Nature writer Koos Dijksterhuis describes clearing brambles from his garden, which revealed hidden structures like trees, a bench, and a shed. He notes that while some brambles thrive on nutrient-rich soil, others like the cow bramble are rare and prefer calcareous ground. Dijksterhuis observes that brambles have become more common, often left unharvested due to fears of fox tapeworm, though he finds many rotting fruits unused by birds who prefer other berries. Chickens and humans enjoy eating the brambles, which serve as effective natural fencing.
Culinary explorer Judith Cyrus shares a recipe for broccoli with cashew nut butter and noodles, inspired by Asako Yuzuki’s book Butter. The article explains how clarified butter withstands high heat better than regular butter, making it ideal for cooking. Cyrus provides instructions for clarifying butter at home and details the preparation of the dish, which combines blanched broccoli, noodles, fried cashews, and aromatics seasoned with sesame oil and chili oil.
Culinary writer Joke Boon, who has suffered from anosmia since age four, shares a recipe for a crispy vegetarian loaf made from kidney beans, oats, and peanuts. The dish is wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden, and named "crispy minced meat fantasy" by her guests to avoid confusion with traditional meat products or snack bar items.
A Keuringsdienst van waarde episode investigated semi-skimmed products, revealing that half-fat butter contains up to 59% water compared to real butter's 16%. Dairy expert Klaas de Lange called the labeling misleading, noting consumers pay similar prices for mostly water. Chef Alain Caron failed to distinguish full-fat from semi-skimmed mayonnaise and butter in a blind test, admitting he had been deceived by the industry.
Elections are taking place in the German states of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Berlin, while the Dam to Dam Run between Amsterdam and Zaandam celebrates its 40th anniversary. Ed Sheeran apologized for excluding Macklemore from his tour after the rapper called for "Free Palestine," describing the situation in Gaza as catastrophic. Additionally, archaeologist Merit Hondelink found that potatoes only recently became a staple in Dutch diets, contrary to popular belief.
Michelin stars will be awarded in two weeks, and reviewer Annemart van Rhee believes Soenil Bahadoer’s two-star restaurant GEM deserves an additional star. She praises the refined flavors and atmosphere, noting that while the high prices require spending money, this is typical for starred establishments.
Jacqueline Meeuwsen and Harm Roestenberg exchanged vows on Saturday morning at platform 1 of Den Bosch station aboard the 'Karel Rail' train. The ceremony was officiated by Dennis Munninghoff, founder of Rockpodium, while choirs The Rockit and Metallikoor performed. After the wedding, the couple and guests traveled to Arnhem, Amsterdam, Gouda, and Utrecht before returning to Den Bosch for The Rockit's fifteenth anniversary celebration.
Leon Mazairac is leaving Utrecht, ending his tenure as a key figure in the city's culinary scene. Although he earned a Michelin star for Karel V and frequently appeared on television, experts argue that Utrecht’s gastronomy remains vibrant with diverse options ranging from sandwich shops to new restaurants.
Rendang is a traditional Sumatran dish featuring buttery beef in a thick, syrup-colored reduced sauce. Three chefs discuss this classic of Indonesian cuisine.
The extremely hot summer did not harm the round courgettes in Janneke Vreugdenhil's garden, with some growing as large as footballs. A recipe for stuffed examples, whether round or elongated, is provided.
Hassnae Bouazza questioned whether two Dutch chefs could successfully manage Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, but their modern dishes prove they have mastered the culinary language of Greece. The menu features beautiful contemporary recipes, with an orange cake serving as a standout highlight.
Archeobotanist Merit Hondelink’s research into waste pits shows that early modern Dutch diets were varied and flavorful, contrary to historical menus suggesting monotony. Her analysis of plant remains reveals consumption of fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats, indicating locals ate seasonally and locally without significant nutritional deficiencies.
American children's entertainer Ms. Rachel has donated $1 million to aid Palestinian children, following rapper Macklemore's example of pledging the same amount to relief organizations a day earlier.
Cookbook author Bas Robben presents a recipe for comfort garlic soup featuring roasted chestnut mushrooms, shiitakes, and hazelnuts. The dish emphasizes the effort of preparation, combining homemade broth with mascarpone to provide genuine consolation, contrasting it with quick processed alternatives.
The New Kids return with the film 'Carnaval', premiering on November 11, featuring Huub Smit and Tim Haars. Farmers Defence Force leader Mark van den Oever warned members to empty their phones due to expected raids, a post later deleted after legal concerns. In Breda, Kevin H. faces a nine-year sentence for drug-related kidnappings. A TU/e student was arrested for Nazi salutes and racist messages. Finally, a man in Vught remains hospitalized after falling nine meters while cutting trees attacked by Asian hornets.
Seaweed varieties such as sea spaghetti, nori, and Irish moss are gaining popularity in the Netherlands due to their health benefits, taste, and sustainability. The article highlights that seaweed serves as an all-rounder ingredient in the kitchen. It explores the different types available and provides guidance on which specific variety is best suited for various culinary applications, encouraging consumers to utilize this versatile resource effectively.
<p><em>Janneke Vreugdenhil </em>maakte een perfecte borrelhap voor een warme nazomeravond. Wie in september met de jaarlijkse vruchtentsunami van zijn druivenstruik kampt, werkt er mooi een paar trossen mee weg. </p>
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