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Recipes, Special Occasions

8 Delicious Recipes for a Home-cooked Mother’s Day

Posted on by tott
27
Apr

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8 Delicious Recipes for a Home-cooked Mother’s Day

Attention everyone! Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and we have some tasty recipes to share with you for this special occasion. Surprise her with a leisurely breakfast in bed or a family brunch around the table, you’ll delight her with these homemade sweet and savoury dishes we have put together for you that are low on stress yet bursting with fresh ingredients and flavours! It’s time to show Mom just how much she means to you this Mother’s Day!

Breakfasts fit for a Queen

1. Shakshuka

For breakfast with a twist and some spice, try your hand at Shakshuka, a dish of eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin. Watch Victoria Cheng show you how in this video!:

Recommended cookware: de Buyer MINERAL Frying Pan

2. Mini Pancakes

This one is great to do with the kids! Prepare the batter in advance and have fun doodling pancake art with the kids in the morning before Mom wakes up! Serve the warm pancakes with different sauces and condiments – keep it simple with chocolate/maple syrup, butter or for the adventurous, why not make your own fruit jam from scratch! Food blogger Catherine Ling (Camemberu) shows you the basics of making these mini pancakes here:

Recommended cookware: Nordic Ware Traditional French Steel Crepe Pan

Lunch packed with a punch

1. Smoked Salmon Tart

Thinking of heading out for a family picnic as part of your Mother’s Day celebration? This hearty Smoked Salmon Tart is not only portable for picnics – any leftovers would be great for weekday lunch boxes too! The sour cream pastry adds a twist to regular shortcrust pastry and goes perfectly well with the smoked salmon encased in the tart! Serve this with a side salad and you’ll have one hearty lunch that Mom will love! What side salad, you say? Read on for our next recipe! Get the recipe here!

Recommended bakeware: Nordic Ware Pro Form Quiche/Tart Pan

2. Poached Pears with Parma Ham, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese & Rocket Leaves

Now this is one salad that might steal the show. A great starter or side dish to complement your lunch, this dish is a lovely medley of flavours! The poached pears bring a subtle refreshing flavour when paired with the salty parma ham, and the rocket leaves brings all the components of the dish together perfectly. Get the recipe here!

Recommended tool: Microplane Artisan Series Ribbon Grater

All-star Dinners

1. Stuffed SousVide Boneless Chicken Leg

Try this Stuffed SousVide Boneless Chicken Leg for a unique and luxurious main dish to impress Mom! Stuffed with foie gras and caramelized apples, it is a great combination with the tender chicken. The bacon cuts through the sweetness of the caramelised apples, adding an extra layer of flavour and complexity to the dish! Save prep time by marinating the chicken leg overnight – use a vacuum pack machine to seal the chicken leg to lock all the flavours in! Get the recipe here!

Recommended equipment: SousVide Supreme, Lacor HOME Vacuum Pack Machine

2. Roast Stuffed Lamb Shoulder – Mediterranean style

Now this dish is a real showstopper – roasted lamb shoulder rubbed with pesto and stuffed with olives, tomatoes and cheese, served with ratatouille and a side of potatoes! A delicious blend of flavours from the Mediterranean, this is one dish Mom would definitely remember for years to come! Watch this video for the recipe and preparation method:

Recommended cookware: Nordic Ware Oven Essentials Roaster

Stunning Desserts

1. Rice Pudding with Raspberry Jelly

An elegant dessert that will surely please all at the dining table! Use glass jars to showcase the lovely layers of rice pudding and jelly. To really take things up a notch, decorate with a dollop of Chantilly and fresh raspberries – the perfect light and sweet ending to your home-cooked Mother’s Day meal!
Get the recipe here!

Recommended kitchenware: Le Parfait Familia Wiss Terrines Preserve Jar

2. Upside-Down Butter and Caramelised Apple Cake

Usually baked with chopped fruits sitting at the bottom of the pan, the upside-down cake is then turned over so that they form a decorative topping once the cake is inverted! Instead of going for regular apple pie, try this Upside-Down butter and Caramelised Apple Cake for a twist! Get the recipe here!

Recommended equipment: KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

We hope these recipes have inspired you for your Mother’s Day celebrations! If you’d like to cook with Mom instead for a change, be sure to check out our range of Mother’s Day cooking classes that we have prepared for this special occasion!

Mother’s Day classes can be found here!

Recipes, Special Occasions

Post-CNY Eating: 8 recipes to help you start on a clean plate!

Posted on by tott
25
Feb

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Post-CNY Eating: 8 recipes to help you start on a clean plate!

Binged on one too many pineapple tarts over the holidays and starting to feel it? Now that the Lunar New Year is officially over, here are some tasty and handy recipes that are easy to follow to help you kick start (or better, resume!) that clean eating resolution that you made at the start of the year.  It’s time to get cooking!

