Cloudberry Jam - without sugar

Cloudberries (D:multebær S:hjortron N:multe/molte) are very popular in the Nordic countries, not so much in Denmark however. Back in Australia I used to buy Swedish cloudberry jam at a Nordic store (NO, NOT IKEA). Cloudberries have a lovely tartness, and as such make a great alternative to marmalade. While citric acid is optional, it means that your jam will last longer, so I recommend using it.



Cloudberry Jam - without sugar
makes approx 200ml

250g cloudberries, fresh or frozen
1 tbsp agar flakes
50ml/2 1/2 tbsp xylitol
100ml water
1 t citric acid (optional)
1/2 tbsp rosewater essence (optional)

In a small pot,
lightly mash up berries.
Add water, xylitol, agar flakes.
Stir very well.
Heat very gently over med-low, stirring often,
15- 20 mins or until a runny jam consistency.
Turn off heat.
Add rosewater essence & citric acid.
Stir well.
Spoon into sterilised jar/s.
Refrigerate without lid/s until cool & set like jelly.
Put lid/s on.
Keep refrigerated.
Keeps for at least 6 weeks.

Warm Romanesco & Lentil Salad

I was hoping to be able to get a better picture in natural light, but I've had no such luck :(

My aim was to create a side dish that shows off the Romanesco. It seems a shame to hide such an amazing vegetable in something like a gratin.



Warm Romanesco & Lentil Salad
serves 3-4 as a side

800ml+ water
150g dried puy lentils (or other green or brown lentils)
400g romanesco
2 eschallots/shallots, diced
3 L cloves garlic, crushed
60ml/3 tbsp red wine vinegar
4 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
1 1/2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Boil lentils in water, 15-20 mins or until tender.
Make sure lentils are always covered by water.
Drain. Set aside.
Meanwhile,
Steam romanesco 10-15 mins.
Gently break into florets (xmas trees!).
Set aside.
In a pan with a little oil,
Cook eschallot/shallot, garlic until soft.
Add tomatoes, rosemary. Stir.
Cook about 3 mins.
Add lentils. Stir.
Cook about 3 mins.
Add vinegar. Stir.
Check for seasoning.
Add romanesco.
Very gently stir as to not break up florets.
Cook med heat 5-10 mins or until heated through.
Serve while hot.

Apologies.

Please accept my apologies for having not posted for some time. I have so many things waiting to be posted, but it's that time of year where there is never enough natural light to take a decent enough photo :'(