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While gluhwein and mulled wine are served in abundance over the festive period, there is nothing quite like popping a cork or discovering a brand new bottle of your favourite type of vino. Rosé is often heartbreakingly overlooked during the holiday season and so with that we have rounded up the best bottles of 2022 to give to your wine loving friend or family member, or simply to enjoy yourself! It’s Christmas after all…

Castillo de Ibiza

In summer 2022, Castillo de Ibiza rosé launched in the UK. Inspired by the sunset and the slow living of the Balearic Islands, the gorgeous wine will warm your cockles, especially with the colder weather in December! The wine is carefully crafted from Tempranillo and Garnacha with the saignee method in Navarra, the cradle of Spanish rosé. The beautifully unique Castillo de Ibiza bottle design makes this the perfect gift idea for Christmas.

Available at Ocado, £12: Castillo de Ibiza Rose | Ocado

Campo Viejo Rosé

Pale and pretty in colour, but vibrant in taste and perfect with Christmas smoked salmon, Campo Viejo Rosé expresses the lovely aromas of cherry, citrus, strawberries and rose petals. This wine now holds the gold 2020 award within The New York International Wine Competition, a perfect accompaniment to have with any celebration.

Available at Ocado, £8: Campo Viejo Rose | Ocado

Pink Diesel Rosé

Rosé lovers may have already spotted Pink Diesel at some top London bars this year as well as the Barn’s Larder, Chichester, The Phoenix, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Horse & Groom, West Sussex but now it can be ordered for the festive season to your home. One of the most exciting launches of 2022, fill up your stockings with this delicious light, crisp and dry tipple created by British entrepreneurs Amy Gatehouse and Marina Ayton.

Available direct from Pink Diesel, £14.95: 75cl | 1 Bottle | Provence Rosé Wine by Pink Diesel

‘A Case of Tickled Pink’, Hattingley Valley

The award-winning family-owned UK winery, famed for its still and sparkling wines made the initial steps in 2008 by planting the very first vineyard on some of their farmland. For something more decadent this Christmas, this case of three still (2021) and three sparkling (2019) pink wines truly push the boat out. The team at Hattingley Valley have won the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championship Award for ‘Best Vintage Rosé in the world’ and so you know you will be drinking the best come Christmas Day.

Available direct from Hattingley Valley, £165: A Case of Tickled Pink – Hattingley Valley Wines

This is the time of year where everyone’s asking for pumpkin spice flavored drinks and food. It’s a seasonal flavoring that some of us will still be longing for in early January and a few restaurants and food manufacturers try to cater for all throughout the year. But what exactly is pumpkin spice?

It’s Not Made of Pumpkin

You might be surprised to know that pumpkin spice contains no pumpkin whatsoever. Instead, this seasoning gets its name from the fact that it makes a good partner with pumpkin. So, if pumpkin spice doesn’t have any pumpkin in it, what does it have?

It’s actually made from a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and clove, in most cases. You can find variations on the pumpkin spice ingredients, and not all of them are the same or will have exactly the same flavor. Some pumpkin spice seasonings will only include a few of those ingredients.

The idea of this seasoning is that it is trying to create the kind of flavors you associate with pumpkin pie other than the pumpkin. Just open up a packet of this seasoning and take whiff and see if it doesn’t bring back some pleasant memories for you. It may bring to mind thoughts of sitting around a dinner table with extended family and celebrating the holidays. Maybe it will conjure up memories of cleaning the house in preparation for your family to visit as the Thanksgiving or Christmas dishes are cooking. Sarah who runs a cleaning company in New York says: It’s the time of year many people will hire cleaning services in order to make their homes look tidy, but some people prefer to do things the old-fashioned way instead.

You Can Use It to Make Homemade Pumpkin Pie

Speaking of old fashioned, you can make a pumpkin pie at home using pumpkin spice. That’s its original intended use. If you look at any number of recipes for pumpkin pie, you’ll find that they recommend you use pumpkin spice seasoning. This will cover pretty much all the seasonings you need for the pie, although you could make your own pumpkin spice from scratch.

When making a pumpkin pie with pumpkin spice, you usually need to mix it into some pureed pumpkin to create the filling for the pie. It gets baked with the pumpkin to give that filling an aromatic aroma and complex flavor.

Pumpkin pie just wouldn’t taste the same without pumpkin spice in it. Without this special blend of seasonings, pumpkin pie can come out pretty bland and be unappealing. Pumpkin needs something to give it extra flavor. Most people don’t serve pumpkin on its own and usually add something like pumpkin spice to it to spruce up the fall food.

You Can Use Pumpkin Spice in Other Ways Too

Think about the kind of dishes you like to have pumpkin spice in. Are you envisioning them? You probably have a beverage or two in mind, don’t you?

During the fall and winter seasons, there is an abundance of pumpkin spice drinks available. Even restaurants that don’t usually change up their menus much will offer pumpkin spice lattes and milkshakes because of how popular these beverages have become in recent years. It seems like everyone wants to get in on the craze.

You can make your own pumpkin spice drink, if you like. To make a coffee that has that unique flavor to it, you can simply make your coffee as normal and add in a dash or two of pumpkin spice. That will give you a mild and subtle hint of pumpkin spice. For a bolder, more pronounced flavor, you can mix in some pureed pumpkin, add the pumpkin spice, and then add in some extra sugar on top of what you normally include. Pumpkin spice isn’t very sweet, you see, and neither is pumpkin itself. Most pumpkin spice drinks you will find at your local coffee shop have lots of added sugar to make up for that.