Breakfast of Champions

1. Overnight Oats

Let your breakfast do its job while you sleep! These will be ready in the morning – perfect to grab and go for weekdays! Feel free to experiment and find your favourite combination! Add healthy toppings such as raw nuts and fresh fruits. These oats will keep you going till lunch time! Here’s a quick guide to the base of your overnight oats:

INGREDIENTS (Serves 1)
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup unsweetened almond milk, skim milk or Greek yoghurt
1 tbsp chia seeds (these are packed with protein!)
1 tbsp ground flax seeds (optional)
1 tbsp honey (optional)
RECOMMENDED TOPPINGS
Fresh fruit of your choice (blueberries, bananas and strawberries are great)
Almonds or walnuts

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix all the ingredients together and stir lightly. Cover and store overnight
2. Add your toppings and enjoy!

2. Green Smoothies

Not used to having breakfasts? Try having a power-packed green smoothie instead. Sneak in green leafy vegetables with fresh fruits! Again, you can experiment with different vegetables and fruits to find your favourite combination. These are quick, packed with nutrients and so delicious! Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

LIQUID OF YOUR CHOICE (1.5 cups): Almond milk/coconut water/skim milk/regular milk/water
CHOOSE YOUR GREENS (1 big handful!): Spinach/Kale
PICK YOUR FRUIT (1-2 cups): Bananas/apple/berries/mangos/pineapples
PACK IT WITH SUPERFOODS: Chia seeds/flax seeds/nut butter/protein powder

Blend until smooth and your breakfast-to-go is ready! Use frozen fruits for a thicker smoothie, and add some chopped dates or a little honey for some added sweetness!

Lunch Time Warriors

Tired of the mid-day slump after having a heavy lunch? Avoid  carb-heavy foods that will leave you feeling sluggish and sleepy after your meal.

1. Grilled Salmon with Mint and Mirin Butter Sauce

Baked, seared, grilled or broiled, salmon is known to be heart-healthy. It is chockfull of Omega 3 fatty acids which is associated with better heart health and healthy skin. The protein found in salmon also helps the body maintain metabolism levels to promote weight loss – score! Simply grill some salmon and toss with your favourite greens for a nutritious, fuss-free meal. Try this Grilled Cajun Salmon and Vegetables for that little spicy kick and plenty of flavour!

2. Brown Rice Salad with Grilled Prawns

Brown rice is not only rich in anti-oxidants and promotes weight loss, but its high fibre content also aids in digestion! If you’re carb-lover like us, then this Brown Rice Salad with Grilled Prawns would make for a nutritious and filling lunch! This salad can be served hot or cold – perfect for packed lunches at work! Substitute the grilled prawns for chicken breast for an even leaner and protein-packed meal.

Mid-day Munchies

1. Healthy Yogurt Bark

Ditch those candy bars and substitute them with this scrumptious, addictive healthy yogurt bark! Feel free to play around with the toppings and flavours – throw in some chopped pistachios or shredded coconut for that extra crunch and texture!

2. No-Bake Energy Balls

Don’t reach out for that bag of chips during that afternoon slump! For that mid-day energy boost, try these No Bake Oatmeal Energy Balls. They taste just like (or even better!) than a yummy no-bake cookie and more importantly, they keep you going till dinner time!

INGREDIENTS (Makes ~20 energy balls)
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup nut butter (almond/peanut etc.)
1/3 cup honey/agave syrup
¼ cup ground flaxseed/chia seeds

RECOMMENDED ADD-INS
Raisins
Chopped dried fruits (cranberries/cherries/shredded coconut etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix all the ingredients together evenly.
2. Roll out teaspoon-sized balls (or any size you desire) and place on baking sheet
3. Place in freezer for 30 minutes until set, store in a ziplock bag or air-tight container

Guilt-Free Dinners

1. One Pot Pasta

We all know the feeling of coming home after a long day of work, wishing there would be comfort food for dinner. But more often than not, we end up buying food from outside for convenience’s sake – the dishes aren’t going to do themselves after all. Try this quick and easy one pot pasta that comes together in less than 30 minutes! Substitute the linguine for whole wheat pasta or even brown rice for a healthier, filling dinner and throw in some lean chicken meat or ground turkey instead of sausages. Pack up the leftovers and you’ll have your lunch for the next day!

2. Yellow Earth Roast Chicken

This Yellow Earth Roast Chicken is a fantastic idea for a Sunday family dinner with a spicy kick. Feel free to add more vegetables to your liking. The vegetables soak up the juices of the chicken and are good to have even on its own!

