Changes in my life

You may have noticed that I've gone off the grid for a while. This is definitely not for a lack of trying or being sapped of creative energy - rather, a few "challenges" I've had recently (bear with me here!). 

Social media is meant to be a platform for communication and collaboration but recently, it feels like every time I scroll through my feed, people are celebrating all the wonderful things going on for them. Trust me, it's not shaking my bones and I'm not the jealous type, but it makes you...hesitant... to write up a real, raw and truthful post. It's time to take a hit and reveal what's really been going on in my life. 

Some of my followers may have heard the exciting news that I have skipped ship from a fun and energetic Agency career and dipped my toes into the professional Corporate world. I couldn't be happier for the challenge, and the opportunities that have presented themselves over the last few years. It feels like this is what I have been building up to - a culmination of life experiences that land me smack in the middle of corporate utopia in my middle twenties. I didn't realise how scared of change I was until I was faced with it. Having to change my travelling patterns, swap out my entire wardrobe of workwear (no more sandals and summer dresses to the office) and facing my irrational fears like the chance that I would get hungry at work (I have a food addiction) and not know where to get a snack (yes, irrational I know). It meant a lot of unnerving stress. Stress about the unknown, whether I was "good enough", had I made the right decision. It was overwhelming and, as I have learnt now - completely unnecessary. 

Two weeks into my new job, I fell ill with a serious case of Influenza A. I went to bed with a slight cough and woke up the next morning with severe muscular pains, a chest on fire and a fever through the roof. Uncontrollable nausea and a general air of "I'm going to die". I was admitted into hospital that morning and spent a few days in a cold, sterile ward. It's during this time that I had to face more irrational fears (you can tell by now that I don't do well with any form of stress) like needles, washing my hair with a drip attached to my vein, spending a whole weekend without my husband (we're basically inseparable when we're at home together) and overcoming the incessant bouts of nausea and feeling ever so sorry for myself. The night before I could be discharged from hospital, my Doctor let me know that if I could go the night without a spike in my fever, I would be free to go home the next morning. Home to my own bed, wardrobe and bathroom - I wanted OUT! I was dosed with medication, happy with spending one more night and freedom was just a few hours from my fingertips. I could almost feel it. 

At midnight, I was overcome with cold. Shivering in my bed, squirming under the sheets trying to get warm - this torture lasted two hours. I refused to ring the bell to alert the nurses, telling myself that I needed to last the night without a fever to go home. I was adamant I could fight it on my own, that I would fall asleep "soon" and it would be morning. After finally coming to terms with the fact that the fever wouldn't break on its own, that I needed help and perhaps one more day in hospital wouldn't kill me - I called for the nurses. They were kind, inserted  new medication into the intravenous drip and let me sleep. Before drifting off, I remember thinking, why did I spend hours suffering when help was literally a single bell away. The next morning, I was discharged anyway and made it to attend Trevor Noah's comedy show at the Durban ICC (more about that later). You could say - it all worked out in the end. 

Perhaps if there's anything I learned over the last two weeks:

- Stop stressing over things that you have no control over. 

- Stop feeling sorry for yourself. It's almost impossible to feel positive when all you're perpetuating is a cloud of negativity. 

- Ask for help - the consequences be damned. 

- Family over everything - I couldn't have done this without my husband and parents by my side. They're my emotional strength, my care givers and my greatest supporters. I owe them all a lunch or two. 

Right now, I'm in a positive & happy space. I'm ready to challenge myself creatively and share a little more - the negatives AND the positives. You'll be hearing a lot more from me, that's for sure. 

Love, 

Yo Homi 

Magical Meringues Recipe

Made from whipped egg whites and powdered sugar, meringues are light, airy and very sweet. Follow this easy recipe to make perfect meringues - or use it as a basis for other desserts such as pavlovas or lemon meringue pudding, or simply as a treat on its own. So easy to make, and an inexpensive recipe to demonstrate. For an extra special touch, place meringues in an attractive glass jar for your next Sunday afternoon tea and catch the compliments!

