In the Larder

When I was a little girl, my Grandmother's pantry used to fascinate me. So many mysterious things lurked within its shelves. She had everything you could ever need, and if by chance unexpected guests showed up, she could prepare a tasty meal in minutes. Perhaps by genetics, I too am a hoarder and there are somethings I just cant live without in my kitchen.

Lemons and Limes: Not only do they look lovely sat in a big bowl on the worktop, but they are so useful in so many ways.

• You can slice them into your Gin and Tonic.


• If you take water to bed and find its gone a bit stale tasting by morning, lemon juice helps it stay fresh and tasty.


• Lemon chicken is a huge favourite in our house, just a simple roasted chicken cooked with lots of lemons and served with a big salad.


• I also use fresh lemon or lime juice to dress salads, squeezing the juice and then leaving the salad for 10 minutes or so before serving.


• Warm water and lemon juice is a great way to start the day.


• Squeeze them over plain crisps for a more exotic taste (One of my favourite Mexico City streetfoods is crisps with lime or lemon juice and a sprinkling of chili power).

In short, my kitchen feels naked without them.