Category: Grab & Go

  • Crispy Halloumi And Chilli Jam Wrap

    Crispy Halloumi And Chilli Jam Wrap

    This wrap doesn’t mess about. It’s hot, sticky, sharp, and molten — and it crunches like a threat. You’ve got slabs of golden-fried halloumi oozing with salt, rocket that bites back, smoky red peppers from the jar, and a slick of chilli jam that hits sweet then slaps. It’s all wrapped tight, pressed hard, and toasted till the edges crack. This isn’t some soft lunchtime scroll-snack — it’s a flavour grenade folded into your fist. Sweet. Salty. Sharp. Sticky. It doesn’t play nice. It plays filthy.

    Ingredients

    Serves 1

    150g halloumi cheese, sliced into thick slabs 1 tbsp chilli jam 1 large tortilla wrap 1 handful rocket 3–4 slices jarred roasted red peppers Wedge of lemon Black pepper, to taste

    Equipment needed

    Non-stick frying pan Spatula or tongs Sharp knife and board Small bowl or plate for assembly Citrus juicer (optional)

    Step-by-step method

    1. Prep the halloumi.

    Slice 150g of halloumi into thick slabs — aim for 1cm thick. Too thin and it collapses, too thick and it won’t soften inside. Pat the slices dry with kitchen paper. Removing excess moisture ensures maximum sizzle and browning.

    2. Fry for gold.

    Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat — no oil needed. Once hot, add the halloumi slabs. Fry for 2 minutes per side without moving them. You’re looking for deep golden colour and bubbling edges. Flip and repeat. The outside should crisp, the inside stay molten.

    3. Warm the wrap.

    While the halloumi fries, warm your tortilla in a dry pan for 20 seconds each side until soft and pliable. Don’t toast it yet — that comes later. This step makes it easier to fold without tearing.

    4. Build the base.

    Lay the warm tortilla flat on a board or plate. Spread 1 tablespoon of chilli jam evenly across the centre, leaving space at the edges. Add a handful of fresh rocket over the jam — this peppery crunch balances the sweetness.

    5. Layer the heat.

    Place the hot fried halloumi straight on top of the rocket. The cheese should still be bubbling slightly. Add 3–4 strips of roasted red pepper across the top. Squeeze over a little lemon juice — enough to lift, not drown. Finish with a crack of black pepper.

    6. Wrap tight.

    Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in both sides, and roll tightly to seal. You want a compact wrap with no gaps — it should hold together without bursting.

    7. Press and toast.

    Return the wrapped burrito to the dry frying pan, seam-side down. Press it flat with a spatula and toast for 1 minute on each side over medium heat until golden and slightly crisp. This seals the wrap and gives that final crunch.

    8. Serve molten.

    Serve immediately while the cheese is hot, the jam is sticky, and the wrap is still crackling. Slice in half if you want drama — the cheese should ooze slightly and the chilli jam should glisten. No garnish needed. This wrap speaks loud enough.

    Serving tips

    Serve with pickled chillies, crisp slaw, or a handful of salted crisps on the side. Want more kick? Add a smear of harissa or a splash of hot honey before folding. Need contrast? A spoon of natural yoghurt or labneh cools it down without killing the punch. Eat it hot and fresh — the textures only work when everything’s warm and crisp.

    Chef’s notes

    Halloumi fry rules. Always dry-fry on a hot surface — never oil it. The cheese releases just enough fat to caramelise. Use a good-quality block — pre-sliced supermarket packs often fall apart. Let it rest for 30 seconds after frying to hold its shape before wrapping.

    Chilli jam is the soul. Use a thick, sticky chilli jam with heat and sweetness — not a runny sauce. Look for one with red chilli and garlic, or make your own for next-level flavour.

    Red peppers matter. Use jarred roasted peppers for smoky sweetness and slick texture. Pat them dry before layering so they don’t flood the wrap.

    Lemon isn’t optional. It brightens the whole wrap and cuts through the fat. Don’t overdo it — just a few drops to spike the bite.

    Vary it. Add crushed pistachios or dukkah for crunch. Swap rocket for spinach or watercress. Fancy fusion? Add a swipe of peanut satay under the chilli jam. This wrap is a base for chaos — and that’s what makes it so good.

    Batch hack. Prep all your fillings and store them separately. Fry halloumi to order and assemble in minutes. Wraps can be toasted and reheated in a sandwich press or dry pan for that fresh crunch every time.

    Final thought

    This isn’t a wrap — it’s a trap. Sweet chilli, molten cheese, lemon sharpness, and a smoky slap from the peppers all locked inside a toasted shell. One bite in, and it’s game over. Hands messy. Face smug. Mouth on repeat. This is lunch that doesn’t play safe. It plays filthy — and you’ll keep coming back for more.

