Some Yummy Soup

Tomato and Vegetable Soup

It’s the season where it’s so cold out that all you want to do when you get home from work is fall into a nice cosy couch or your lovely warm bed. I find when winter comes in my energy levels plummet to very low levels. It’s hard for me to do much of anything. But the one thing I love to do in winter is make soup. I love to experiment and rarely use a recipe. Maybe it’s me being lazy in my cooking or maybe it’s just I love to see how it turns out. It hasn’t turned out bad too often maybe only one or two times which is lucky I guess.

The one soup I tend to go back to is veg soup and I like to put passata into it as it’s so good for you and no fat what so ever. I’ve been trying to watch my weight that’s why I’ve been staying away from blogging and baking but  I gave myself a little giving out to and said this doesn’t have to be full of sinned stuff its can have some yummy healthy things as well.

So anyway I love to make this soup as in slimming world its sin free and you can eat as much of it as you like. As I said early on I don’t use a recipe so when you’re making this feel free to add whatever veg you might like or whatever spices as well it can rarely go wrong on you.

I make a big pot and either freeze in little lunch boxes or put in my fridge for lunch each day. This soup lasts about a week in the fridge but if you think you may not use it all in one week I would advise freezing so that it doesn’t go off and you don’t have to throw it away.

Ingredients

4 Big Carrots

2 Parsnips

4 Sticks of Celery (more if you like)

One Large Onion

4 Medium Potatoes

3 or 4 Cloves of Garlic

½ Teaspoon of Chilli

1 Teaspoon of Basil

1 Teaspoon of Oregano

(Add more herbs if you like it all depends on what you like taste wise)

400g Passata

1 tablespoon of Tomato Puree

Stock (whatever stock takes your fancy bar fish)

I use Knorr Stick pots

Peel and prepare your veg and get yourself a big pot. Fry your onions and garlic and chilli in a little low fat spray. Once this is done very lightly, then add your veg and potatoes. While this is being done boil a kettle full of water. When this has boiled add the full kettle of water into you pot of veg. Boil your veg in this water until they have softened up.

Once your veg is softened add your stock I use the veg stock pots but sometimes it’s nice to use a beef one and its tastes great it really just depends on your taste. I use one pot but its depends on how much soup your making and how you want your soup to taste. I add the flavour through herbs and pepper.

When you add your stock pot, let it simmer for 10 minutes. Then add your tomato puree and passata and herbs salt and pepper. I like to add a lot of pepper and only a little salt. Let this simmer for another 20 minutes and its ready to eat or freeze. It really is as easy as all that.

My boyfriend is not a great lover of lumps in his soup so I compromise and puree it, only leaving a few little lumps here and there. But it really depends on what your family like and how you like to eat it. 

Let me know what you would add in your veg soup!

Enjoy Eleanor

Once By Anna Carey.

Title: Once (Eve #2)
Author: Anna Carey
Published: July 2012

Goodreads:

In the second book of this thrilling dystopian adventure, Eve will come face to face with the king who has been ruthlessly hunting her and learn the shocking truth about who she really is.

Having managed to evade the soldiers hunting her, Eve finally reached Califia, a haven for women determined to live outside the oppressive rule of the King of New America. However, Eve's freedom came at a price: she was forced to leave Caleb, the boy she loves, wounded and alone at the city gates. When Eve learns that Califia may not be as safe as it seems she sets out once again in the hopes of being with Caleb only to fall into a trap that sends her to the City of Sand and directly into the hands of the King.

Once at the stronghold of the King, Eve will uncover the real reason he was so intent on her capture, and the unbelievable role he intends her to fill. When she is finally reunited with Caleb inside the city walls, Eve will risk everything to be with him.

　

 

My Thoughts:

Warning: there might be some spoilers in this review.

When I finished Eve (The first book in this series) I was flabbergasted and when I was reading Once I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to follow Eve on her journey and see where she would end up. This book ended in such a cliff hanger that I don’t know how I’m going to wait to read Raise The finale to the series.

