Category Archives: Foodie

Jul6

Work Experience

Posted on July 6, 2013 by larosilla

School said to me pick wherever you want as long as you have something to put into your personal statement for university about work experience. I personally am not the office sort, so having this opportunity to find somewhere to go for a week only meant one thing. As far away as possible. This is my first ever blog post but it is definitly important as i needed to share my experience with everyone.

Luckily I know the Drakes from back when me and Sasha were in primary school together. My name is Sophie and for the last week I ditched my routine english life to spend a week living the ”La Rosilla” lifestyle in spain, and I have had a ”fenomenal” time.

I have definitely put my language skills to the test when I accompanied Sasha to a fiesta for her friend’s birthday. There was roughly around 25 people there and only 2 spoke english. Me and Sasha. So for me that was definitely an experience. Poor Sasha became translator for the night. Although it was good to see how people my own age live life here and how their parties differ to mine back home.

I also went to a book club which will make my mother so proud. This I found very interesting as of course it was all Lyney’s friends and they were all english. I was able to look around somebody else house and see how all of these women have adapted their lifestyle to live in spain.

Something I will not be forgetting anytime soon was Lynsey bringing home a pigs trotter to ”flavour” her food. For me this was something very different but of course everything is a learning curve so I made the most of the experience though its something I could go without for a few more years :p Whilst ive been in spain I have had the opportunity to watch Lynsey make meals for people as of course this is her job, and I have to say some of the recipes I have never even heard of but they turned out smelling and looking amazing, especially her carne con chocolate.

Lynsey took me to the Tanit beach yesterday for my final proper day. The sea was lovely and cool and the weather was boiling. unfortunately a result of my ignorance to the sun’s strength is chronic sunburn, I doubt ill be doing any quick movement for a long time, however I think it was completely worth it as I had a fantastic time.

Overall I have had an absolutely amazing time here in spain! I wish that the ”La Rosilla lifestyle” was my own. I can safely say out of everybody in my year at school ive had the best work experience by a mile and that everyone should be jealous of it.

Considering I only suffered from major sunburn and 16 mosquito bites I would say this trip has been a success!

little burnt

I am so sad to be leaving but like I said, I have had an incredible time here and im not likely to be forgetting any of it. I have been made to feel like part of the family which I love and am so glad to of had this amazing experience.

xxx

Jun20

Going East !

Posted on June 20, 2013 by larosilla

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The area of Andalucia that we live in is called Axarquia, part of Malaga province, that is home to spectacular scenery, mountains, lakes, coastline, white villages, rural life, traditions and local dialects that change from one hamlet to the next.

To explore on our doorstep, and also to return to places visited in the past, can seem like we’re are miles from home with the diversity of the area. Colmenar our home town, is the capital of the Axarquia and the Montes de Malaga, but on our recent whistle stop break we headed east, to the other side of the majestic Mount Maroma, that centralises our scenery, in the Sierra Tejeda.

We chose to take the twisty windy road from the coast at Torre del Mar, up to the small town of Canillas de Albaida, a road with views to the mountains and sea, great vantage points along the way, to sit and just soak up the vista. Jacaranda trees were in full bloom with their lavender fronds swaying in the breeze against the backdrop of the azure sky. Eagles soared and goats wandered.

Canillas de Albaida, is beautifully kept, with a calm and tranquil atmosphere, cobbled streets too narrow for cars, basket and flower decked terraces and patios a plenty . We stayed at the perfectly placed Posada la Plaza, in the central town square, flanked with geraniums, pots & fountains. The Posada, was decorated in authentic Andalucian style and the perfect place to relax. Rooms were bright, spacious and clean with views over the plaza and quaint balconies. The owner Gustavo, has created the right balance of tradition and quality, and added lovely touches like an honesty bar, and rooftop sauna. The restaurant opposite, had a wonderful menu and wine list and dishes were delicious and plentiful, service was first class and friendly and an added bonus, we could just stumble back to our bed, no driving involved.

Awake early, I watched the sunrise off the balcony, and slowly the hamlet came to life. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast, before being shown Gustavo’s new venture Posada la Casa, a unique boutique hotel on the outskirts of the village, with great pool. Hopefully a new venue for La Rosilla Cookery & Culture days, to enjoy the different gourmet delights of this area.

Setting off we headed back down to Competa, a hillside town, that seemed to have grown since the last time I visited. Bustling and busy, cafe culture, time to sit and watch the world go by.

