munchiesandmunchkins, Author at Munchies and Munchkins

A Taste Of Newquay. Part 3 – Captain Jacks

June 7, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · 1 Comment

Our third restaurant review from our Cornish trip is the restaurant we visited on our final night in Newquay and what a treat to end the holiday.

Here is a little background info to Capt.Jacks:

Captain Jacks is a family owned restaurant going into their13th season. Before they transitioned from Newquay Meadery to Captain Jack’s it was basic, pub food. They started this year sitting down with 20 different suppliers and working out the best quality they could get whilst keeping produce local and arranging a best price.
Jos Tector has only been the head Chef in there for the last 9 months but has worked there previously for 2&1/2 years in the kitchen.
Captain Jack’s strive for the best quality ingredients, sourcing from local butchers, fishmongers, fruit & vegetable suppliers, bakers, distilleries & breweries.
Alongside their regular menu they have daily specials that include ‘Catch of the Day’ & home made desserts alongside other speciality dishes.

I don’t eat in many themed restaurants but this was a lot of fun. The restaurant was dark but cosy rather than gloomy with candies lit on each table. The kitchen is viewed through a large open hatch which I like as I love watching chefs prepare my food!

The staff are friendly and made a big fuss of our daughters. Izzy took a bit of a shine to one of them.. Her first crush I think.

She also loved watching for the pirate chefs…

My camera was playing silly games with me in the restaurant so apologies if my photos aren’t as good as I’d hoped.

We started with a glass of Cornish mead. I’d never tried it and found the taste similar to Port? It’s quite strong but sweet and we both enjoyed.

There was a good choice of food..lots of meats and BBQ options which we like 🙂

I started with pan fried mushrooms and bacon in a cream and garlic sauce with garlic bread which felt indulgent and tasted divine. My OH went with rosemary and garlic crusted Brie wedges which I sampled and woah herby, garlicky cheese. Love.

Next up I opted for the rump n ribs. The rump was cooked perfectly and the ribs were sweet and smoky. Izzy had a pretty amazing burger and my OH had crockpot chicken which he really enjoyed.

I’m not sure how we found room for desserts but I’m very glad we did. I had a white chocolate cheesecake which looked just like an ice cream sundae but it was wickedly creamy and delicious cheesecake. Izzy opted for ice cream and the OH went for waffles and ice cream which were awesome. Waffles when cooked properly are soft inside with a slight sugary crunch and these were perfect.

Eating in Captain Jacks is an experience, a feast for the senses. Please visit if you are in Newquay anytime soon.

Veggie Bean Burgers

June 7, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · 3 Comments

Before I start I will admit this recipe was totally inspired by Jack Monroe and her famous 9p burgers. As with most recipes I try after I have made them and enjoyed them I have to fiddle about and then try my own versions with tweaks and adaptations. After all that’s how most recipes come about yes?

These burgers were made as a bit of a hurried mid week meal when I wanted to get some goodness into my daughter after a few days of not great meals due to tiredness and general stress. They are easy to make, quick to prepare and cook and taste really, really good.

Veggie Bean Burgers

You will need:

1/2 a large sweet potato grated
1 tin of kidney beans ( I used asda smart price )
A bunch of chopped coriander or parsley chopped roughly
A tsp of cumin
Black pepper
2 chopped black garlic cloves
1 shallot finely diced
Plain flour
Olive oil

Firstly drain, wash and place your kidney beans in a pan of cold water. Bring to boil and simmer until soft ( about 8-10mins). Whilst you do this sauté your grated sweet potato, coriander( or parsley) cumin, garlic, shallot and pepper in a little olive oil until softened. Add your cooked beans and mash together with your other ingredients with a fork or spoon. It doesn’t need to be completely smooth. Some texture makes it that bit better. Add a tbsp of flour and stir thoroughly. With floured hands shape into balls and flatten slightly and place in a hot pan with a little oil and cook on either side for a few minutes until golden brown.

Serve in rolls or not. We ran out of rolls so to make it look like a burger for Izzy I used a cookie cutter to cut rounds out of bread and then put them in the pan with the burgers for a minute to brown slightly.

These are totally delicious in a yes I don’t feel guilty about always eating meat and yes they must be healthy because you know..beans and green stuff. Go make them.

I didn’t take any photos of the cooking process as I didn’t expect them to be that amazing. But they were so next time I make them I’ll add some pics. For now here is a brief shot I stole of the finished burger before Izzy devoured it.

A Taste Of Newquay. Part 2 – The Beached Lamb

June 6, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

The Beached Lamb is the epitome of chilled out family dining. Super relaxed and informal setting, great menu and incredible drinks. In fact the Milkshakes alone are enough of a reason to go there.. That’s before we even think to discuss the frozen mojito.