　

The exact moment we left Eve in the first novel opens up Once. She’s lost and pretty much alone, her friends far off and possibly dead. Eve can only imagine the state of Caleb’s leg and Arden’s whereabouts. Finally at Califia, Eve questions everything she once strived for. Her life is turned upside down when she slams into fate and finds what it really means to feel alone amongst people. Journeying from all she thought she wanted, Eve experiences pain on the highest emotional level.

 

Eve deals with everything is so well and never gives up searching for her friends and Caleb. And when faith hands Caleb to her and you think everything will work out for them, Anna Carey drops another bomb shell. This book ended in such a way that I’m so excited for Raise the last book in the series to come out.

City Of Lost Souls By Cassandra Clare

City of lost Souls by Cassandra Clare

Well Im sad to say I had a brilliant review of this written up and Then My memory stick decides to up and die on me. Probably my own fault for only keeping one copy, However I decided I needed to go and write another one. This is the fifth book in The Mortal Instruments books and it took me back to the first few books. The 4^th book wasnt what #I expected it to be and was a little disappointed in it. But when I got my hands on the 5^th book I dived right into it and Im so happy I did. Cassandra Clare is back on form and I loved it.

I'll try keep this to a minimum and not give too much away, however if you havent read the first four books please dont read any further!

What they say:
The demon Lilith has been destroyed and Jace has been freed from her captivity. But when the Shadowhunters arrive to rescue him, they find only blood and broken glass. Not only is the boy Clary loves missingbut so is the boy she hates, Sebastian, the son of her father Valentine: a son determined to succeed where their father failed, and bring the Shadowhunters to their knees.

No magic the Clave can summon can locate either boy, but Jace cannot stay awaynot from Clary. When they meet again Clary discovers the horror Liliths dying magic has wroughtJace is no longer the boy she loved. He and Sebastian are now bound to each other, and Jace has become what he most feared: a true servant of Valentines evil. The Clave is determined to destroy Sebastian, but there is no way to harm one boy without destroying the other. Will the Shadowhunters hesitate to kill one of their own?

Only a small band of Clary and Jaces friends and family believe that Jace can still be saved and that the fate of the Shadowhunters future may hinge on that salvation. They must defy the Clave and strike out on their own. Alec, Magnus, Simon and Isabelle must work together to save Jace: bargaining with the sinister Faerie Queen, contemplating deals with demons, and turning at last to the Iron Sisters, the reclusive and merciless weapons makers for the Shadowhunters, who tell them that no weapon on this earth can sever the bond between Sebastian and Jace. Their only chance of cutting Jace free is to challenge Heaven and Hell a risk that could claim any, or all, of their lives.

And they must do it without Clary. For Clary has gone into the heart of darkness, to play a dangerous game utterly alone. The price of losing the game is not just her own life, but Jaces soul. Shes willing to do anything for Jace, but can she even still trust him? Or is he truly lost? What price is too high to pay, even for love?
Darkness threatens to claim the Shadowhunters in the harrowing fifth book of the Mortal Instruments series.

Oh, by the angel!

My Review:

City of Lost Souls starts two weeks after City of Fallen Angels ended. They are all looking for Jace and it a little heartbreaking. The clave start the search for them but still get no result, so they de-prioritize the search. Clary and her friends decide to take matters into their own hands.

Then we find out that Jace has not in fact been kidnapped. Things are much, much, worse. Sebastian binds Jace to him. What Sebastian feels and thinks Jace feels and thinks. However whereas Sebastian can control Jaces actions and emotions, this factor is not vice versa. Whatever physical damage happens to Jace, also affects Sebastian, the only good thing to come out of this horrible connection.

Clary was still her ever-fearless and reckless self, trying to save Jace from the evil clutches of Sebastian. But at times I was wondering was she living in a dream world instead of trying to find a way to help Jace.