There are way more options for pumpkin spice dishes than just pumpkin pie and some drinks. Besides the obligatory super-sugary milkshake or Frappuccino, you could try adding pumpkin spice to your tea or cocoa.

Because pumpkin spice isn’t really sweet, you don’t have to save it for use in sweet dishes alone. It can be incorporated into all kinds of foods, including savory ones.

Try making pumpkin bread with it or using it in pumpkin soup or oatmeal. It can give these foods more depth and flavor, creating an interesting aesthetic that you might find very appealing. Of course, pumpkin spice is no slouch at taking sweet dishes and making them more interesting. Try using it to make cookies, ice cream, pancakes, waffles, muffins, and pudding. You might be surprised at how versatile this seasoning is and how much you like adding it to a large variety of dishes.

Should You Make It Yourself?

If you go to the grocery store and find that they’re all out of pumpkin spice, you don’t need to despair. You can just gather the different ingredients and make it yourself. Remember that pumpkin spice is usually a mixture of ginger, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. If you can find some or all of these, you can make your own pumpkin spice pretty easily. It’s just a matter of mixing these ingredients together in the right proportions.

If you are making pumpkin spice, cinnamon is supposed to be the most prominent flavor, followed by nutmeg. The other seasonings are not quite as important, and you don’t need very much of them. You can experiment with different proportions to find a version of pumpkin spice that suits your preferences.

Once you’ve made-up your pumpkin spice, you can seal it and keep it in a dry place. It does not need to be refrigerated, and it can last for years, if it’s properly sealed and stored. It may start to lose some its potency after about a year, though. Try adding it to some of your favorite dishes and see how it enhances them.

Kratom is a prevalent opioid-like substance. There are a lot of Kratom users today. However, Kratom’s legality is still in question. In some countries, Kratom is legal and available for human consumption, while other countries consider Kratom a controlled substance. There are various strains and Kratom products available in the market.

If you consume this opioid-like substance, its legality is a crucial question for you. The legality of Kratom is pretty confusing in some states. In the states, Kratom is primarily legal. However, there are some states and countries where Kratom has age restrictions, is federally regulated, or comes under the controlled substance list.

Today in this article, we will dive into Kratom and the legality of this opioid-like compound in New Jersey. Because we are sure if you are from New Jersey, you want to know is Kratom legal in New Jersey? or not. And we shall also discuss the law for this compound and its different products and strains.

Overview Of Kratom

Kratom is an opioid-like substance that comes from Mitragyna speciosa. It is available widely in southeast Asia. Some users consider it a natural substance and use it as a beneficial plant. There are various products of Kratom available in the market.

Some of the popular products are capsules, gummies, and powder. Some users like to consume the leaves of the product directly to experience the earthy taste and benefits of the leaves. You can use the powder differently, like adding it to your tea.

Although many Kratom users love its products because they may offer some advantages, such as they may help in dealing with sleep issues, may improve mood, or help in focusing better but still, consuming it more than required can lead to unwanted risks.

Kratom use is increasing so is misuse. Many users depend on it as it is an addictive substance or an addictive drug.

If you want to read more about opioid dependency, head over to ANR Clinic.

Is Kratom Legal In New Jersey?

This opioid-like substance is legal in several countries. For example, the American Kratom Association gave Kratom legal status in New Jersey.

The state’s people are free to buy, sell and consume this opioid-like substance. They can get whatever amount they require. People can buy this opioid-like compound from vape shops, smoke shops, and online. If you are of the minimum age, you can buy it from anywhere according to your preference.

In the past, some attempts were made by the drug enforcement administration and FDA at the federal level to impose a ban on the substance, but they were unsuccessful. So instead, the drug enforcement administration wanted to list Kratom as an illegal substance.

In some states, it is not legal to sell Kratom because of cases of addiction and drug abuse; higher doses may also lead to health risks like difficulty breathing, liver damage, etc. Kratom bans always create buzz, but because Kratom may impact and have a somewhat similar effect on the brain like opioid food and drug administration wanted to restrict it or consider it illegal.

Different Kratom Strains Legal In New Jersey

Kratom is a top-rated product among users. There are various Kratom strains available in the market. The color of the Kratom is what makes the difference in the strains. The most popular Kratom strain is white, green, red, and yellow.

White Vein Kratom

The first strain on our list is the white vein. White veins are the most popular strain in New Jersey and globally because of their strong and potent nature. In addition, it is rich in alkaloids responsible for offering Kratom’s energizing effects.

This white vein strain is popular among consumers because it is slightly different from other strains and offers an uplifting experience. White vein is for you if you are looking for any such experience.

Green Vein Kratom

The subsequent strain on our list is the green vein. The green vein strain is between red and white as the leaves are somewhat matured and unmatured. The strain is famous for providing better energy but at the same time keeping the focus still.

The Green vein is the most balanced strain and is famous for providing a well-balanced effect, and it is also quite a popular product among users.

Red Vein Kratom

The next strain we are going to talk about is the red vein. Again, it is a widely recognized strain. It is potent and offers opioid-like effects.

This is one of the most widely exploited strains among all of them. Various red vein Kratom strains are available, for instance, red maeng da, red Malay, red indo, red kali, red Borneo, and red dragon.

