Food and Recipes

12/13/202412/16/2024

Chef Robert’s Holiday Pavlova

Welcome to the kitchen with Chef Robert at the Wellings. Today, we’re making a holiday classic that’s as stunning as it is delicious – New Zealand Pavlova. It’s a holiday tradition worth sharing.

In this video, you’ll learn how to make a light, airy, and crispy Pavlova topped with fresh kiwi, strawberries, and plenty of whipped cream. Chef Robert walks you through every step — from whipping up the perfect meringue to the crucial technique of propping the oven door open for that perfectly crispy crust.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Egg whites
Sugar (about 2 cups)
Cornstarch
Lemon juice (a couple of teaspoons)
Toppings: fresh kiwi, strawberries, whipped cream, and a little more sugar for sweetness.

This Pavlova is a show-stopping centrepiece for your holiday table, and it’s easier than you think! So grab your apron, get ready to impress your family and friends, and taste the magic for yourself.

Happy Holidays from Chef Robert and the Wellings Community.

Watch the video here.

09/13/202409/13/2024

Fun Facts About Eggs

Hey there, Egg Enthusiasts!

Have you ever wondered which came first, the chicken or the egg?

Well, grab your frying pan and prepare for mind-scrambling revelations.

As we dive into the world of eggs, we’ll crack open some egg-straordinary facts.

So, whether you like them scrambled, poached, or sunny-side up, join us for a journey through the fascinating realm of eggs:

Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?
Scientifically, the egg came first. This conclusion is based on the fact that birds evolved from reptiles, laying eggs long before chickens existed. Chickens are domesticated versions of the red jungle fowl and lay eggs.

Egg Varieties
Eggs come in various colors, including white, brown, blue, and green, depending on the breed of the chicken. The color of the eggshell doesn’t affect the egg’s taste or nutritional value.

Egg Composition
An average chicken egg consists of about 9% eggshell, 60% egg white (albumen), and 31% egg yolk. The egg yolk contains most of the egg’s nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, healthy fats, and cholesterol.

Nutritional Powerhouse
Eggs are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. They contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. They’re also rich in choline, which is necessary for brain health.

Eggs and Cooking
Eggs are incredibly versatile in cooking. They can be boiled, scrambled, fried, poached, baked, and used in countless recipes, from cakes and cookies to sauces and custards.

Longest Egg-laying Record

The record for the longest continuous egg-laying belongs to a hen named Princess Tee, who laid an egg a day for 448 days straight.

Egg Preservation
In many countries, eggs are not refrigerated because they have a natural protective coating called the “bloom” or “cuticle.” In the US, eggs are washed, which removes this coating, requiring refrigeration to prevent bacterial contamination.

Egg Myths
A common myth is that eggs should always be stored in the refrigerator door. However, storing eggs in their carton in the coldest part of the fridge helps them stay fresher longer.

Historical Use
Humans have consumed eggs for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians and Chinese were the first to domesticate chickens for egg production around 1400 BC.

Largest Egg on Record
The giant chicken egg ever recorded weighed nearly 12 ounces (340 grams) and had a double yolk and a double shell.

So, the next time you crack open an egg, remember you’re holding a piece of ancient history and a nutritional powerhouse in your hands.

Happy egg-sploring.

in Food and Recipes Posted by My Wellings

07/19/202407/19/2024

Delicious Lemon Chai Tea Loaf Recipe by Chef Robert

Join Chef Robert from the Wellings Community as he guides you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Lemon Chai Tea Loaf. This delightful recipe combines butter, honey, eggs, almond flour, regular flour, and chai tea steeped in milk, with a zesty lemon twist. Baked to perfection and topped with a luscious lemon glaze, this loaf is perfect for chai tea lovers. Watch now and bring the flavours of Wellings into your kitchen! Click here to watch the video.

Lemon Chai Tea Loaf Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup honey
3 large eggs
1 cup almond flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 chai tea bags
1/2 cup milk
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
Prepare the chai tea:
- Heat the milk until just before boiling.
- Steep the chai tea bags in the hot milk for about 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the milk cool.
Mix the wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and honey until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Combine the dry ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the chai-infused milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the lemon zest.
Bake the loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the lemon glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice if needed.
- Optionally, add lemon zest to the glaze for extra flavour.
Finish the loaf:
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the loaf.
Serve and enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious Lemon Chai Tea Loaf!

