Eli Brecher

Food & Lifestyle Blog

Saturday 6 May 2017

Friday 10 February 2017

Nutella Porridge

Happy Friday! 

I've been a little quiet on here recently as I've moved to Paris for 6 months! Now that I'm all settled, I'm going to make it up to you by sharing the recipe for this Nutella Porridge - make it this weekend and thank me later!

The combination of FOUR different sources of chocolate adds so much depth to this breakfast, plus the pinch of sea salt really brings out the various chocolate flavours and will make your tastebuds dance! Scroll down to get your hands on this magical recipe.


























Ingredients:
1/2 cup oats, soaked in 1 cup hot water for at least 20 mins.
1 tbsp cacao powder (I use Creative Nature Superfoods - use my code "CPB10" for discount)
1/2 tbsp carob powder
1 tbsp cacao nibs
1-2 squares dark chocolate grated/very finely chopped
1 cup hazelnut milk
2/3 banana, mashed (use rest for topping)
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp date syrup
Small pinch of sea salt

Method:
1. Mix all ingredients except the cacao powder in a pan and bring to the boil.
2. Reduce to gentle simmer for 2 mins. 
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the cacao (this preserves it's antioxidants and minerals so they are not overheated).
4. Transfer to a bowl, cover with toppings and dig in!

I'd love to know what you think of this recipe. Please tag me on Instagram if you make it @cerealandpeanutbutter #cerealandpeanutbutter .




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Friday 13 January 2017

Zesty Passion Fruit Smoothie Jar

This smoothie is a fabulous way to start your day as it incorporates all the major food groups - protein, natural carbs from the fruit and healthy fats from the coconut milk, as well as a wide variety of vitamins. It takes no time to whizz together and tastes absolutely delicious - let me know what you think on Instagram @cerealandpeanutbutter

Ingredients:
1 passion fruit
1/4 papaya
1/2 lime
1/2 lemon
1 handful frozen raspberries
1 sachet vegan protein powder - I used Miss Fits Nutrition mixed berry flavour (use code "CPB20" for a discount)
2/3 cup coconut milk

Method:
1. Cut the passion fruit in half and scoop out all the pulp.
2. Squeeze the lime and lemon juice, ensuring no pips fall in.
3. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

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Saturday 17 December 2016

Golden Turmeric Tonic

Introducing my latest obsession: this Golden Tonic, A.K.A. "The Best Turmeric Latte Ever". This is actually a direct quite from a happy customer who tried it! OK, so it was my sister, but she works opposite Whole Foods so has tasted her fair share of them!

This magical drink hits the spot every time and is bursting with health benefits, not to mention unbelievably delicious. Make it in the morning to warm up your palette and kickstart your body's detoxifying systems, or sip on it in the evening for a calming drink to help you sleep better.

Both the ginger and the turmeric carry powerful anti-inflammatory properties, whilst the cinnamon stabilises blood sugar levels. The nutmeg is known to detoxify the kidney and liver, and the raw honey has been glorified for it's digestive benefits. Stirring in a dash of coconut oil boosts the omega-3 content, and adds to the incredibly smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1.5 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp coconut oil
1/2 tsp raw honey
1/2 tsp date nectar (or maple syrup)

Method:
1. Warm the almond milk in a saucepan but do not boil.
2. Stir in the spices, then the coconut oil, then the honey and date nectar.
3. Whisk together (I used a wired whisk) to create a frothy foam.
4. Pour into a mug and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon.



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Thursday 1 December 2016

Top 11 Madrid Brunch Spots

As I am coming to the end of 4 months living in Madrid as part of my Uni Year Abroad, I thought I would share with you just 11 of my many, many favourite brunch spots. I wanted to do a "Top Ten List" but I really couldn't cut it down any further - each of the following is a complete gem in its own unique way! As well as working in an office from Monday to Friday to improve my Spanish, I came here on a mission to try out as many brunch places as possible and discover the depths of the thriving healthy food scene in Spain's wonderful capital city.

1. Federal Café
This Australian-style restaurant is hands down one of my favourite places here in Madrid, so much so that I have been for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner multiple times! The place is bright and spacious with modern decor and large communal tables. You will not be disappointed!

What to order: Shakshuka - baked eggs with tomato sauce in a skillet

Tip: Get there early to avoid the queue as it can get a little crowded, especially on the weekend.

Plaza de la Comendadores 9 (Malasaña)
















2. Perrachica 
Another one of the trendiest brunch spots (also fabulous for dinner) with a gorgeous ambience, delicious menu and great location. They always have an eclectic music playlist in the background, from Édith Piaf to Cat Stevens. It is part of the Larrumba restaurant group, all of which are highly recommended!

What to order: Latin-style Eggs Benedict which is served on Arepa, a simple and succulent Venezuelan cornbread (I just ask for mine without the ham).

Tip: Reserve a table in advance or expect to wait in line!