Yellow Vein Kratom

The yellow vein is the next strain on our list. Kratom enthusiasts in New Jersey and worldwide are now enjoying this strain as it may give them a calm and comfortable feeling. However, the yellow vein is a relatively lesser explored Kratom strain, so there are a few different theories.

Some vendors believe the leaves are less mature for the yellow strain, while others think that the yellow vein is a strain that mixes up different strains and other substances.

The yellow vein strain is also available in variants like Yellow Borneo, Bali, Thai, Malay, yellow horn, yellow indo, and yellow elephant.

Forms Of Kratom That Is Legal In New Jersey

Although there is little doubt about Kratom’s legal status in certain counties, various reliable Kratom products are still available in the industry. It has a lot to offer. This tropical tree has various forms, and you can consume it differently. Some of the industry’s most popular forms of Kratom available are below.

Capsules

The capsules are the most popular product and are available in the market easily—many use them daily. The capsules are filled with Kratom powder, which goes through multiple lab checks, in which the 7-hydroxymitragynine remains the main active compound. The best part about these capsules is that they are easy to use and do not cause any mess or spillage during consumption. Kratom may be a decisive substance for a few users. Although the capsules are available in doses, it is always an excellent idea to consult your doctor before consuming them.

It offers advantages if you consume it in low doses. These capsules are available for white, red, yellow, and green strains.

Powder

Powder is another popular form of Kratom. Many consumers love to consume Kratom with tea or directly experience its benefits. Some people love to mix these powders with various beverages as well. There are different strains and Kratom powders available. It is accessible to consumers and may be very beneficial. All the powders are quality tested through multiple.

Tinctures

Kratom tinctures are one of the most effective ways to consume and experience Kratom. This is available in liquid form. You can add a few drops of this tincture to your tea or coffee to get your daily dose of Kratom.

Legality Of Kratom In Different Countries

Although the answer to the question, “Is Kratom legal in New Jersey?” is affirmative, a few states regulate this product. We have made a list of all these places to make it easy for you to comprehend the product’s legal status.

States That Ban Kratom

Here is the list of a few countries that ban Kratom:

  • Wisconsin
  • Indiana
  • Rhode Island
  • Vermont
  • Arkansas
  • San Diego
  • Sarasota County
  • Union County

States Where Kratom Remains Legal

There are some states where the governing bodies do not criminalize Kratom. They are:

  • South Carolina
  • New guinea
  • Alaska
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Massachusetts
  • Nebraska
  • New York
  • Maryland
  • Oklahoma

Kratom Legal With Some Restrictions

Some places allow the usage of Kratom only after following a few restrictions. Those regions are:

  • Minnesota
  • New York
  • Tennessee
  • North Carolina

What Is Kratom Consumer Protection Act?

The American Kratom Association, or the AKA, is the supporter and advocate of Kratom in the states. The group and Protection act has some set rules related to Kratom. The group keeps checking on products and their consumption in the group. And the group classifies Kratom as legal in New Jersey, but it is illegal to transfer possession of Kratom to a person under age. So the group successfully repealed the ban on Kratom and other drugs that may not be harmful.

Here are a few things you need to know about the Kratom consumer protection act and Kratom legality in New Jersey.

  • Kratom vendors should clearly label all the product ingredients on the packaging.
  • It is illegal to sell or transfer the possession of Kratom to any person under 18.
  • The product packaging should state the amount of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine in it.
  • The precise use and direction to use Kratom product should be available on the packaging with the minimum dose requirement.

The Bottom Line

Kratom is illegal in certain states and has some restrictions in others, but it is technically legal. At the end of this article, we are sure you know that Kratom is legal in New Jersey. Vendors can sell and buy Kratom. In addition, you can find Kratom in stores and online.

The main reason Kratom is illegal in other states is due to drug use or overdose of drugs or other substances. In addition, according to the American Kratom association, or AKA, some people use this tropical plant as a drug, which can lead to physical dependence and addiction.

It would help if you remembered that Kratom classifies as a natural product and is helpful in various ways. So if you buy good quality Kratom and other products, you may experience its benefits.

Although many countries criminalize Kratom, it is legal in New Jersey, which is why you can find various vendors. Some of them might need to sell better quality products and may lead to specific health issues. Be sure you are getting your products from a seller offering top-notch quality.

Author’s Bio

Alexander Reid

Alexander Reid is a kratom expert and journalist who discovered Kratom about a decade ago. He is a kratom strain enthusiast who has profound knowledge of Kratom and its variety of products that are available in the market. He immensely enjoys delving deep into research and studying Kratom and its various strains. Please reach out to him if you have any questions or comments by emailing: alexander@newdawnkratom.com. You can also connect with him on twitter- https://twitter.com/Alexand65019433 and LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-reid-6755a5250/.

Serves 6

I’ve recently returned from an incredible House of Coco trip to South Africa where my favorite drink played a key part in the proceedings. Amarula spiked coffees on morning game drives, over ice while I sank into my roll-top tub, via miniatures on the plane home. It only seemed right that I share a recipe using sweet nectar – A Taste of South Africa.

