Pages

Tuesday 31 January 2017

BombSquad heads to the Zando Cape Town 10s!



Local rugby team, BombSquad will be heading to Cape Town to participate in the upcoming and hugely popular Zando Cape Town 10s. The event is one of the premier lifestyle and social sport events in South Africa, having recently won the 2016 Discovery Sport Industry Award for "Best Lifestyle Experience".

It is the brainchild of rugby legends Bob Skinstad and Robbie Fleck and long-standing mate Ron Rutland. Founded in 2008, starting off as a rugby only tournament the event has since evolved into a multi-sport event, with the addition of Netball in 2013 and Beach Volleyball in 2016 and now Dodgeball for 2017.



The rugby component of 10s is billed as the biggest ten-a-side rugby tournament in the world, designed for fun but still underpinned by national and international rugby federation rules. The event has, over the years, featured some of the world’s greatest International rugby legends including Jonah Lomu, Carlos Spencer and Christian Cullen, as well as other global sporting stars such as Graeme Smith and Justin Kemp.

2017 will mark the 9th consecutive year of the event. The 2016 Cape Town 10s event had 100 rugby teams, 40 netball teams and 40 volleyball teams, from all over South Africa and abroad, taking part.

The Cape Town 10s is not just about the sporting action, it is also one big jol featuring some of the country’s biggest and most popular music acts as well as hosting Africa’s largest beer tent. Thousands of fans and squads gather from across the globe to play their favourite sports and to experience the vibe of 10s that is underpinned by fun, friendships, sports and a couple of cold ones.

Marcel Pillay, affectionately dubbed "Skelton" after William Skelton - Austalian rugby player, says

"It's overwhelming, but it has been an interesting journey to get ready for this event in terms of on and off field training. Everything has fallen into place and now we're looking forward to the event this week. We're hoping to win our competition while having fun at the same time, meeting old friends and hopefully making some new ones along the way. Cape Town as the host - we couldn't have asked for a better venue! Just be ready because the Bombsquad lads are going to be in town so if you see us running, try and keep up." 
 

Follow their journey online and keep up with some of their sponsors.

Twitter: @BombSquad10s
Facebook: BombSquad Tens

Love,
Yo Homi


Monday 23 January 2017

We can't wait to be Keeping up with the Kandasamys!







The official trailer for the new South African motion picture, KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS, is here!


From the producers of Hard to Get and Happiness is a Four-Letter Word - one of South Africa’s most successful films - comes an all new rib-tickling, two-sided family comedy affair, directed and co-written by Durban filmmaker Jayan Moodley (White Gold), produced by award-winning duo Helena Spring (Academy Award Nominee and Mbokodo-winner) and the late Junaid Ahmed (who sadly passed away in November 2016) and co-writer, Rory Booth.

Set in Chatsworth, KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS opens a window into the lifestyle and subculture of modern-day Indian South Africans; their aspirations, dreams and challenges. “I loved shooting this film on location in Chatsworth. It’s an iconic place, like District Six or Soweto. It’s vibrant, lively and spirited, and I believe we have managed to not only capture its idiosyncrasies but also its heart and soul that will make global audiences fall in love with it too, over a barrel full of laughs,” says director Jayan Moodley about her debut film.

The film stars Jailoshini Naidoo (Eastern Mosaic, Lotus FM) and Maeshni Naicker (Broken Promises) as the matriarchal rivals of neighbouring families, whose young adult children become romantically involved, and despite their best efforts to keep them apart, they are forced to acknowledge that in the end love will always prevail.

Shanti Naidoo (Maeshni Naicker) is a typical Type-A personality. Always on the move, going out of her way to please people, and overcompensating for her perceived inadequacies by continually cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Her life would be just fine, except that her neighbour, Jennifer Kandasamy (Jailoshini Naidoo), always seems to hold the upper hand.
 
When Jennifer realises her beautiful tomboy daughter, Jodi (Mishqah Parthiephal), is in love with Shanti’s son Prishen (Madhushan Singh) – a sensitive medical student, she is determined to break them up. But in order to do that she will have to enlist her rival’s help. “Together the two women scheme and plot, recruit prospective partners and generally interfere with their kids wherever they can,” says producer, Helena Spring.  