Buying Guides, Special Occasions

5 Awesome Ideas for your CNY Reunion Dinner!

Posted on by tott
25
Jan

< Back to Guides and Tips

5 Awesome Ideas for your CNY Reunion Dinner!

Swing into the year of the Monkey with a full (and happy!) stomach! If you are planning a homecooked dinner for the annual reunion dinner, here are five fun, easy and tasty ideas you can add to the table. There are great not only for reunion dinners; they would also work just as fine for CNY lunch and dinner gatherings. Enjoy!

1. Cheese Fondue Pot

We all love the myriad of ingredients at the steamboat table. From prawns to fish balls and dumplings and vegetables, there’s always something for everyone. Try having a mini fondue pot at the side where everyone can dip a little something in cheese! Or, if you’re up for it, it can even replace the steamboat. There’s no such thing as too much cheese, right? If you’re worried about not having enough dipping forks, you can also use bamboo skewers.

Want a more local taste instead? Try using Satay or Chili Crab sauce – the possibilities are endless! This would work great for any leftover ingredients as well. Ingredients can be as b asic of as fancy as you desire!

Recommended product: Boska Tapas Cheese Fondue Set (400g)

2. Make Homemade Meatballs and prepare your own Shabu Shabu Steamboat!

Steamboats are a quintessential Chinese reunion dinner where everyone gathers around the dinner table, sharing food cookied in a communal pot and having a table overflowing with different ingredients. Having a steamboat dinner is great; having two soup bases is even better, but a Shabu Shabu Steamboat with two soup bases takes it to a whole new delicious level!

Skip the store-bought meatballs for your very own homemade ones! Do you know water chestnuts add a nice crunch and texture to the meatballs? They are a cinch to prepare and also make for perfect dippers for a cheesy fondue pot! Learn to prepare these scrumptious meatballs and your own shabu shabu hot pot and you’ll be in business!

Recommended products: Portable Steamboat Bundle, Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor

3. Get veggie-happy with a DIY Yu Sheng!

A must-have during CNY, Yu Sheng/Yee Sang is a Chinese-style raw fish salad that typically consists of strips of raw fish, mixed with shredded vegetables and a variety of sauces and condiments. The auspicious tossing of Yu Sheng, commonly referred to as ‘Lo Hei’, is a common tradition during CNY, symbolising abundance and prosperity.

Try a sweet and tangy version this year with this Chinese-Thai Style Fruit Yu Sheng! It can even serve as a colourful dessert after your reunion dinner.

Making your own traditional Yu Sheng means that you will be able to control what exaactly goes into it – cut the calories by using lesser plum sauce and crispy crackers! Check this recipe out for a healthier homemade version by the Health Promotion Board!

Recommended products: Zyliss Smart Touch™ Salad Spinner, Benriner Vegetable Turning Slicer

4. Wrap away with a Popiah Station!

Just like coffee, everyone likes their popiah made differently. Set up a popiah station as an appetiser before the reunion dinner and enjoy rolling them as a family! It can even be served the next day as the ingredients refrigerate well. Add as much or as little toppings as you like and make your very own signature popiah! Here is a great recipe to get you started:

Recommended products: Benriner Plastic Vegetable Slicer, Jamie Oliver All-Purpose 3-in-1 Peeler with Blade Storage Kit

5. Bake CNY goodies as a family!

Chinese New Year is all about bonding with friends and family, and not forgetting enjoying all the delicious food and snacks available only during this festive period! Learn to bake pineapple tarts, a festive favourite and bake them as a family after the reunion dinner. Some like more pineapple filling and less pastry, some prefer open-faced tarts – make the pineapple filling and dough beforehand and keep it in the refrigerator. That way they’ll be ready to go after dinner.

Feel like learning more CNY Cookies from a chef? Join our CNY Cookies Galore class with Chef Mimi Wahadi, or join Chef Darryl Lim and make your very own Kueh Lapis in the ever-popular Famous Layers: Kueh Lapis class!

Buying Guides, Special Occasions

Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen this CNY

Posted on by tott
28
Dec

< Back to Guides and Tips

Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen this CNY

With Chinese New Year just around the corner once again, we’ve come up with a handy guide to spring cleaning your kitchen! Delve into our tips and tricks to ditch the dirt, leaving your kitchen spick and span, just in time to start the Chinese New Year festivities!

Spring Cleaning Tip #1: Get ready!
Don’t create any unnecessary stress for yourself! Here are some tips you can use to make your spring cleaning a tad more enjoyable:

• Put on some good tunes
• Do dishes, dry and put away
• Remove any non-kitchen clutter
• Set up large box or bag for items to trash
• Set up large box or bag for items to donate

Spring Cleaning Tip #2: Grab all of your cleaning supplies together!
Never underestimate the value of preparation! Having all your supplies within reach will help you to clean up your kitchen faster and more efficiently once you get started. Here’s what we like to always have on hand when the holidays are around the corner; these will come in handy when the festivities are in full swing and you don’t have time to run to the supermarket! Here are some supplies that we think will come in handy:

Cleaning Supplies: Town Talk Washing Up Liquid, If You Care Sponge Cloths & Food Waste Compostable Trash Bags

Don’t forget your arsenal of basic pantry needs too! We like the Salt & Pepper Mills from Cole & Mason for its style and functionality. Grab these from our online store if you’re feeling lazy – enjoy free shipping for orders above $150!