    Health stats (per serving)

    Each wrap delivers around 2,200kJ (525kcal), with 32g fat, 15g saturates, 9g sugars, and 2.1g salt. It contains roughly 33g carbohydrates, 20g protein, and 2.6g fibre — a bold, rich lunch that fuels you hard with big flavour and serious bite.

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and clarity of this recipe. However, all individuals are responsible for verifying the ingredients, techniques, and methods they use. Always check packaging labels for the most up-to-date information regarding allergens, cross-contamination risks, and suitability for specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan requirements.

    Nutritional information provided is estimated for guidance only and may vary depending on portion size, specific brands, or substitutions used. It should not be relied upon as medical or nutritional advice. If you have any allergies, intolerances, medical conditions, or dietary concerns, consult a qualified health professional before preparing or consuming any recipe on this site.

    By following this recipe, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. The site, its writers, and contributors are not liable for any adverse reactions, ingredient misinterpretations, or accidents in the preparation or consumption of any dishes.

    For full details, please refer to the site’s complete disclaimer and terms of use.

  • Smashed Chicken Wrap With Garlic Yoghurt

    Smashed Chicken Wrap With Garlic Yoghurt

    This wrap doesn’t mess about. Crispy, golden smashed chicken thigh folded into warm flatbread, dripping with sharp garlic yoghurt, cooled by juicy tomato and crisp lettuce, then punched up with pickled chillies for heat. It’s the kind of lunch that ruins salads and mocks meal deals. Hot, crunchy, and dripping with bold, unapologetic flavour. Every bite is engineered to feel like a filthy takeaway — except it hits lighter, cleaner, and with far more control. Smash it. Wrap it. Sear it. Then bite like you mean it. This isn’t lunch. It’s domination.

    Ingredients

    Serves 1

    2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs Sea salt, to season Freshly ground black pepper ½ tsp smoked paprika Pinch dried oregano 2 tbsp plain flour 1 tbsp olive oil 1 large tortilla wrap Small handful shredded lettuce 2 slices ripe tomato 3 tbsp Greek yoghurt 1 garlic clove, finely minced Pickled green chillies (to taste)

    Equipment needed

    Chopping board Cling film or greaseproof paper Rolling pin or meat mallet Mixing bowl Frying pan (non-stick) Spatula or tongs Small bowl for yoghurt Knife and board for assembly

    Step-by-step method

    1. Flatten the chicken.

    Lay each chicken thigh between two sheets of cling film or greaseproof paper. Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, bash until evenly flattened to around 1cm thick. The more even the thickness, the better the cook and the crisp.

    2. Season boldly.

    Unwrap the chicken and place it on a clean board. Season both sides generously with sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of oregano. Make sure the spices coat every part of the surface — this isn’t just for colour, it’s for depth of flavour.

    3. Dredge with purpose.

    Dust the seasoned chicken thighs with plain flour, front and back, pressing lightly so it sticks. Shake off any excess — you want a thin, dry coating that crisps up, not clumps.

    4. Heat the pan.

    Place a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil. Let it shimmer — the oil needs to be hot enough to fry, not soak.

    5. Fry to golden.

    Place the floured chicken thighs into the pan. You should hear a strong sizzle. Cook for 3 minutes on the first side without moving them. Flip with tongs or a spatula and cook the second side for another 3 minutes. You’re after deep golden colour, crispy edges, and a firm, juicy centre. Rest the cooked chicken on a plate — do not cover it. Steam kills crunch.

    6. Make the garlic yoghurt.

    In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of Greek yoghurt with 1 finely minced garlic clove and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until smooth. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the garlic infuses and mellows slightly. It should taste sharp, creamy, and just fiery enough to punch through the chicken.

    7. Warm the tortilla.

    Wipe the frying pan clean, return it to medium heat, and warm the tortilla on each side for 20–30 seconds until soft, warm, and pliable. You don’t want it crisp yet — just ready to roll.

    8. Build the wrap.

    Place the warmed tortilla on a board. In the centre, layer a handful of shredded lettuce followed by 2 slices of ripe tomato. Lay the crispy chicken thighs on top, slightly overlapping if needed. Spoon over the garlic yoghurt — be generous. Scatter over a few sliced pickled chillies for heat and acidity.

    9. Wrap it right.

    Fold in the sides, then roll from the bottom up, tucking everything tightly as you go. It should hold like a burrito — sealed, compact, no leaks.

    10. Sear the seam.

    Return the wrap to the dry pan, seam-side down. Press it flat with a spatula and cook for 1 minute on each side until crisp and golden on the outside. This final toast fuses the wrap, adds crunch, and seals the deal.