The thing I loved most about this book was that it went into the relationships of the other Characters in the book and I found this so interesting. Simon is still very nerdy and very sarcastic. He deals with his problems in his own way. Isabelle, on the other hand, was a lot more admirable in this book than she had been previously. She lets her walls down and I enjoyed it. Perhaps Simon draws out the better side of her. I enjoyed the growing romance between the two of them, and, as always, Simon kept things thoroughly entertaining. Maia and Jordan, were two characters I grew to warm towards in this book after having very little opinion of them previously. It was interesting to understand them better when the story shifted to their perspective.

I was always enjoyed Alecs character but he annoyed me to no end in this book and you just wanted to shake him and tell him to wake the hell up!

The plot, as expected in a Mortal Instruments book, was full of surprises and twists, and nothing short of brilliant. And it didnt disappoint me at all. By the time I got to the end I was wanting more. The wait for the next book in the instalment will be torture but at least we will have clockwork princess out early next year YAY!

Book Review: Partials by Dan Wells

Hi all, so sorry its been awhile but life got in the way as its does now and again. I've decided my first post in awhile is going to be a book review. Its my first book review, I do these reviews for  a work blog so weasn't sure how to do them here aswell and then I just thought I write them I might aswell post them here too ;)

Partials by Dan Wells

Dan Wells is An American horror and Science fiction Writer. He Published his first book when he was 22 and he live in Utah. Partials is his 5th book and he has also published many short stories.
Release date: February 2012

The Plot..

The year is 2076, and the world has been decimated after the Partials, genetically engineered super soldiers, rebelled against their human creators. Having replaced the world’s armies, humans were unable to defend themselves when the Partials launched their attacks. It was a biological weapon, a deadly virus known as RM, that managed to wipe out 99.9% of the world’s human population. The Partials retreated after the RM plague and haven’t been seen for eleven years, but now the human race is on the verge of extinction as every newborn in the survivor settlement of East Meadow on Long Island succumbs to the virus.

The survivors themselves are inexplicably immune to RM, but the inability to produce new generations threatens to put the final nail in the coffin that was humanity. In response to this overwhelming problem, the government of East Meadow created the Hope Act: a law that requires all women age 18 and over to be pregnant at all times.

Sixteen-year-old Kira Walker was only five when RM was released, but she still remembers a time before every infant died within hours of birth. Kira works as a medic in East Meadow hospital’s maternity unit. Everyday she helps her fellow scientists try to discover a cure for RM by studying the newborns before they quickly die. When her best friend Madison becomes pregnant, however, Kira is determined that her baby will live. Convinced that the answer to curing RM lies in the physiology of the Partials, all of whom are immune to the virus, Kira sets out for the deserted island of Manhattan with one mission: to bring a live Partial back to East Meadow and find a cure.

My Thoughts on the whole thing...

When I first picked up this book it was because I had been seeing its cover on my many blogs and a lot of bloggers where saying that this was the next best thing. I wasn't convinced and decided the best course of action was to read it myself. I was a bit worried that this book would be irritatingly similar to other dystopian books out there at the moment, but was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't like that at all. Although it definitely had some concepts from other popular books, TV shows or movies, the overlap didn’t bother me. In fact, I found the author’s take to be fresh and interesting.

One of my favourite things about this novel was the fact that it had a strong, intelligent female protagonist, Kira. Not only is she described as beautiful, she is also very smart, explaining the science of her research to us readers and giving teen girl’s a positive role model. She is proud of her knowledge and uses it for a purpose she believes in.

I’m looking forward to seeing how Kira develops in the following installments, and can’t wait to read Fragments when it’s released in 2013

A Review...

Continuing the dystopian craze that seems to have taken over young adult literature is Dan Wells’ Partials, the exciting and well-written first installment in a new post-apocalyptic series for teens. A cross between Lauren DeStefano’s Chemical Garden trilogy, Battlestar Galactica and Terminator, some common ideas (i.e. the revolting robot/machine, world-ending plague, totalitarian government, etc.) get a fresh and interesting take in this novel.

From the beginning, it is clear that the Partials, the human race’s enemy number one, are going to have a role in curing the deadly RM virus. Unraveling exactly what that role will be is one of the most intriguing parts of the story. The author does an excellent job of creating an action packed plot, making Partials an ideal recommendation for male readers who want something exciting. Teen girls will also find a lot to identify with in Kira, the smart and dedicated scientist who is determined to save the life of her best friend’s unborn baby.