Makes approximately 50 small meringues

•  3 large egg whites
• 210g castor sugar (250ml or 1 cup) 
• 5ml vanilla essence (1 teaspoon) or 1 vanilla bean pod, scraped
• 5ml white vinegar
• 30ml boiling water (2 tablepoons) 
• 10ml baking powder (2 teaspoons)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 100 degrees. 
2. Line baking trays with baking powder, do not grease (do not use greaseproof paper).
3. Using a clean, dry bowl of the electric food mixer, whisk egg whites until a soft peak is formed. 
4. Add sugar spoon by spoon, slowly whisking all the time. 
5. With the last teaspoon of sugar, mix in vanilla essence, or the vanilla bean paste and whisk well. 
6. Add boiling water and whisk again for 5 minutes. 
7. Lastly, add baking powder and whisk for a minute. 
8. Place mixture into a piping bag which has been fitted with a nozzle. 
9. Pipe onto prepared baking trays.
10. Bake for 60 minutes. Switch off the oven and leave in the oven, if possible, for a further 30 minutes. 

My tried and tested tip is to make the meringues smaller so that they will cook slightly quicker! Using a disposable piping bag makes for easy cleaning up after so you have less washing up to worry about and more time preparing for guests. 

Try this out and let me know what you think in the comments below!

Love,
Yo Homi

We can't wait to be Keeping up with the Kandasamys!

The official trailer for the new South African motion picture, KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS, is here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YV6ZWNmRpqI

From the producers of Hard to Get and Happiness is a Four-Letter Word - one of South Africa’s most successful films - comes an all new rib-tickling, two-sided family comedy affair, directed and co-written by Durban filmmaker Jayan Moodley (White Gold), produced by award-winning duo Helena Spring (Academy Award Nominee and Mbokodo-winner) and the late Junaid Ahmed (who sadly passed away in November 2016) and co-writer, Rory Booth.

Set in Chatsworth, KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS opens a window into the lifestyle and subculture of modern-day Indian South Africans; their aspirations, dreams and challenges. “I loved shooting this film on location in Chatsworth. It’s an iconic place, like District Six or Soweto. It’s vibrant, lively and spirited, and I believe we have managed to not only capture its idiosyncrasies but also its heart and soul that will make global audiences fall in love with it too, over a barrel full of laughs,” says director Jayan Moodley about her debut film.

The film stars Jailoshini Naidoo (Eastern Mosaic, Lotus FM) and Maeshni Naicker (Broken Promises) as the matriarchal rivals of neighbouring families, whose young adult children become romantically involved, and despite their best efforts to keep them apart, they are forced to acknowledge that in the end love will always prevail.

Shanti Naidoo (Maeshni Naicker) is a typical Type-A personality. Always on the move, going out of her way to please people, and overcompensating for her perceived inadequacies by continually cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Her life would be just fine, except that her neighbour, Jennifer Kandasamy (Jailoshini Naidoo), always seems to hold the upper hand.

 

When Jennifer realises her beautiful tomboy daughter, Jodi (Mishqah Parthiephal), is in love with Shanti’s son Prishen (Madhushan Singh) – a sensitive medical student, she is determined to break them up. But in order to do that she will have to enlist her rival’s help. “Together the two women scheme and plot, recruit prospective partners and generally interfere with their kids wherever they can,” says producer, Helena Spring.  

Mishqah Parthiephal, who is best-known as Vania in the television soap, Skeem Saam, is thrilled about starring in the film. “When I heard there was an audition for a huge feature film in Durban, I knew that it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss out on. So I drove the six hours from Johannesburg to Durban for the auditions. I was offered the role a few weeks later,” she shares. “I think that KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS is a beautiful story that reflects true Durban Indian culture, I can’t wait for the world to see it.” About playing Jodi, she says: “We are very similar in many ways. She’s a strong young woman who isn’t afraid to tell people around her what’s in her heart. She’s kind and gentle and very loving. We are even similar in the way that we dress. We both live in shorts and sneakers!”