    Serving tips

    Slice the wrap in half on a diagonal and serve it open-face for maximum impact. Pair with a cold drink — sparkling water, mint iced tea, or a chilled beer. For extra punch, serve with a wedge of lemon or a small bowl of extra garlic yoghurt on the side for dipping.

    Chef’s notes

    Chicken thigh rules here. Don’t sub in breast — thighs bring more flavour, fat, and stay juicy even under pressure. Make sure they’re flattened evenly to avoid undercooked centres or overdone edges.

    Flour is your friend. Don’t skip the dredge — it’s what gives the chicken that hot, fried crunch without deep frying. For even more texture, mix a pinch of semolina or cornflour into the plain flour.

    Garlic yoghurt is power. Fresh garlic is key — not paste. If it’s too sharp, let it mellow in the yoghurt for 10–15 minutes. Want more bite? Add a dash of lemon juice or a pinch of sumac.

    Wrap tight or fail. Keep fillings central and fold firm. If it’s loose, it’ll leak. If it’s too full, it’ll burst. Aim for balance — crisp chicken, soft veg, creamy sauce, all in one bite.

    Chillies aren’t optional. They lift the richness, add heat, and turn this into something addictive. Jalapeños work well, but pickled green Turkish chillies are the gold standard.

    Batch it. Flatten and flour your chicken ahead of time, stack between greaseproof sheets and refrigerate. Garlic yoghurt lasts 3 days in the fridge. With those prepped, you’re 10 minutes from flavour every day.

    Final thought

    This isn’t some limp, lifeless wrap from a petrol station fridge. This is heat, crunch, garlic, and fire — wrapped tight and seared like a mission. It eats like a cheat meal, but it’s all real. The crunch is clean. The hit is hot. The flavour is full throttle. Lunch just got dangerous.

    Health stats (per serving)

    This wrap delivers roughly 2,100kJ (500kcal), with 24g of fat, 6g of saturates, 3.5g of sugars, and 1.7g of salt. It contains about 35g of carbohydrates, 32g of protein, and 3g of fibre — a bold, balanced midday meal with enough heat and crunch to carry you straight through till dinner.

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and clarity of this recipe. However, all individuals are responsible for verifying the ingredients, techniques, and methods they use. Always check packaging labels for the most up-to-date information regarding allergens, cross-contamination risks, and suitability for specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan requirements.

    Nutritional information provided is estimated for guidance only and may vary depending on portion size, specific brands, or substitutions used. It should not be relied upon as medical or nutritional advice. If you have any allergies, intolerances, medical conditions, or dietary concerns, consult a qualified health professional before preparing or consuming any recipe on this site.

    By following this recipe, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. The site, its writers, and contributors are not liable for any adverse reactions, ingredient misinterpretations, or accidents in the preparation or consumption of any dishes.

    For full details, please refer to the site’s complete disclaimer and terms of use.

  • The Ultimate Steak Sandwich

    The Ultimate Steak Sandwich

    A beast of a sandwich. Unapologetically rich. Ridiculously juicy. Designed to stop traffic and silence a room.

    Introduction

    Let’s get one thing clear — this isn’t some lazy midday snack slapped together with limp lettuce and a sad slice of ham. This is indulgence in a roll. The ultimate steak sandwich is the heavyweight champion of hot sandwiches. When you bite in, it’s not just food. It’s heat, crunch, juice, fat, acid, and bite — all working together like a symphony led by a flaming baton.

    You’re building layers of flavour from the ground up. Ribeye, thick and marbled, seared with brutal heat until a crust forms. Balsamic onions, cooked low and slow until they melt into sticky gold. Toasted ciabatta that crunches when you tear it. Dijon mustard whispering sharpness against the fat of the meat. Peppery rocket punching through the middle like a green flare.

    This sandwich is for days when you need something bold. Something savage. A steak dinner, compressed into a two-handed masterpiece. Cook it right and you’ll ruin all other sandwiches.

    Ingredients

    (Serves one dangerously hungry human or two polite ones)

    1 thick-cut ribeye steak (approx. 250g, at least 2.5cm thick) sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (rapeseed or sunflower) 1 large brown onion, peeled and thinly sliced 1 knob unsalted butter (about 15g) 1 teaspoon good-quality balsamic vinegar 1 fresh ciabatta roll 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 small handful fresh rocket leaves

    Optional extras to elevate further

    a slice of blue cheese or mature cheddar a swipe of garlic mayo or horseradish cream instead of Dijon crisped shallots or toasted pine nuts for texture

    Equipment needed

    large frying pan or cast iron skillet tongs chopping board sharp chef’s knife small spatula or wooden spoon small bowl or tray to rest the steak

    Step-by-step method

    1. Bring the steak to room temperature

    Don’t skip this. You want even cooking edge to edge. If it’s fridge-cold, the centre stays raw while the crust burns. Let it sit out for at least 20 minutes. Pat it dry with kitchen paper — moisture is the enemy of sear.