A taste of South Africa

My Love Affair with Amarula

Amarula has a very special place in my heart. For those who are not acquainted with this delicious, creamy liqueur – it is sort of like Baileys, but not really as it’s about one million times better. It is made from the fruit of the Marula tree – often called the elephant tree as the Heffalumps have a particular love of this fruit and are often found stumbling around when they’ve eaten too much of the fermented fruit. I have witnessed first-hand a drunk elephant – it’s fantastic.

At the tender age of 17, I made my first trip to the land of braiis and buckees, my school were so fed up with me that they told me I could only return to do my A levels if I spent my summer volunteering at an orphanage to get some perspective and sort my appalling attitude out. It worked. It was the best thing that ever came out of being a vile teenager because without that wake-up call I may never have fallen head over heels in love with Africa, resulting in many further trips and a desire to move there but more importantly, I fear without that trip, I would have followed a downward spiral into entitled spoilt brat and never really grasped what happens outside of our privileged world.

A Liqueur of Memories and Meaning

I digress, back to the booze. It was on this trip that I discovered this drink. Not in a ‘lads on tour, underage drinking’ way but at the end of our trip we were taken out for a farewell meal and our host insisted we all try the drink and raise a toast – shouting ‘Amaroooooooooooola’ as we clinked our glasses. My alcohol taste preferences before this were strictly Smirnoff Ice and WKD Blue so you can imagine how classy I felt being offered this exotic liqueur… in an actual glass… with ice. Not only did the drink taste delicious but it signified something so special – a bond forged with a group of people who had just spent two months doing something important, connecting with kids who had no one else in the world. We witnessed death, abandonment, and sickness but we also witnessed kids finding forever homes, and overcoming disease and despite everything they had been through – the most unthinkable of scenarios – they continued to smile and act with grace and positivity. I learnt more about humanity on that trip than I could ever imagine. And so, I always have a bottle of Amarula in stock because just seeing the bottle reminds me of both the happiest and saddest of times and reminds me to take a reality check every once in a while.

To create a recipe that showcases this tipple makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. I have played around with the measurements so the hit of booze is balanced perfectly with the creaminess – not too harsh but not washed away either. It’s a very simple recipe to make, perfect for dinner parties, as it needs to be made in advance but can then be forgotten about. My mission in life is to ensure everyone I have met has tried this drink, be it in liquid or solid form, so I truly hope you give it a whirl and love it as much as I do. Extra points if you shout ‘Amarooooooooooooola’ at some point during the cooking/eating process.

Check out our recent article on House of Coco where we explore why we’ve fallen for this South African rose. Read more here to discover the captivating story behind it.

What you need :

  • 4 gelatine leaves
  • 300ml of full fat milk
  • 20g caster sugar
  • 300ml double cream
  • 150ml Amarula
  • Gold candy to decorate (optional)

How you do it :

  • Bloom the gelatine sheets in cold water for 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile pour the milk, cream and sugar into a saucepan and bring to just scolding – the surface should begin to pucker and steam will rise from the top. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves.
  • Take off the heat and stir in the Amarula.
  • Remove the gelatine from the water and wring out all excess water, whisk into the panna cotta mix.
  • Pour the mix into a pudding mould and pop it into the fridge to set for at least 6 hours.
  • When ready to serve, turn the pudding moulds onto plates and warm them with a cook blow
  • torch to release the pannacotta. Alternatively, sit the moulds in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes.
  • Decorate with gold glitz or any other boujee decorations you see fit.

Even though wine is something that is enjoyed universally it can still be intimidating and pretentious at times.

All these bougie and complex terminologies can seem like an entirely different dialect and can be enough to put you off.

Not to fear! You don’t need to be a connoisseur to find the perfect wine for a date night or dinner with the in-laws.

Hamish Kirwan co-founder of Vintner has put together an A-Z wine cheat sheet to break down a few of those pesky word barriers and put things plainly so we can all enjoy wine.

Next time you are handed a long list of wines to choose from it’ll be a breeze. So, here goes…

Austere: if a wine is described as austere, it’s much like describing a person as austere, it lacks charm and is not too friendly on the taste buds.

Body: spelt the same way as the human body, but with very different meanings…Body in wine refers to how weighty the wine feels in the mouth. Quick tip, higher alcohol, usually means fuller bodied.

Chewy: a word usually used to describe solid food. When used in wine it refers to something that is so rich and full that you almost have to chew on it!

Finish: this describes the flavours left in your mouth after you’ve swallowed, if it lasts a long time (think 5 seconds plus) it would be described as a long finish.

Flabby: generally, not a complimentary term, used to describe a wine with a very bland texture.

Funky: this will often be used to describe natural wines. They often use natural yeasts and very few chemicals. The result? It smells slightly funky (weird/smelly).

Grippy: this is mostly used to describe red wines that have lots of tannin (see below for definition), much like you might grip onto something, the tannins grip to the sides of your mouth.

Jammy: often used to describe a red wine that is very ripe, simply because it smells quite like jam!

Herbaceous: the clue is in the name here, used to describe a wine that might smell a bit herby or grassy.

Linear: this is usually used to describe wines that are pretty one-dimensional, not overly interesting and not very well balanced.

Mineral: this relates to a flavour profile that tastes like stone or rocks. This can be hard to place as we don’t all regularly go around licking rocks, but it is common in some wines and quite desirable.

Oily: this refers to a wine’s texture, wines that are oily have a slightly waxy texture and are much fuller than say the texture of water.