Mishqah Parthiephal, who is best-known as Vania in the television soap, Skeem Saam, is thrilled about starring in the film. “When I heard there was an audition for a huge feature film in Durban, I knew that it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss out on. So I drove the six hours from Johannesburg to Durban for the auditions. I was offered the role a few weeks later,” she shares. “I think that KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS is a beautiful story that reflects true Durban Indian culture, I can’t wait for the world to see it.” About playing Jodi, she says: “We are very similar in many ways. She’s a strong young woman who isn’t afraid to tell people around her what’s in her heart. She’s kind and gentle and very loving. We are even similar in the way that we dress. We both live in shorts and sneakers!”

Light-hearted, and entertaining, the story is supported by an array of colourful characters that celebrate the rich and spicy way of life in Durban. Well-known South African theatre actor/playwright/director, Rajesh Gopie, plays Shanti’s husband, Preggie, while comedian Koobeshen Naidoo can be seen as Jennifer’s husband, Elvis. These two characters always remain in the background as they are constantly overshadowed by their dominating wives. Jodi’s friend Marlin (Neil Govender), the local wedding planner, is an epitome of fabulous flamboyancy and Ayah (Mariam Bassa) - Jennifer’s elderly, no-nonsense, ever-critical, mother-in-law - represents that typical granny in most Indian extended families, with funny one-liners and deep insights that are bound to strike a chord with any audience.

This film has something for everyone. The universal story of neighbourhood rivalry, our desperate need for acceptance and the climb for perceived societal success, is something which touches everyone the world over. At the end of the day we can all recognize our quirks and foibles and the funny side of the weird, wonderful and strangely competitive world we live in,” adds Moodley.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS promises audiences some truly funny laughs about families, relationships and neighbourhood-envy. The film was produced in association with M-Net, the DTI and NFVF, with distribution by Ster-Kinekor Entertainment. It features music by Kyle Deutsch and The Parlotones and will be released in cinemas, nationwide, on 3 March 2017.

ABOUT THE MAIN ACTORS
Jailoshini Naidoo (Jennifer Kandasamy)
A versatile multi award-winning South African actress, voiceover artist and comedian who has performed at major arenas all over the country, including The Market Theatre, Baxter Theatre, The Playhouse as well as the Grahamstown and Hilton Arts Festivals. A former presenter on SABC2’s Eastern Mosaic, and continuity presenter on M-Net, Jailoshini currently hosts The Weekend Liftoff, the Saturday morning show on Lotus FM in Durban. She has also starred in the British film The Eastern Bride, the Italian film Karol and popular British series Strike Back 2.

Maeshni Naicker (Shanti Naidoo)
A stage and film actress, voiceover artist, radio personality, comedian, popular Madame Master of Ceremonies and Drama teacher. After completing her Drama studies at University, Maeshni continued to act in stage and film productions, teach drama at schools and later went on to start her own Drama School, The Maeshni Naicker Academy of Drama. She is best-known for her roles in Broken Promises 1, 2, 3, Highway Sheila, 31 Million, The Dance and the internationally acclaimed Florida Road.

Social Media Links:
Twitter: @kandasamysmovie
Instagram: @kandasamysmovie
Hashtag:  #ChatsworthStyle #KandasamysMovie

THE SEARCH FOR GATEWAY’S 2017 AMBASSADORS IS ON…



Gateway launched the search for their 2017 ambassadors at a prestigious media launch on Thursday, 19th January, where they offered guests some insight into what the competition is all about.

The centre is looking for a male and female who represent Gateway’s lifestyle and values in their own lives. They are searching for two people who are social, have great personal style, are outgoing and confident in front of a camera and who love to have fun at Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The centre stated that it’s also important for the chosen ambassadors have a good nature, congenial personality and a respectful way of interacting with others. 