    2. Season like you mean it

    Generously salt and pepper both sides of the steak. Go bold — this is your crust. Press the seasoning into the surface so it clings. Don’t just sprinkle and hope.

    3. Sear it fast and furious

    Get the pan ripping hot. Add the oil and lay in the steak, away from you. You want that angry hiss — that’s flavour being born. Don’t move it. Let it sear hard for 2 minutes. Flip and give the second side 2 minutes more. Then grab the steak with tongs, stand it on the fatty edge, and render it for 30 seconds until golden and bubbling.

    4. Rest. Always rest.

    Transfer the steak to a warm plate or tray. Let it rest for 5 full minutes. This isn’t optional. Juices need time to redistribute. Slice too soon and they’ll bleed out, leaving you with dry disappointment.

    5. Caramelise the onions

    Turn the heat to medium-low. Drop in the butter. Once foaming, toss in the onions. Stir to coat. Let them cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should go golden, soft, and jammy — not burnt. Patience is the price of flavour.

    6. Hit with balsamic

    Once soft and golden, deglaze with balsamic vinegar. Let it bubble for a minute. Use your spoon to scrape up all the sticky goodness from the pan base. That’s where the flavour hides.

    7. Toast the ciabatta

    Split the ciabatta horizontally. Toast the cut side down in a dry pan or under a hot grill. Aim for golden edges, not blackened rubble. Texture is key — you want crunch outside, pillowy inside.

    8. Build it like you mean it

    Spread Dijon mustard across the toasted base. Slice the rested steak thinly, against the grain, and layer it generously. Top with the warm balsamic onions. Let them tumble — don’t flatten or fuss. Finish with fresh rocket for bite and brightness.

    Cap it with the other half of the ciabatta. Press down gently to settle everything into place.

    Serving tips

    Slice the sandwich in half at an angle for maximum visual payoff. Serve hot while the steak is still warm, the onions sticky, and the bread perfectly crisp. Wrap it in paper if you’re on the move — this thing drips with pride. Have napkins nearby. It’s going to get messy. Good.

    Chef’s notes

    The steak:

    Ribeye is king for a reason — fat, flavour, tenderness. Sirloin or rump will work, but tweak your timings. Too lean, and you lose depth. Too thick, and you’ll need to finish it in the oven or risk a raw middle.

    The onions:

    Cook low and slow. This is not the time for rushing. You want deep gold, not burnt brown. The balsamic cuts through the fat and adds just enough acidity to sharpen everything.

    The bread:

    Ciabatta holds up beautifully. But don’t stop there — a sturdy sourdough, baguette, or focaccia all bring their own magic. Just don’t use a soft roll that’ll cave in under pressure. This isn’t a sandwich for weak foundations.

    Elevate it further:

    melt a slice of blue cheese or sharp cheddar over the steak add crispy shallots for crunch toast the roll with garlic butter swipe on horseradish cream for fire You’re not stuck with tradition. Push it.

    Final thought

    This is how you turn a steak into an experience. It’s not just about throwing meat on bread. It’s about balance. Technique. Timing. Acid against fat. Crunch against chew. Heat against cool. You’re not just making lunch — you’re crafting a bite that punches above its weight.

    Once you master this, there’s no going back. And no excuse for a boring sandwich ever again.

    Health stats (per sandwich)

    Energy: around 2700kJ (approx. 650kcal)

    Fat: 35g

    Saturates: 12g

    Sugars: 7g

    Salt: 1.4g

    Carbohydrates: 38g

    Protein: 42g

    Fibre: 3g

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and clarity of this recipe. However, all individuals are responsible for verifying the ingredients, techniques, and methods they use. Always check packaging labels for the most up-to-date information regarding allergens, cross-contamination risks, and suitability for specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan requirements.

    Nutritional information provided is estimated for guidance only and may vary depending on portion size, specific brands, or substitutions used. It should not be relied upon as medical or nutritional advice. If you have any allergies, intolerances, medical conditions, or dietary concerns, consult a qualified health professional before preparing or consuming any recipe on this site.

    By following this recipe, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. The site, its writers, and contributors are not liable for any adverse reactions, ingredient misinterpretations, or accidents in the preparation or consumption of any dishes.

    For full details, please refer to the site’s complete disclaimer and terms of use.