Oxidised: this means a wine has been exposed to too much oxygen, sometimes winemakers make more oxidised styles of wine, but it can also be a sign of a fault in the wine. If oxidised they’re often browner in colour.

Round: a wine might be described as ‘round’. This generally means it’s not overly acidic and usually quite nicely balanced.

Tannin: substances found mainly in plants that create a drying, rubbing sensation on your tongue. It’s mainly used to describe red wines, tannin is found in grape skins. They need to be ripe in order to create a smooth texture of wine, underripe and they will have your cheeks sticking to your teeth! Lots of tannin = heavy wine, less tannin = lighter wines.

Volatile: this is more than often used to describe a fault, if a wine is volatile, it will probably have excess bacteria and start to smell like vinegar…. save that for on your chips!

Woody: usually used to describe wines that have been oaked, these might smell like vanilla, smoke or coffee too.

That’s enough of that for one day! While these are definitely useful, Vintner actually try very hard not to use these somewhat alienating words when describing their wines.

More often than not wines can usually be described in a much simpler manner. We’d advise you to get to know the flavours you like, once you know what you like it’s much easier to find what you’re looking for. Get to know the fruity wines, the dry AF wines, the oaky ones, the blow your head off with acidity ones, and the ones that’ll have you drunk after one glass. It’s all part of the fun!

About Vintner

Vintner is a UK-based online wine merchant on a mission to modernise the drinking experience for wine enthusiasts looking for wine pairings without stuffy jargon and rules. Curated by experts with over a decade in the wine industry, Vintner takes an un-snobby approach to wine and is all about chasing that second glass feeling.

Did you know that seafood is one of the best things you can eat for your health? It’s true! Seafood is a fantastic source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients for good health. This article will discuss the many benefits of seafood and why it is such an important part of a healthy diet. We’ll also provide tips on including more seafood in your diet. So read on to learn all about the amazing benefits of seafood!

The Benefits of Consuming Seafood
Great source of protein

Eating seafood is an excellent way to get the essential nutrients your body needs. It is a great source of protein, which helps with muscle growth and repair. If you can get Manettas seafood platter delivery, you know that you are getting fresh seafood.

Rich in Omega-3

Seafood is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to numerous health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health. Additionally, seafood contains high levels of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, selenium, iodine and zinc.

Low in Calories

Seafood is also low in calories compared to other sources of protein. This makes it a great choice for those trying to lose or maintain weight.

Promotes Heart Health

Eating seafood can be beneficial for your heart health. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help reduce inflammation, a major risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, eating seafood can also reduce triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. High levels of triglycerides can increase your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Improves Brain Function

Seafood is also great for your brain! Eating fish has been linked to improved cognitive function and better overall mental health. The omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood are thought to be responsible for these benefits. Additionally, the vitamin D found in fish can help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Protects Against Disease

Eating seafood regularly has also been linked to a lower risk of certain diseases. It is thought that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may help to prevent or reduce the risk of some types of cancer, as well as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Eating fish can also help to protect against age-related eye diseases, such as macular degeneration.

Eases Joint Pain

The omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood have also been linked to reducing joint pain and swelling. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Tips for Including More Seafood In Your Diet

The great thing about eating seafood is that there are so many different kinds to choose from! Here are some tips for making sure you get enough seafood in your diet:

• Eat a variety of seafood. Try incorporating different kinds of seafood into your meals, such as salmon, tuna, mussels, and shrimp. This will help to ensure you get the full range of nutrients found in seafood. Get yours from Manettas seafood platter delivery.

• Buy fresh or frozen fish. Frozen fish is a great option if you can’t find fresh fish. It’s just as nutritious and can be stored for longer periods.

• Choose sustainable seafood. When purchasing seafood, look for the Marine Stewardship Council label. This indicates that the seafood was caught using sustainable fishing practices. Besides buying sustainable fish, you can book any of the Key West fishing charters and go catch it yourself while having fun along the way.

• Experiment with different recipes. There are so many delicious ways to cook seafood. Try different recipes and find ones that you enjoy!

In conclusion, seafood is an incredibly nutritious food with numerous health benefits. It is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids and other essential vitamins and minerals. Eating seafood regularly can help to promote heart health, improve brain function, reduce joint pain, and protect against certain diseases. Make sure to include a variety of seafood in your diet for maximum health benefits!

Ask Icelanders what they are most proud of, and the likely reply is their seafood. This island, at the confluence of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans, boasts the lowest population density in Europe. Its geographic location means the country is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood meaning it is unrivalled as a top seafood foodie destination. We travelled along the lesser-travelled South-west coast to discover the breathtaking scenery and the awe-inspiring cuisine.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Often called “miniature Iceland”, it is the long, slim peninsula that juts out of Iceland facing the North Atlantic Ocean to the west. It has a jaw-dropping landscape with mythical mountains. Games of Throne enthusiasts will recognise many scenes from the series being filmed in this area. Most of the 5000 inhabitants in the area live on the north side of the peninsula in fishing villages that are as old as Iceland’s original settlement.

If you want luxury remoteness, the place to check in is at Hotel Búðir. It is a great place to observe the northern lights in the wintertime. You are mere steps away from the iconic black church. And the restaurant at the hotel is widely regarded as one of the best in Iceland working with producers in the locality. Common dishes you will see not just at this restaurant but in others include arctic char, shellfish soup and cod fillet. Here, they add their personal refined touches, so with the latter, you get langoustine velouté for extra umami-richness and baked hazelnut for textural variety.

