I am loving… Spanish stew

There’s a little Spanish deli around the corner from my office which serves the best lunchtime treat: a cup of chickpea and chorizo stew.

Brindisa also sells salad boxes, sandwiches and meats, but it’s the stew that really marks this place out. I’ve tried to replicate it myself, with limited success. Nigel Slater’s recipe in The Observer looks pretty good but I made the error of not leaving it to cook for long enough and using tinned over soaked chickpeas. Take note.

There are more Spanish recipes in 1080 Recipes, which includes contributions from Brindisa’s head chef. I’ve been meaning to buy a copy.

I am loving… Nusa Kitchen

It’s a bit of a trek from where I am, but Nusa’s soups always brighten up my lunchtime. Everywhere sells soup, but this isn’t just soup. Yesterday I had Mexican borracho bean soup with salsa and rice; the other week it was a South Indian tomato-ey thing.. and each time served with freshly baked flat bread. The menu changes every day too.

Nusa is based just up from Barbican and they’ve just opened a second shop near Bank. WestEnders can only hope that they branch out a bit more.

In the meantime check out Nusa’s recipes section.