Lisanne Lazarus, current brand ambassador for Gateway, described her experience as one that exceeded her wildest dreams and expectations. “I’ve learnt and matured so much from the people I've met and the opportunities that were afforded to me over this last year. This opportunity comes once in a life time and is almost too good to be true”, said Lazarus. 

Thabiso Thedi, who shares the stage with Lazarus as an ambassador, described his experience as EPIC! “It's been an absolute delight. I got to rub shoulders with some of SA's top celebrities, host red carpet events, shop at all the amazing stores Gateway has & experience the 5 Star Gateway VIP lifestyle.” Thedi further commented that being a Gateway Brand Ambassador has led him to truly explore & experience the three main facets which he believes Gateway has built its foundation on, these being “FASHION, FOOD & PEOPLE .... that's what it's all about.” 

The 2017 Ambassadors will walk away with over R120 000 in prizes from sponsors, some of which include:

  • Vodacom Nxt Lvl
  • Tsogo Sun Garden Court Umhlanga Hotel
  • Beluga,
  • The Hussar Grill,
  • Circus Circus, 
  • RJ’s 
  • John Dorys, 
  • Gerald Wells, 
  • Kryolan, 
  • Nail It, 
  • Ster Kinekor, 
  • Chateaux Gateaux 
  • Auto Spa Express.
Gateway Theatre of Shopping offers an unprecedented 5 Star shopping experience ranging from local to international retail and also boasts one of the largest entertainment offerings under one roof. For more information on the competition, entry process and mechanics, detailed list of prizes terms and conditions visit www.gatewayworld.co.za 

Look out for Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

#GatewayAmbassador @GatewayUmhlanga 

Gateway Theatre of Shopping in LIGHTS!
Beluga catered the event with a selection of delicious canapes, fresh sushi, prawns and cocktails.

2016 Gateway Ambassador's, Lisanne Lazarus and Thabiso Thedi.
Sponsors for the Gateway Brand Ambassador campaign, Gerald Wells from Gerald Wells Hair Professionals, Durban business owners of Kryolan KZN, Aldytha da Silva and Rob da Silva.

Friday 20 January 2017

The Pink Table Project on World Cancer Day



The Pink Table Project on World Cancer Day is a Global Initiative challenging Restaurants Worldwide to host Pink Table Dinner Parties & Cancer Support Fundraisers in aid of a Beneficiary in their country.
On World Cancer Day 2016, South Africa launched phase 1 of The Pink Table Project, which was the largest Pink Table Dinner Party and Cancer Awareness Fundraiser the country had ever seen, with over 80 participating host restaurants, and more than 1 000 eager and generous patrons.

With such an overwhelming success, the project soon surpassed our South African borders, and this coming World Cancer day in 2017, they are able to go global, taking their project to over 20 countries!

The Pink Table Project has partnered with Zomato.com, the leading restaurant guide application, to elevate the project on an International scale.
Their primary focus is #IFoundHealthy, where they aim to prove that not only do most restaurants have Healthier Menu Items available for their patrons, but that Restaurant Chefs can excite us with Healthy Eating options, showing that Healthy can be both Decadent & Delicious. In doing so they want to discover and celebrate the World's Healthiest Menu's with the Launch of a Pink Menu on World Cancer Day.

Join us, ‘Dressed in Pink and Left to Sparkle’, as we Celebrate Good Food in Good Restaurants, being inspired to not only find ways to indulge in healthy living so that we can learn to manage our own Wellness Journey, but to enjoy every second of that experience, all the while supporting global Cancer organizations whose daily task it is to support those who can’t always help themselves.
Our Cancer Support Beneficiary Select in South Africa is the PinkDrive,
Visit them at www.pinkdrive.co.za

To find out more, please visit them at www.thepinktableproject.com/world-cancer-day-event
Join our event page on Facebook @ The Pink Table Project on World Cancer Day 
Join us on FacebookTwitterInstagram

#ThePinkTableProject #IFoundHealthy #WeCanICan #WorldCancerDay

Tuesday 17 January 2017

KINGS & QUEENS OF COMEDY IS BIGGER AND FUNNIER THAN EVER



This February, Durban will erupt in laughter as the biggest comedians from all over South Africa hit the stage for the 2017 kick-off of the world tour of Kings & Queens of Comedy on 11 February at the Durban ICC.

