Microwaved fruit and custard pudding

This time-saving dessert only takes five minutes to prepare and there is no preheating the oven required. Easy as!

Ingredients

  •  ½ packet vanilla cake mix
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons caster sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
  • 300ml pouring cream
  • 100ml milk
  • 150g of your favourite fruit – try pears or peaches
  • vanilla ice cream (to serve)

Method

  1. Prepare the half-portion of cake mix in a bowl then scrape it into a large microwave-safe bowl.
  2. In another bowl, beat the egg, sugar and vanilla together until well combined, then pour in the cream and milk and whisk together for two minutes more.
  3. Arrange the fruit pieces on top of the cake mix and then pour over the cream mixture. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes – the cream will sink down to make a delicious custard layer.
  4. Leave to cool slightly for a couple of minutes, then serve with some vanilla ice cream.

by Elvie

Tasty Bolognese

A family favourite, this recipe makes a lot, so it’s ideal for several meals during the week and even some handy work lunches.

Ingredients

  • 500g beef mince, or plant-based mince
  • ½ chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grated carrot or zucchini (optional)
  • ½ cup stock
  • 1 400g tin chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley/ oregano/rosemary/basil) or 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
  • Salt and pepper
  • 250g dried pasta
  • Grated cheese to serve

Method

  1. In a pan, add the onion and garlic and cook for about two minutes, until fragrant.
  2. Add the mince and cook until brown (5-10 minutes). Add the vegetables and cook for a further five minutes.
  3. Add the stock, tomatoes, tomato paste and sugar and combine. Simmer over a low heat for 15-20 minutes until the Bolognese has thickened. About halfway through this cooking time, give it a taste test and add salt and pepper to taste. Also add the chopped fresh or dried herbs.
  4.  While the Bolognese is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions and grate some cheese.
  5. Drain the spaghetti, dish into bowls and top with the Bolognese and grated cheese.
  6. Serve immediately.
  7. Store any leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for three days or freeze portions.

by Elvie