This recipe combines the warm spices of chai tea with the bright citrus flavor of lemon, creating a delightful loaf perfect for any occasion.

in Food and Recipes Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

07/12/202407/12/2024

Discover the Best Drinks from Every Province in Canada

Embark on a delightful journey across Canada with our guide to the best drinks from each province.

Whether you’re a fan of craft beer, fine wines, or unique cocktails, there’s something here for everyone.

Let’s raise a glass and toast to the rich flavors and traditions that make each province special.

British Columbia: Savor the sweet luxury of BC Icewine.

Alberta: Enjoy the classic Canadian Caesar cocktail.

Saskatchewan: Sip on a refreshing Great Western Pilsner.

Manitoba: Indulge in the renowned Crown Royal Whisky.

Ontario: Taste the exquisite Niagara Wines.

Quebec: Warm up with a traditional Caribou.

New Brunswick: Try the Slocum Maple Smash – a perfect blend of moonshine (or vodka), maple syrup, and lemon juice.

Nova Scotia: Relish the historic Alexander Keith’s India Pale Ale.

Prince Edward Island: Discover the botanical flavors of PEI Gin.

Newfoundland and Labrador: Experience the legendary Screech Rum.

These drinks highlight the unique flavors of each province and bring a taste of Canada right to your home.

Whether hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a quiet evening, or exploring new flavors, these beverages will surely delight you.

Cheers to new tastes and adventures!

in Food and Recipes Posted by My Wellings

01/28/202401/28/2024

Sipping Success: Robert Mills’ Favorite Mocktails for Dry February at The Wellings

Hello, Wellies, and welcome to Winter! Every year, we get asked for a few non-alcoholic drink ideas as some of our members partake in dry February. After all the indulgences of the festive season, it’s a way to reset our bodies and get back to our routines. It’s Robert Mills, your resident chef and flavour maestro, here to let you in on some good news and share in the excitement of dry February with a twist – or should I say, a shake and a stir? As we embark on this alcohol-free adventure, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my favourite mocktails that will tantalize your taste buds and make your dry February a month to remember. They are tasty and I’ll bet you won’t miss the alcohol one bit.

The Zesty Citrus Fizz

Let’s kick things off with a burst of citrusy goodness. My Zesty Citrus Fizz combines freshly squeezed orange juice, a splash of grapefruit, and a hint of lime for that perfect tang. Top it off with a splash of soda water and garnish with a twist of orange peel. It’s a refreshing blend that will transport you to a sunny citrus grove with every sip.

Berry Bliss Cooler

For a burst of berrylicious delight, try my Berry Bliss Cooler. Muddle a handful of mixed berries – strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – in a shaker. Add a dash of honey syrup, a squeeze of lemon juice, and ice. Shake it up and strain it into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, and voila – a vibrant, refreshing mocktail that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tropical Sunrise Punch

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with my Tropical Sunrise Punch. In a shaker, mix pineapple juice, coconut water, and a splash of orange juice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. To create that mesmerizing sunrise effect, gently pour a bit of grenadine down the side of the glass. Watch as it sinks and then slowly rises, creating a beautiful layered look. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry – you’ll be sipping on sunshine in no time.

Ginger Spice Elevation

For those who crave a bit of warmth and spice, my Ginger Spice Elevation is the perfect choice. In a mixing glass, muddle fresh ginger slices with a dash of cinnamon syrup. Add apple juice and ice, then stir well. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices. The combination of ginger and spice will elevate your taste buds to new heights, making this mocktail a comforting and flavorful option for dry February.

Favourite warm Spiced Mulled Apple Cider

Ingredients:

4 cups apple cider

2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

4 whole allspice berries

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 lemon, thinly sliced

1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Optional: Star anise for extra flavor

Instructions:

In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange slices, and lemon slices.