Guaranteed to be a show of hysterical proportions, comedy lovers can look forward to a bigger and funnier stellar line-up. 

Taking to the stage with their comical armour and witty swords are Marc Lottering, Tumi Morake, Loyiso Gola, Celeste Ntuli, Leeanda Reddy, Krijay Govender, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Joey Rasdien, Tol Ass Mo, Khanyisa Bunu and Rory Petzer.  Leading the evening’s proceedings is Durban’s favourite comedian, Darren Maule with a special guest appearance by Morgan Beatbox.

Kings & Queens of Comedy began in 2012 in Johannesburg and has since grown to be one of the leading comedy brands in South Africa, promoting and showcasing local talent from around the country.

Don’t miss out on the laughter – get your tickets today to the funniest show in town.  Tickets range from R185 and are now available through Computicket online and leading outlets.

Date: Saturday, 11 February 2017
Time: 20h00 (doors open at 19h00)
Venue: Durban ICC, 45 Bram Fischer Road, Durban

Another great production brought to you by Blu Blood.


Monday 16 January 2017

Low-Carb Lemon Cheescake Recipe



We were invited for a braai this weekend and I really was torn about attending or not. I've been on a clean eating, low carb eating plan for the last two weeks and honestly, it has been a breeze. I enjoy cooking and preparing healthy meals, and once you mentally prepare yourself - half the battle is won. I decided that I would "wow" my family with a low carb no bake lemon cheesecake and boy, this went down well! Can you say Masterchef in the making!

I was assisted in the kitchen by my sisters which makes this recipe even more special to me. Getting to spend time with these girls, whether chatting over a mani & pedi or getting busy in the kitchen means building friendships and getting creative. Gather the girls and get your aprons on, this recipe is so easy to pull off, you'll wonder where the time went!

TIPS:
  • This recipe calls for low-carb rusks to make the base, which I didn't have on hand. I substituted this with Hope Crunchies (blog post on this delicious product coming soon!). I recommend using digestives or even Tennis biscuits (a household favourite, am I right). 
  • You can make this cheesecake in the morning and allow 2 - 3 hours in the fridge, no bake and no fuss. 
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes (lemon syrup)

INGREDIENTS: For the cheesecake
  • 12 Hope Crunchies (crushed finely) 
  • 50 grams butter
  • 250ml (1 cup) fresh cream 
  • 1 x large lemon (rind and juice required) 
  • 2 tbls xylitol or sugar 
  • 1 x tub creamed smooth plain cottage cheese (I used the Lancewood brand) 
INGREDIENTS:  For the lemon syrup 
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup xylitol or sugar 
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon 
  • A drop of yellow food colouring 
  • Lemon rind for decoration 
METHOD:  

  • Finely crush the Hope Crunchies in a food processor or place the crunchies in a ziplock bag and pound with a rolling pin. 
  • Melt the butter over the stove or in the microwave (approximately 20 seconds) and add this liquid to the Hope Crunchies. Mix and add this mixture to a clear dish, flattening out the biscuit base and making sure there are no spaces. 
  • In a separate bowl, whip the fresh cream until thickened, slowly adding the sugar and lemon juice. Lastly, add the cottage cheese and mix through. Once combined, toss in the rind of the lemon and gently mix. 
  • Spoon the creamy mixture over your biscuit base and flatten with the back of your spoon. 
  • Cover with cling wrap and place your cheesecake in the fridge for 2 - 3 hours. 
  • To prepare the lemon syrup, bring the 1/2 cup water to a boil over the stove, slowly adding the sugar and mix continuously. Add the lemon juice and yellow food colouring once combined and thickened and continue to stir through. Let the syrup stand for a hour, and once cooled completely, spoon over the cheesecake. 
  • Decorate with the lemon rind, a sprig of mint and a raspeberry for a pop of colour. 
  • Serve chilled with a refreshing glass of ice tea!  
Let me know if you would try this recipe out and what you would add to make this an even more indulgent treat for your friends and family!

