property Archives - Page 4 of 6 - Fleet, Hartley Wintney, Odiham McCarthy Holden Estate Agents

Landlords Love…..

February 8, 2025 by John Holden

We think Landlords will love our lettings services, because in addition to great property marketing and competitive fess we also have a great team of experienced personnel looking after their rental properties.

A Landlord Focused Agency

At McCarthy Holden our landlords are regarded as one in a million, perhaps unlike in the very large corporate agents where a Landlord could easily become just one in a million.

Because our Landlords are looked after by real people who live and work locally, people who you can speak to on the phone and people who are taking the responsibility of looking after your property, our Landlords experience the difference and benefits.

Our professional team are always available by phone or email and guess what, there are no online bots or automated telephone systems to get in the way of good communication.

So if you are a Landlord who wants one to one reliable service, telephone 01252 622550 for a free property valuation and advice about renting property.

How to make the most of your living space as the nights draw in

October 24, 2024 by John Holden

GEORGE CLARKE ARCHITECT WINTER INTERIORS MCCARTHY HOLDEN

With winter just around the corner and everyone gravitating indoors, our living rooms are about to see most of this season’s action.

Whether it’s cinema nights with the kids, socialising with friends or simply curling up with a good book, your communal space will undoubtedly become the centre point of everyday living.

So how to bring the feel-good factor to your downtime?

Here, architect and TV presenter George Clarke, highlights a few ways to accommodate the needs of multiple generations… whilst catering to the demands of awkward spaces in a smart and stylish way.

Create intimate zones

The layout of our living rooms has changed markedly over the years, as we all aim to create multi-functional spaces to serve many needs, notes Clarke.

Practical as well as aesthetically pleasing, think elements to help us relax, entertain and possibly work from home, alongside other activities.

“Creating intimate zones, however small, is key in designing a space that delivers on multiple briefs,” explains Clarke.

“And although many rooms don’t offer symmetrical proportions – many being long and narrow with special considerations, such as doors in awkward places – there are a few ways to achieve breakaway zones.”

The key when working to the quirks of your layout, especially when rearranging furniture, is to consider comfort, ease of movement and flow, highlights Clarke.

“Avoid placing everything around a room’s edges, which can result in too much empty space at the centre.” He continues. “Instead, opt to delineate your scheme, pulling furniture into more intimate arrangements.”

The back of a sofa can work well as a room divider, but be sure to choose furniture that looks appealing from all angles, as sides and backs will be on display as well as fronts, notes Clarke.

“And remember, it’s not just sofas that create convivial family zones. Beautifully crafted armchairs are also having a moment.”

“Think about pieces that complement each other rather than match, and try out informal circular groupings anchored by a generous footstool to encourage lingering.”

Large rugs stretched across rooms are a simple and effective way to create a natural divide for seating, eating and working, suggests Clarke.

“And bespoke bookshelves as room dividers and cabinetry that contain pull-out desks are a useful design solution.”

Put comfort first

“Comfort is king when it comes to the ideal living room,” underlines Clarke. “In fact, it was voted as the number one requirement by a long way in Sofology’s How We Live Now report which included independent consumer research, with the TV coming in as a not-so-close second.

“Whether you go for modernist-shaped seating, scrolled arms, button tuck detailing or tapered legs, it turns out the style of our seating is a matter of personal taste, but the feeling of wellbeing it elicits is non-negotiable.”

Modular sofas with flexible configurations work well, as does a selection of moveable furniture, including lightweight side tables that can be pulled into place for a spot of home-working, advises Clark.

“Task lighting that can be directed with ease, deep ottomans and plenty of plugs and USB ports,” he adds.

Entertain a seasonal cinemascape

If the TV promises to be central to enjoying your living room over the winter, Clarke recommends switching things up with a more cinematic experience, depending on your budget.

“Although screening rooms are often found in basement spaces and middle rooms of period homes benefitting from reduced natural light, they can also work within a regular living space,” suggests Clarke.

If a cinema-style sofa isn’t on the cards this Christmas, he says to consider layering the seating you have – and surround it with sumptuous textures and rich colours to create a cosseting escape.