Light-hearted, and entertaining, the story is supported by an array of colourful characters that celebrate the rich and spicy way of life in Durban. Well-known South African theatre actor/playwright/director, Rajesh Gopie, plays Shanti’s husband, Preggie, while comedian Koobeshen Naidoo can be seen as Jennifer’s husband, Elvis. These two characters always remain in the background as they are constantly overshadowed by their dominating wives. Jodi’s friend Marlin (Neil Govender), the local wedding planner, is an epitome of fabulous flamboyancy and Ayah (Mariam Bassa) - Jennifer’s elderly, no-nonsense, ever-critical, mother-in-law - represents that typical granny in most Indian extended families, with funny one-liners and deep insights that are bound to strike a chord with any audience.

“This film has something for everyone. The universal story of neighbourhood rivalry, our desperate need for acceptance and the climb for perceived societal success, is something which touches everyone the world over. At the end of the day we can all recognize our quirks and foibles and the funny side of the weird, wonderful and strangely competitive world we live in,” adds Moodley.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KANDASAMYS promises audiences some truly funny laughs about families, relationships and neighbourhood-envy. The film was produced in association with M-Net, the DTI and NFVF, with distribution by Ster-Kinekor Entertainment. It features music by Kyle Deutsch and The Parlotones and will be released in cinemas, nationwide, on 3 March 2017.

ABOUT THE MAIN ACTORS

Jailoshini Naidoo (Jennifer Kandasamy)

A versatile multi award-winning South African actress, voiceover artist and comedian who has performed at major arenas all over the country, including The Market Theatre, Baxter Theatre, The Playhouse as well as the Grahamstown and Hilton Arts Festivals. A former presenter on SABC2’s Eastern Mosaic, and continuity presenter on M-Net, Jailoshini currently hosts The Weekend Liftoff, the Saturday morning show on Lotus FM in Durban. She has also starred in the British film The Eastern Bride, the Italian film Karol and popular British series Strike Back 2.

Maeshni Naicker (Shanti Naidoo)

A stage and film actress, voiceover artist, radio personality, comedian, popular Madame Master of Ceremonies and Drama teacher. After completing her Drama studies at University, Maeshni continued to act in stage and film productions, teach drama at schools and later went on to start her own Drama School, The Maeshni Naicker Academy of Drama. She is best-known for her roles in Broken Promises 1, 2, 3, Highway Sheila, 31 Million, The Dance and the internationally acclaimed Florida Road.

Social Media Links:

Twitter: @kandasamysmovie

Instagram: @kandasamysmovie

Facebook: facebook.com/kandasamysmovie 

Hashtag:  #ChatsworthStyle #KandasamysMovie

THE SEARCH FOR GATEWAY’S 2017 AMBASSADORS IS ON…

Gateway launched the search for their 2017 ambassadors at a prestigious media launch on Thursday, 19th January, where they offered guests some insight into what the competition is all about.

The centre is looking for a male and female who represent Gateway’s lifestyle and values in their own lives. They are searching for two people who are social, have great personal style, are outgoing and confident in front of a camera and who love to have fun at Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The centre stated that it’s also important for the chosen ambassadors have a good nature, congenial personality and a respectful way of interacting with others. 

Lisanne Lazarus, current brand ambassador for Gateway, described her experience as one that exceeded her wildest dreams and expectations. “I’ve learnt and matured so much from the people I've met and the opportunities that were afforded to me over this last year. This opportunity comes once in a life time and is almost too good to be true”, said Lazarus. 

Thabiso Thedi, who shares the stage with Lazarus as an ambassador, described his experience as EPIC! “It's been an absolute delight. I got to rub shoulders with some of SA's top celebrities, host red carpet events, shop at all the amazing stores Gateway has & experience the 5 Star Gateway VIP lifestyle.” Thedi further commented that being a Gateway Brand Ambassador has led him to truly explore & experience the three main facets which he believes Gateway has built its foundation on, these being “FASHION, FOOD & PEOPLE .... that's what it's all about.” 