Lunch of Sopa de Picadillo (Spanish soup for the soul) and Berenjenas fritas con miel (Aubergines fried with honey) , lined our stomachs, prior to our eagerly awaited Wine tasting and tour of the prestigious Bodega Bentomiz.

Bodega Bentomiz is situated on the foothills of the Sierra Tejeda outside Sayalonga, with in view of the Mediterranean, the sea breezes, cool winters and warm dry summers, allow the grapevines, many of ancient stock to thrive and along with the Bodegas wine-making methods produce award winning fresh delicate wines ‘Ariyanas’. We sampled these fine wines, in the breathtakingly designed Bodega, a washed with light from huge aspect windows with views to the vines and sea beyond. Each wine was expertly paired with a delicious Tapa, my favorite an unusual sweet red wine 100% Merlot naturally sweet and unfortified ‘David Tinto Dulce’ enjoyed with a chocolate dipped fig. We will enjoy it at La Rosilla, as an aperitif, with a rich home made pate or for pud, with a indulgent chocolate fondant.

Heading home, comfortable full of culture & cuisine, with figs, jamon, asparragus and of course ‘Ariyanas’ wine, for the end of our whistle stop tour, and supper back on our terrace.

VIVA AXARQUIA !

May28

World Sherry Day !

Posted on May 28, 2013 by larosilla

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It was with pleasure that I took part in World Sherry Day, a celebration to display the wonderful world of sherry and the versatility of the superb sherry wines on offer.

Fortunately living in Spain I can and do frequently partake in a ‘copita’ or two, but many people often think of Sherry as the pre-lunch quaff on Sunday with their granny, well yes I did this too from a very young age, perhaps therein lies the problem ;), but there is a sherry for every dish and occasion and I was proud to showcase this at La Rosilla.

The date was perfect too for my Supper club to re-open for the summer, a celebration all round.

Like normal I was living on the edge, as this years unpredictable weather was giving me the run around. As I prepped busily on Sunday morning, making everything ship shape, I did so in thick cloud and dodging rain drops…but I held out and went for it, guests arrived sensibly with shawls and jackets and with a very gung ho supportive spirit.

Quarter deck cocktails, warmed everyone’s souls with canapes of Hazelnut & parmesan stuffed mushrooms, and cheese puffs with cheery toms & caper-berries. We all shared our sherry stories, and I gave a talk on the diversity of sherry, it’s origins , production and aging process, before everyone sat on the terrace ready for their feast and tastings.

Lunch was served and we enjoyed, crisp dry pale gold Fino & Manzanilla, Amber rich and warm Amontillado & Oloroso, and finished with dessert and decadent luscious PX .

As the sherry flowed the sun put his hat on, to end a special Sunday afternoon on the terrace.

May5

Today’s delicious delivery delights.

Posted on May 5, 2013 by larosilla

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Always so lovely to deliver a meal to a first timer. I love to see their faces when I show them each dish and describe it’s ingredients, all freshly baked and ready to eat, all they need is their wine glass and knife and fork .

Today’s delivery for Spanish Mothers day was to a local town of Riogordo and the dishes included.

Pumpkin and sunflower seed focacia, with lashings of rosemary infused extra virgin.

Herb and flower salad, rocket, lollo rosso, pea shoots, nasturtium, borage, thyme and sage flowers, and a sprinkling of walnuts. With an orange flower water and mustard dressing.

Potato Cakes, stuffed with olives, sundried tomatoes, feta, roasted peppers, coated in migas crumbs and pan fried, served with tomato jam, sweet onion chutney and pesto mayo.

Prawn & Harissa tagine, a rich and spiced dish, with flavours of cumin and cinnamon, in a tomato , courgette and onion broth and served with lemon and herb cous cous.

and to finish the ever popular, Chocolate fudge Brownie.

Happy customers 🙂

And now to relax and soak up some Sunday sunshine, before stoking up the barby, and feasting with my family.

Apr30

From across the pond.

Posted on April 30, 2013 by larosilla

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It’s a joy to share what I love with guests that visit – A little of my life, the flavour and the dishes of the mountains.

This year so far, all my visitors for La Rosilla’s ‘Cookery & Culture’ day , have come from America, all corners of the States. In fact I would like to get a big map on the world and put a pin in each place, visitors come from . Not only do they experience a taste of our family life on the mountain, we get a taste of theirs. Recipes, traditions and lifestyles are chatted about, whilst they sample, create, sip and and enjoy some of ours. They have all been intrepid travelers, making the most of their short time in Andalucia, and definitely not concerned about driving and exploring and going off the beaten track to take a peek .

