Thursday 26 September 2013

Green Tomato Chutney

Usually at this time of year I make a batch of our family favourite Green Tomato Chutney. As I havent got a veg garden again...yet..I thought I would share my recipe with you, with pictures I took last time I made it

Using tomatoes and onions from the garden, some of a glut of apples from my aunties garden, and what I have in the pantry, I would make a tasty batch of the Chutney. Its so simple to make, as long as you keep an eye on it and don't let it stick to the bottom of the pan. Its not nice to have burnt bits in your chutney. You can vary the ingredients too, adding a little more or less of each, depending on what you have on hand. This chutney will keep for years. Its delicious with cheese, chicken and even on a burger.

Green Tomato Chutney

2lbs green tomatoes, chopped
8oz onions, chopped
1lb cooking apples, peeled, cored and chopped
8oz dried fruit. I use 4oz each of raisins and cranberries
8oz soft brown sugar
1pt cider vinegar
A good splash balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp mustard seed
2 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp ground cinnamon

Put all the ingredients in a good heavy based pan

Bring to the boil, then turn down the heat.

Remember to stir occasionally to avoid sticking

Simmer uncovered for 2 - 3 hours, until it has
reduced to a thick pulp 

Spoon into sterilized jars and seal.

To improve the flavour, keep for at least couple of weeks before eating...if you can wait that long 

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Wednesday 25 September 2013

Just Saying...

 
The difference between buying cigarettes in America
and the UK

Just Saying.....

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Monday 23 September 2013

Perfect...

Autumn has arrived...
full of Pumpkins..
Pine Cones..
and Pomegranates

Perfect!

Love and Hugs 
Phoebe x

Thursday 19 September 2013

What a Good Idea - Jewellry Hangers


Made from cutlery trays from WalMart that were $3 each. 
Just spray paint white, add picture hangers on the back and add hooks.

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Wednesday 18 September 2013

Only in America...

At the Stop Sign with the Bat-mobile

Only in America ...

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Tuesday 17 September 2013

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch ~ 110

Here we go...another week for Chatting on the Farmhouse Porch. Lets see what questions Patrice has for us this week

What's  the one thing you feel is the biggest waste of  your time during an average week?
Phoning about appointments, bills etc..getting through to an automated service.. pressing lots of number options....and being put on hold.. I just want to speak to a human!. The music they play also drives me a bit loopy

When was the last time you baked a pie?
Ohh its been a while. Last year maybe. But you have just inspired me...
  
What do you want to spend time doing that you aren't right now? 
I would love to spend more time with Mr D... but work has to come first. 
Never mind the weekend is only a couple of days away

What do you do with old clothes?
I usually donate to some charity. If they are too far gone, send for recycling

If we were having lunch on the porch today, what would you bring for the potluck styled lunch?
Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese Quiche from www.chocolatechocolateandmore.com 
I think I would bring my Broccoli and Chedder Quiche, with a lovely homemade potato salad

Great questions Patrice..see you next week

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Wednesday 11 September 2013

My New Garden...

I love my new garden.I never thought I would have oranges, grapefruit and palm trees growing in my back yard...lovely 




Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Tuesday 10 September 2013

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch ~ 109

Im just grabbing my coffee and heading over to Everyday Ruralty to join Patrice and her Chats on the Farmhouse Porch. Care to join me?

Did you ever take piano lessons, as a child or adult?
I come from a musical background. My grandfather and his brothers were part of a silver band ..and he was also a very talented pianist. All my cousins and I were encouraged to learn..and even though Im not very good..I still enjoy playing

How many times do you eat out each month?
Not as much as I would like...or can afford. It would be lovely for someone else to do the cooking... and wash the dishes after.

If you could snap you fingers and change on thing about your appearance, what would that be?
Just one thing? Ok...well it would have to be my tummy. I still have my baby tummy....even tho my baby is 19..... I need a bit of magic....

Do you like looking at art or photography? Do you go to any place that displays them?
Yes..I love looking at photos. I sometimes go to exhibitions to see peoples work and try to get inspiration

Do you have new things for your fall/ winter wardrobe?
Not really...this year I will be wearing summer clothes. And to be honest...I have more clothes than Marks and Spencer
Thank you Patrice...see you next week

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Monday 9 September 2013

At Last......

My luggage has arrived....thank goodness..

Phoebe does a 'Happy Dance'
Time to unpack..

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Saturday 7 September 2013

Still Travelling...

 
My suitcase is having a great time...
Its now in Salt Lake City

Me, on the other hand...
Ive been to Walmart

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x

Friday 6 September 2013

Hello America.....

Well..Im here, and its everything I thought it would be and more. Even though Im slightly jet lagged, Im drinking in my surroundings. I have a huge grin on my face constantly. Its so HOT...and Im loving it 
My luggage on the other hand preferred it in Paris and wont be joining me til later...grrrr

Love and Hugs
Phoebe x