Wannabe Foodie #11:Beijing Dumpling, London Chinatown

September 5, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

When it comes to dumplings, peoples’ experiences can often be hit or miss, but with this little gem in Chinatown you will be satisfied with these hand made bundles of joy.

Beijing Dumpling will probably catch your eye as you stroll through Chinatown because of the queue that is often seen outside the door and the window display that beholds the churning out of fresh dumplings. Once you are inside you will be seated quickly and given a paper menu on which you tick off what you want to try. The turnaround in here is pretty quick, so perfect for casual dinner.

We went in as a group of four and decided on getting a range of starters (so we could try as many dumplings as possible) rather than mains, so we could try different bits and pieces. In terms of dumplings we went for spicy pork and pork xialongbao (soup dumplings), sea food dim sum platter, pan fried pork dumplings and spicy chicken dumplings in soup. We accompanied this with crispy duck pancakes, hot and sour soup and tom yum soup.

With a focus on the dumplings themselves I would definitely go for the spicy pork xialongbao. With a light steamed pastry, juicy pork filling and broth inside, this dumpling is an absolute delight. If you prefer milder food then go for just the pork xialongbao for the same dumpling minus the spice.

Alongside this pork delight, the pan fried options are also great, served on a plate rather than a steamer basket, these are great if you prefer a crispier outside. The chicken dumplings in soup, has a steamed outside and are served floating in a broth. For me the soup itself wasn’t really anything to rave about, but the dumplings themselves were yummy.

The other starters that we chose (the duck and soups), we lovely, but very standard. I would definitely pay Beijing Dumpling a visit if dumplings are going to be the centre of your meal. Although I can’t attest to the rest of the mains on offer, I cannot stress how foolish it would be to not try the dumplings.

Considering the reasonable price range, you would be surprised that Beijing Dumpling has been awarded a Michelin Star. Coming in at around £8 for a basket of the more expensive dumplings, split between a group you will not leave hungry.

Paired with an ice cold green tea, this is great place to grab a bite to eat and leave feeling satisfied and your wallet not taking the heat.

Price: ££

Check it out:

http://beijingdumpling.co.uk/

Wannabe Foodie #10: You Me Sushi, Grays Inn Road

July 11, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

With sushi being a fresh summer favourite for a lot of foodies, You Me Sushi is an affordable alternative to eating in a restaurant. They offer high quality selection boxes as well as the option to put your own together. I went into the Grays Inn road store, but there are also seven other stores around London and delivery is offered too.

I went for the Tokyo Roll Speciality Box, which came with edame beans, a piece of chicken tempura and the sushi roll. Sushi rolls typically have nori (seaweed wrap) on the outside and rice in the middle, but the Tokyo Roll has the rice on the exterior and a nori inside. The filling of this roll contains fresh salmon, spicy mayo, cucumber, avocado, flying fish roe and finely chopped chives. This sushi box came with a free side of miso soup and came to £7.95. It was delicious and definitely worth it!

In general I am not a huge fan of miso soup, so this was mostly left, but the sushi was fantastic. I tended to alternate my bites between the wasabi and soy as well as the side of pickled cabbage. It was fresh and filled me up (which was surprising). For those of you who enjoy miso soup, that’s a tasty little treat you can indulge in too!

The lunchtime service at You Me Sushi was great, it was quick and the staff were very polite. This, coupled with the price tag, you can’t really complain.

Price: ££/£££££

Check it Out: 180 Grays Inn Rd, Holborn, London WC1X 8EW

Millenial Food Preferences: Damn you Avo on Toast

June 27, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Millennial Food Preference

1954 brought about the official end to food rationing in Britain. With the 15-year ban lifted on meat and sugar purchase restrictions, the nation seemingly spiralled into food evolution. Indeed, the contrast is extreme compared to the eating habits of millennials today, which supposedly is the reason why we can’t afford houses. Damn you avocado on toast.

The British food rationing period was an extremity that needed to happen as food supplies were often sabotaged, so resourcefulness was key. This was highlighted in meals that achieved sustenance, for example Welsh Rarebit and Rice Pudding, and made rations go further. This has railed into the complete opposite in 2019, where habitual eating habits would’ve been considered lux in the past. Cue the avocado on toast.