Love,
Yo Homi

Wednesday 11 January 2017

Restaurant Feature: Cape Town Fish Market


I love sushi. All of it - any time. There's just something so satisfying about a perfectly constructed bite sized California Roll that puts my endorphins into overdrive. I was introduced to sushi through a friend, Rishaad who had spent three glorious weeks in Japan. While there, he discovered a 1 Yen sushi restaurant and I guess you would develop an appetite for raw fish after eating it for 21 days straight. We ordered a platter to share and he took us through the process - why the pickled ginger cleanses the palate, how wasabi is grown over a long period in flowing water and harvested at specific times (which is why authentic wasabi is incredibly expensive), how to hold your chop sticks and what the different types of sushi entail. From nigiri, maki, rolls of every variation and the cream of the crop, sashimi, we grew to love this indulgence. 

Sushi culture in Durban has blossomed over the years, with many restaurants popping up around eThekwini due to the growing demand. I've sampled sushi from many establishments and I keep going back to Cape Town Fish Market for some of the freshest sushi made by very experienced chefs. Cape Town Fish Market in Gateway Theatre of Shopping provides a seafood menu that ranges between starters, main meals, platters, desserts and of course, a fully fledged sushi bar. The cosmopolitan and modern restaurant has a team of dedicated staff to keep diners smiling and offers daily specials - can you say winning! 

Since tomorrow is #TreatYourselfThursday  - in my mind anyway, check out their Thursday specials with discounted sushi platters. We're big on saving, especially in January. 


Where have you had the best sushi in Durban? Comment below and give me some of your recommendations!

Love,
Yo Homi


Tuesday 10 January 2017

So Whipped Cafe - Unicorn Poop Hot Chocolate



So Whipped Cafe, located in Gateway Theatre of Shopping is owned and run by Durban business woman, Candice Courtney. The Cafe is a magical coffee shop located on the Ground Floor, just outside the Wavehouse on the northern side of the super regional shopping centre and offers some of the most delicious cafe lite meals and decadent cakes, cupcakes, eclairs and coffee. The Cafe describes itself as a "happy, creative, carefree space" and that's exactly what you get.

Their latest offering, Unicorn Poop Hot Chocolate, released this year is everything! It's a feast for the eyes and combines the latest Unicorn trend. You've seen this trend all over Pinterest, from unicorn make up tutorials to unicorn hair (colourful hair in beautiful shades of pink, aqua and green), body tattoos and even unicorn macarons!

I can't wait to get my tastebuds into this fun creation and here's hoping it becomes the drink of the year!

Find So Whipped online here: 

Website: www.sowhipped.co.za
Email: events@sowhipped.co.za
Facebook: So Whipped
Instagram: @sowhipped
Twitter: @sowhippedcakes events@sowhipped.co.zaevents


Love,
Yo Homi

Monday 9 January 2017

Raeesah's Butternut Soup Recipe


My sister in law, Raeesah, is a whizz in the kitchen and I could definitely learn a thing or two from her. She passed on this deliciously creamy and wholesome butternut soup recipe to me and it was a winner from the word "chop"!

TIPS: 
  • Save time in the kitchen (and your fingers) by purchasing diced butternut from the supermarket. It does work out marginally more expensive in comparison to buying a whole butternut but the time saved is actually invaluable. 
  • Serve your soup with toppings like sunflower seeds (which pack an extra punch of Vitamin E and are a very good source of copper and Vitamin B), feta and a light dusting of chilli powder for a kick. 
Prep time: 15 minutes 
Cooking time: 40 minutes 