Spring Cleaning Tip #3: Give your pots and pans a good scrub-down
Scrub cast iron cookware with a soft sponge and coarse salt, then rinse away the salt. For stubborn stains, try removing them with a cloth and white vinegar. Tip: Never soak stainless steel cookware as their surfaces might become pitted!
Looking to refresh your cookware for the coming year? Here are some useful guides to get you started:

Tips and Tricks to Buying Cookware
Quick & Easy Guide to Buying Aluminium Cookware
Taking Care of Your Carbon Steel Cookware

Spring Cleaning Tip #4: Have your knives professionally sharpened
A set of good knives is the start of a great dish. Not only will sharp knives make your prep work easier, but they’ll make it safer as well! Invest in a durable knife sharpener and your knives will be with you for years to come. We like the Jamie Oliver Knife Block with 5 Knives that includes a carving knife, utility knife, paring knife and more!

Spring Cleaning Tip #5: Put everything in its place
A brand new year calls for new resolutions. Made a promise to yourself to clean up your diet for 2016? Stocking your kitchen with healthier choices is the first step to healthy eating. To ensure your healthy eating habits stick around and to encourage clean eating, it’s important to put some thought into the way you store your foods. From the pantry all the way to your fridge, place nutritious foods at eye level, front and centre, and put the sinful stuff at the back. You might be less tempted to snack! Remember to arrange your storage areas in a manner that encourages you to reach for them will be a kick-start to a healthy new year!

Spring Cleaning Tip #6: Clean your cutting boards
No kitchen can do without a reliable cutting board. Many people usually have a particular preference, such as wood or plastic. Whichever you prefer, always take steps to ensure that your cutting board lasts a long time and is safe from any food-borne bacteria. Whenever your cutting board is dirty, clean both sides with a damp cloth and a mild antibacterial soap. Rinse it with hot water, and wipe it clean with a clean cloth. Finally, let it try in an upright position.
Wooden cutting boards require more attention – give it a generous sprinkling of coarse salt once every few weeks, and rub it with a slice of lemon. Finish by rinsing well with hot water, then wipe it with a clean cloth.

Here’s a handy guide if you are looking at purchasing a new cutting board!

We hope you find these tips helpful in cleaning up your kitchen!

Buying Guides, Recipes, Special Occasions

12 Showstopping Christmas Goodies!

Posted on by tott
26
Nov

< Back to Guides and Tips

12 Showstopping Christmas Goodies!

On the first day of Christmas, ToTT gave to me… 12 amazing Christmas recipes!

You sang that in your head didn’t you? Inspired by the classic carol, ToTT brings you a showstopper for all 12 days of the festive season. Make all of them if you’re up for a challenge. Let’s get started!

Day 1: Vanilla Sugar Cookies

Christmas is the perfect excuse to flex your baking muscles even if you’re a little rusty. Kick off the 12 days with these simple and homely Vanilla Sugar Cookies by McCormick. Gift them in individual bags or keep them to yourself! They’re delicious either way, especially when dipped in a glass of cold milk.

Recommended tools:
Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Holiday Cast Cookie Stamps

Day 2: Mini Chocolate Cupcakes with Marshmallow Frosting

Topped with a light and fluffy vanilla marshmallow frosting and dusted with cocoa, your Mini Chocolate Cupcakes will look like little snowcapped peaks!

Recommended tools:
Cake Deco Set with 6 Tubes, Coupler & Pastry Bag

Day 3: Champurrado (Mexican Hot Chocolate)

Take a break from the baking today and whisk yourself a toasty mug Champurrado, or Mexican Hot Chocolate. We love this version for its subtle spice and richness.

Recommended tools:
CHOC INDUCTION Cast Aluminium Non-Stick Saucepan with Spout

Day 4: Mocha Roulade

What’s Christmas without log cake? We love Chef Jehanne Ali’s Mocha Roulade and reckon it’d make a wonderfully light base for any log cake. Get your chocolate and caffeine fix here.

Recommended tools:
Magisso Balloon Whisk

Day 5: Almond Tartlettes

It’s time to bust out the fancy desserts. These nutty, rich and crunchy tartlettes are perfect for any dessert table – learn the basic tartlette shell and be as creative as you want with the flavours. We like a spiced pear or brandied cherry topping for this season.

