Jams- Bottled goodness *

There's something so soothing about watching ripe, bold strawberries, plums or even peaches simmer away in a pan! Although not someone with a big sweet tooth, the idea of creating this wonderful concoction of fruit and spice makes my heart skip a beat! Yes, I use spicy, I use booze and I use herbs in my jams! And you don't need a detailed recipe or top notch utensils to make it. Simply pop the fruits of your choice, a little pieces of whole spices (I love using cardamom, cinnamon and pepper, but you can go crazy with cloves or even star anise for that matter), add some sugar (avoid if using very ripe/sweet fruits) and simmer. The time depends on the consistency. Prefer it with whipped cream or ice cream topping? Allow it to be slightly thin. However, if you're looking for something closer to a compote to be used on waffles or apple pies or just as a spread with a piece of toasted baguette, simmer till it turns into this thick, gorgeous, sweet mess! What follows is ooo's and aahh's and chattering and laughing :)
You're welcome!

Lunchtime scenes..

Lunchtime is an awaited affair! Everything from endless morning meetings to hectic afternoon schedules seem to come to a pause when people break for lunch! To me, it is a blessing. Winding away from the hustle-bustle of the busy office, it gives you the much needed sanity to go on for the rest of the day.
My lunchbox today showed hues of yellow and orange, something that looked even more appetising in the rays of the mellow afternoon sun. Creamy yet crispy chicken cutlets, cool cucumber slices and soft rotis accompanied the cabbage and dal preparation. A helping of the colleagues mango ice-cream was just enough to complete the meal and send me into a food coma!
And now I can't wait for dinner!