Millennials are marking their dominance in the work force and account for a quarter of global population, so it’s no wonder that our food consumption habits are trending around Millennial preferences and their consumer choices. These preferences are reflected in large food manufacturers, such as Aria Foods and Associated British Foods plc. From ingredient sourcing and more sustainable packaging, to alternative dairy and vegan options, the food market and variety are vast and ever trending.

A primary concern of trending food is prominent in the realm of ingredient sourcing and where things come from. Following the establishment of Fair Trade by the World Fair Trade Organisation, it seems the nation has upped the ante when it comes to where their food comes from and this has become particularly apparent amongst millennials.

A trending example of this are alternative milks (in this instance to dairy), particularly when it comes to beverage consumption. Viral videos and social media sources have circulated information about where our food comes from and has now become synonymous with being healthy. With the case of milk, the treatment of cows and the negative effects of dairy (skin issues and potential weight gain) are often the reasoning behind millennials switching to an alternative milk. Oat, Almond and Soy milk are popular choices, particularly when paired with coffee and cereal. This upholds the variety and choices that we have and that millennials are even willing to pay more for them.

Sustainable packaging has also become a large part as to how millennials consume food. With British Youtubers, such as Grackle and ClickforTaz promoting ‘zero waste’ challenges highlight the importance of not using single use plastic and food waste in the UK. This is almost reflective of the attitudes held in the fifties when resourcefulness was a necessity.

The range of food that millennials are exposed to and associated with are down to a change in lifestyle and are vaster than ever. The International Food Information Council’s 2017 Food and Health survey identified that convenience is a primary factor when purchasing food with millennials. This aligns with the ‘avocado on toast’ trend that is often a backlash of millennial food choices, because the tendency is to spend more on this. We love to go out and enjoy food which is reflective of the convenience and contrasts with the limited choices that previous generations had. We are exposed to different types of food and our kitchen staples are ever growing.

In summation, the food consumption patterns and choices amongst millennials today are not only more varied, but influenced by expanding food knowledge. It seems, millennials are exposed to more information than ever and can use this to make educated food choices as well as experimenting with foods.

Wannabe Foodie #9: The Breakfast Club

May 26, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Post hangover feels, in desperate need of good stodge, cue The Breakfast Club which was my guardian Angel this fine Sunday.

Based in the tucked away corner of Camden Passage, The Breakfast Club sorted me right out. I went for the Salt Beef Reuben, with fries, coleslaw and a side of avocado (this is London after all). I must say I was pleasantly surprised. The salty beef of the Reuben was just what I needed, washed down with a BIG glass of ice cold cola.

The sandwich itself was delicious, served on sourdough bread it really was up there when it comes to sandwiches. Alongside the mound of salt beef (brined brisket), the sourdough delight carried sauerkraut (chopped pickled cabbage), mustard, cheese and a pickle. Although this sandwich was a hefty meat lovers delight, I used a range of sides to help break up the saltiness a tad.

For the sides, I had fries ( these were standard really), slaw (also ok) and a side of avocado (does what it says on the tin). All in all the avocado was a God send to help me finish the sandwich, because the freshness was just what the palette needed.

Although we queued (for four of us) in the rain for about 30 mins, the service at the Angel branch could not be faulted. As soon as we got in, we were quickly seated and the servers were great. Not only were they attentive, but they had it going on when it came to banter. Overall great experience and, even if just for the service, was definitely worth the wait!

Check it out for yourselves: https://www.thebreakfastclubcafes.com/locations/angel/

31 Camden Passage, London N1 8EA

Wannabe Foodie #8: Milk Train, Covent Garden

May 22, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Milk Train in London is definitely conducting the ice cream world into a candy floss filled arena. Combining classic ice cream toppings with creative flair, you can choose any ice cream you want.

I went for a ‘make your own’ ice cream and decided on the Oreo crumbled into the ice cream and covered it in cornflakes an desicated coconut in a cone surrounded by candy floss (because I’m a commercial marketers basic dream). I must say for a fairly pricey seven quid, you could probably remake this at home for a fraction of the cost, but the expereicne and novelty of it is great.