“There’ll be some classic movies showing at this time of year, and a comfortable set up will make long winter nights all the more enjoyable.”

Get colour happy

As Clarke points out, incorporating bright colours and bold patterns adds depth and vibrancy that can help bring a welcome lightness to winter months.

Most people opt for white or neutral walls to help make a room appear larger, notes Clarke, but a single colour wash wall or brightly painted shelving can help brighten things up.

“Stylists I’ve worked with in the past have said when it comes to colour and pattern, breaking the rules rather than following specific trends often produces the best results.”

“I love this idea, especially as one in five of us updates our living spaces on a yearly basis. Changing the colour of a living room doesn’t have to cost the earth or represent a long-standing commitment – and the results can be surprising.”

Think social

It’s the season for socialising and where better than in the comfort of your own home…

“Open plan kitchens-cum-living rooms are perfect for enjoying a more relaxed approach to hosting,” says Clarke. “We know people migrate to the living room in winter, so rethinking the space slightly to cater for this can really help take the stress out of having people over.

“Sitting rooms with alcoves offer a wealth of opportunity when it comes to socialising, so switch out books for something more appetising and useful,” suggests Clarke.

“Built-in bars might not be to everybody’s taste, but temporary pieces like a retro drinks trolley can help create a zone within a living room – offering much-needed storage and help bring the fun to an evening with friends.”

5 DIY jobs to mark the switch in season and spruce up your space

September 9, 2024 by Sam Holden

From upcycling a piece of furniture to painting the front door, these jobs can be done in a day or two, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

As we transition from summer to autumn, chances are you’re weighing up whether you’ve invested enough time in home improvements – and is there something you could be tackling over the weekend.

To help strengthen your curb appeal and give your interiors a lift, Jimmy Englezos, senior brand manager at Ronseal, has shared some easy projects to put you on the front foot…

1. Change the colour of your fence

A white picket fence may be the stuff of dreams, but even standard garden fencing can change the aesthetic of your home, creating boundaries and offering privacy.

However, fencing can often be overlooked when it comes to redecorating, says Englezos, with many homeowners often just sticking with its original colour.

And when it comes to maintenance, highlighting the grain of wood and ensuring its longevity, a fresh lick of paint can make the world of difference.

“There are two primary colour choices homeowners can go for, dark tones or light tones,” highlights Englezos.

“Darker tones absorb light to create a cosier atmosphere by making a garden space feel smaller and more intimate.

“Meanwhile, lighter tones reflect light, making the garden appear bigger by blurring the outer boundaries.”

And to point you in the right direction, green is trending big time, think forest green or sage; otherwise charcoal and black fencing creates a chic, contemporary vibe.

2. Spruce up the shed

“Garden sheds can also be neglected, and in many cases, they often house valuable garden tools and equipment – and so should be maintained to prevent any damp or mould taking hold,” underlines Englezos.

Make sure to give the shed a good clean using a hard wire scrubber to remove any excess debris, cobwebs, mud, mould or anything else that’s been attracted to your shed over the years, advises Englezos. “And make sure any holes are filled in using wood filler.”

3. Paint kitchen cabinets

This is a great way to freshen up the appearance of a kitchen on a budget, suggests Englezos.

“Painting works best on wooden cabinets, but laminate ones can also be painted providing the laminate is in good condition – and not peeling.”

For best results, he says to use a paint roller to apply the paint to the surface as this will help create a smooth, even finish.

Again, green is super popular and a great choice to improve your indoor-outdoor flow for a seamless transition from the kitchen to the garden… and sense of harmony by connecting your indoor-outdoor living areas.

4. Paint the front door

“This is often the first thing people see when they come round to your home, so you want to keep it looking its best,” notes Englezos. “This can easily be achieved with a fresh coat of paint.”

Both wooden and composite doors can be painted, but he says to make sure to use the correct paint. Also make certain to thoroughly clean down the surface of the door beforehand using a household cleaner and warm soapy water.

“Apply the paint in the direction of the grain pattern with a synthetic brush and leave the first coat to dry for four hours.” He continues. “Apply the second coat before leaving to dry and then reattach the door hardware.”