The 2017 Ambassadors will walk away with over R120 000 in prizes from sponsors, some of which include:

• Vodacom Nxt Lvl
• Tsogo Sun Garden Court Umhlanga Hotel
• Beluga,
• The Hussar Grill,
• Circus Circus, 
• RJ’s 
• John Dorys, 
• Gerald Wells, 
• Kryolan, 
• Nail It, 
• Ster Kinekor, 
• Chateaux Gateaux 
• Auto Spa Express.

Gateway Theatre of Shopping offers an unprecedented 5 Star shopping experience ranging from local to international retail and also boasts one of the largest entertainment offerings under one roof. For more information on the competition, entry process and mechanics, detailed list of prizes terms and conditions visit www.gatewayworld.co.za 

Look out for Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

#GatewayAmbassador @GatewayUmhlanga 

Gateway Theatre of Shopping in LIGHTS!

Beluga catered the event with a selection of delicious canapes, fresh sushi, prawns and cocktails.

2016 Gateway Ambassador's, Lisanne Lazarus and Thabiso Thedi.

Sponsors for the Gateway Brand Ambassador campaign, Gerald Wells from Gerald Wells Hair Professionals, Durban business owners of Kryolan KZN, Aldytha da Silva and Rob da Silva.

KINGS & QUEENS OF COMEDY IS BIGGER AND FUNNIER THAN EVER

This February, Durban will erupt in laughter as the biggest comedians from all over South Africa hit the stage for the 2017 kick-off of the world tour of Kings & Queens of Comedy on 11 February at the Durban ICC.

Guaranteed to be a show of hysterical proportions, comedy lovers can look forward to a bigger and funnier stellar line-up. 

Taking to the stage with their comical armour and witty swords are Marc Lottering, Tumi Morake, Loyiso Gola, Celeste Ntuli, Leeanda Reddy, Krijay Govender, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Joey Rasdien, Tol Ass Mo, Khanyisa Bunu and Rory Petzer.  Leading the evening’s proceedings is Durban’s favourite comedian, Darren Maule with a special guest appearance by Morgan Beatbox.

Kings & Queens of Comedy began in 2012 in Johannesburg and has since grown to be one of the leading comedy brands in South Africa, promoting and showcasing local talent from around the country.

Don’t miss out on the laughter – get your tickets today to the funniest show in town.  Tickets range from R185 and are now available through Computicket online and leading outlets.

Date: Saturday, 11 February 2017

Time: 20h00 (doors open at 19h00)

Venue: Durban ICC, 45 Bram Fischer Road, Durban

Another great production brought to you by Blu Blood.

Low-Carb Lemon Cheescake Recipe

We were invited for a braai this weekend and I really was torn about attending or not. I've been on a clean eating, low carb eating plan for the last two weeks and honestly, it has been a breeze. I enjoy cooking and preparing healthy meals, and once you mentally prepare yourself - half the battle is won. I decided that I would "wow" my family with a low carb no bake lemon cheesecake and boy, this went down well! Can you say Masterchef in the making!

I was assisted in the kitchen by my sisters which makes this recipe even more special to me. Getting to spend time with these girls, whether chatting over a mani & pedi or getting busy in the kitchen means building friendships and getting creative. Gather the girls and get your aprons on, this recipe is so easy to pull off, you'll wonder where the time went!

TIPS:

• This recipe calls for low-carb rusks to make the base, which I didn't have on hand. I substituted this with Hope Crunchies (blog post on this delicious product coming soon!). I recommend using digestives or even Tennis biscuits (a household favourite, am I right). 
• You can make this cheesecake in the morning and allow 2 - 3 hours in the fridge, no bake and no fuss. 