The location itself (located in Covent Garden) is an Insatgrammer’s dream. With a gorgeous flower wall, the décor matches the flouncy delicacy of the candy floss. Milk Train goes from basic flavours to the most complex ice cream pairings and it’s all in your hands!

Overall I would give this ice cream, a 6.5/10. It was lovely and was a great way to bring the glamour to the humble iced treat, but the price was a bit steep considering what you were getting, however, the aesthetic was delightful.

Wannabe Foodie #7: Dishoom, Carnaby

April 21, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Having never seen this spot without a waiting list, I had to give Dishoom’s delights a try. I decided to opt for the Carnaby branch and it was not a disappointment!

As there was a lunchtime waiting list, we headed to the bar to try some of the infamous bottomless House Chai (until 5pm). The flavours of spice blend and warmth of was a perfect way to save us from the rain outside. We were seated fairly quickly and were seated under the skylight, on the lounge sofas. This spot is great for a lunchtime catch up and if you don’t mind a relaxed eating area, this is perfect!

We decided to order a selection of things so we could share and try different things. We went for:

Far Far is a crispy snack, that has the texture of a prawn cracker and salty too. This a a great way to start off the meal if you’re starving because they come out so quick, but if I was to skip something off the menu it would definitely be this. Compared to the rest of the menu this is not the most exciting.

Chilli Cheese Toast is exactly what is says on the tin. Delicious, melted cheddar cheese on a thick slice of white bloomer with the kick of chilli. This was a delight and a no brainer for veggies!

Paneer Tikka, is, straight up, the way to show that you cannot have enough cheese. Paneer is a milk curd used a lot in Indian cooking. It bears resemblance to the texture of tofu, but with subtle flavour. At Dishoom it is marinated and charred and served with green peppers. Delight!

Okra Fries in the house!! Taking lady’s fingers and turning them into a deep fried delight. Truly a display of finger food and how Dishoom make vegetables amazing. Try these dipped in the selection of sauces and chutneys that they give you.

Gunpowder Potatoes, I think were my favourite in this veggie feast. Taking the humble potato and grilling them with seeds, spices and fresh herbs, this is a gem. I could eat a whole plate of this on it’s own, and the heat of the aloo (potato) goes well with cooling raita.

Pau Bhaji continues to showcase the versatility of the aloo and is true that carbs are the one! Pau Bhaji is a bowl of mashed, spiced veg served with a hot, buttery roll, homemade of course. Great accompaniment with tea and if you want to nip in for a quick snack.

Although, you might be questioning the absence of meat, this vegetarian feast was fabulous and, being a meat eater myself, I did not feel its absence. Indian food is renowned for it’s flavour and flair with simple ingredients and Dishoom elevates that!

The service here was fabulous! Not only were we constantly topped up on out bottomless chai, but we were always checked on. The waiter was great at explaining what each dish was and recommended complimentary dishes.

Price: ££

Check it out: http://www.dishoom.com/

Wannabe Foodie #6: Miss Tapas

April 2, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Sharing is Caring and is most certainly embodied within the cosy walls of Miss Tapas, Peckham. Offering flavorsome Spanish delights , Miss Tapas is great for a first time tapas experience and you will probably come back again.

Tapas are small Spanish savoury dishes that are often designed for sharing. They are often accompanied with drinking and you can order as many or as little as you want. The idea is to enjoy these Tapas as a meal. There is a varied selection of what Tapas can be and is not one food in particular. It can range from meat, fish and breads and you can mix and match as you see fit.

Being run by it’s owners, Miss Tapas offers a rustic and homely welcome. With their menu written on a chalk board as you walk in, different items are often added to the menu. A staple favourite of mine is the tortilla (Spanish potato and egg). This initially sounds as bit odd as it is served at room temperature, but it is honestly so delicious.

Alongside patatas bravas (potato in spiced tomato sauce), prawn croquettes and Spanish meatballs, the Jamón ibérico is a definite must try. This is a spiced, cured ham and is carved fresh to eat and served with small bread sticks. It’s a great way to break up the sauciness of a lot of the dishes and is great with a glass of wine.

The staff in Miss Tapas are noteworthy, they are so friendly and are happy to help you with any queries you have about the menu. Don’t be shy to try something new. I myself have tried beef cheek and pesto tuna here and they were both great. As the prices here are quite reasonable, split between a group of you, you could pay as little as £20 a head (including a drink) in one visit.