5. Upcycle a piece of furniture

“Got an old bookcase or desk which doesn’t fit into the overall appearance of a room?

“A simple lick of paint can breathe a new lease of life into an old piece of furniture, and cover any scuff marks or stains to make it appear brand new.”

Moreover, it won’t test your DIY experience, promotes sustainability and comes with the satisfaction of completing a lovely project yourself.

“Simply lightly sand the surface using some sandpaper before giving it a wipe down with a damp cloth,” guides Englezos.

“Apply two coats of paint using a synthetic brush, making sure to paint in the direction of the woodgrain.” And there you have it.

3 of the hottest interior design trends for the coming year

August 1, 2024 by John Holden

If you’re looking for inspiration to immerse yourself in the world of interiors, these style notes from one of the major events in the design calendar, 3 Days of Design, showcase some of the biggest influences.

The theme of this year’s event, Dare to Dream, attracted tastemakers and interior aficionados from around the globe who flocked to Copenhagen to ‘celebrate creativity’.

Daniela Venturini, Wayfair’s resident art director and trend forecaster, says: “As an interior enthusiast, I love to delve deep into the world of contemporary aesthetics and visionary craftsmanship.”

“3 Days of Design was not just an exploration of current trends, but an immersive experience that encouraged us all to dare to dream, push boundaries and see the future of design with endless possibilities.”

She says the city, the creativity and the collective spirit of the event left an indelible mark, urging us all to dream bigger and design bolder.

“Incorporate these key trends into your home, even on a budget, and you too can embrace the cutting-edge of design – and make it your own.”

So, which trends can you take away to up your interior styling?

Sculptural Futuristic

“Metals sit centre stage with mesmerising, statement-making finishes,” highlights Venturini.

“Think high-shine, mirror-polish and textured surfaces, from burnt and oxidised to patinated and brushed.”

“The tactile finish of these pieces adds an unexpected warmth to traditionally industrial elements.” She continues. “Metals like brass, bronze and copper are mainstays, while cool silver tones are also angling for the spotlight.”

Venturini’s top tips…

“Keep an eye out for budget-friendly metallic accessories. Look for vases, candle holders or picture frames with oxidised or brushed finishes, effortlessly incorporating tactile richness into any space, without breaking the bank.”

If you love a DIY project, she says to consider adding a patina finish to inexpensive metal furnishings. “Online tutorials can guide you on how to achieve a burnt or oxidised effect on bulkier items like chairs and side tables.”

Luxury Nostalgia

As consumers seek more meaningful items with a genuine narrative, handcrafted details and heritage-driven designs are gaining popularity, notes Venturini.

“What we see, not only in Copenhagen, but also in trend-led hotels and on Pinterest, is a smorgasbord of retro and vintage-inspired pieces that shine a light on nostalgia, while maintaining current-day individuality,” she underlines.

“Rich materials from corduroy, boucle and walnut to burled wood, smoked glass, steel and leather graced numerous installations, blending traditional and modern effortlessly.”

Venturini’s top tips…

For vintage-inspired, retro pieces, she says to search for tactile fabrics, richly upholstered furniture, walnut-finish tables or rustic wood décor.

“Don’t underestimate the power of second-hand… find pre-loved pieces that can be upcycled with simple DIY projects, such as reupholstering a chair or refinishing a coffee table.”

Fun Fusion Digitopia

“Digitopia saw the meticulous merging of technology and creativity, creating surreal, transformative designs that challenged convention,” explains Venturini.

“Picture brightly coloured yet monochrome products, and geometric offerings presented in unconventional forms – and you get the idea.”

“These imaginative products were truly expressive, embodying idealised escapism, fun and abundance, promoting optimism, creativity and self-expression.

“Who wouldn’t want a bit of that?”

Venturini’s top tips…

She suggests introducing playful, vibrant accessories such as accent pillows, rugs or wall art, along with bold patterns and colours to lift the mood of any room.

“Incorporate smart home products that blend style and technology, such as stylish smart light fixtures or interactive décor pieces.” And there you have it.

Serene green: 10 ways to breathe new life into your decor this spring

March 23, 2024 by John Holden

If you long for a sense of being at one with nature, green could be your go-to hue this springtime.