Add honey or maple syrup to the pot and stir well.

Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil.

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the cider.

Remove the pot from heat and strain the mulled cider to remove the spices and fruit slices.

Serve the spiced mulled apple cider in mugs, and if desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.

Curl up with your warm mug and savor the comforting and aromatic Spiced Mulled Apple Cider on a chilly winter day and let the delightful flavour soothe your soul.

Non-Alcoholic Classic Hot Buttered Rum

Ingredients:

2 cups hot water

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

A pinch of salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)

Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat the water until it’s almost boiling.

In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

Slowly add the hot water to the butter and spice mixture, stirring continuously until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the hot buttered rum mixture into mugs.

If desired, top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of this non-alcoholic hot buttered rum!

This delicious drink captures the rich and spiced flavors of traditional hot buttered rum, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening by the fire or a chilly winter night.

There you have it – my top picks for mocktails that will make dry February an unforgettable experience. So, gather your friends, come on down to our cozy haven, and let’s savor the joy of vibrant flavors without the spirits. Cheers to a month filled with delicious memories and a healthier, happier you!

Chef Robert Mills.

in Food and Recipes Posted by Chef Robert Mills

12/19/202312/19/2023

Chef Robert’s Festive Mulled Wine: A Holiday Treat from Wellings

In this heartwarming episode from the World of Wellings, join Robert Mills, our VP of Food and Beverage and Executive Chef, as he dives into the festive spirit with his favourite holiday drink – Mulled Wine.

The recipe includes:

A whole bottle of sweet Merlot
A splash of Brandy
Classic spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves
Cranberries
An orange slice

The aroma of cinnamon and orange zest creates a welcoming ambiance, making it a perfect holiday welcome. It’s not just a beverage; it’s an invitation to savor the warmth and joy of the holidays at Wellings.

Cheers!🍷🎄

Click here to watch the video.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

12/15/202312/15/2023

Transform Leftover Turkey into Festive Hors d’Oeuvres

Join us on the World of Wellings for a delightful culinary journey hosted by Meaghan, one of our talented chefs from the Wellings of Stittsville, and Robert Mills, our VP of Hospitality and a skilled chef himself. In our latest video, they share their passion for creating memorable dining experiences and their love for engaging with the community through their culinary creations.

This episode is especially exciting as we transform leftover turkey from Christmas into exquisite hors d’oeuvres, perfect for sharing with your guests on New Year’s Eve. Our chefs demonstrate three creative and mouth-watering recipes:

Roast Turkey & Mango Rice Paper Wraps: These wraps are a fusion of flavours, combining tender turkey with crunchy coleslaw enriched with the sweetness of mango and the freshness of lettuce.
Choux Pastry Delights: A sophisticated treat featuring choux pastry filled with aged cheddar, succulent turkey, and crisp asparagus.
Mini Potato Bites with Turkey: A comfort food classic, these mini bites perfectly blend steamed potato and savoury turkey, making them irresistible finger food.

Each recipe is designed to be easy to follow, ensuring you can recreate these culinary delights at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these hors d’oeuvres will add a touch of elegance to your New Year’s Eve celebrations. As a special bonus, we’ve included a recipe card for the roast turkey & mango rice paper wraps below. Join us in this culinary adventure and enjoy creating and sharing these delightful hors d’oeuvres with your friends and family this holiday season.

Click here to watch the video.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

11/17/202311/17/2023

The World of Wellings: Crafting the Ultimate Salmon Salad with Chef Vincent & Chef Robert

Welcome to the vibrant culinary World of Wellings! Today, we’re excited to share a special treat from our kitchen – a video feature showcasing the exceptional talents of Chef Vincent and Chef Robert. They’re ready to reveal the secrets behind one of our most popular dishes – the Gourmet Salmon Salad.

Chef Vincent, alongside Chef Robert, takes us through a step-by-step journey of creating this exquisite salad. This dish is not your ordinary salad; it’s a symphony of diverse flavours, textures, and colors, culminating in a dining experience that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Our chefs emphasize the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The salmon, the star of the dish, is selected for its freshness and rich, buttery flavour. The greens are crisp and vibrant, forming a perfect backdrop for the pink hues of the salmon. The dressing, a blend of zesty and savory elements, ties the dish together beautifully.

