PRUE’S NEAT TRICKS & TIPS

DECORATING CAKES

For a smooth cake frosting, dip a palette knife into boiling water just before using.

COLOURING PASTA

Colour and flavour pasta by boiling it with some kale leaves or slices of beetroot.

PERFECT PASTRY

Roll rich pastry out between two sheets of clingfilm. Then remove the top sheet, roll the pastry up with the bottom sheet, turn it over and unroll it onto the top of your tin, removing the second sheet of

clingfilm as you go.

USING ICING SUGAR

Sift icing sugar over a lessthan-lovely-looking cake.

FREEZING VEG

Freeze fresh peas, sprouts or red summer fruits in a single layer on a baking tray lined with clingfilm. When frozen, bag them and they won’t all stick together in a clump.

PIE FILLINGS

Don’t worry if apple slices turn brown when you’re making a pie. Cooking gets them white again.

WOBBLY BOARDS

A folded damp cloth under your chopping board keeps it stable.

COOLING FOOD

Cool food fast to prevent bugs breeding: spread it out in a shallow layer or stand the pot or bowl in cold water and stir occasionally. As soon as the food is cool, refrigerate or freeze.

PEELING GARLIC

Top and tail each clove and then bash it with the bottom of a jar or bottle. The skin will come off. Mash with a pinch of salt for a smooth paste.

CRUMBLE TOPPINGS

Add chopped nuts to sweet crumble toppings for extra crunch.