And if you’re looking to give your interiors a quick refresh and switch things up as the seasons change, there really is no more suitable shade than serene green.

Whether you want to create a tranquil scheme to sink into at the end of the day, or breathe new life into your decor for chilled-out get-togethers, here are some of our top picks…

1. Nina Campbell Set of 4 Meadow Pasta Bowls, Green, £45, Next

This eye-catching stoneware with glossy green glaze will make everything look that much lovelier… think creamy spinach pasta sauce for small soirées.

2. Manual Beech Wood Pepper Mill in Fern Green (available soon), and Boreal Manual Beech Wood Salt Mill in Sage Green, £44.99 each, Peugeot Saveurs.

A swanky salt mill and plush pepper mill to spice up your spring tablescape. We’re in – and these soft shades will complement any kitchen style.

3. Totally Tropical Table Runner, £25, Totally Tropical Pack of 4 Placemats, £25, and Perfect Pineapple Pack of 4 Napkins, £15 (items from a selection), Joe Browns

We’ve gone Tropiloco over this exotic tableware collection, with its lush palm leaves, verdant vegetation and prize pineapples to signal salsa dishes.

4. Green ‘Poppies’ 30cm Straight Empire Printed Cotton Shade by Ellen Merchant, £51 (lamp from a selection), Pooky

Even if you think you’re lighting is spot on, the longer, balmy days ahead call for a stylish table lamp to highlight all your details and decos.

5. Graphical Green Gallery Wall – featuring: Il Giardino Dei Sapori Poster (30 x 40cm), Green Colour Blocks Poster (30 x 40cm), Van Gogh – River Bank In Springtime Poster (50 x 70cm), with Dark Oak Frames, currently £113.94 (was £146.65), Desenio

A favourite for feel-good vibes, colour drenching a room in the same green accents and creating a gallery wall themed to botanical plants is a fast route to style and positive energy.

6. John Lewis ANYDAY Spindle Desk in Bowling Green, £159.20, and ANYDAY Whistler Dining Chair in Bowling Green, £99, John Lewis

Whether you’re in the throes of a spring clean and reorganising your WFH space, or introducing a cosy corner aesthetic for managing life admin and hobbies, this bijoux desk will make it all a breeze.

7. Portloe Woven Gingham Green Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set, from £30-£50, Dunelm

A green gingham check has lots to offer, especially when teamed with co-ordinating solids and matching curtains, against a backdrop of bleached wood and mini olive trees for a dreamy, Mediterranean ambiance. Made from 100% washed cotton.

How to renovate your kitchen sustainably

February 22, 2024 by John Holden

When looking to transform your home, one of the first things that comes to mind is the kitchen – after all, it’s the hardest-working room in the house.

And with sustainability high on the agenda, chances are eco-friendly choices are right up there.

Indeed, according to the latest kitchen trends survey by home renovation and design platform, Houzz, it’s overwhelmingly a priority for homeowners, with the vast majority incorporating sustainable features during their renovation (93%).

Interestingly, the majority do so because of the long-term cost-effectiveness (75%). So how do you tackle your kitchen renovation in the most sustainable way?

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

Why it’s important

“A kitchen renovation is often a big project,” says Amanda Pollard, senior editor, Houzz. “It’s likely to create significant amounts of waste and will involve choosing numerous different materials and elements, which will all have an impact on the environment.”

The kitchen industry consumes a lot of virgin raw materials to produce all of the different elements, such as wood products for cabinetry, metals for appliances and stone for worktops, explains Mark Byers, director of Oliver Green Kitchens.

“Fortunately, the industry has reacted to the high demand for raw materials by embracing recycling,” says Byers. “But consumers also have a part to play by making good material choices when replacing or updating their kitchen.”

As Felicity White, director of Felicity White Interiors, points out: “Kitchen renovations are typically the most expensive area of the home to renovate, so creating a kitchen that’s going to stand the test of time is also important financially.”

The main things to think about

“There are three things to consider when choosing materials,” highlights Byers. “The first is whether it contains any recycled content, the second is its durability and the third is its end-of-life.”