The best part? You can recreate this healthy and delicious masterpiece in your own kitchen. We encourage you to try this recipe at home and share your experience with us. It’s more than just preparing a meal; it’s about embracing the joy of cooking and the pleasure of eating well.

We hope you enjoy this culinary journey with Chef Vincent and Chef Robert. Stay tuned for more delightful cooking adventures from The World of Wellings. Bon appétit!

Watch the Video Here.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

09/23/202309/23/2023

Maximize Your Food Budget with Chef Robert in the World of Wellings

Welcome to another exciting episode in the World of Wellings! Today, we have the talented Chef Robert on board to share some ingenious kitchen hacks that will not only help you stretch your food budget but also tantalize your taste buds.

From One Pre-Roasted Chicken to Four Scrumptious Meals

Ever wondered how to make the most out of a single pre-roasted chicken? Chef Robert unveils the magic for us. With his culinary expertise, he demonstrates how to transform this humble ingredient into four mouth-watering dishes:

1. Refreshing Salad: Begin your culinary journey with a light and refreshing salad. Using tender chicken pieces tossed with fresh greens and a zesty dressing, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a starter.

2. Hearty Broccoli Soup: Dive into the comforting embrace of a creamy broccoli soup, enriched with succulent chicken bits. This soup is not only nutritious but also a delightful treat for the soul.

3. Flavorful Chicken Quesadillas: Spice things up with some scrumptious chicken quesadillas. Stuffed with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a medley of spices, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

4. Rich Chicken Stock: Last but not least, Chef Robert teaches us the art of preparing a rich and aromatic chicken stock. This versatile broth can be the base for numerous dishes, adding depth and flavour to your meals.

Stretch Your Budget, Not Your Taste

Managing a food budget can be challenging. However, with Chef Robert’s clever tricks, you can enjoy gourmet meals without burning a hole in your pocket. It’s all about being resourceful and creative in the kitchen.

Don’t Miss Out!

Join us in the World of Wellings and embark on this gastronomic adventure. Learn, cook, and savour these delectable dishes with us. Remember, good food doesn’t always have to be expensive. With the right techniques and a dash of love, you can create culinary masterpieces in the comfort of your home. Click here to watch the video.

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes and happy cooking!

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

08/25/202308/25/2023

Chef Robert’s Walnut Zucchini Loaf – A Taste of Wellings

Hello food enthusiasts!

If you’ve been searching for the perfect blend of wholesome and delicious, then look no further! This week, Chef Robert from The World of Wellings introduces us to a delightful Walnut Zucchini Loaf.

When we think of zucchini, we often picture it in salads, pasta, or as a grilled side dish. But in this recipe, zucchini is the star, transforming into a sweet sensation. Infused with the nutty crunch of walnuts and the balanced sweetness of sugar, this loaf is moist and aromatic. And for those seeking a healthier twist, Chef Robert retains the zucchini’s skin, enriching the loaf with added fibre.

If this has gotten your mouth watering, wait until you actually make it! Check out the recipe card below and bring Chef Robert’s Zucchini Loaf to life in your own kitchen. Click here to Watch the Video.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

Chef Robert’s Holiday Pavlova

Fun Facts About Eggs

Delicious Lemon Chai Tea Loaf Recipe by Chef Robert

Lemon Chai Tea Loaf Recipe

Ingredients:

Lemon Glaze:

Instructions:

Discover the Best Drinks from Every Province in Canada

Sipping Success: Robert Mills’ Favorite Mocktails for Dry February at The Wellings

Chef Robert’s Festive Mulled Wine: A Holiday Treat from Wellings

Transform Leftover Turkey into Festive Hors d’Oeuvres

The World of Wellings: Crafting the Ultimate Salmon Salad with Chef Vincent & Chef Robert

Maximize Your Food Budget with Chef Robert in the World of Wellings

Chef Robert’s Walnut Zucchini Loaf – A Taste of Wellings

Natalie Tommy

FREDDI RODIER