Recommended tools:
Ibili MINI Non-Stick Fruit Tart Mould with Removable Base

Day 6: Gingerbread Cookies

Great for DIY projects with the kids, gingerbread men are a Christmas staple all over the world. Most importantly, they only take 30 mins from start to finish! Make your own with this recipe and decorate them to your heart’s desire.

Recommended Tools:
Nordic Ware Winter & Holiday Cookie Cutter Plaque

Day 7: Roast Pork Loin with Apple Chutney

Give your sweet tooth a rest with this savoury stunner and sink your teeth into tender stuffed pork loin with a spiced apple chutney. This dish is sure to impress! Check out Chef Eric Low’s recipe here.

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Terracotta Baking Dish

Day 8: Classic Waffles

If you’re feeling burnt out by now, fret not. Get a pre-made waffle mix from the supermarket and simply add a dollop of good ‘ol vanilla ice-cream. If you’re feeling up to it, you can even try our recipe for classic waffles. Even better, make your own ice cream or gelato to go along with your warm waffles, we promise they’re worth the effort!

Recommended tools:
Cuisinart Traditional Waffle Maker
Cuisinart Ice Cream And Gelato Maker

Day 9: Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with Port Jelly

By now, your Christmas parties should be in full swing. Serve up this gorgeous Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with Port Jelly at dinner and let the compliments roll in. You deserve it!

Recommended Tools:
Nordic Ware Pro Form Quiche/Tart Pan

Day 10: Cioccolata Calda

Yes, another hot chocolate! This Italian take is unrivalled in its decadence and richness, and is certainly not for the fainthearted. Warning: only attempt if you’re a true chocolate lover.

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Colour-Dipped Mugs with Spoons, Set of 4

Day 11: Chocolate Mocha Bundt Cake

The sight of this cake could make us cry tears of joy. The best thing about it? This black beauty is so easy to make! Top the finished cake with a melted chocolate drizzle and fresh strawberries, then stand back and watch your guests salivate.

Recommended tools:
Nordic Ware PLATINUM Heritage Bundt Pan
Magisso Cake Server

Day 12: Roasted Herbed Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Thyme

Celebrate the season of giving with this final masterpiece. Christmas is meant to be spent with family, and this dish is perfect for a shared evening with your loved ones.

Recommended tools:
Zyliss Baster/Flavour Injector Combo

We hope you’ve enjoyed our 12 Days of Showstopping Christmas Goodies! If you liked these recipes, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for great tips and guides all year round. Merry Christmas!

Buying Guides, Recipes, Special Occasions

5 Fun Ways to Spice Up Christmas!

Posted on by tott
20
Nov

< Back to Guides and Tips

5 Fun Ways to Spice Up Christmas!

If you’re looking to spice things up in the kitchen this Christmas, you’ve come to the right place. We have put together a go-to guide on how to turn everyday ingredients, spices and herbs into different festive goodies! Here’s how to experience a delicious holiday season.

Read on to find out more. Happy Holidays!

1. Festive Spice Rub
A great spice rub for pork, chicken or salmon! Simply blend 4 parts sea salt with 2 parts of dried cracked rosemary until the mixture is fairly ground. Add 2 parts minced garlic and 1 part coarse ground black pepper until the spice rub is well-blended and you’re done!
Use a pestle and mortar if you can to allow the herbs to fully release and bring out its aroma and flavour! If you don’t have dried cracked rosemary, simply put dried rosemary into a disposable bag and pound it with a rolling pin until the dried rosemary breaks apart!

Recommended tools:
Cole & Mason Ceramic Pestle & Mortar
Cole & Mason INVERTA Flip Back Acrylic Pepper And Salt Mill

2. Spice Mixes for Baking
Prepare a batch of aromatic spice mix for baking cookies and pies, or store them in little glass containers as Christmas gifts for friends and family.

All you need is cinnamon (1 tbsp), nutmeg (1 tsp), ground ginger (1/2 tsp), allspice (1/4 tsp) and cloves (1/4 tsp). Simply grind these whole spices in  a spice grinder, give it a little shake-up with a whisk and you’re all set.

Try adding a dash of it into your apple pie filling before baking – the aroma alone adds an instant festive touch to your Christmas dessert table!

Recommended products:
Cuisinart Spice and Nut Grinder
Magisso Balloon Whisk
Jamie Oliver Pop-Top Spice Jars, Set of 5

3. Sugar? Yes, please!
Flavoured sugar is all the rage now – they are great as Christmas gifts, and add an instant burst of flavour to your culinary creations. Here’s two to get you started:

Lemon & Mint Sugar
What you need: Rind of 1 lemon, handful of fresh mint leaves, ¼ cup granulated sugar
Steps:
1. Microwave the lemon rind and mint leaves separately until completely dry (make sure not to burn it!)
2. Finely chop the lemon rind and mint leaves
3. Add sugar and process till very finely ground

Basil & Lime Sugar
What you need: Rind of 1 lime, handful of basil leaves, ¼ cup granulated sugar
Steps:
1. Microwave the lime rind and basil leaves until completely dry (make sure not to burn it!)
2. Finely chop the lime rind and basil leaves
2. Add sugar and process till very finely ground

Feel free to mix and match your favourite herb and fruit – strawberry and basil, peach and mint… the possibilities are endless!