Calle Eloy Gonzalo 10 (Quevado)









3. Pum Pum Café 
A reasonably-priced 4-course brunch with gluten-free and dairy-free options - this place was made for me! The exposed brick walls create a cosy yet chic atmosphere and each dish is presented beautifully, not to mention delicious with unique flavoured breads such as pistachio zucchini bread. There is an international atmosphere and you can usually spot the Aussies, Americans and Europeans. 

What to order: The Weekend Brunch Special (just 10 Euros) will leave you full until dinner, featuring granola with yoghurt, fresh fruit, a perfectly-poached egg on avocado toast, orange juice and great coffee!

Calle Tribulete 6 (Lavapiés)



























4. Magasand
Set in a well-designed, trendy space with communal tables and lined with magazines to flick through, Magasand is reminiscent of a New York healthy hotspot, serving filling and well-portioned dishes made from high quality ingredients, and offering something for everyone, from roast beef bagels to Brazilian Açai smoothie bowls.

What to order: the "Hot Vegas" sandwich (vegan) in rye bread, with hummus, tofu, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, chipotle, spinach and red onions.

Calle Columela 4 (my favourite)
Travesía San Mateo 16
Calle Tomás Bretón 52


































5. Fit Food
Whether you're after a vibrant nutrient-dense smoothie made with the latest superfoods, a turmeric latte with cashew milk and agave nectar, or a cold-pressed green juice, Fit Food is THE place to head to for the health-conscious foodies. The staff are all super friendly and they also offer 3-5 day juice detox packages.
I was lucky enough to work just down the road from here so it became part of my daily routine to grab a matcha latte on my way to the office, as well as healthy snacks throughout the day, from raw almond cookies to cacao energy balls.

What to order: Açaí Peanut Power Ball - a blend of açai, banana, peanut butter and cacao powder, topped with nutty granola, fresh fruit and desiccated coconut.

Calle de Génova 25 (my local and the best)
Calle Serrano 98
Calle Augusto Figueroa 28
Calle Velázquez 39








6. El Jardín de Salvador Bachiller
I can't emphasise how much I adore this place, from the moment I stepped foot into the secret garden four stories high, I felt like I was in a mad-hatter tea party, just like something out of Alice in Wonderland. The menu is not extensive but everything they serve is fantastic, so be sure to leave room for dessert.


What to order: Chocolate pancakes


Tip: make sure you eat in the rooftop garden (not just the top floor restaurant)

Call de la Montera 37 (Sol/Gran Via)












7. Ojala 
Quirky place with fun décor that enhances the atmosphere, including a sand-pit seating area downstairs. The general vibe is very cool, the service is excellent, the food is wonderful and not too expensive.

What to order: the Mediterranean platter, with corn bread, hummus, guacamole, poached egg, arugula salad and sliced avocado. 

Calle San Andres 1 (Malasaña)



























8. Celicioso 
I first discovered Celicioso when I was in Marbella last summer and was over the moon to discover they have two locations in Madrid, both of which I walk past everyday on my way to work! This cute bakery/café is a celiac's dream, perfect for anyone intolerant/sensitive to gluten like myself, as well as those with no dietary issues at all! They also offer many dairy-free, sugar-free and vegan options, with all kinds of sweets, cakes, pastries and savoury dishes such as spaghetti and veggie burgers. The window display catches my eye every time, with the vivid colours and beautifully decorated cupcakes and themed seasonal desserts. 

What to order: Macaroons, Key Lime Pie, Banoffee Cake, Walnut Brownie... 

Calle Barquillo 19 (Chueca)
Calle de Hortaleza 3 (near Gran Via)





9. La Bicicleta Café 
This edgy, hipster café is like a little slice of Brixton-meets-Hackney-in-Madrid. Stop in for a good quality coffee, avo-toast, a Spanish omelette or late night drinks.

What to order: Avocado on toasted sourdough with fresh tomato spread

Plaza de San Ildefonso 9 (Malasaña)


























10. Hanso Café 
The friendly baristas know how to make the best "café con leche". The large interior windows are ideal for people-watching in the trendy neighbourhood of Malasaña, which is blossoming with similar speciality coffee shops and quirky brunch spots. 

What to order: Red Velvet Latte (with oat milk for extra creaminess) and giant Matcha Waffles with caramel sauce

Calle del Pez 20 (Malasaña)












11. Cereal Hunters
The ultimate find for any self-confessed cereal aficionado like myself - I love cereal so much I named my Instagram blog after it @cerealandpeanutbutter ! They offer more than 120 different types of cereal from all over the world, as well as more than 10 types of milk and a fabulous selection of toppings, from M&Ms to dried banana chips. The concept would not be complete without the décor, featuring photographs from nostalgic films and the largest collection of cereal boxes in Spain, some of which are over 25 years old!

What to order: Cocoa Pebbles with hazelnut milk (if you're after a Nutella-flavoured bowl), Reese's Puffs with strawberry milk (for that peanut-butter-jelly feel).

Tip: Don't be afraid to go crazy with the toppings! 

Calle de Mejía Lequerica 14 (Alonso Martínez)



What's your favourite thing to have for brunch? Have you tried any of these? Do you have any other recommendations? Let me know on Instagram @cerealandpeanutbutter



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