Here is a little background info on The Beached Lamb:

Jon and Nicole met travelling in Australia in 2006. After years of flying to and from Canada where Jon is from, they decided to open a business together. Jon said he would come and live in England if they could live by the sea, so they packed up their lives and headed to Newquay – a place neither of them had even visited before, and so The Beached Lamb was born.

The aim with The Lamb (as the locals call it) was to create a relaxed and fun place where people could while a way the hours with friends, eating big portions of interesting, locally sourced foods and amazing drinks. Nicole is vegan so The Beached Lamb is a place where all diets are catered for: veggies, vegans, celiacs and allergies.

The Beached Lamb has become a firm favourite with the locals and tourists who fill the place on Friday nights for open mic and who come back year after year.

Nicole and Jon have now opened their new venture: Whiskers – an organic coffee and wine bar at 5-7 Gover Lane, Newquay.

From the random selection of little toys put out for Izzy to play with, to the fact there was so much to look at around the cafe from the art to ALL the lambs and that there was plenty of space next to the table for both a high chair and the buggy we loaned from the hotel.

The staff are great, full of energy and obviously passionate about where they work. There is vibrant, friendly atmosphere which makes you want to stay there all day long.

Now for the food. Well actually let’s start with the Milkshakes:

I’ve had plenty of Milkshakes. At festivals. At home and in cafés. These were the best I’ve ever had. Hands down. My peanut butter and banana shake was so good I almost said leave the food just give me this all day long. They made a small choc milkshake for Izzy and she just devoured it in minutes. They really are EPIC.

Now the food..

I’ve somehow managed to not get a pic of Izzys meal which was a really lovely sausage and chips with chunks of cucumber which she thought was brilliant as she loves them.

My meal of stuffed peppers was delicious, almost too much for me to finish but I struggled on. My OH chose the best dish. The burger. It was outstanding with lots of layers including tortilla chips. I may have stolen at least one bite.

Pleasantly full we opted to go and relax in the chill out area. My OH with a coffee and me with a frozen mojito. Oh wow. The mojito was something else. If I hadn’t still been breastfeeding I’d have had another and another. So crisp, fresh and zingy. Loved it. Will be trying to recreate at home.

We enjoyed a good hour lounging on the floor pillows, me lazily feeding Chloe while Izzy played with a new friend she made. It was nice to be somewhere where children were obviously so welcome.

We reluctantly left after spending a good chunk of the day at this gorgeous cafe which is more than a little bit different, if you are heading to Newquay this Summer it would be a real shame not to visit.

* our meals were provided free of charge for the purpose of a review.

Cantaloop Nursing Top – Review

June 6, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

I can always judge how much I like a top after a month or so of owning by how many times it’s been in my washing machine. I have worn this at least twice a week since I received it to review. It’s been washed about 8 times already and still looks just as good as when it arrived.

It makes feeding while out and about an absolute breeze and it’s comfy and cool to wear. I’ve worn it under numerous outfits including here:

It just looks like an ordinary black vest but it’s fitted around the bust so it gives you a better shape and some support too.

Here is what Cantaloop say about it:

*Adapts to the changes in the body’s shape
*Ideal during pregnancy and later as a nursing top
*Integrated, closed inner cups
*Easy to open when you’re breastfeeding (drop cup)
*Additional support during breastfeeding

Here it is on the model:

It’s designed to be worn during pregnancy and then afterwards for breastfeeding, I really wish I had it during my pregnancy as the fabric is so comfy and would have felt so good over a swollen achy belly.

You can buy this top here

For a camisole/vest it may seem a bit pricey at £28 but I can tell you it is worth it.

* I was gifted this top for the purpose of this review.

A Taste Of Newquay. Part 1 The Beach Hut.

June 5, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

On our recent trip to Newquay we were looking to review some of the very best family friendly places to eat. First up was The Beach Hut, part of The Watergate Bay Hotel.

The Beach Hut is set overlooking Watergate Bay. It’s an incredibly beautiful setting. The day we went was gloriously sunny and the beach and restaurant were busy but still running like clockwork.

We had a prime spot at a table at the window.

The food was incredible:

Between us we had one child’s burger and chips, a Malay Fish Curry and Lamb Kofte with flatbreads and a rather hot Harissa sauce!

I’m not really a fan of seafood and I would never have chosen a fish curry but I’m very glad that my OH did as it was incredibly good. My lamb dish was tasty and filling and Izzy loved her burger.

Desserts were where it really stepped up a notch for me.

Andrew had an ice cream sundae and Izzy had a brownie with ice cream but mine was without a doubt the champion of all of the desserts. Three totally perfect, still warm doughnuts with a serving of lemon curd and mascarpone. Seriously my mouth is watering again thinking about how good they were. I would go there again for that dessert alone. YUM.

