Posts by Maryterry

The Little Cellar Rat can’t imagine not having Basil in the garden or the kitchen! The plants have a limited life span, so in order to ensure a constant supply, you need to be continually encouraging new generations. It’s always heart-warming to see little plants appearing in the Herb Patch but they are also easy…

The Little Cellar Rat cannot remember a year that was harsher and drier than 2019 (and she’s lived here for 46 years) so it is just SOOOO delightful to see a green tinge returning, shoots on shrubs and trees and that unmistakable perfume of freshly cut grass. No, the tanks aren’t full and the dams…

I can’t imagine not having Mr Basil in the kitchen. He is such a versatile herb and the basis for so much ‘cucina siciliana’. Well now is the time to get those basil cuttings going. Pick a few pieces (or beg, borrow or steal from a friend), stip the boots leaves and keep in water,…

It doesn’t take long for nature to respond to rain. If you keep your eyes open, there is always something to take you by surprise and energise your heart and soul. This Brazilian cherry was given a serious prune. Just look at the response once life-giving rain came! Happy Discovering to all…. be it in…

Here at HILL OF PROMISE a roast leg of lamb is a regular on the menu, no matter what the season. In summer, it doesn’t have to be the traditional hot roast + veggies with the little chef on the verge of heat exhaustion! Sliced, warm roast lamb dances very well with various salads, from…

You asked for a post to let you know the 3 RIGHT HANDS FORTIFIED RED is back on the self so here it is! Just as luscious and syrupy as always. Great with a sharp cheddar and muscatel grapes or whatever takes your fancy. If you aren’t in the area, get a friend who’s passing…

Some dishes come and go in cycles, some never go out of fashion. I feel this way about a QUICHE. The Little Cellar Rat is gluten intolerant and over time has adapted recipes to suit. Sometimes it is a bit of trial and error and usually involves finding the right flour. This has been the…

The Little Cellar Rat is not a lover of gadgets – kitchen or otherwise – but does a little Happy Dance when she comes across one that is fit for purpose and makes a job quick and easy. She likes to share her finds with other Foodies and GOTY (Gadget of the year 2019) has…

The prolonged dry conditions have showcased which plant varieties will tolerate the lack of regular watering. One species which has shown its resilience is the IVORY CURL (or BUCKINGHAMIA.) Have you been intoxicated by its glorious perfume? We’ve been calling it the CARAMEL TOPPING TREE for decades because that’s what the perfume immediately makes you…