THE promo piece said “forget everything you know about spices and let John Gregory-Smith teach you how it’s done”.
That’s how his new book has been delivered and fast paced it certainly is. But the use of spices and all things delicious bring the exotic to your fingertips through the pages of Mighty Spice and what a treat it is.

With pics of what to look for, where and when to use the spices, Mighty Spice has some cracking recipes for the experienced or even a novice cook to try

THERE’S something about open days, fetes and fairs that entice people in. They’re above all fun, inclusive but actually quite informative. And when you see what the likes of Caroline Rigney, et al, are at, it’s great to see that the word of mouth used to spread the good work of our local artisan producers and the general appreciation of the “people who care” concept, is being used to good effect.

The food community as a whole, be they online, or those that still need a gentle nudge into the world of technology and the digital age, is a community that is growing and gathering a voice with huge potential.

Summer wines at the Hunt

The waves of Spanish Point beach

I have to say, this summer sun and the burst of bright, light and breezy days, if nothing more can bring a smile to your face. Even from behind a keyboard, you can have a look outside and be somewhat confident that it will still be OK when you go out. For me, and no doubt for the masses out there, the weather dictates what we do and eat in the kitchen.

THE trip was great because the people and place is fab. Dingle, a peninsula of welcomes.

Ok before those of you not in to praise or glorification of people, stuff and places….. I don’t do it lightly. If I don’t like it I just don’t talk about it or say much. Those that know, know, those that don’t, there’s a reason.

Dingle was brilliant. Fact. For a number of reasons which I care to share. I suppose there is something infectious about the people of that part of the world, local or “blow-in”, there’s something in the air that you get sucked in by and just can’t ignore.And why would you want to ignore it.