Unlike other dystopian novels, and young adult novels in general, the romantic part of the novel takes a bit of a backseat to the rest of the story. Readers might pick up on a potential future love triangle, but the book isn’t particularly lovey-dovey, adding to its male appeal. Overall, Partials is an enjoyable and interesting beginning to a series with lots of potential. The sequel, Fragments, is set to be released in 2013

If you liked this, you might like..

Eve by Anna Carey, The Pledge by Kimberly Derting, The Chemical Garden trilogy by Lauren DeStefano, The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch, Legend by Marie Lu, Cinder by Marissa Meyer, Divergent by Veronica Roth.

Bronze the World…

Bronze the World…

When I think of Bronzer Sunsets pop into my head!

I’m going to admit I wasn’t always a fan of bronzer. I know what you’re thinking "what is this girl on!" Well it was just because I’m very worried about make up lines and Blending took far too long in the morning on the way to work. But my world changed a few years ago, maybe 3 who can tell at this point my mind is slowly going ;)

Anyway a few years back I discovered Dallas. Not Dallas Texas but Dallas Benefit Bronzer. I fell in love and with time I started trying new ones although I do tend to go back to Dallas ;)

It gives me such a warm and sun-kissed glow on my cheeks and I look like I've been back from a great vacation on the beach! Dallas is expensive but if used right will last you up to a year. A great investment I think.

Some of the other bronzers I’ve tried and tested and loved are One hot Minute also by Benefit. I loved the glow and shine effect and it went on smooth and lovely on my cheeks. I generally would only apply it once in the morning and not have to reapply it again all day which I love in a product. There is one small draw back to this product and that the tin. It can go everywhere if you’re not careful. Turn it the wrong way and open it and the powder can go all over your clothes or work tops. I’m very careful when opening mine and what I do is put a little on a tissue and then dip my brush into the tissue and it works perfect for me.

Gosh Giant Sun Poweder Bronzing - for fresh tanned look all year round. Give your skin exactly the kind of candor, after what you want. You can apply to entire face, or to refresh their cheeks. I have to say I felt this was a little dark until I got a little tan then it was ok. But for €19.99 I don’t it’s worth it when you might use it a few times year. I gave it to a friend who is a lot darker then me and she loves it.

I'm always on the look out for new and exciting Bronzer tell me what your Favourite one is?



Molten Mess

Hey all, Meet my brother's new puppy, Mini. She is 12 weeks old and she is driving my mother insane haha thank god i'm not living at home! My Mam got her for my baby brother, When I say "baby" I mean he's 19 but the baby of the family haha

Mini is a Dalmatian and she's getting bigger by the day and her spots are coming out more and more every day aswell. She's a cutie!

This afternoon I was in a Chocolate mood. I decided a Chocolate Mess was in order, I mean A Molten Mess. So easy, So yummy, so do it ;)

Molten Mess 

1 1/2 cups of Flour

1 1/2 Cups of Sugar

3/4 Cocoa Powder (sifted)

1 1/2 Teaspoon of Baking Powder

1 Teaspoon of Salt

1 Cup of Milk

8 Tablespoons of Butter

2 Large Eggs

1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract

3 Cups of Marshmallows

Topping

1/4 cup Cream

1/4 cup of Light Corn Syrup

1/2 Cup of Milk Chocolate (Chopped)

1/2 Cup of Shredded Coconut

Preheat oven 350 degress f. 

Make sure to spray your tin with low fat cooking spray.

Use Good Cocoa Powder.

Mix Flour, Sugar, Cocoa Powder, Baking Powder and Salt.

Mix them well together in a Medium to Large Bowl.

Melt Butter and Add Milk, Eggs and Vanilla and whisk together very well.

When its Whisked together, Pour into the Flour mix and and mix together well without beating the mixture!

Then pour into your tin.

Put into your Pre heated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, You will know its cooked when you pierce it and it comes out clean.