Manufacturers play a big part in producing items that incorporate recycled elements, but we as consumers should be asking the question of how much, if any, recycled material is used in a product, advises Byers.

Secondly, considering the items’ durability means not buying products just based on price. “The cheapest products will often end up costing more over time because they simply don’t last,” says Byers.

“Sadly, the cheapest products are also the least likely to incorporate any recycled material and often cannot be easily recycled themselves,” notes Byers. “So being able to recycle, refurbish or repurpose products when you’re done with them is an important final consideration,” he adds.

One of the first questions we ask our clients is whether they can keep any elements of their old kitchen, says White. “Sometimes the cabinet carcasses are well-constructed and it’s a case of replacing the cabinet fronts and handles, or even wrapping the cabinet fronts to save throwing them away.”

However, if you’re planning a complete overhaul, and the existing kitchen is in good enough condition, she says it may also be possible to sell it through second-hand kitchen vendors, such as Rehome.”

What materials are best?

White says to aim for natural materials. “For cabinets and door fronts, FSC timber and plywood are better options than particle board or MDF options you typically find with large kitchen retailers.”

“With the right construction and treatment, natural wood can last longer as it’s stronger and can be repaired, whereas engineered wood can’t. Engineered wood can also contain high levels of formaldehyde, which can be nasty if it gets into the air, she adds.”

One material to use less of, or not at all, is MDF, warns Byers. “As it’s difficult to recycle, most MDF products at the end of their life are used for fuel, which releases carbon and other [unpleasant] chemicals into the atmosphere.”

“Laminate worktops are also not great,” he notes. “Not surprisingly, both these products are heavily used in the kitchen industry because they’re cheap. As a broad guide, the best products to use are those that can be recycled and used in new products or can be refurbished or repurposed.”

When choosing materials for your new kitchen, experts on Houzz advise researching where the item is coming from, how it has been made and what is in it, says Pollard. “It’s also best to source items as locally as possible and keep chemicals to a minimum.”

Caroline Quentin: Being an actor and a gardener is not a happy combination

February 20, 2024 by John Holden

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

The Men Behaving Badly and Life Begins star, who recently appeared in Sky sci-fi series The Lazarus Project, also offers a wealth of advice and tips to her 150k followers on Instagram (@cqgardens).

Her husband, Sam, does much of the filming when she invites followers into her home near Tiverton in Devon, where she makes all sorts of dishes from ingredients she has grown, and shows us what she’s up to in her two-acre garden – which features an orchard, pond, greenhouse, raised vegetable beds and a flower garden, where the magic takes place..

Now, Quentin has written – and illustrated – a new book, Drawn To The Garden. It’s part memoir, part guide, with chapters on seeds, salads, fruit and veg, water, herbs, pets and pests, memories and anecdotes meandering through each section.

Her garden, she says, is “not immaculate”. Weeds haven’t taken over, but she allows some buttercups and daisies to encourage bees.

“By my nature, I’m quite a chaotic person, so I don’t need things to be immaculate, but my vegetables are in a rotational system. I’ll mow a path through the grass rather than cut all the grass. I garden organically.”

The book also features a chapter on wellbeing, an important element to Quentin, whose mother suffered from bipolar disorder and spent periods in a psychiatric hospital, she recalls in the book.

When she was allowed to visit, she’d spend time in the hospital gardens, surrounded by marguerites, which she still loves.

“I genuinely believe that growing things, watching the birds, smelling the roses, eating the green stuff and drawing and painting, all help keep me this side of sanity and one step away from the big dark house on the hill,” she writes.

Here, she tells us more…

How much has gardening benefited your mental health?

“I consider it responsible for my wellbeing. I am by nature someone who goes up and down. I have mood swings, I get low. And if I do feel low, the first thing I turn to is my garden, or if I can’t be near my garden, the nearest open space or natural environment.”

Did you always have access to a garden?

“As a little girl, we had a long strip of suburban terraced house lawn. It was not really a gardening space. Nobody in my house was particularly interested in gardening.