INGREDIENTS: Yields 4 - 5 bowls 
  • A knob of butter 
  • 1 large white onion 
  • 1  small butternut chopped or 1 punnet of  chopped butternut 
  • l litre (4 cups) Ina Paarman vegetable stock 
  • 125 ml fresh cream (optional)
METHOD: 
  • Melt the knob of butter in a heavy based pot over medium heat ensuring that the butter doesn't burn. 
  • Add the chopped onion to the pot and let sweat until translucent in colour. 
  • Throw in the butternut pieces and cover with 500 ml vegetable stock. I used Ina Paarman's Vegetable Stock in this recipe which is full of flavour and great quality too! 
  • Simmer on medium heat until cooked through and the butternut is soft to the touch. This should take approximately 30 minutes. 
  • Using a hand blender, puree the soup until it reaches a silky smooth texture. If you find the soup to be too thick, add water slowly to rectify.
  • Add the fresh cream to the soup and bring to a simmer. 
  • Adjust seasoning here by adding a crack of pepper or if you prefer, a tablespoon of sugar. 
  • Serve soup in bowls and garnish with feta, sunflower seeds, chilli powder or a sprig of thyme. 
Let me know if you would try this recipe out or what you would add to make this comfort meal even more indulgent. Comment below and let's get chatting!

Love,
Yo Homi

Monday morning inspiration


Sunday 8 January 2017

Beauty Review: Vaseline


Let's just say I'm really not what you would call "high maintenance". In fact, give me the simplest route to perfect skin and I will probably fall hook, line and sinker. I saw the adverts for the new Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser online and in-store and it immediately piqued my interest. A moisturizer in a spray? Like a deodorant for your legs? HELLO!

The product claims to moisturize and absorb into the skin in seconds while restoring dry skin. It's also non-greasy and includes micro droplets of Vaseline jelly. It's a continuous spray where you hold the product 10 cm's away from your skin and spray all over your body in a continous motion. The three varients of the product is Aloe Soothe (featured above), Cocoa Radiant and Essential Healing (cream in colour). Sounds cool, right?

I was impressed with how light the texture of the product is on my skin. It's hydrating without leaving white residue all over my legs and arms, which I love. It was quick to apply, which is great if you're in a rush in the morning (like we all are).

I picked this up at Clicks this weekend and it's currently on promotion until the 23 January 2017 (selected stores only) where you receive 30% off and pay only R59.95! Try it out and let me know what you think - pretty certain this is going to be your go to beauty product for 2017!

Love,
Yo Homi  

Friday 6 January 2017

5 ways to get the most out of your weekend



The weekend is here. You've been anticipating the slow ticking of Monday through to Thursday and before you know it, it's the WEEKEND! Like most people, you probably have this soul encapsulating "sigh" escape your lips at approximately 5pm on Sunday and if that doesn't fill you with dread, I don't know what does.

Turn that frown upside down and let me give you 5 ideas to get the most out of your weekend!
  1. Plan ahead: Weekends tend to be the dumping ground of what I like to call "Life Admin". This is stuff like going to Woolworths to pay your installment or getting the car washed. Life's too short, ain't nobody got time for that. The malls are generally quieter in the morning, so wake up early and get in there before the crowds gather. Resist the temptation to browse and head to the stores you need to, mapping our a route for yourself. Once this is behind you, you have all the time in the world for FUN stuff.
  2. Do your research: There are loads of local weekly and monthly markets that take place in Durban and surrounds. I love getting excited about a favourite local retailer popping up at one of these markets - from handmade onesies to food indulgences - there's something local for everyone. 
  3. Explore the city: Exploration needn't cost you, especially if you're on a budget. Visiting local tourist spots can be fun, and show you a different perspective of your city. Take a walking tour of the Durban CBD, checking out famous historical sites and tasting the local food - from grilled mielies on the side walk to a good old fashioned steak sandwich or bunny chow to share. 
  4. Catch some waves: Durban prides itself on great weather all year round, even in winter. Take advantage and head to one of the many beaches on the coast. From Ballito, Umhlanga, Glenashley and North Beach you'll find fun and great food along the way. 
  5. Make time for family: Life get's you busy and stressed so what better way to unwind than with family. Plan a no-fuss braai or bring and share and don't sweat the small stuff. Bust out the Monopoly or Uno and the winner gets to host the next braai at their place. 
Wishing you a chilled weekend, lovelies. 

