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Mahashi - stuffed courgettes and aubergines

This dish brings back memories of family gatherings, with my Mum's Mahashi always stealing the spotlight. There’s something special about these stuffed courgettes and aubergines... they look impressive, but they’re surprisingly easy to make! Traditionally, they’re filled with rice and meat, but I swap the meat with plant-based mince beef. In the Middle East, Mahashi is a must-have for big family meals and special occasions, the kind of dish that brings everyone together. Every region has its own way of making it, so it’s always exciting to try a friend’s version and see how they put their own spin on it! Ingredients: For the veggies: 10 small courgettes (zucchini) 10 small aubergines (eggplants) For the stuffing: 1¼ cups long-grain rice 1 cup plant-based mince (or mince beef) 2 tbsp tomato paste 1½ tsp seven-spice mix 1 tsp salt 1 tsp paprika ½ tsp cinnamon 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp dried mint 1 tsp olive oil For the cooking broth: ¼ cup tomato paste 8 cloves garlic, crus...

Moving Through Cancer: How Exercise Helped Me Heal

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I knew life was about to change. Surgery, chemo, radiation... it all sounded terrifying and exhausting. But through all of it, one thing kept me feeling like me: moving. Before cancer, I was always busy; work, gardening, the gym, weekend runs. I didn’t sit still much. So even when treatment wiped me out, I still felt this itch to get up and move, even if it was just to the end of the street. On my hardest days, resting felt worse than being tired. Just getting up and moving, even a bit, brought back a glimpse of the old me. In September 2023, halfway through my chemotherapy treatment, I signed up for Cancer Research UK’s Shine Walk and walked a half marathon — 21.1 km — with my husband. It was hard, but also kind of amazing. It wasn’t about speed or performance; it was about proving to myself that I was still strong, still capable. And in the hope that someday cancer treatments will be kinder, more effective, and a whole lot less brutal. Eating ...

Mediterranean Courgette, Goat Cheese & Mint Tart

Growing up, whenever my mum made stuffed courgettes (zucchini) , she never let anything go to waste. After scooping out the cores, she would turn them into something just as delicious, like this simple yet flavourful tart. It always felt like a little extra treat, made with love and care. Now, every time I make this recipe, it takes me right back to those comforting family meals. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet effortless, perfect for a relaxed picnic on the beach, a lazy lunch in the garden, or a cosy meal at home. The courgettes turn beautifully soft and sweet, pairing perfectly with tangy goat cheese and rich black olive tapenade. And with flaky puff pastry as the base, it’s one of those meals that looks impressive but couldn’t be easier to make. I hope it brings you as much comfort and joy as it brings me! Ingredients: 2 cups of courgette cores (scooped out) or 3 courgettes, trimmed, peeled, and roughly chopped. 1 onion, chopped 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed 1 heaped tsp...

Looking Back, Moving Forward: My Cancerversary Journey

Two years ago today, my world – and my family's – was completely turned upside down with my breast cancer diagnosis . Sitting in that sterile doctor's office, hearing the words I never expected to hear, I felt the weight of fear, uncertainty, and everything in between. Cancer became part of my story that day, and I had no idea what to expect next. There are certain dates you never forget after a cancer diagnosis. This one became part of my story, a story that started with fear and uncertainty but, over time, grew into one about strength and resilience too. When you're diagnosed with cancer, it feels like everything changes. For many of us, it's a moment that shakes you to your core. You’re overwhelmed by emotions you don’t know how to express. Whether you’re recently diagnosed or have been living with it for a while, the impact on your mental and emotional health is undeniable. It’s not just physical; it’s psychological, emotional, and even spiritual. The trauma of a b...

Stuffed Artichoke Hearts

Every time I travel back home, my mum welcomes me with the comforting aroma of one of my favourite childhood dishes; stuffed artichoke hearts with minced meat, carrots, and peas. The smell wafting from the kitchen instantly brings me back to those cosy family dinners. No matter how long I've been away, that first bite always feels like home, a reminder of her love and the warmth of our family kitchen. Here’s how you can make it, step by step: Ingredients: One bag of frozen artichoke bottoms 1/3 cup pine nuts A bag of Plant-Based Mince Beef (or beef) 1 medium-large carrot, finely chopped into cubes 1 cup peas 1 onion, finely chopped 1 lemon 1 tsp Salt & pepper 1 tsp 7 mixed spice Instructions: Step 1 : Prepare the artichokes: Start by placing the artichoke bottoms into a large pot. Cover them with water and bring it to a medium-high heat. Let them cook for about 10 minutes, just to soften them up a bit. Step 2 : Drain and simmer: Once they’re done, dr...

My Journey Through Medically Induced Menopause

When I first heard the phrase "medically induced menopause," I’ll admit, I had some pretty naïve thoughts... mainly visions of life without periods, finally free to wear white pants all month long. Turns out, I was totally unprepared for what actually happens. If natural menopause shows up like a slow train pulling into a station, medically induced menopause is more like being yanked off the tracks and dropped into a whole new hormonal landscape - instantly. One minute I was myself, and the next: hot flashes, mood swings, and a level of tired that made even my bones feel exhausted. If you’re reading this, you might be in the same boat; whether you got here thanks to surgery, chemo, or medication. However you arrived, the shock to your system is real. But you’re not alone. Here are some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced (so far!) and what’s actually helped me cope. 1. Hot Flashes & Night Sweats Let’s start with the obvious. My nights have turned into an Olympic sport of...

Baked Kofta with Vegetables

After a long day of fasting from sunrise to sunset, there’s nothing more comforting than a homemade meal that brings everyone together. Kofta bi Seniyah; which translates to “Kofta in the pan” is one of those dishes that fills the house with warmth and mouth-watering aromas. Juicy kofta patties, roasted golden potatoes, sweet tomatoes, onions, and peppers all simmer in a rich, flavourful tomato sauce. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and best enjoyed with rice or fresh pita bread! Ingredients For the Kofta: Plant-based mince beef (or mince beef) ½ onion, grated ¼ cup breadcrumbs (I prefer to use Sainsbury's Cranberry, Orange & Chestnut Stuffing for added flavour) 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander For the Vegetables & Sauce: 3 potatoes, peeled & sliced into ¼-inch rounds 3 bell peppers, sliced 2 onions, sliced 3 tomatoes, sliced 3 tbsp tomato paste 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses 2½ cups vegetable broth 1 tsp salt ½ tsp black pepp...