The first port of call from the hotel I would recommend is Arnarstapi. An ancient path along the coastline passing through ravines and grottoes makes for a dramatic hiking trail. You will spot a small-scale fishing port along with dozens of birds like the kittiwake and the Arctic tern. Next head to Hellnar which had the largest fishing village beneath the Snaefellsjokull ice cap. The peculiar caves and rock formations are a photographer’s dream. There is also a charming beach cafe, Fjöruhúsið, which serves anything from Pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes) to sea urchin feasts.

For lunch, head to the family-owned, Viðvík Restaurant. It might be at a remote destination, but judging by all the rave reviews online, it’s a trek worth making. Dishes have a very Nordic feel and include outrageously fresh scallops served in a langoustine bisque and a moreish pan-fried cod with a cauliflower trio, dill pesto and kale.

You will know fishing is the lifeblood of the community when you visit The Maritime Museum in the Fishermen´s Park which has fascinating exhibits like the largest fish caught in the community. Nearby you’ll find the hectic harbour of Rif, where you might spot fishing vessels returning to the harbour with their catch of the day.

Bjargarsteinn in Grundarfjörður

This is one of the most incredible restaurants you will come across in the region. Not least the story of how the restaurant was built. It is a quaint old house built in 1908 in Akranes but was transported 140 kilometres to its current location, as the owners saw the potential for it to be a restaurant. The owners wanted a new location with spectacular scenery, and they have with the magnificent coastal ridge in the seaside village of Grundarfjörður. The menu is a collection of lovable hand doodles from the chef and includes rarely seen dishes like smoked puffin and fillet, tongue and cheek of Arctic cod. If you get chatting with their personable staff, they may even let you try the infamous fermented shark along with a shot of “black death”. Upstairs in the cosy living quarters, they have a recording studio for their regular podcasts.

The face of new Nordic cuisine

If you want to understand the latest trends in Icelandic gastronomy then you must meet/follow Viktor Örn Andrésson. With countless accolades like Nordic chef of the year and previously running Blue Lagoon’s LAVA restaurant, he is the forefather of a new wave for the Icelandic culinary scene. He currently runs a catering company but does occasionally offer cookery workshops which I would highly recommend attending. You can learn about the different types of fish in the region, how to fillet a fish and even try the likes of redfish sashimi.

Stykkisholmur

Finally, I recommend heading to this centre of commerce and services for the local area. I say ‘centre’, but have to caveat by saying it is only a town with a population of about 1,100 people. However, the quality of the seafood restaurants there is surprisingly superlative. Sjávarpakkhúsið is a great venue for lunch with tapas-style dishes for sharing. You’ll come across several dishes you won’t ever see in the UK like halibut tartare with chives, apple and horseradish mayo and wolffish with celeriac salad, whey and brown butter.

If, like me, you are a fan of seafood platters then you’ll be in seafood heaven at Narfeyrarstofa. Icelandic scallops, giant whelks, and umami-rich sea urchins are all on offer. You can try salted cod (bacalao) fried in Icelandic butter or even fish and chips in a light tempura batter.

Travelling around this remote part of the island does require time, but if you plan out your itinerary well, it is a culinary adventure well worth embarking on. The standard of seafood is above and beyond what you can find in continental Europe.

https://www.visiticeland.com/

Who doesn’t love to unwrap a gift of food and drink on Christmas Day?

We’ve got everything from hampers and cheese, to whisky and wine. You’ll also find cocktails and tea, macarons and bon bons. Plus, there are a few food and drink surprises to find in the gift guide.

Hampers

Iberica, The Spanish Icons Hamper, £49.95 from Iberica
A luxury hamper filled with chorizo, ham, cheese, olives, quince, bread sticks, and red wine.

Wensleydale Afternoon Tea Hamper, £55 from Wensleydale
One of Yorkshire Dales’ finest hampers filled with a selection of Wensleydale cheeses, fruit cake, strawberry preserve, sticky fruit chutney, oatcakes, tea, and coffee.

Belazu, Luxury Hamper, £90 from Belazu
Contains balsamic vinegar, verdemanda, black olive tapenade, truffle and artichoke pesto, semi-fried tomatoes, Genovese pesto, shawarma paste, extra virgin olive oil with white truffle, rose harissa, saffron, apricot harissa.

Al Dente, Pasta & Sauce Christmas Hamper, £145 from Al Dente

The Al Dente Christmas Hamper should be on the top of everyones wish list this year. This hamper includes Pasta al Pesto Kit x2 (360g Fusilli, Fresh Pesto sauce, parmesan), Pasta al Pomodoro Kit x2 (360g Paccheri, Fresh Tomato and Basil sauce, parmesan), Bottle of Prosecco, and Gourmet Panettone.

Raphia Flavours of Morocco, Christmas Velvet Hamper, £150 from Raphia
An outstanding sweet hamper, which includes True Spirit Box (classics, fruits, chocolates, nuts), Four Treats Box (classics, nuts, truffles), Santa’s Favours (chocolates and bon bons, and Moroccan Loose Leaf Tea.

Food Gifts

Davidstow Cheese, Ingot Trio Box, £20 from Davidstow Cheddar
The box includes three aged waxed cheddars. Firstly, a 20-month Crackler, secondly, an award-winning 40-month Reserve and thirdly, a 60-month Special Reserve vintage.