“I wouldn’t say I was a gardener when I was young but at primary school, I’d put a seed on a bit of blotting paper or a bulb in a jam jar with water underneath and it was fascinating. The whole optimism about growing things is always a good thing.”

What was your garden in Devon like when you first moved there?

“It was a derelict property, with just a field and a trickle of stream at the bottom. There was no garden. That was about 17 years ago.

“I put the pond in first because I knew when you put water into a garden, nature comes, and that was what I was most interested in. It was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done with a garden. I swim in it too.”

How do you juggle your acting career with looking after the garden?

“You tend to film in the summer months, and gardening obviously happens a lot in the summer months as well. So I tend to be in the greenhouse in January, February and March, getting everything ready, sowing my seeds, getting the garden ready, and then suddenly the phone will ring and I’ll need to be away from the garden when everything needs to go in and be planted out. Being an actor and a gardener is not really a happy combination. The time balance is somehow wrong.

“I’m filming two dramas this year. I do get homesick. I’m really bad at being away from home, which is weird given that I do it for 90% of my life. But it’s a small price to pay for what has been a very enjoyable career.”

Do you have help?

“Sam will water for me, but he’s not a gardener. Anthony (her gardener) has helped me over the years. He comes in for a morning a week.”

How do you maintain your wellbeing in the garden?

“I hug trees, I talk to trees, I spend as much time as I can in woodland. They call it forest bathing. It’s a deeply rooted human thing to want to be in the shade or dappled light of a tree on a summer’s day.

“I don’t formally meditate, but I do have a process where I try to breathe well when I’m outside if I’m feeling stressed or trying to learn some lines and they’re not going in, or there’s too much to do. I do a little bit of yoga every day. In the summer, I can do that outside and get my breathing organised to just slow my heart rate down and breathe in some good air.”

What’s next?

“I’m planning to downsize and start a new garden (in Devon). My children (Will and Rose) have left home and we have a big house and big plot of land. I’m getting older and maybe it’s time for me to start thinking about a garden for someone in their 60s. I want to make my next garden as well, I don’t want to inherit one. At the moment I’m fixated on having bees. So I’m thinking of an orchard with bees in it, and possibly some wildflowers.”

What will you take from your old garden to your new garden?

“Probably water. What’s brought me the most joy is watching swallows over the pond on a summer’s evening. I would definitely grow apples again and I would have maybe three or four raised beds, and a greenhouse or potting shed.”

Drawn To The Garden by Caroline Quentin is published by Frances Lincoln on February 15, priced £20.

Latest Property Magazine & Market Insights

February 19, 2024 by John Holden

We are please to create our latest edition of In The Country & Town, providing an opportunity to provide our readers with market insights and also showcase some great properties to buy or to rent for those starting their 2024 property search this month.

In January and early February 2024 the house market has moved quickly with positive buyer activity turning into a healthy amount of new property sales, confirming in our view that house buyers believe that the best in house buying opportunities will be during the first six months of 2024.

For market insight and our advice to buyers and sellers, just click on the image below.

There are many fine properties to see within the pages of our magazine and you will see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders, including a preview of the property shown below which is not yet on the open market. If you click on the image you will see more details and a video tour embedded in the magazine.

And here is another magazine preview exclusive, Situated within the sought after village of Herriard.

This exquisite three bedroom detached family home built in 2020 by Forays Homes, is located within an exclusive development of just three detached properties.

Benefits to this property include a detached double garage with ample driveway parking, air source heat pump, dressing room, underfloor heating, and wonderful countryside views.

Click on them image below for more details.

Why not indulge in looking at our 90 pages magazine and see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders.

We also hope you will enjoy reading some of the editorial features, including recipes from new chef Big Zuu, Caroline Quentin on her gardening experience, Paloma Faith: Becoming a mum, why going plant-based could transform your health, Michael Sheen on why he hopes The Way ‘gives voice’ to Port Talbot, TV & Film on One Love star Kingsley, how to renovate your kitchen sustainably, and motoring.

Click image below for a full read.

Ella Mills’ creamy black bean and harissa stew

February 2, 2024 by John Holden

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

“The best thing about batch cooking is that the flavours of the dish tend to get better the longer they marinate, so the leftovers are always a real treat, and this is certainly the case in this recipe,” says Ella Mills, the brains behind Deliciously Ella.