My guests usually are traveling to celebrate, birthdays, anniversaries, time out and just generally creating memory moments to take back home.

Ages have ranged from mother and 14 year old daughter having a girly day together whilst the ‘boys’ went to the car museum, husband and wife taking the unique experience for their 25th anniversary. One couple celebrating retirement and wanting to learn some new dishes for the party they were going to give friends when back in Texas. A family group of 3 generations all linked by their ‘foodie’ love creating giant paella, whilst sipping sherry and tasting cheese and chorizos , on their way home they stopped to buy there own pan , they were determined to get in their case.-

I just adore the way good food and great company bring people together, my children now have been fortunate to meet some fascinating people from all over the world and learn from it , it also makes them and us aware that where we live is special, and how we live is dreamed of by many.

Mar19

Teasing tasters.

Posted on March 19, 2013 by larosilla

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Seems the weather keeps teasing us and giving us a taste of what’s to come – A day of glorious sunshine in between the dull & rain, is enough to lift the spirits , time to fling open the windows, lunch alfresco and the drudgery of the daily homework routine somehow seems all more bearable done in the afternoon sun.

Yesterday we we’re singing with the birds, everyone was cheery, flowers were picked to add a springtime bloom and the children gathered their boots & walking sticks and returned once more to their Swallows and Amazons lifestyle, trekking and exploring their mountainside with dogs & cats in tow.

My main vegetable patch is in need of resurrection, I’m trying to build the enthusiasm to to tackle it head on, what I have done, is create a little mini herb & salad patch in the border at the back of my house, just by the kitchen door & yesterday we enjoyed our first pickings of leaves & herbs & edible flowers in a fresh green salad.

We are down to one hen at the moment 😦 but soon her new friends will be arriving, I think she is enjoying eating solo and not having to share, and bless her she lays an egg everyday for us, good job really, as I often start a recipe or dish and then think …’bloody hell’ have I got any eggs ? . Yesterday was no exception, scouring the fridge for inspiration & decided to rustle up a red cabbage slaw, Oh no no mayo,- no worries I’ll just whip some up – Oh no, no eggs – Off to Henny Penny I trudged , she hadn’t let me down.

Today we’re back to wet & grey, with even talk of a ‘Red’ alert on weather warnings ! So I’m feeling the need for comfort food and sharing. Luckily this afternoon is my ‘Book Club’ and we going to chat about The Kasmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas , a tale of The Raj, Colonial India & Wales, so I’ve baked a spiced Tea Bread & Victoria Sponge, hopefully sweet tastes to match the beautiful tale.

SPICED TEA BREAD RECIPE

250 gr of Sultanas soaked in 300ml of cold tea, leave overnight.

I use a Moroccan tea, flavoured with cinnamon, chicory, liquorice, orange & mint.

Mix with :

2 beaten eggs

250 gr of SR flour

200 gr of Brown sugar

2 tsp of mixed spice

Stir well together – then pour into a lined 2lb loaf tin – bake at 175 c – for 1 hour until risen and dark golden.

Enjoy with butter and jam and of course a lovely cup of tea.

Jan14

Recipe time – Roasted fennel

Posted on January 14, 2013 by larosilla

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It seems an ages since I’ve posted a recipe, I think throughout December , people call for traditional tastes and family favourites, I know I do. But recently I’ve been craving something different, to tantalize my taste-buds – My recent visit to the local market, did the trick, and one of my favorite vegetables was sat on the stall in all it’s glory – Fennel !

Fennel is wonderful , with the whole of the plant , seeds, bulb & foliage being used for many things, from culinary to medicinal. It has a an aniseed flavour, and sliced in salads it gives a fresh and vibrant taste, slowly roasted it becomes sweet & tender.
This recipe is easy to make, and a great supper accompaniment to roasted meat or chicken.

ROASTED FENNEL WITH THYME

2 Bulbs of fennel sliced through the core into chunks

Place in a baking dish

Drizzle with olive oil & balsamic vinegar

3 garlic cloves peeled & sliced and sprinkled over fennel

Crush a few pink peppercorns and sprinkle over

2 tbsp of fresh thyme sprinkled over

add a dash of balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle with rock salt

Bake in a hot oven for approx 45 mins until beginning to caramelise and become tender.

The dish is perfect like this, but you can add a handful of grated parmesan or your favourite cheese, and pop back in the oven for 5-10 mins to gratinise.