Crosta & Mollica, Chocolate Panettone, £8.50 from Ocado
An indulgent sweet cake studded with rich chocolate pieces.

Lakrids by Bülow, Slow Crafted Selection Box, £24 from Lakrids by Bülow
An organic, gourmet selection of chocolate coated liquorice including caramel date, mango and vanilla, dark truffle, and a limited edition flavour.

Oh La La! Macarons, Christmas Macarons, £42.50 (box of 6) from Oh La La Macarons
Box of 6 includes Christmas Tree (spiced apple), Gingerbread People (gingerbread), Snowman (Madagascan vanilla), Holly (caramel pecan), Snow Globe (peppermint), and Wreath (chocolate orange).

SOKO Patisserie, Christmas Artisan Bon Bons, £16 (box of 12) from SOKO Patisserie
Featuring 6 contemporary flavours (2 of each), Black Forest Gateau, Mince Pie, Mandarin Caramel, Almond & Hazelnut Praline, Chestnut & Meringue, and Spiced Caramel.

Guylian Original Seashells, and Temptations Snowman, priced from £1.20 to £10 at Morrisons and Lidl
Original Seashells available in different sized boxes. Temptations Snowman box filled with six shells including, Original Praline, Milk Truffle, Caramel, Biscuit, Dark Praline, and Coffee. 

Drinks

Aberfeldy, Gold Bar Signature 12-year old Whisky, £37.90 from Master of Malt
Enhanced by a whisper of smoke, cutting through the flavour of spiced and honeyed plump fruits, creamy vanilla and fudge. The bottle is presented in a gold bar box.

Mozart, Chocolate Coffee Liqueur, £18 from The Whisky Exchange  
The perfect chocolate liqueur, a balance of the finest cocoa beans, Belgian chocolate and fruity aroma in combination with Arabica coffee notes.

Saicho, Mini Selection Tea Gift, £14.99 (3 mini bottles) from Saicho
Non-alcoholic single origin sparkling tea to serve chilled in a Champagne glass. Includes Darjeeling, Hojicha, and Jasmine.

Elusive Expressions, Special Release Singleton Scotch Whisky, £119.49 from Malts
This 15 year old special release is rare and exceptional. The aroma is of tart red berry, spicy and woody notes and creamy vanilla. On the palate it gives an intense, barley-sugar sweet and salty flavour, with grape and gooseberry notes. The after taste is slightly peppery with a trace of fondant.

MOTH Drinks, Cocktails & Socks, £25 Exclusively from John Lewis
Two cocktails from MOTH and a pair of gorgeous socks in this gift box. Choose from Espresso Martini and Margarita, or Old Fashioned and Negroni.

L.A Brewery, Sparkling English Blush, £9.89 from Planet Organic
This non-alcoholic Sparkling Blush combines seasonal flowers, infused with rhubarb, peach, elderflower, and hops. It is delicate, fruity & refreshing.

Bone Idyll, Espresso Martini, £30 from Bone Idyll
Give the gift of Espresso Martini, already made to perfection by Bone Idyll, simply chill and enjoy.

La Gioiosa, Prosecco Superiore Valdobbiadene DOCG, £13.49 from Waitrose
Prosecco from a single vintage, which is very expressive with lovely fruit and typicity. Perfect with appetisers, also fish and meat dishes.

The GlenDronach, Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, £74.95 from The Whisky Exchange
The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 11 Single Malt is a deeply complex and robust Highland Spirit. It offers spiced bramble wine notes alongside treacle toffee and Seville orange peel flavours that sit with nutmeg, caramel and cherry.

Chimney Fire Coffee, 12-Days of Discovery Gift Box, £45 from Chimney Fire Coffee
This wonderful box contains 12 x 70g bags of coffee either whole bean, coarse, medium or fine coffee. An excellent gift for a coffee lover!

Food & Drink Related Gifts

Peugeot Saveurs, Emotion Graphite Paris u’Select Salt & Pepper Mill Set, £79.99 from Peugeot Saveurs
This salt and pepper mill set comes complete with Tan Hoi pepper. A stunning wooden grain, giving depth and texture to the set that gives a metallic reflection.

Hydration Movement, Drinks Bottle Starter Collection Bundle, £31 from Hydration Movement
A stunning black or white bottle with timed markers designed against disposal. It helps with reminders of when to drink and when to top up the bottle. The bundle includes one bottle, 2 ice cube trays, and 1 cleaning brush.

Powderhound, Alphabet Ski Mug, £17 from Powderhound
Miniature skiers spell out a chosen initial on both the front and the back of the mug. A great novelty gift for ski lovers!

Prezzee eGift Coffee Smart Card, £5 – £500, from Prezzee
An ideal gift for coffee shop fans as each egift coffee smart card can be changed to your favourite café, including Costa, Starbucks UK, and Caffe Nero.

Although ramen is originally from the East, Americans love it as much as the Japanese, Chinese, and Korean. But as an American, you may have some qualms about getting the best and enjoying it without going against the dining etiquette. The thought of the piping hot broth burning your mouth sounds daunting. Moreover, you may struggle to keep the slippery noodles from falling off your chopsticks. While there are no shortcuts to eating ramen, you can master the art of slurping with some helpful insights. Let us share some tips to enjoy the best ramen as an American.

