Monday, August 22, 2011

How to make Masterchef Brownies

The title pretty much speaks for itself I guess. I am an avid watcher of the series, Masterchef Australia, and also a pretty keen brownie baker. I had a brownie recipe I generally used but something was missing from it and I couldn't figure out what, so I spent hours scouring the vast amounts of information supplied to me by the internet, but none of the recipes struck my bakers eye. Then one day, I happened to turn on the television while a Masterclass ( a cooking class if yo are unfamiliar with the show) was being taught - and yes, they were baking brownies. Mmmm mmmm, finally a recipe I could trust! So I grabbed my phone ( because paper and a pen were in a faraway location) and hurriedly typed the recipe in, knowing that these were the brownies I had been looking for. Today, I am going to share that recipe with you so that you can bake confidently knowing your brownies are the best. No exaggerating there.

RECIPE FOR GREATEST BROWNIES IN THE WORLD.

What you need : 250g Butter
                        : 90g Cocoa Powder
                        : 2 and 1/3 cups Castor Sugar
                        : 1 cup flour, sifted
                        : 1/2 tsp baking powder, sifted
                        : 5 eggs
                        : Dark chocolate and nuts, chopped ( However much you want)

* Can also add cherries or pieces of fudge for an extra flare

Method: Preheat oven to 160"C
            : Melt the butter and mix it with the castor sugar and cocoa powder.
            : Add eggs one at a time while mixing
            : Add the flour and baking powder and mix well
            : Lastly, add the nuts and chocolate
            : Line a baking tray with baking paper and pour batter in.
            : Place in oven for approx, 35 min
            : Remove from oven, leave to cool, tip over gently onto a plate and cut as desired.

* Brownies should be firm on the outside and soft in the middle.


Hope you enjoy making these delicious treats because baking is always an adventure!



(Image from We heart it)

Monday, August 15, 2011

Corner Cafe - My pick of the month!

So, on occasion, I find myself stuck at home on one of those days when it seems like nothing fun or vibey is happening and I envision my day looking dreary, bland and full of slothing in front of the TV.
Then.
I get an SMS on my phone saying " Dan, pull in to Corner Cafe for lunch at 12! ". Thank-frikkin-goodness, my day has been saved.

You're probably wondering what on earth I am talking about and thinking that after three weeks of no blogging ( I apologise) I have run out of awesome things to say, but let me tell you, when you look up the word "awesome" in the dictionary, you will find a picture of Corner Cafe next to it.


This delightful little restaurant has been the location of many a breakfast,lunch, coffee and dinner gathering. It's run by Judd , who is possibly the friendliest and weirdest man in the world, as well as his lovely wife. Together, they have created a space that is unique, arty, homely, and delicious. Yes, the whole space is delicious. You can follow the Corner Cafe blog at http://cornercafelovesyou.wordpress.com/  or follow Judd on Twitter @juddcoffee. You'll really start to feel like you're a part of the Corner Cafe family.


It's situated in the Glenwood area of Durban on the corner of Brand road and Cromwell road and is pretty much open every day to serve amazing meals into your belly.



But wait, that's not all. Some days, you can enjoy some sweet tunes in the form of live music while you feast on some of the cafes baked goods. Guys can pop next door to Nev the Barber for a haircut while the girls have a look at the incredibly trendy and quirky store, Bonnie and Clyde. If you're into art, there are often pieces on display and for sale in the cafe. There is something for everyone at this place.

                                                                                        



What I love the most is how it completely captures the vibe of Durbs - it's really chilled while also offering that artistic and creative flare, attracting customers that range from indie kids with tattoos and torn jeans, to business men and woman on their lunch breaks, to entire families.
Most importantly though, the food is really good quality, and in my opinion, it's worth more than what you pay for it. As a student, I find myself constantly short on cash, yet I never turn down an opportunity to eat at Corner Cafe - and that's saying something.
So please, do yourself and your tummy a favour, and stop off at my favourite cafe in Durban. You can thank me later.