When you receive a cookbook to review by an author whose YouTube channel has almost a quarter of a million subscribers, and more than 20 million views – and you’ve never heard of him, it’s time to call in an expert. Niamh Sweeney (14), gives her verdict: “I love to cook and bake, and I love to watch YouTube. But not every book or internet tutorial supplies recipes that are easy yet original. So these tasty treats by the popular Portuguese- English YouTube chef Raphael Gomes (24) caught my eye. Seriously, who could pass up Nutella pizza? Or white chocolate and Oreo mug cake? Strawberry and lemon slurpees? Or our new favourite, unicorn poo cookies? I’d recommend this book, crammed with photographs and lively writing, for all teenage chefs, from beginners to the more experienced, because Gomes makes cooking seem like the most fun thing in the world.”
Epic Kitchen Adventures, by Raphael Gomes, is published by Blink, £9.99.
FRUITS OF VINE AND SEA
The finest fruits of the sea and the vine is the theme of a dinner in the first floor private dining room at Dublin’s Cliff Townhouse on Wednesday, October 21st. Oysters, lobster, scallops, turbot and langoustines feature on chef Sean Smith’s seven-course menu, each paired with a specially chosen wine. Dining will be on large shared tables, and the bill will be €75 per person. Bookings are being taken at 01-6383939.
HEALTHY RANGE ON THE UP+
William Rochford’s job as director of BR Foods involves finding commercially attractive items for the Irish market. Blue Dragon, Pataks, Discover and Watson & Son manuka honey are among the products he distributes. Another healthy addition is the Heart Up+ range, a barley product that claims to lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugar and improve gut health.
Rochford personally endorses Up+, having been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes seven years ago: “I have balanced my bloods, reduced my cholesterol and I’m now statin-free,” he says. “But I am still conscious of my diet, intake of sugar and take regular exercise. Heart Up+ Barley Beta-glucan has played a major role.”
Up+ comes in original, blueberry and red berries flavours and costs €7.79 for a 250g/33 servings bag.
