I can’t think of a title, so feel free to help out. Something like “It’s grape”. You get it.
The grape jelly was very nice (great/grape)- but very sweet. I just heated grape juice and sprinkled on the agar (as per instructions), then stirred in and left to cool, poured over fruit. I think next time I would have 1/2 grape juice and 1/2 water.
I also added a little to my overnight muesli in place of some of the milk- that was refreshing too.
On Monday I had a run after work and it was so hot. I saw 3 rabbits, which get a smiley face, but I also saw 2 rats, which totally counteract the rabbits. I must have looked rather crazy as I ran along clapping as loudly as I could to make the rats run off the path. When I got back I was in need of rehydration- I think I probably looked like a dried cranberry from some trail mix (covered in salt from the peanuts)- really I needed to be soaked in water. Anyway, ramble aside, I tried some of the Sainsbury’s coconut water. Now, I am not really a fan. It tastes so sweet- it reminded me of the “juice drink” cartons you get, or maybe like strong squash, and I never even drink weak squash. I suppose if it was diluted with water it would be OK. Also it didn’t taste of coconut water- the first one one tasted of orange squash, and the second one (pineapple flavour- I had it today after my Sweatshop run) was OK- a bit nicer as I prefer the pineapple flavour, but not great. It is a shame because it is much cheaper, but I suppose that is why.
On Tuesday I had a rest day (I did have a run on Sunday after the cinema too), and had a lovely easy dinner. I found these beetroot and goats cheese roasts in asda- they had a pretty good ingredients list so I decided to try them. It was nice- like something you might have for a pub lunch if that makes sense. Anyway, easiest ever dinner served with roasted veggies, cucumber, tomatoes and more beetroot. Not too much goats cheese either as although I love it, sometimes it can be overpowering.
To cool down I had a fruity iced tea- I poured hot water on an orange and coconut teabag, left it to cool, and then added the liquid to a glass with some rose grape juice, ice and lemon slices. This was lovely. I do like the grape juice on its own, but it is very sweet, so I prefer it watered down a bit.
I also decided to make some fruity cakes for work- I used a recipe for light fruit cake from the Home Bake book, and soaked the fruit in grape juice first. If I make anything with dried fruit I always soak it first, as I find then it plumps up and also does not burn in the oven. I topped them with a little lemon icing (lemon juice+icing sugar), and they turned out really well. I used wholegrain spelt flour too, which I love in baking.
My Sweatshop run today was good too- although again it was so hot and I was baking by the time I had jogged up there- not a good sign. I qualified for my free t-shirt today (it is a technical one and everything) but I was too sweaty to try them on, so will have to get it next week- haha.
But- exciting news- from Tuesday (at 5.30pm) they are starting a run/walk for beginners- starting at 2 miles. I really cannot rave about it enough, so if you are tempted then check out your local store to see if they have one.
Anyone tempted? 🙂 Anyone else tried the Sainsbury’s coconut water, or discovered anything else new?
Glad you’ve mentioned about the sainsbury’s coconut water, by the way you have described it, it definitely doesn’t sound like something I would like so I’ll probably give it a miss. I have a big pack of agar in the cupboard so may have to try out the jelly!
Yeah I don’t think you would like it because I have a sweeter tooth than you 🙂
I’ve seen a lot of rats when I’ve been running, and even had one run straight over my feet. I don’t really mind them – I know they’re not ‘cuddly’ or even affectionate like pet rats but they don’t bother me like some insects do.
I’d probably like that coconut water as I am a sucker for sweet things. I still miss Diet Pepsi despite not having had one in ages – I guess I like crappy sweeties more than I let on 😉
xxx
Well give it a go- you might like it, and I think it would be OK watered down a bit, but I am not sure how hydrating it would be compared to normal coconut water.
Such a shame about the coconut water. I love the idea of making jelly with the grape juice, yum!
I’d be tempted by that run but as I live in the middle of nowhere, I couldn’t really do it… shame… but urgh to rats; they’re so horrible!
It’s a shame the coconut water wasn’t all that but the cake looks lovely; I love lemon icing on anything like that 🙂
That is a shame- you will have to hope your nearest town gets a Sweatshop soon.
I think running clubs are fabulous – they’re an easy way to improve running and meet new people.
I’ve been wondering about using agar. How well did it work? Do you think it would work for a differently coloured layered jelly? And/or in a shaped jelly mould? Haha, Izzy’s birthday in a month so I’ve started thinking about “party” foods! 😉
I love the idea of using the grape juice to make a fruity jelly. All 16 cartons I got sent somehow disappeared just by drinking them straight/with sparkling water and a few cocktails!
It did take longer to set but I am sure it would work with layers- I didn’t turn them out though so might be worth a practise first 🙂
I’ve been wanting to experiment with agar, do you use it often? I’ve seen some recipes for making a mock whipped cream or other pudding like dishes. So cool about the running club!
I have not used it before but my mum has – it would work with other liquids – I fancy trying one with almond milk too
I never would have thought to add some juice to overnight oats for an extra kick! Great idea 🙂