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes (lemon syrup)

INGREDIENTS: For the cheesecake

• 12 Hope Crunchies (crushed finely) 
• 50 grams butter
• 250ml (1 cup) fresh cream 
• 1 x large lemon (rind and juice required) 
• 2 tbls xylitol or sugar 
• 1 x tub creamed smooth plain cottage cheese (I used the Lancewood brand) 

INGREDIENTS:  For the lemon syrup 

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup xylitol or sugar 
• Juice of 1/2 lemon 
• A drop of yellow food colouring 
• Lemon rind for decoration 

METHOD:  

• Finely crush the Hope Crunchies in a food processor or place the crunchies in a ziplock bag and pound with a rolling pin. 
• Melt the butter over the stove or in the microwave (approximately 20 seconds) and add this liquid to the Hope Crunchies. Mix and add this mixture to a clear dish, flattening out the biscuit base and making sure there are no spaces. 
• In a separate bowl, whip the fresh cream until thickened, slowly adding the sugar and lemon juice. Lastly, add the cottage cheese and mix through. Once combined, toss in the rind of the lemon and gently mix. 
• Spoon the creamy mixture over your biscuit base and flatten with the back of your spoon. 
• Cover with cling wrap and place your cheesecake in the fridge for 2 - 3 hours. 
• To prepare the lemon syrup, bring the 1/2 cup water to a boil over the stove, slowly adding the sugar and mix continuously. Add the lemon juice and yellow food colouring once combined and thickened and continue to stir through. Let the syrup stand for a hour, and once cooled completely, spoon over the cheesecake. 
• Decorate with the lemon rind, a sprig of mint and a raspeberry for a pop of colour. 
• Serve chilled with a refreshing glass of ice tea!  

Let me know if you would try this recipe out and what you would add to make this an even more indulgent treat for your friends and family!

Love,
Yo Homi

So Whipped Cafe - Unicorn Poop Hot Chocolate

So Whipped Cafe, located in Gateway Theatre of Shopping is owned and run by Durban business woman, Candice Courtney. The Cafe is a magical coffee shop located on the Ground Floor, just outside the Wavehouse on the northern side of the super regional shopping centre and offers some of the most delicious cafe lite meals and decadent cakes, cupcakes, eclairs and coffee. The Cafe describes itself as a "happy, creative, carefree space" and that's exactly what you get.

Their latest offering, Unicorn Poop Hot Chocolate, released this year is everything! It's a feast for the eyes and combines the latest Unicorn trend. You've seen this trend all over Pinterest, from unicorn make up tutorials to unicorn hair (colourful hair in beautiful shades of pink, aqua and green), body tattoos and even unicorn macarons!

I can't wait to get my tastebuds into this fun creation and here's hoping it becomes the drink of the year!

Find So Whipped online here: 

Website: www.sowhipped.co.za
Email: events@sowhipped.co.za
Facebook: So Whipped
Instagram: @sowhipped
Twitter: @sowhippedcakes events@sowhipped.co.zaevents

Love,
Yo Homi

Raeesah's Butternut Soup Recipe

My sister in law, Raeesah, is a whizz in the kitchen and I could definitely learn a thing or two from her. She passed on this deliciously creamy and wholesome butternut soup recipe to me and it was a winner from the word "chop"!

TIPS: 

• Save time in the kitchen (and your fingers) by purchasing diced butternut from the supermarket. It does work out marginally more expensive in comparison to buying a whole butternut but the time saved is actually invaluable. 
• Serve your soup with toppings like sunflower seeds (which pack an extra punch of Vitamin E and are a very good source of copper and Vitamin B), feta and a light dusting of chilli powder for a kick. 

