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Thousands of teenagers are being dropped off at universities up and down the country this month – and along with a welcome taste of independence many of them will be learning to cook for themselves for the first time.
It’s such an important life skill. It’s also enjoyable to make a meal from scratch. Learning basic skills, such as chopping veg, using an oven and adding a few basic recipes to your repertoire will help build a strong foundation for a culinary future.
And parents – don’t worry! Students will quickly learn how to pair together proteins, grains, and veggies for a well-rounded and tasty evening meal. Proteins such as chicken, pork, fish or tofu, served with vegetables and a carbohydrate such as pasta will make endless tasty meals.
A tasty and simple option is also OK on busy days – and that’s where Easy Bean ready meals come in. Our nutritious meals are very versatile and have both meat and vegetarian options. They re very filling and quick to prepare which is important for hungry teenagers.

Happy studying!

Many of us feel a bit restricted these days worry that their horizons have shrunk – but we can still enjoy a taste of far-off lands.

Our range of ready meals will tickle your tastebuds and bring back happy holiday memories.

Try these tasty options:

New Mexican Chilli: This includes Fairtrade red beans with sweet peppers, tomatoes, spiked with the jalapeño chilli.

Serve in tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and avocado slices.

African Palava: This is a delicious West African hotpot and a colourful profusion of Fairtrade brown beans, free range chicken, peanuts, sweet potatoes and spinach.

Serve in tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and avocado slices.

Moroccan Tagine: A hotpot of slow-cooked chickpeas, Mediterranean vegetables, apricots and aromatic spices.

A tasty treat in the evening served on couscous and topped with toasted flaked almonds and a spring of mint.

Indian Sambar: Toor Dhal peas are simmered slowly with coconut and tamarind juice finished with chunky vegetables and mustard seeds.

Add rice, coconut chutney and fresh coriander for a feast

French Cuisinees: Green lentil and sweet chestnut simmered with classic vegetables, rosemary and thyme.

Serve with a creamy root mash – potato and parsnip would be ideal

We just love peas, beans and lentils! Why? Well, they are super-tasty and also nature’s healthiest food, packed with protein, virtually fat free and with more fibre than many whole grains.

They are so tasty that most of the world adds them to all of their favourite dishes from spicy chilli and dhal to creamy hummus and hearty lentil soup.

We are trying to broaden this range of tastes by using our favourites in crisp breads and crackers. They are delicious eaten on their own or with cheeses, spreads or pate. Let us know what you think and happy eating!

Humans are thirsty – and it’s also important to keep your pets cool in hot weather. Here are our five top tips
1. Keep it cool: All pets must be kept in cool, shady areas, some of which will be in the house. If you’re feeling warm, chances are they are too – so make sure they have access to shade and let them into cool indoor rooms.
2. Little ones need a little help: Small pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs and birds, are particularly susceptible to heat. They will benefit from walking on cool tiles, so make them a run in your kitchen or even bathroom. Or you could drape their cage with wet towels and leave a couple of icepacks or frozen water bottles in the cage.  Keep everything out of direct sunlight.
3. Water, water everywhere: Provide plenty of fresh, cool water in large water containers offer more than one source of water in case one bowl is tipped over. Ensure the containers are in the shade and add some ice to the water to keep it cool.
4. Step carefully: If the pavement feels hot to touch it can harm your dog’s paws. Go for early morning or evening walks, when the heat of the sun has gone. If your pet seems to be in discomfort, try wetting their feet and misting water onto their face.
5. Take care of wildlife: Leave small bowls of water in your garden so wildlife can keep cool.

We’d love everyone to read this page from Gov.UK about the new obesity strategy - https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-obesity-strategy-unveiled-as-country-urged-to-lose-weight-to-beat-coronavirus-covid-19-and-protect-the-nhs

It’s a good idea to adopt a few healthier habits as individuals as well as understanding national initiatives.

The good news is that healthier can be fun. Bike rides, walking, swimming are all good exercises but the main thing is to do what you can when you can. Build something into your daily routine.

And treat yourself to tasty, wholesome meals. An occasional treat is fine but let’s look after ourselves and the people around us as we continue to face uncertain times.

The signs, they are a changing’…

Here is the new sign at our HQ in Yeovil on the front of the office. We hope you like it.

The all-important kitchen and bakehouse is at the other side of the building.

Our African Palava meal - a profusion of brown beans, chicken, peanuts and spinach - makes a great addition to the BBQ table as an alternative meal or split between two or three guests.

Well, the sun is lovely but … we still have to be careful in the heat. Here are our tips for keeping as cool as a cucumber.

• Close windows which face the sun closed during the day, open them at night, if it is safe, when the temperature has dropped and cool air can flood the flat or house

• Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm and wear loose-fitting cotton clothes

• Take cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water during the day.

• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol. Water, milk, tea and coffee are all good options

• If you have to step out in the heat, make sure you walk in the shade, slap on sunscreen and wear a hat and light scarf

• It’s always a good idea to check up on friends and relatives who might be less able to look after themselves.

Father’s Day on Sunday will look a little different this year - but don’t be down-hearted, let’s get inventive. Dad’s favourite restaurant, sporting venue or pub will all have to wait until next year so we must look to DIY fun.

The forecast is good, so how about a surprise BBQ? Or if dad has a sweet tooth, how about a blindfold cake taste test challenge. Each family member could make a cake and compete to be crowned champion baker. To work off the calories, the cake test could be followed by games in the garden or the park. Perhaps pack up some sandwiches and enjoy a day-long hike - our crispbreads and crackers look good in a picnic basket!

Once you get home , how about a rounding off the day with a  nice glass or wine or a special Father’s day cocktail.n And, finally, don’t forget the family quiz!