slow-cooked lamb stew with tender pieces of succulent lamb braised in red wine and cognac. It is flavoured with carrots, onions, mushrooms, bacon and a Bouquet Garni. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy What is bourguignon? Bourguignon is a French term for a dish prepared …
This beef lasagne recipe with smoked cheddar cheese sauce is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dish. Instead of the usual béchamel sauce, this version incorporates a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, adding a rich and tangy flavour to the layers of pasta and meat and tomato sauce. Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 2 …