Recommended tools:
Zyliss Fast Cut Herb Tool
Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor

4. Fancy Flavours – DIY Herb-infused Olive Oil
Herb-infused olive oil is a perfect way to jazz up a salad, drizzle over a plate of pasta, or as an appetizer served with slices of artisan bread! Instead of using store-bought herb-infused olive oil, try making it yourself! It’s simple and best of all – there are no added preservatives or additives! Here are some of our favourite flavour combinations:

Garlic & Chilli Olive Oil
What you need: 3 roasted whole garlic, red chilli flakes (4 tsp), 2 cups olive oil
Steps:
1. Combine roasted garlic cloves, red chilli flakes and oil in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer
2. Allow to cool. Place garlic cloves into bottle and add remaining oil
3. Seal and refrigerate up to 1 month

Rosemary Olive Oil
What you need: 2 cups olive oil, 6-8 sprigs fresh rosemary sprigs
Steps:
1. Combine oil and rosemary in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer.
2. Allow to cool. Place rosemary sprigs into bottle and add remaining oil
3. Seal and refrigerate up to 1 month

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Serving Board and Bowl
Jamie Oliver Big Drizzler

5. Christmas Snowballs! 
A perfectly creamy chocolate truffle is your answer when it comes to satisfying that sweet tooth this festive season. Add a few cracks of black pepper to spice things up – you’d be surprised that the combination works really well! Here’s a handy dandy recipe:

What you need: 150g chopped good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), 150ml heavy cream, 25g unsalted butter, cracked black pepper, toppings of your choice
Steps:
1. Heat the cream and butter on low heat till fully melted. Remove from heat and pour over chopped chocolate. Leave it untouched for 5 minutes
2. Stir until smooth. Add a few cracks of black pepper – taste and adjust to your liking!
3. To shape your truffles, use a melon baller or a mini-scoop and scoop the mixture. Shape it with your hands and place onto silicone baking mat or greaseproof paper to prevent sticking.
4. Coat with powdered sugar, nuts or any toppings you desire!

The best thing about these truffles is that you can customize and personalize them however you like! We love the combination of chopped pistachios and dried cranberries!

Recommended tools:
Cole & Mason CRYSTAL Acrylic Pepper Mill
Giesser Melon Twin-Baller

Buying Guides, Special Occasions

ToTTful Christmas Gift Guide

Posted on by tott
29
Oct

< Back to Guides and Tips

ToTTful Christmas Gift Guide

The holiday season is once again upon us.

Shop for gifts early at the ToTTful Christmas Sale to avoid the stress of last-minute shopping!

With more than 100 carefully selected kitchenware bundles going at up to 50% off, it’s easy to find the perfect gift.

Need help with your selection? Here are some of our favourites:

1. Nordic Ware Cake Pops Baking Pan and Meri Meri Santa Cake Pop Treat Kit (Bundle Price $60, U.P $85.75)

Ideal for baking enthusiasts, this exclusive bundle comes with Nordic Ware’s 2-piece pan and the adorable Meri Meri Cake Pop Treat Kit which includes 6 stand-up Santa cake pop holders.

2. Magisso Carafe + Mini Serving Cup, Set of 2 (Bundle Price $69, U.P $99.80)

You can never go wrong with a Red Dot Design Award winner! Made out of Magisso’s Naturally Cooling Ceramics, the Magisso Carafe and Mini Serving Cup keep your drinks cool for one to two hours. Simply soak the them in water for a minute or two before use.

3. Jamie Oliver Large Oven Dish (Yellow) + Wooden Salad Server + Single Oven Glove (Bundle Price $42, U.P $64.70)

Pretty yet practical, Jamie Oliver’s dining ware has won the hearts of home cooks everywhere. This bundle includes 3 items – a cheery and versatile Large Oven Dish (Yellow), a rustic Wooden Salad Server and a Single Oven Glove. You simply cannot beat this value, so grab a set for yourself while you’re at it

4. Nordic Ware Oven Essentials Roaster + Fold Up Roasting Rack (Now $64, U.P $90.80)

Like Mac and Cheese, these two roasting essentials by Nordic Ware are simply made for each other. Prepare a small roast in the Essentials Roaster while achieving the perfect crisp outside with the Fold up Roasting Rack. No more uneven roasts at the dinner table

5. Cole & Mason 6-Jar Herb & Spice Rack (now $36, U.P $51.90)

Chic and sleek, the Cole & Mason 6-Jar Herb & Spice Rack is ideal for the style-conscious home owner.  The spice jars are made of beautifully blown glass and chrome accents. The caps twist to close/open, pour or sprinkle spices.