Prep time: 15 minutes 

Cooking time: 40 minutes 

INGREDIENTS: Yields 4 - 5 bowls 

• A knob of butter 
• 1 large white onion 
• 1  small butternut chopped or 1 punnet of  chopped butternut 
• l litre (4 cups) Ina Paarman vegetable stock 
• 125 ml fresh cream (optional)

METHOD: 

• Melt the knob of butter in a heavy based pot over medium heat ensuring that the butter doesn't burn. 
• Add the chopped onion to the pot and let sweat until translucent in colour. 
• Throw in the butternut pieces and cover with 500 ml vegetable stock. I used Ina Paarman's Vegetable Stock in this recipe which is full of flavour and great quality too! 
• Simmer on medium heat until cooked through and the butternut is soft to the touch. This should take approximately 30 minutes. 
• Using a hand blender, puree the soup until it reaches a silky smooth texture. If you find the soup to be too thick, add water slowly to rectify.
• Add the fresh cream to the soup and bring to a simmer. 
• Adjust seasoning here by adding a crack of pepper or if you prefer, a tablespoon of sugar. 
• Serve soup in bowls and garnish with feta, sunflower seeds, chilli powder or a sprig of thyme. 

Let me know if you would try this recipe out or what you would add to make this comfort meal even more indulgent. Comment below and let's get chatting!

Love,
Yo Homi

Monday morning inspiration

Beauty Review: Vaseline

Let's just say I'm really not what you would call "high maintenance". In fact, give me the simplest route to perfect skin and I will probably fall hook, line and sinker. I saw the adverts for the new Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser online and in-store and it immediately piqued my interest. A moisturizer in a spray? Like a deodorant for your legs? HELLO!

The product claims to moisturize and absorb into the skin in seconds while restoring dry skin. It's also non-greasy and includes micro droplets of Vaseline jelly. It's a continuous spray where you hold the product 10 cm's away from your skin and spray all over your body in a continous motion. The three varients of the product is Aloe Soothe (featured above), Cocoa Radiant and Essential Healing (cream in colour). Sounds cool, right?

I was impressed with how light the texture of the product is on my skin. It's hydrating without leaving white residue all over my legs and arms, which I love. It was quick to apply, which is great if you're in a rush in the morning (like we all are).

I picked this up at Clicks this weekend and it's currently on promotion until the 23 January 2017 (selected stores only) where you receive 30% off and pay only R59.95! Try it out and let me know what you think - pretty certain this is going to be your go to beauty product for 2017!

Love,
Yo Homi  

5 ways to get the most out of your weekend

The weekend is here. You've been anticipating the slow ticking of Monday through to Thursday and before you know it, it's the WEEKEND! Like most people, you probably have this soul encapsulating "sigh" escape your lips at approximately 5pm on Sunday and if that doesn't fill you with dread, I don't know what does.

Turn that frown upside down and let me give you 5 ideas to get the most out of your weekend!

1. Plan ahead: Weekends tend to be the dumping ground of what I like to call "Life Admin". This is stuff like going to Woolworths to pay your installment or getting the car washed. Life's too short, ain't nobody got time for that. The malls are generally quieter in the morning, so wake up early and get in there before the crowds gather. Resist the temptation to browse and head to the stores you need to, mapping our a route for yourself. Once this is behind you, you have all the time in the world for FUN stuff.
2. Do your research: There are loads of local weekly and monthly markets that take place in Durban and surrounds. I love getting excited about a favourite local retailer popping up at one of these markets - from handmade onesies to food indulgences - there's something local for everyone. 
3. Explore the city: Exploration needn't cost you, especially if you're on a budget. Visiting local tourist spots can be fun, and show you a different perspective of your city. Take a walking tour of the Durban CBD, checking out famous historical sites and tasting the local food - from grilled mielies on the side walk to a good old fashioned steak sandwich or bunny chow to share. 
4. Catch some waves: Durban prides itself on great weather all year round, even in winter. Take advantage and head to one of the many beaches on the coast. From Ballito, Umhlanga, Glenashley and North Beach you'll find fun and great food along the way. 
5. Make time for family: Life get's you busy and stressed so what better way to unwind than with family. Plan a no-fuss braai or bring and share and don't sweat the small stuff. Bust out the Monopoly or Uno and the winner gets to host the next braai at their place. 

Wishing you a chilled weekend, lovelies. 