I was so sad that I didn’t save enough room for one of their famous extreme hot chocolates but the generously portioned meals totally finished me off and I struggled not to just sit in my chair and sleep afterwards.

We did more or less stay until the lunch rush was over and this photo shows a peaceful and pretty restaurant:

The staff are friendly and attentive and both girls were fussed over and Izzy was given crayons and paper on arrival. There is a really relaxed vibe and nobody blinked an eye at me breastfeeding at the table or at my rather stubborn toddler having a slight tantrum before food so it’s very family friendly.

We took a lot around The Watergate Bay Hotel after lunch and wow it’s beautiful. From the various restaurants and bars. The adults only areas paired with kids clubs for the little ones and the pool overlooking the beach it looks like a dream holiday destination. Would love to stay there in the future.

* We were gifted a two course meal for the purpose of this review.

Moreish Mushroom Risotto

June 5, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · 1 Comment

I’ve made risottos from packets before and tasted them in restaurants but I’ve never got it just the way I wanted while making it myself from scratch. I wanted the rice cooked perfectly and the slight ooze of the Parmesan.

I’ve done it. Finally. It’s just the way I want it. Packed full of mushroom flavour. Super simple and pretty addictive if I’m honest.

Also we are big on meat here. But we do try to have at least one day meat free a week and in this kind of dish you don’t miss it at all.

You will need:

2tsp dried porcini mushrooms ( Truffle Hunter)
100g of Parmesan ( I used Sainsburys basics hard cheese)
200g diced mushrooms ( I used chestnut)
350g arborio rice
150ml white wine
1000ml vegetable stock
Bunch of chopped fresh parsley
1 diced onion
3 diced black garlic cloves ( I used the garlic farm)
1tbsp of butter
olive oil
sea salt and crushed black peppercorns

Firstly soak your dried mushrooms in hot water and leave while you start to cook everything else. Sauté your black garlic and onion in some olive oil over a medium heat for a few minutes before adding your diced mushrooms until browned. Stir in your rice until coated in the garlicky, oniony oil. Add your wine and stir until it’s fully absorbed. Begin to add your stock a little at a time allowing each addition to absorb before adding more. It will require your constant attention at this stage.

When all your stock has been absorbed and your rice is plump and tender – probably about 15-20 minutes- drain your porcini mushrooms completely and dice before adding to your risotto along with 50g of your finely grated Parmesan, the butter,seasoning and the parsley ( reserve a little parsley for presentation),

Serve topped with parmesan, a little parsley and crushed black pepper.

Totally scrumptious and of course laden with calories but comfort food at its finest. It’s worth noting you don’t need the most expensive ingredients. I used cheap leftover white wine, basic mushrooms and Sainsburys basic Italian hard cheese.

Bon appetit.

BBC Good Food Show Summer – Discount Code

June 4, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

This is just a quick post to fill you in some of the events taking place during next weeks BBC Good Food Show in Birmingham NEC and also share with you a discount code to get 15% off your tickets.

The Supertheatre

There are demos from:

Paul Hollywood & Mary Berry
Gennaro Contaldo & Antonio Carluccio
Tom Kerridge
John Torode
Glynn Purnell
James Martin

And more…

Producers Village

Oils, cheeses, chocolate, brownies and much much more. I am taking lots and lots of canvas bags. I expect an empty purse when I return home.

BBC Good Food Kitchen Restaurant

Fine dining and a break from shopping. Yes please. Pre booking is essential for this new area of the show.

There is a lot more going on but I won’t spoil it for you, just buy your tickets and head on over to the show next week. You won’t regret it.

Buy tickets here or call 0844 5811341 and quote “MM20″for your 15% discount.

* as part of the BBC Good Food Show blogger panel I will be attending the show free of charge.

BBQ Love in Bristol – GrillStock Preview

June 4, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

It’s GrillStock this weekend. Woop. It feels like we have been waiting for it for such a long time.

GRILLSTOCK FESTIVAL – BRISTOL JUNE 7TH – 8TH 2014 LLOYDS AMPHITHEATRE

There is lots to look forward to from an amazing musical line up:

Main Stage Saturday 7th June

Fun Lovin’ Criminals

Danny and the Champions of the World

The Dirty Gentlemen

Screamin’ Miss Jackson & the Slap Ya’ Mamma Big Band

Radio Riddler

Main Stage Sunday 8th June

Hayseed Dixie

The Urban Voodoo Machine

The Future Shape of Sound

The Montgomerys

To savoury cocktails… Yes I did say savoury cocktails:

< Frank’s RedHot® and French’s will be serving a range of unbelievable concoctions created by a world class mixologist. I fancy trying an apple mustard sour or maybe a red hot rodeo /em>

Then of course there is the food…

A hot dog, hot wing and chilli eating competitions

The Weber Grill Academy will be cooking up a storm with chef demonstrations and BBQ tips. “Fanatical about barbecuing and taking grilling to another level, the humble sausage and burger need to step aside when the team get busy with their own twist on American style barbecuing. 18hr low and slow briskets, fire baked pizzas, and smoking, will all be on the agenda”

As well as The GrillStock King of the Grill contest and LOADS more.

