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Showing posts from February, 2025

Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives

This dish holds a special place in my heart. I first learned how to make it from my Algerian friend’s mum, and from that moment on, I was hooked. There’s something magical about the way the warm spices, tender chicken, tangy preserved lemons, and briny olives come together... it’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the most incredible aroma and makes you want to gather around the table. Of course, I couldn’t resist adding my own little twist. I like to throw in a handful of raisins for a hint of sweetness. It’s not exactly traditional, and my friend gave me a sceptical look the first time I did it, but I love how the subtle sweetness balances the bold flavours. If you’ve never made a tagine before, don’t worry. you don’t actually need a special tagine pot to enjoy this dish. A good heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven works just as well. At its core, a tagine is really just a slow-cooked stew, layered with rich spices and sometimes a touch of dried fruit or nuts.  So, whethe...

Navigating Work and Life While Managing Breast Cancer

When cancer enters your life, it feels like a sudden storm, disrupting every aspect of your existence with its demands and emotional toll. Yet, despite the overwhelming nature of such a diagnosis, it doesn't have to completely define your existence. Maintaining some semblance of normal life, be it through work, relationships, or hobbies, can be a source of strength and continuity. However, everyone's experience with cancer is uniquely theirs. While some might find their daily routines and priorities wholly transformed, others, like myself, strive to weave treatment into an existing tapestry of responsibilities. The role of a support system, mental health resources, and personal perspective cannot be understated in navigating these challenges. My own journey took a dramatic turn right before my surgery for breast cancer, requiring me to step back from a demanding job as Head of Delivery at the Greater London Authority. It wasn't just about taking time off; my role demanded a...