Notes on the Recipes

• Do not mix metric and imperial measures. Follow one set only.
• The ingredients are listed in the order in which they are used in the recipe.
• All spoon measurements are level: 1 tsp = 5 ml, 1 tbsp = 15 ml.
• Eggs are medium unless otherwise stated. If you use a different size, adjust the amount of liquid added to obtain the right consistency.
• All vegetables are medium unless otherwise stated.
• Always wash, peel, core and seed, if necessary, fresh foods before use. Ensure that all produce is as fresh as possible and in good condition.
• Always wash meat, poultry and fish before cooking.
• Seasoning and the use of strongly flavoured ingredients, such as onions and garlic, are very much a matter of personal taste. Taste the food and adjust the seasoning to suit your own taste.
• Chillies are used in many recipes and some recipes call for a particularly hot combination of fresh chillies and chilli powder. If you prefer your chilli dishes to be milder, omit the chilli powder, or adjust to your preference. Always deseed chillies if you are not keen on fiery chilli heat. After preparing fresh chillies, scrub your hands well with soap and water to remove any remains of capsaicin, the substance that creates the heat in chillies. Just a small amount can badly irritate your eyes, if you rub them with your fingers. If you prefer, wear rubber gloves when preparing chillies.
• Use dried or fresh herbs as indicated. If you substitute dried for fresh, use half the quantity stated ‚Äì or vice versa. There is no substitute for fresh parsley and coriander.
• A fresh bouquet garni is traditionally made up of sprigs of thyme, parsley and a bay leaf tied together with string or wrapped in muslin. Sachets of bouquet garni are readily available in supermarkets or you can use dried mixed herbs instead.
• Can sizes are approximate and will depend on the particular brand.
• Use your own discretion in substituting ingredients and personalising the recipes. Make notes of particular successes as you go along.
• Use whichever kitchen gadgets you like to speed up preparation and cooking times: mixers for whisking; food processors for grating, slicing, mixing or kneading; blenders for liquidising.