Moussaka

I don't know about everyone else, but I plan my weekends around what I'm going to eat. And having days off means I can cook things that take a little more time or preparation. So I'm posting this with a fair amount of time before the weekend, because it's a perfect Sunday night feast.

I eat out at a local Greek place about twice a month. Don't  judge me. The food is delicious and it is really fun there. They bake cheese with honey and sesame seeds. It's damn magical.

I noticed that on their menu they describe their moussaka as a light and healthy snack. I was intrigued, because I always thought moussaka was a sort of Greek lasagna - meaty and rich, with a thick and cheesy white sauce.

So I decided to make it, and it turns out, it is just that. And in Greece - that's health food! Oppa!

Anyway, this is absolutely delicious and I would recommend you all try it. It's really good for you.

Chicken and Broccoli Bake

It's still winter.. And that means warming and nourishing meals are very welcome. I've just finished a weekend of long long days spent in work, living off of quick meals I can stick in the microwave and multipacks of crisps. And while that feels jolly initially, it does wear thin. So I felt myself in dire need of a good meal, and this was the one I plumped for.

This is one of the most memorable meals from my childhood. It is a complete family staple- we all make it, but no one makes it like my nanny! I think one of the last times I had it was made by my nanny, in France, on a cool summer evening after a long day in the local village. So it holds a special place in my heart, and the flavours mingle in a way which just makes me happy.

The “traditional” way to make it is with a can of condensed cream of chicken soup instead of the béchamel, but I decided to forgo tradition ever so slightly and make my own spin on it.

It is a simple, flavourful, veggie-filled little casserole. You can serve it however you like, I used to have it with potatoes, but it would be lovely with rice or a hunk of crusty bread too! Yum yum!

Salami Croque Monsieur

I love France. I love the weather, the fashion, the people , and most importantly the food. French people get food. They make flavourful food, and spent the time enjoying it. I may have caused a few French strokes with my bastardised version of their classic ham and grilled cheese sandwich.

I love a traditional croque monsieur, with ham and whacking slices of freshly made bread. But, needs must, and sometimes you want an indulgent sandwich with just the ingredients in the cupboard and fridge. 

Truth be told, I was pretty keen to make my own bread, but I didn’t have time. So I substituted in the thick granary bread, and decided to spice things up Italy style, with some strongly spiced sliced meats instead of the ham. You would be perfectly welcome to slice up some sourdough and use ham instead of pepperoni/salami.

I had mine with soup. And I was so happy.