It’s the New Year and for me that means, new recipes. One of the things that always inspires me to try something new is traveling. Spices are so universal, I really enjoy tasting all the different flavours from around the world. Whenever I get to a new place I’ve never visited before, I always fall in love with something new. Then when I get home I try my own version of it, using my favourite spices. Last year when I visited France, I was all about creme brulee, so much that I created a Banana & Cardamom Creme Brulee, which in turn has became a real hit among my friends.

Now, coming up in just a few short months I’m going to be traveling to Mexico to speak at a Women’s conference, and I’m looking forward to trying some classic Mexican dishes. I’m starting a tasting “to-do” list for the time I’m there, so if there are any dishes that you think I must absolutely try, please feel free to email me at info@spicegoddess.com

Sincerely,
Spice Goddess

Starting mid-November and up until New Year’s Eve, every weekend is a party at my place. I invite a few different friends each weekend so I can spend some special time with all of them. It’s like a mini Indian village festival, with all the trimmings.

When it comes to decorating, there are always the Chinese oranges, red pillar candles to light the way, and of course, lots of homemade festive ornaments. This year I turned my son’s old baby toys into a playful piece of garland. Decorated with tiny teddy bears, and even a few hot wheels dinky cars, every time I look at it; it brings back lovely memories of my son’s younger years.

For my friends I make gift baskets, filled with jars of colourful pickled Indian vegetables; a box of sweet, creamy Indian fudge; a few chutneys; and even a few recipe cards, (the holidays are a great time to share recipes, and my friends just love it.) Then I tie on a bright red bow, add a couple sprigs of fresh holly, and a few candy canes, and I’m done.

Once the decorating and gifts are out of the way, it’s all about the food. Each dinner is filled with all my favourite Indian recipes, from my No-Butter Chicken, to my Crispy Vegetable Pakoras.

When Xmas eve arrives it’s all about my family. I travel all year for business so I really look forward to this special time, and creating wonderful memories with my kids. I always have the Elvis Xmas album playing, and when the kids are off to bed I like to make a cup of cold chai tea, with a little Baileys in it;), and enjoy it in front of the fireplace!

Merry Xmas to all of you, and your families, from Spice Goddess!