6. Jamie Oliver Embossed Mug, Set of 4 + Embossed Serving Jug (Bundle Price $43.90, U.P $62.80)

The Jamie Oliver Embossed Mug and Jug bundle would make lovely additions to any home. White with accented handles, the collection adds a pop of colour to the dining table while retaining its understated charm. A great gift for new homeowners, or anybody who would like to give their dining ware collection and affordable facelift.

7. Jamie Oliver San Acrylic Jug + San Acrylic Goblet (Bundle Price $45. U.P $64.80)

The vintage inspired Jamie Oliver San Acrylic Jug and Goblet are dishwasher safe and shatterproof, making them awesome gifts for families with children and pets. Durable and easy to clean, the bundle is also great for serving up sodas at picnics and porches.

Shop our ToTTful Christmas Sale from 14 November – 27 December 2015 at both Dunearn and Suntec outlets!

Special Occasions

6 Types Of Mooncakes To Match Your Personality!

Posted on by tott
27
Aug

< Back to Guides and Tips

6 Types Of Mooncakes To Match Your Personality!

1. The Adventure Seeker

You like living life on the edge, and your tastes reflect that too. With such a variety of mooncakes in the market, bakeries have gotten pretty creative with their culinary innovations. Ice-cream mooncakes are a familiar favourite, while others with unique fillings like liusha or salted egg cream are not unheard of either. No mooncake filling is too unorthodox for the adventure seeker, and you find yourself trawling Mid-Autumn mooncake fairs for the mooncakes with the most exotic flavours you can uncover.

2. The Princess

You often lament about the number of calories in every mooncake, but your palate can’t resist the light flavours and velvety smoothness of the snowskin variety. First developed in Hong Kong, the snowskin mooncake has won the hearts of diet conscious women around the world who favour the light, fruity flavours of this modern iteration.

3. The Kid

Perhaps you never grew into liking mooncakes and find yourself craving for the pig-shaped pastry you used to get as a kid. Known for their appearance rather than taste, the store-bought biscuits resemble little suckling pigs and contain bean paste fillings. Wrapped in their individual red plastic baskets, these mooncakes are sure to send you on a trip down memory lane.

4. The Patisseur

The Patisseur isn’t satisfied with the density of traditional mooncake pastry and much prefers the crisp, heavenly outsides of flaky skin mooncakes. Inspired by the Suzhou style of mooncake, these pastries are highly popular and are easily available. Whether they’re up to your standards though, is an entirely different issue.

5. The Gourmand

The gourmand isn’t so easily satisfied with typical mooncake offerings and would pay extra dollars for the premium variety. You splurge on mooncakes from hotels and feel a surge of excitement when your fingers graze the foil stickers or each individually wrapped mooncake. You convince yourself it’s all worth it when you sink your teeth into a snowskin mooncake oozing dark chocolate and liquor, despite the fact that each bite probably cost you $6.

6. The Traditionalist

Your ideal mooncake is a single lotus mooncake, sliced into eight perfect wedges. Mid-Autumn festival is about family, and with the children fighting over the salted egg yolk, you know you need nothing more.

Which category of the above do you belong to? Whether or not you feel if none (or all!) of the above suit you, you are bound to find a mooncake that will tickle your fancy at Chef Julie Yee’s Bake Your Own Mooncakes Class at ToTT! The hands-on class will take you through the steps of baking your very own mooncakes under the guidance of Chef Julie. Expect to learn traditional and gourmet mooncakes such as Japanese Style Parmesan Cheese Buttery Pastry with Green Tea Mung Bean & Red Bean, Yam Snow Skin Filling with Yam Paste and more!

Click HERE to sign up for the Bundle Deal!

Buying Guides, Special Occasions

Seeing Red this National Day

Posted on by tott
29
Jul

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Seeing Red this National Day

Get in the mood for National Day with these red hot picks from ToTT that are sure to brighten up any kitchen!

1. KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Empire Red

Make your favourite cakes and multiple batches of cookie dough easily with the 5-quart/4.8 Litre stainless steel mixing bowl that comes with a comfortable handle. With 10 speeds, the stand mixer will quickly become your kitchen’s culinary centre as you mix, knead and whip ingredients with ease. And for even more versatility, the power hub fits optional attachments from food grinders to pasta makers and more.

2. Microplane Cube Grater in Red

The Cube Grater by Microplane has three convenient blade styles- fine, ribbon and coarse. Makes preparing your favourite dish easy as pie! The Cube Grater’s dual-purpose catch feature can also be used as a measuring device and a protective cover.