We can’t wait. Head on down and say hello if you see us 😉

* we have been gifted with tickets to the festival for the purpose of a review.

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Lindam Munchkin Fun

June 4, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · Leave a Comment

In March we went to an event with Lindam Munchkin as part of our role on the blogger panel. We were given lots of goodies to take home and I just wanted to tell you about them, although we weren’t actually asked to review as both girls have really enjoyed them.

We had a haul of bath bits. Now I will be honest and tell you I’m not a fan of bath toys. My daughters love them but as I really like a nice soak in the tub and I hate all the plastic clutter which is always in my way. Obviously I tolerate them as I’m a mum and that’s what we do.

But these I don’t mind at all.

Munchkin Heat Sensing Grippy Dots

In fact they brighten up the bathroom, Izzy likes to stick them in various places around the bath and I’m surprised at how long they can keep her occupied. All her other toys I scoop into a box or jug when she’s finished but these are always left in the bath as they don’t get in my way. As a bonus they tell you if your little ones bath is too hot and of course they are great for using as grippers to stop them slipping.

We also had the Owl light my way nightlifes from Lindam:

These owl night lights are massively cute. Both Izzy and Chloe have one and they are equally fascinated. We plan to take them with us to the festivals we go to this summer as they are ideal for carrying around being both lightweight and battery operated.

We have also been using these divided plates from Munchkin:

Izzy loves having her food in sections and somehow it seems to help her eat more than if I just pile it all in a bowl.

We are also in the process of replacing all of our safety latches etc around the home thanks to Lindam and their excellent range of products. With two small children around its impossible to have both eyes in both of them all day long so our home needs to be as safe as safe can be. Cue extra gates, corner covers etc.

Check out Lindam and Munchkin for more products.

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Out of My Depth

June 4, 2014 · by munchiesandmunchkins · 3 Comments

I know I’m not the only person who feels like this. Like I’m constantly swimming and can’t find the edge of the pool so that I can have a breather.

Being a parent of two is so much harder than I imagined. Being a full time parent is so much harder than my full time job could ever be.

I am so glad that I’m taking the full year off to spend with Chloe and Izzy yet every day a little part of me tells me that at least in work I would get a lunch break.

The first few months of parenting two were hard as we were so tired. Then suddenly it got a little easier but now it’s harder again. Yes Chloe doesn’t feed quite as much in the nights so thats improved but Izzy has started to be a bit of a nightmare about going to bed.

We have tried everything, or at least it seems that way. Every night it’s taking around 3 hours for her to give in to going to sleep. It’s not that she isn’t tired as she is absolutely exhausted. We have tried cutting out her naps and it makes no difference or tiring her out with hours of outside play but nothing.

My OH is working lots of evening shifts right now which means I’m starting to get anxious and miserable from about 6pm each day as I know what’s in store for us. Chloe is usually desperate for her bed from about 7.30pm but I can’t put her to bed as Izzy shouts and bangs about in her bed waking her sister up. That means I have to put Chloe to sleep downstairs and she thinks it’s nap time so about 30 minutes later she is awake and full of beans.

The evening was my time where I would start to wind down, catch up on housework and food prep or work on my blog.

What do I do?

Reward charts? Do they even work on a not yet 3yr old?

On top of this during the day the toddler stubbornness, outright defiance and constant demands are exhausting. Chloe is at a stage of development which means she has the most gorgeous personality but needs attention with learning to roll/crawl/stand all day long.

My ironing pile is no longer a pile but a room and I’m giving the girls food from the fridge or freezer rather than made from scratch far more than I would like to.. Cue guilt.

Sometimes I just need a few hours away but Chloe won’t take a bottle so while breastfeeding it’s not really an option. So I consider giving up breastfeeding after all we are nearly at 7months which is great but then I feel guilty for stopping for an entirely selfish reason plus I will miss it.

I don’t know what to do.

Above all I know that these things are minor. We don’t have any health problems or major worries so I feel ridiculous for constantly feeling this way.

I always post about the happier sides of parenting so I thought it only fair to tell you that everything is not always rosy. Not in my house anyway.

Any tips or advice greatly appreciated.

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