Forget your manners

Ramen consumption sounds tricky for people accustomed to fine-dining mannerisms. The best piece of advice you can follow is to forget your fine-dining manners and focus on enjoying your bowl. You need not worry about making some noise as you slurp and gorge because everyone else will be doing the same. Slurping is more about cooling down the noodles and broth instead of just voicing the pleasure you feel. So go ahead without stressing about the sound!

Find the best place to dine

This one is a no-brainer, but most Americans struggle with it. You cannot expect to master the original recipe with a DIY job, no matter how great your culinary skills are. Fortunately, you can find plenty of options that replicate the original taste and feel of the dish. If you are in NYC, you can rely on GoldyBoy Ramen ratings to find the best places that serve the iconic dish. Finding the best ramen is the key to enjoying them, regardless of your location.

Explore and experiment

Most Americans know ramen as a cloudy, pork-rich broth, but the ingredient is more versatile than you imagine. But you need not confine yourself to only the original recipe. For example, you can try clear soup instead of cloudy broth. Chicken makes a good alternative to broth, while Vegans can try vegetarian options. Be ready to explore and experiment to have the best dining experience with ramen.

Eat immediately

Another fun fact Americans must know to enjoy their ramen is to eat immediately. You do not have the option to mess around with your phone or click the perfect shot for your Instagram feed. Moreover, skip the idea of waiting for others to be served as most Americans do. Waiting too long means you will have to settle for soggy noodles and lukewarm broth. You cannot expect them to taste great.

Appreciate the taste

The most important piece of advice is to appreciate the taste of ramen because it can be complex for a typical American palate. Start by sipping the soup, pulling the noodles high to cool them a little, and dipping them in the broth again. You must follow the right technique to relish the flavor and texture of ramen. It may sound tricky to a beginner, but a little practice can get you on the right track.

Nothing gets better than a bowl of piping hot and delicious ramen when you are hungry. You may even enjoy it when you want a little snack between meals. Follow these tips to make the most of your next ramen dining experience.

You’ve heard us talking about how much we love christmas here at House of Coco magazine and we love exploring London to find the most jaw dropping decor over the festive period.

Sexy Fish London, the Berkeley Square hotspot, has joined the runnings as they celebrate the launch of its latest campaign, ‘A Christmas Coral Forest’, with an eye-catching installation, a ‘Fishmas’ dessert platter and limited-edition festive cocktails created in partnership with The House of Suntory.The restaurant will also come alive with live DJ entertainment every night throughout November and December, whilst guests will be able to enjoy a dynamic New Year’s Eve party to see in 2023.

From Friday, 19 November until Monday, 2 January, diners will be transported into a glittering under-the-sea inspired wonderland at Sexy Fish London, with a pearlescent mermaid sea creature and a forest of dazzling blue, apricot, and salmon coloured coral echoing the restaurant’s façade.

This festive season guests can enjoy a selection of limited-edition cocktails in partnership with The House of Suntory, available from early November. Highlights include the Gingerbread Bee (£15.00) made with Roku Gin, ginger, honey, yuzu, yellow chartreuse and plum paint, the Christmas Time (£14.00) made from Toki Whisky, sweet vermouth, biscuit, lemon, Saliza Amaretto, chocolate and miraculous foamer, the Sorrel Punch (£17.00) made from Haku Vodka, spiced sorrel punch, Cointreau and miraculous foamer, a Star Highball (£19.00) made from Hibiki Harmony Whisky, nashi pear and starfruit cordial, apple, dry vermouth, pineapple, anise, and soda alongside its Redcurrant Robin (£16.00) with Roku Gin, redcurrant cordial, mint and soda, the perfect concoction to toast to the festivities.

Those with a sweet tooth can order the ‘Fishmas’ Dessert Platter which features a Christmas Tree made from white chocolate and wasabi cream, with a raspberry compote centre, sprayed and decorated with stars and pears to resemble a Christmas tree along with a Reindeer made of a gluten free chocolate sponge with coffee and milk chocolate whipped ganache with roasted macadamias and a salted caramel centre. Another sweet treat included is the Christmas Bauble, made from a white chocolate shell filled with strawberry and holden lime gel, macerated strawberries, topped with vanilla cheesecake and finished with milk crumbs, strawberry crisps, snowman pavlova, sugar snowflakes and crystallised ginger. The bauble is covered with a semi-transparent sugar glass and finished with golden chocolate sea create on top, it is the ultimate taste of Christmas indulgence.

Guests will also be able to enjoy Sexy Fish classics including signature dishes such as Tuna Belly, Kombu Cured & Smoked (£26.10), Caramelised Black Cod, Spicy Miso (£48.60) and House Smoked Ora King Salmon, Ginger, and Sesame (£34.80).

For those looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the utmost style, the restaurant will be playing host to one of its famed parties on Saturday, 31 December. From 9pm until late into the night, guests will be transported to a world of revelry at its Atlantis themed party. The evening will be complete with an energetic headline DJ, live saxophonist, percussionists, a midnight countdown, all alongside tantalising dishes and cocktails.

To book a table for New Year’s Eve, please call +44 (0)20 3764 2000. Ticket price is £380, cash value that you can spend on ALC, premium tasting menu and drinks for guests seated at 8:30pm onwards & £50 per person for a bar standing ticket.