BUEN PROVECHO !

Jan10

Let’s do lunch !

Posted on January 10, 2013 by larosilla

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One of the joys about living in Spain is the tradition of ‘menu del dia’ – menu of the day, that all restaurants should offer to diners. The long leisurely lunch is a way of life that I have been happy to adapt to, not possible every day but on days that it is , I’m there !

Many bars and restaurants are full to bursting at 2pm each day, with workers taking time out, to eat, chat and relax with one another before they start their afternoons working activities. Popular eateries, can turn around hundreds of diners during this time, all enjoying 3 courses, bread, wine & water for a token price from 7 euros.

I have my favourites and depending on whether I’m just looking to refuel with honest good grub, or sit soak up the sun, or enjoy that something just a little bit more special, ‘Menu del dia’ can tick most boxes.

I was delighted to hear through the grapevine that one of my favourite places Tanit in Torre del Mar, was expanding their empire. Their promenade restaurant paved the way for new hip places in Torre del mar, they then opened the wonderful Bahia del Tanit beach club, which I, along with many friends and family frequent in Summer as much as possible, making the day at the beach a little more lovely. Their newest venture Vintash Tanit, is located in town on the Avenida Andalucia.

So that was it, after weeks of trying to get there, my OH and I decided to have our works Christmas ‘Do’ albeit after Christmas, and just the two of us 😉 and Vintash Tanit was the place to go.

We were not disappointed, the Tanit style was evident with their eclectic mix of furniture a shabby chic & boudoir interior, right up my street.

Staff attentive and welcoming like normal.

We indulged in to start, two sharing platters of mushrooms, stuffed with Roquefort & wrapped in bacon, and delicious berenjenas fritas (fried aubergine) served in modern baton style.

a couple of glasses of chilled white, and then ‘Menu del dia’

Chicken Caesar Salad, Pork, saute of mushrooms and cream sauce, followed by crepes & strawberries.

Stuffed to bursting, a cafe solo put a spring back in our step, or should I say a waddle back in our walk 😉

The price for 2 – 26 Euros – Spain I love you 🙂

Oh and the loos are beautiful – as my mum always says, ‘you can tell a god restaurant by it’s loos …’

Dec6

What a week that was !

Posted on December 6, 2012 by larosilla

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Whistle stop tours are always my itinerary style whilst visiting the U.K, so many places to go, people to see..but I love it !

My week just gone, was spent doing all that I love, working with food, networking with like-minded people, visiting friends, eating, drinking and not much sleeping .

First port of call, Warwickshire where my dear friend Caroline of Pink Jelly Marketing, hosted my first few days of stay. We visited the breathtaking Compton Verney, for a night of inspirational talks, held by the Federation of Small Businesses – the highlight of the night for me, was the amusing and uplifting presentation given by Mask – arade, the business the Dragons Den poo poo’d that now is flying high, and their celebrity masks are gracing many a party, event, function & worldwide stage . Generously we were given masks to take home, which became a talking point of my week, and created family parties that would be talked about for many a year to come.

I was dined in style at The Arden Hotel in Stratford, the decor was divine, along with my favourite tipple ‘Sancerre’ the food was amazing – my taste-buds were well and truly tickled, Scallops to start and pork belly to follow to finish a fragipane & fig tart – Delicioso. We had the most attentive waitress, who to kept us entertained without being intrusive.

El Greco, the new Greek restaurant in Stratford -upon- Avon was enjoyed on a very chilly night, Flare the owner was gregarious and welcoming, here we enjoyed a vast meze and wonderful Mediterranean flavours – A fabulous location for a private party too, and the loos were spectacular 😉

The main event for me was the working part of my trip, at The BBC Good Food Show in Birmingham, it was so good to be amongst so many ‘Foodies’ producers, chefs & celebrities. My home was on the Gower Cottage Brownies stand, hectic, manic sometimes but great fun, brownies to die for. I was alongside Tim Kinnaird (masterchef) and his beautiful Macarons & more . The most delectable macarons of all shades & flavours artfully displayed and presented. Aching feet and backs were soothed by foodie trades & tipples a many, thank-goodness I wasn’t driving 😉

I was given a Masterchef cook book to add to my collection, signed by all Masterchefs & celebs, which will be pride of place on my shelf. I also had chance to Tweetup with fellow Supperclubber Kerstins Kitchen .