While the cakes is baking, You can make your topping.

In a medium Saucepan combine the cream, Corn Syrup and Chocolate. Stir over medium heat until Chocolate is melted.  

When the cake is done pop the Marshmallows over the top and put back into the oven until the marshmallows have melted.

When you take it out of the over use a knife that's been dipped into a hot water to spread the marshmallows.

Then pour the Chocolate Topping over the top and then sprinkle the coconut over the top.

When the Molten Mess has cooled down cut it into whatever shape you would like.

Best eaten slightly warm and just pre-warning you its very sticky!

Hope you all enjoy ;)

Elle

Colour Me Summer

Hello my lovelies, What a few weeks we've had in Ireland, its been Fantastic weather and people are looking a lot healthier and happier. Myself included, I've got a nice glow going on. The smell of BBQ's in the air and the sticky feeling and melting Ice Cream on your fingers. The smell of Sun Cream hangs in the air with the smell of cut grass, Yes Summer is my favourite season with Autumn coming a very near second.

While on my Lunch break on Saturday I sat outside with my salad and my book (I've just started "Fifty Shades Freed") I did a little people watching. All the Summer clothes are out in full swing and the colours are bright and in your face summer. Pinks, oranges and yellows. My Favourite I must say is Tangerine Orange Oh Lord its divine and so Summery makes you feel that holiday feeling!

I went and may a few purchases the last few weeks. A divine orange eye liner, from MUA and bargain at €1.25. I love that this eyeliner has a Sharpener on the lid its fab and so handy. I would use this eye liner with a black eye shadow and blind the two together giving a lovely Smokey orange look.

I also went and got the Revlon lip butter. I went and got the Tutti Frutti shade and once i used it a few times I went and got another few. They are divine and really feel lovely on your lips. The colour is nice and vibrant and lasts a good long time. Although I do reapply a few times a day as I drink a lot of water. Its tends to come of a little more then it usually would. I love this Lip Butter. This Revlon lip butter cost me around €8 in superdrug but I think the full price is €11.80. I think it really depends where you buy it. I would totally recommend this Lip butter LipStick.

And last but certainly not least The Barry M Lip Lacquers. They are FAB!

I bought the Party Pink Colour, The reason I went for a pink one was i was thinking I was buying to many orange and I needed to stray away, And I'm so glad i did The Party Pink was fab and I got so many complaints when I went out that night with it on.

 

I think next time I will get Mandarin  and Cherry Red ;)

Well enjoy The Sun while we have it ;)

Elle

Fishy Chunky Chowder

The last few weeks I've been craving Chowder, I really don't know why. Maybe because the weather we've been getting of late has not been great. Although today seemed to be a turn around. So anyway last week I went looking for a good Chowder Recipe and I couldn't really find any that really popped out of the page. None that looked yummy. So I took a few different things from a few different recipes and put them together. And the end result was amazing haha well I think it was anyhow ;)

So because I didn't really use a recipe I didn't really measure anything. But you know what sometimes winging it makes things taste a lot better, Means that its tastes your way! 

Chunky Chowder

2 Onions

A tin of sweet corn or a couple of handfuls of frozen sweet corn

2 Garlic cloves

4 or 5 Potatoes

1 Lt of chicken and veg stock together

250 ml cream

a couple of Rashers or bacon bits

100g prawns

250g cod - or any kind of fish you like

Paprika

Cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper

Sage

Thyme

A little butter

Put a little oil into a deep pan or a saucepan Fry up the onions, Garlic and bacon until soft.

Add the potatoes (cut into cubs) and a little butter and sweet corn. stir so that butter is coating all ingredients.

Add the stock, and add Paprika, cayenne pepper, sage and thyme. Also add salt and pepper to taste. Let boil until you can put a fork through the potatoes. stirring while its cooks as when you add the fish you shouldn't stir it to much.

Then add the fish and cook for about 10 minutes or until fish is cooked.

When done add cream and leave simmer for a couple of minutes.

 I hope you all enjoy this Chunky Chowder ;)

Elle