Bear in mind, Miss Tapas does not take reservations, but if you call beforehand you can be added to the waiting list or just walk in!

Price: ££/£££££

Check it out:

https://www.misstapas.com/

Wannabe Foodie #5: Amorino, Covent Garden

February 27, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Gelato Gelato Gelato! A fabulous dessert for fabulous people!

Gelato is an Italian style ice cream and is only referred to as Gelato in this instance.

During this delightful British summer, I decided to venture into the realms of Covent Garden and came across Amorino. This immediately caught my attention because it was a hot evening and my sweet tooth was on a rampage! The store itself consists mainly of the gelato bar and a small seating area, so seemed great for a quick fix.

Amornio offers various portion sizes and you can either opt for a cone (ranging in size) or a tub (ranging in size). I went for the tub, just because I knew a cone would probably be a disaster for me! With the cones, the gelato (or sorbet) is shaped into a rose shape and looks gorgeous.

With a variety of flavours offered, Amorino appeals to even the fussiest of palettes. As there is a range of sorbets and gelatos, it is also a great choice for those avoiding dairy. I went for three scoops of gelato. Ferrero Rocher, Blueberry Cheesecake and Hazelnut were my weapons of choice and it was delicious. Normally I am a through and through chocolate fiend, but I have to say the blueberry cheesecake was the star of the tub.

I came to Amorino’s on a Friday night, it was not crazy busy and I couldn’t fault the service. Unfortunately I didn’t catch the name of my server, but she was lovely. She served everyone with a smile and making the rose cones whilst taking standard orders too!

In terms of prices, they range from £3.50 to £9.50 depending on what you get, which for the quality of product is worth it.

Check it out:

https://www.amorino.com

‘Indian Pale Ales, but no Indians’

February 20, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / 1 Comment

Like so many people of colour living in Britain, there can sometimes be a haze surrounding how opaque we ought to be with our cultures in a Western society. As gentrification lays its seeds all over Britain, we can find elements of different cultures being mimicked without a magnified presence of the people from who they are influenced.

A progress report by Alex Fenton highlights, with regards to gentrification in London, that changes in cultural dimensions and inclusions can be attributed to gentrification. This could be mirroring the underlying classist and even racist attitudes of the UK even today. Seemingly in these developed areas you can find Indian Pale Ale in every pub, but no Indians.

As a third generation British Asian, it is this climate that makes it ever confusing as to how much acceptance we will face from our British counterparts in society. With Indian influences fuelling many spiritual paths and trends in the Western World, there seems to glaze over much of its culture. For example, with the love of Indian food being prominent, but the lack of representation of Indians on mainstream cooking channels. This is something that is changing and education is at the front of this.

This is all contributory to cultural appropriation, which is now being highlighted by British Asians and people of colour more and more. As the new generation in a world that is seemingly getting smaller and smaller, there is no room for this ignorance and we should not shy away from certain parts of our culture out of fear of that part not being accepted. Although it is not the role of people of colour to explain the inherent confusions that can come with balancing two cultures whilst living in the west, we can now call out this appropriation and try and educate our peers.

Wannabe Foodie #4: Honest Burgers

February 6, 2019June 11, 2021 / perishakudhail / Leave a comment

Honest Burgers, on this particular day, was a life saver! I was starving and on the hunt for a good quality cure. I strolled into Honest Burgers whilst roaming the streets of Covent Garden and was more than pleasantly surprised.

Considering it was a Friday night, I was seated immediately, which was a bonus, and was greeted with a cozy walkway and friendly staff. Immediately the music put you at ease, playing remixes and reggae. Once we were seated we got started with drinks and the beauty about Honest Burger was the small, quality menu.

I went for the classic Honest Burger which came with Rosemary Fries. The burger consisted of a beef patty, red onion relish, smoked bacon, cheddar, pickled cucumber and lettuce. This was served on a classic brioche bun. It was lovely. The patty was served medium rare and you can’t really go wrong with a burger and chips around the £10 mark.

Honest Burger with Rosemary Fries and a likkle bit of mayo

London which I’m sure will offer the same delightful experience.

Price: ££

Check it out here: https://www.honestburgers.co.uk/