Love, 
Yo Homi

Wednesday 4 January 2017

Popeye Spinach & Feta Muffins




Easy as 1, 2, 3 - I've found the easiest recipe for what I've named "Popeye Spinach & Feta Muffins". You could probably convince yourself this is healthy, seeing as it includes spinach and honestly, whatever soothes your soul. All I know, this is a quick and filling comfort food that is perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a mid-afternoon savoury snack with a cappuccino.

TIPS: 
  • Using fresh spinach is advisable rather than frozen spinach. 
  • Make sure your oven is preheated and your muffin pan has been greased well. I used Spray & Cook rather than muffin holders, simply because I usually don't have any on hand! 
  • The recipe is adaptable so feel free to add peppadews, pitted black olives, a variety of cheese toppings and cherry tomatoes. 
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes 

INGREDIENTS: Yields 12 muffins
  • 2 cups white flour (sifted)
  • 2 tsp Royal baking powder
  • 1 tsp fine salt 
  • 1 cup whole milk 
  • 1/2 cup oil 
  • 2 fresh eggs 
  • 2 feta rounds (I prefer Clover feta, plain)
  • 2 cups spinach finely chopped 
METHOD: 
  •  Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
  • Grease muffin pan with Spray & Cook or line with paper holders.
  • In a deep bowl, add sifted white flour, baking powder and salt. 
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, oil, eggs until smooth and combined. 
  • Add chopped spinach and cubed feta to the liquid in ingredients and lightly mix together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and lightly combine. Do not over work this mixture. 
  • Spoon mixture into the muffin pan, bearing in mind that the muffins will rise during the baking process. Ensure that each spoonful has enough feta and add more to the topping if required. 
  • Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and a skewer is inserted to come off non sticky. 
  • Remove from oven when done and let cool on a wire rack. 
 I usually slice these in halves, smother in rich butter and nibble in front of the TV watching Masterchef Australia because what else? Super fancy!

Let me know if you've tried this and what you would add to make it even more fabulous and indulgent!

Love, 
Yo Homi.

Monday 2 January 2017

Beauty Review: Himalaya Herbals


Here's the lowdown: 6 months ago I decided to throw out all my skin care products and start fresh. My skin looked tired and I experienced break outs fairly often. I decided I needed to go back to basics and try a natural, herbal solution to my skin issues. I was recommended to try out the Himalaya Herbals range and I haven't looked back since.


The brand suits my Indian skin type, and I have combination skin. Himalaya covers everything from skin care, hair care and even baby care with a gentle baby skin care range (cool, right?). So far, I've dipped into the following:

  • Gentle exfoliating Apricot scrub (R70.00): I use this twice a week to exfoliate my skin. I wear make up on most days and although I keep it light, having a scrub twice a week keeps my pores clear, eliminating break outs. The scrub is lightly scented and non abrasive - no redness after use which is a huge bonus. 
  • Almond and cucumber peel off mask (R70.00): I usually treat myself to a peel off mask once a week on a Sunday evening. Start the week off with revived skin by slathering my face with this deliciously thick and creamy mask. I suggest using a brush to apply the product evenly on your skin and letting it dry for approximately 15 minutes. Once dry, peel off gently and rinse with warm water. You instantly see the difference with a brighter skin tone and a noticeable glow. 
  • Himalaya Protein Hair Cream (R46.00): I was a little sceptical to try this, believing it would leave my hair greasy and heavy. The product has a thick, whipped texture and contains key ingredients like amla, liquorice and lotus. Application is simple - wash and condition as normal and towel dry your hair. Once done, apply a little of the product to you hair and blowdry. I found my hair to be softer after use with lots of shine - the hair cream packs a punch in my weekly beauty routine.
Thoroughly impressed with the current holistic range, the products are reasonably (if not under) priced and can be found in major retailers like Clicks and Dischem. I've uncovered two standalone stores in Durban, one in Pick n Pay Hyper by the Sea and the other in Phoenix Plaza, Phoenix.You can also purchase online via the Himalaya Herbals website: www.himalayaherbals.co.za

Pick a product and give it a go, you won't be disappointed. 

Love, 
Yo Homi.