Making something out of nothing

Whilst sorting out the Lounge yesterday I came across several bits of equipment that had got put in there when a room was cleared out for some remedial works.  Amongst these bits and bobs was a pancake/griddle pan which has since been moved to the kitchen.  Needless to say it has been put into service.

Last night, whilst watching the TV I got the munchies and as I was going downstairs for a cup of tea in any event, I decided to set too and made a batter mix up with an egg, some flour and some dried milk powder and water.  I did not put any sugar in. This was the basis for some "Scotch" pancakes to have with some butter and maybe using some of my homemade Blackberry jam.  I had thought OH would have some, but he was not particularly hungry he did have a couple spread with a little butter in the end though.  They did the job and went down very nicely, served a purpose and were cheap and quick to make.  Sorry I forgot to take some photos, however they were scrummy!

Like everyone else pennies are tight at the moment.  OH had taken the dog for a walk and had popped into our other Co-Op to pick up a few things and came back with some Rib Eye  steaks.  I think the expectation was that I would make chips and probably put an egg with it (his usual way of having steak); however there are two people in this household and I just could not fancy it!  

I therefore proposed that I should make a meal out of it.  A slightly different way of serving steak but there we are, I am all for a good meal at the end of the day and if it works for us then that is all that matters.  The steak was cooked rare on a griddle pan and then left to rest in the residual warmth of the oven from roasting my Leeks . 

I then finished off with the onion gravy for which I had utilised the meat juices and veggie juices from the three tier steamer. I had cooked potatoes, carrots, broccoli, peas.  I had also caramelised some Leeks and served them as a side as well. The potatoes were mashed. Making a proper warming meal out of nothing.  You can do the same with Beef Burgers and gravy as well.  Something that my Mum used to do. Therefore a healthy substantial meal that will do more good with the veggies at the end of the day.

We then finished off with a "Crustless" Egg custard (just the filling cooked in a bowl in the oven until set.  Nice and light and just the finishing touch for a good meal.

I have not been back in the Lounge today.  It has been a very cold day here (well I think it has and I think my fingers turning blue are indicative of that). Heating is on as well.

This evening, I intend to sit and tackle my knitting again.  I did start knitting last night but I went wrong, after knitting a few inches before realising, so down it came as I was not happy with the cast on in any event.  I also knew that if I were to continue with it last night that I would end up going wrong again so left it for some space between me and it to give me a breather, re-group and have another go.  I hope this evening goes better than last night did.

It is bitterly cold here again at the moment.

Keep warm and safe wherever you are.

Catch you soon.

Pattypan

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