“It’s hearty and cosy, with lovely spices from the harissa, sweetness from the coconut and maple syrup, and a delicious nutty flavour from the almonds. The aubergine gives it great texture, while the beans ensure it really fills you up. It’s great on its own for a light supper, or for something a bit more substantial serve it with jasmine rice, jacket potatoes or crispy roast cauliflower.”

Creamy black bean, harissa and almond butter stew

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

1tbsp olive oil

2 shallots, halved and finely sliced

1 aubergine, finely diced into 1cm cubes

4 garlic cloves, crushed

1 × 400g tin of black beans, drained and rinsed

3tbsp harissa, plus extra to serve

1 × 400ml tin of coconut milk

400ml hot vegetable stock

2 heaped tbsp smooth almond butter

2tsp maple syrup

Grated zest and juice of 2 juicy limes

Sea salt and black pepper

Method:

1. Put the olive oil into a large frying pan over a medium heat, add the shallot and aubergine and a pinch of salt and fry for five minutes, until soft. Add the garlic, black beans and harissa and fry for two minutes, until fragrant.

2. Pour in the coconut milk, stock, almond butter and maple syrup. Bring to a boil, then put the lid on the pan and turn the heat down to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

3. Stir in the lime zest and juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Swirl an extra tablespoon of harissa through the stew to serve (if you’d like a little extra spice).

Note: To make crispy roast cauliflower, simply chop your cauliflower into small florets, place them on a baking tray with a tablespoon or so of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and roast in an oven preheated to 200ºC fan for about 20–25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

My girls love this recipe too, so when I’m cooking it for the family I hold off on the harissa and stir it into the adult portions once I’ve served the little ones.

Deliciously Ella: Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills is published by Yellow Kite, priced £22. Photography by Clare Winfield. Available now.

Ella Mills’ crispy potato and paprika tray bake recipe

February 2, 2024 by John Holden

“Crispy, crunchy, hearty and super-simple, this tray bake is the ideal recipe when you want something satisfying without lots of prep, mess or brain space!” says Ella Mills, the brains behind Deliciously Ella.

“The zesty harissa yoghurt is really versatile too; it makes for a great dip or dressing with any veg.”

Crispy potato and paprika tray bake

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

3 floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper (about 350g), with their skin

½tbsp olive oil

2 red onions, halved and finely sliced

2tsp paprika

1 punnet of cherry tomatoes (about 200g)

1 × 400g tin of butter beans, drained

½ bunch of coriander (about 10–15g), roughly chopped

Sea salt

For the harissa yoghurt:

4tbsp coconut yoghurt

2tbsp harissa

Grated zest and juice of 2 limes, plus wedges to serve

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C fan and bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil.

2. Cut the potatoes into one-centimetre cubes then add them to the boiling water. Meanwhile, put the olive oil into a large flat baking tray and place in the oven to heat up. Simmer the potatoes for five minutes, until softened slightly and a knife pierces them easily, then drain well and add them to the preheated tray along with the onion, paprika and a pinch of sea salt. Toss to combine, then bake for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally so that the potatoes cook evenly.

3. Add the cherry tomatoes and butter beans to the tray and cook for a further five minutes until the tomatoes are soft and the potatoes are crisp.

4. Meanwhile make the harissa yoghurt by mixing the coconut yoghurt, harissa, lime zest and juice together in a small bowl, seasoning with salt to taste, then transfer to a small serving bowl.

5. Once the potatoes are ready, remove from the oven, sprinkle over the coriander and serve with the harissa yoghurt on the side.

Deliciously Ella: Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills is published by Yellow Kite, priced £22. Photography by Clare Winfield. Available now.

Landlords Love…..

A Landlord Focused Agency

How to make the most of your living space as the nights draw in

Create intimate zones

Put comfort first

Entertain a seasonal cinemascape

Get colour happy

Think social

5 DIY jobs to mark the switch in season and spruce up your space

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From upcycling a piece of furniture to painting the front door, these jobs can be done in a day or two, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

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