Love, 

Yo Homi

Popeye Spinach & Feta Muffins

Easy as 1, 2, 3 - I've found the easiest recipe for what I've named "Popeye Spinach & Feta Muffins". You could probably convince yourself this is healthy, seeing as it includes spinach and honestly, whatever soothes your soul. All I know, this is a quick and filling comfort food that is perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a mid-afternoon savoury snack with a cappuccino.

TIPS: 

• Using fresh spinach is advisable rather than frozen spinach. 
• Make sure your oven is preheated and your muffin pan has been greased well. I used Spray & Cook rather than muffin holders, simply because I usually don't have any on hand! 
• The recipe is adaptable so feel free to add peppadews, pitted black olives, a variety of cheese toppings and cherry tomatoes. 

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes 

INGREDIENTS: Yields 12 muffins

• 2 cups white flour (sifted)
• 2 tsp Royal baking powder
• 1 tsp fine salt 
• 1 cup whole milk 
• 1/2 cup oil 
• 2 fresh eggs 
• 2 feta rounds (I prefer Clover feta, plain)
• 2 cups spinach finely chopped 

METHOD: 

•  Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
• Grease muffin pan with Spray & Cook or line with paper holders.
• In a deep bowl, add sifted white flour, baking powder and salt. 
• In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, oil, eggs until smooth and combined. 
• Add chopped spinach and cubed feta to the liquid in ingredients and lightly mix together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and lightly combine. Do not over work this mixture. 
• Spoon mixture into the muffin pan, bearing in mind that the muffins will rise during the baking process. Ensure that each spoonful has enough feta and add more to the topping if required. 
• Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and a skewer is inserted to come off non sticky. 
• Remove from oven when done and let cool on a wire rack. 

 I usually slice these in halves, smother in rich butter and nibble in front of the TV watching Masterchef Australia because what else? Super fancy!

Let me know if you've tried this and what you would add to make it even more fabulous and indulgent!

Love, 
Yo Homi.

Beauty Review: Himalaya Herbals

Here's the lowdown: 6 months ago I decided to throw out all my skin care products and start fresh. My skin looked tired and I experienced break outs fairly often. I decided I needed to go back to basics and try a natural, herbal solution to my skin issues. I was recommended to try out the Himalaya Herbals range and I haven't looked back since.

The brand suits my Indian skin type, and I have combination skin. Himalaya covers everything from skin care, hair care and even baby care with a gentle baby skin care range (cool, right?). So far, I've dipped into the following:

• Gentle exfoliating Apricot scrub (R70.00): I use this twice a week to exfoliate my skin. I wear make up on most days and although I keep it light, having a scrub twice a week keeps my pores clear, eliminating break outs. The scrub is lightly scented and non abrasive - no redness after use which is a huge bonus. 
• Almond and cucumber peel off mask (R70.00): I usually treat myself to a peel off mask once a week on a Sunday evening. Start the week off with revived skin by slathering my face with this deliciously thick and creamy mask. I suggest using a brush to apply the product evenly on your skin and letting it dry for approximately 15 minutes. Once dry, peel off gently and rinse with warm water. You instantly see the difference with a brighter skin tone and a noticeable glow. 
• Himalaya Protein Hair Cream (R46.00): I was a little sceptical to try this, believing it would leave my hair greasy and heavy. The product has a thick, whipped texture and contains key ingredients like amla, liquorice and lotus. Application is simple - wash and condition as normal and towel dry your hair. Once done, apply a little of the product to you hair and blowdry. I found my hair to be softer after use with lots of shine - the hair cream packs a punch in my weekly beauty routine.

Thoroughly impressed with the current holistic range, the products are reasonably (if not under) priced and can be found in major retailers like Clicks and Dischem. I've uncovered two standalone stores in Durban, one in Pick n Pay Hyper by the Sea and the other in Phoenix Plaza, Phoenix.You can also purchase online via the Himalaya Herbals website: www.himalayaherbals.co.za

Pick a product and give it a go, you won't be disappointed. 

Love, 

Yo Homi.