Work over – Friends & family time, 2 Christmas dinners, sprouts a plenty, girly get together, dancing on the ceiling, no kidding , cinema for the final Twilight , hair of the dog most days – Laughs, little sleep and a very early morning flight home – Fabulous.

Now back to reality and preparing for my final Supperclub of the season tomorrow, Buche Noel baked and shopping done just (forgot today was bank holiday !)

Looking forward to getting organised for (C) still going into a panic when I say the word, oh & a lie in at the week-end to try to catch up on my beauty sleep, boy it’s needed.

Apr22

Malaga museum & meanderings.

Posted on April 22, 2012 by larosilla

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It was with honor myself & my dear friend Lisa @familyinSpain were chosen to represent Costawomen as one of the influential foreign residents groups of Anadalucia at the prestigious reception at the Inspiring Carmen Thyssen Gallery in Malaga.

Tour of Carmen Thyssen

PRESS RELEASE

THE CARMEN THYSSEN MUSEUM WELCOMES INTERNATIONAL GROUPS FROM THE COSTA DEL SOL

The leaders and senior members of some of the most important foreign residents’ associations on the Costa del Sol attended

Malaga, April 19^th 2012:Yesterday the Carmen Thyssen Museum held a reception for representatives of some of the international societies and associations on the Costa del Sol. Almost 40 representatives from these groups were welcomed to the art gallery by the managing director, Francisco Javier Ferrer and the artistic director, Lourdes Moreno. During the afternoon event, the guests were given information about the Museum and its Collection, including the new temporary exhibition ‘Paradises and Landscapes in the Carmen Thyssen Collection. From Brueghel to Gauguin’, which runs until 7th October.

Foreign residents reception.

The location of the museum in the historical and dramatic centre of Malaga, is the perfect backdrop for such inspiring works of art, the palace itself is a calming oasis, allowing the visitor to absorb the moment and feel of the pieces.

Making the most of the invitation allowed for a day in the city, leaving the Montes behind, I took the excellent bus service from Colmenar to Malaga city, to meet Lisa for a spot of sightseeing, exploring, lunching & sipping. Most of the time many off us are guilty of just hopping in the car, and going from A to B, but today no, on foot we went, and walked & walked some more. Our meeting point and first port of call, was the colourful and buzzing Food market ‘Atarazanas’ daily market where the freshest produce, vegetables, fruits, bread and the catch of the day., were all displayed to perfection, a hive of activity and a heaven for a ‘foodie’ like me, tasters were offered to us of locally cured olives, and almonds freshly roasted. Tapas and Copas were being enjoyed as shoppers rested their feet & bags.

We wondered through the old city, me leading the way, with Lisa my ever trusty photographer following to the rear snapping as she went. (view photos here) Shops full of with flamenco flair, haberdasheries bursting to their seems, cafe culture being enjoyed to the max in the warm spring sunshine.

Of course we were building up a hunger and a thirst that needed quenching, and we do like to centre our day with sampling the local cuisine, well it would be rude not to 😉 , we headed to Plaza Merced, birth place of Picasso, and decided on Citrus as our watering hole. The menu del dia, was modern and fresh and served with style, We both chose a Mozzarella and Sun- dried tomato salad with olives and Mustard dressing, my main was poached chicken with an apple puree and cous-cous, light and moist Lisa had seared Tuna on a butternut squash risotto,

Lunch at Citrus

dessert was unusual, ‘Migas de bizococho’ translates as cake crumbs, with yoghurt and raspberry salsa. 8.50 euros per person food value doesn’t get better than this.

We decided to walk off our lunch before taking coffee & cake 😉 Malaga film festival was being prepared and the red carpet was laid in the dramatic and elegant street of Calle Larios, street performers added to the ambiance.

We strolled then to the reception at the gallery, to be welcomed by an informative talk , and guided around the museum and its new exhibition ‘Landscapes & Paradises’ by the most informative and interesting guide, after we were invited to drinks and Tapas.

I am not a city girl, but I do love a day out on the town, and Malaga never disappoints me a cosmopolitan air, with traditional roots and feel of days gone by.

With aching feet Lisa & I bid each other farewell, I returned to my mountain & La Rosilla looking forward to re-discover Malaga another day.

La Rosilla Lifestyle

Life on a mountain in Andalucia.

Category Archives: Foodie

Work Experience

Going East !

World Sherry Day !

Today’s delicious delivery delights.

From across the pond.

Teasing tasters.

Recipe time – Roasted fennel

BUEN PROVECHO !

Let’s do lunch !

What a week that was !

Malaga museum & meanderings.

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