3. Quench Martini Master in Red

Whether you like your Martinis shaken or stirred, mastering making the secret service’s most popular cocktail is now super easy. Use the Martini Master’s jigger to measure two shots of Gin and one of vermouth, add into your cocktail spinner (yes, we disagree with your cocktail mixing methods Mr Bond!) with lots of ice, after the gin and vermouth are mixed together pour into a classic martini glass and use the handy zester to create a beautiful garnish for your Martini. Add an olive for an authentic look.

4.  Theo+Co. Pizza Perfector in Red

The Pizza Perfector takes the hard work out of making a great pizza. You know you are in good hands as the appliance is developed by triple-world Champion Pizza Maker Theo Kalogeracos.

Frustrated with not being able to find a competent domestic pizza cooker for his private event engagements, he decided to develop his own. The Pizza Perfector is a uniquely designed piece of equipment that can make anyone cook consistent pizza like a World Champion.

5. Jamie Oliver Pasta Machine

A new and improved Pasta machine from Jamie Oliver, for a smoother pasta making experience. Impress your guests by creating a variety of home-made pasta types (including lasagne, spaghetti, fettucine and tagliatelle) which are healthy and of high quality too. A staple in every contemporary kitchen.

6. The Cooking Doctor Macaron Pastry Set

Packed in an exclusive box, this pastry set contains a double-sided silicone pastry mat, 6 medium size nozzles, an adaptor, a large silicone piping bag and a recipe booklet. Perfect for own use or as a gift.

The mat can be used to make 30 traditional standard macaron of 3.8cm, 8 large (5 cm) macaron or whoopee pie, heart and flower shaped macarons. The mat is made of premium silicone to ensure that it is 100 % non-stick, and with even heat distribution, it is guaranteed to produce macarons with feet.

This set will suit any home baker, as the piping bag is washable and the nozzle can also be used for cupcake or cake decorations. The classic swirl on cupcake, round nozzle for macarons, rose and leave decorations, and even fancy grass shape for novelty cupcakes!

7. Nordic Ware Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan in Red

The Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan from Nordic Ware is perfect for creating bite-sized Bavaria bundt shaped cakelets. The non-stick coated aluminium of the Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan ensures even baking with quick release and easy cleanup. Now, you can create bundt cakelets of a more unique shape with the right amount of rising.

8. de Buyer Mandoline Swing Slicer in Red

The Mandoline Swing Slicer from de Buyer is made from durable stainless steel & composite polymers and with blade produced in Thiers, the French famous town specialized in professional cutlery, this slicer brings professionalism into your kitchen. Technique is inspired from de Buyer’s professional model.

Buying Guides, Special Occasions, Tips & Tricks

Be the Hari Raya Hostess (or Host!) with the Mostest

Posted on by tott
24
Jun

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Be the Hari Raya Hostess (or Host!) with the Mostest

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! In this week’s guide, we share 7 useful hosting tips for this festive season.

1. Prepare ingredients in advance

Everyone knows food prep is one of the most tedious things to deal with, no matter how skilled you are as a home chef. Do your shopping and preparation 2 days in advance and make it a family affair! Be the boss of your kitchen and delegate tasks to spouses and siblings while children do simpler things like peel vegetables.

2. Accommodate dietary restrictions

When planning your menu, remember to include at least one child-friendly and vegetarian dish for your guests. Also, not everyone has a belly of fire like you do, so make sure you have a non-spicy dish in your arsenal. ToTT loves this recipe for pizza – just replace pepperoni with a halal option like chopped beef dendeng and you’re good to go. We also recommend getting your pizza done with Theo & Co.’s Pizza Perfector. You can thank us later.

3. Serve dishes in cookware

Instead of dishing out culinary creations on serving plates, why not serve them straight from the pan? You won’t just be saving time doing the dishes – pans keep food warm for longer and you’ll just have to place it back on the stove whenever you wish to reheat!

4. Beat the Heat with Detox Water

Chock full of vitamins, detox water makes a refreshing and colourful beverage that is sure to be a hit with your guests. Simply toss some slices of citrus fruit and cucumbers into filtered water and leave overnight.

5. Try a Chalkboard Menu

Chalkboard menus are an easy and inexpensive way of jazzing up potluck style feasts. Also, they save you from having to explain dishes over and over again to curious guests.

6. Label Cups

Here at ToTT, we’re all about doing our part for the environment. If you have to use disposable cups, use those made out of bioplastics and provide guests with a marker to label their cups. That way, you save the earth and your cups.

7. Kiddy Corner

Create a child-friendly corner of your house with toys and electronic gaming devices to keep the young ones busy.

8. Seal the meal

Got any leftovers or half-finished snacks from the day? Keep food fresh by sealing it in air-tight containers like the Large Pop-Top Storage Jar by Jamie Oliver, or Lexliving’s Silicone Flip Tight Lid Storage Box.