HEAT OIL RECIPES

Steps:

• 1. Add the peas to a cold pan. Put the small bunch of mint on top of the peas, then boil the kettle. Pour just enough boiling water over the peas and mint to cover them, then put the pan on a high heat with a lid on. Bring back to the boil and cook until the peas are just perfect and tender – this should only be a couple of minutes. Immediately drain in a colander, then place the peas and mint into a salad-type bowl. Sprinkle with a little sea salt and freshly ground black pepper and a good squeeze of lemon juice or a swig of good-quality red or white wine vinegar. Cover the peas and mint with the olive oil (it’s important to use the best you can get, as the better the quality, the better the dish) and mix around. Put to one side for half an hour, after which the flavours will really have started to develop.
  2. There are so many things you can serve these peas with: from grilled fish to bruschetta or crostini, roasted or grilled lamb cutlets or pork, or served next to a hearty roast chicken. It’s always exciting to see lovely green peas under golden green oil.

Steps:

• 1. Place all the vegetables in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan with a big splash of olive oil and the ginger, garlic, chilli, basil stalks, coriander seeds and cloves. Season with a teaspoon of black pepper and a good pinch of sea salt.
  2. Cook gently over a low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until softened, stirring every so often. Add all the tomatoes and 350ml of cold water. Bring to the boil and simmer gently until the sauce reduces by half.
  3. Add the basil leaves, then whiz the sauce in a food processor or with a hand blender and push it through a sieve twice, to make it smooth and shiny. Put the sauce into a clean pan and add the vinegar and the sugar.
  4. Place the sauce on the heat and simmer until it reduces and thickens to the consistency of tomato ketchup. At this point, correct the seasoning to taste.
  5. Spoon the ketchup through a sterilized funnel into sterilized bottles, then seal tightly and place in a cool dark place or the fridge until needed – it should keep for six months. Great served with steak and chips.