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'And Just Like That...' serves up a half-baked finale with 'The Last Supper'
'And Just Like That...' serves up a half-baked finale with 'The Last Supper'
"And Just Like That..." managed to go from irritating to merely boring in its second season, which feels like modest progress. Yet the central relationship that finally took over -- as Carrie renewed her romance with Aidan, the one that she let get away -- came as too little, too late to completely salvage a series whose secondary plots have remained underwhelming, and at times half-baked.
2023-08-24 21:49
‘Trauma Dumping’ Is Real & Your Hairdresser Needs You To Stop Doing It
‘Trauma Dumping’ Is Real & Your Hairdresser Needs You To Stop Doing It
Breakups, dating drama, fertility struggles, and family feuds — hairdressers are privy to all manner of personal stories. As we relax, unwind, and feel someone else’s fingers through our hair, we tend to let down our guard, and often, the conversation can spill over into a free therapy session. The salon chair has long served as a sanctuary where we instinctively find solace in sharing our deepest thoughts and emotions. But unbeknown to us, hairdressers repeat the same interaction up to eight or nine times a day. It’s little wonder, then, that this is taking a serious toll on their mental health.
2023-09-06 04:29
Who is Oliver Anthony and what's the deal with 'Rich Men North of Richmond?'
Who is Oliver Anthony and what's the deal with 'Rich Men North of Richmond?'
Over the weekend, Oliver Anthony went from a relative unknown to a viral country star
2023-08-16 03:17
Dining Out and Haircuts Among Most Sticky Parts of UK Inflation
Dining Out and Haircuts Among Most Sticky Parts of UK Inflation
UK inflation is proving harder to break in the basic services that Britons use — from haircuts to
2023-08-21 18:17
Tried & Tested: 5 summer walking boots
Tried & Tested: 5 summer walking boots
Whether you’re after waterproof walking, springy strolls or harder hikes and punishing treks, there are plenty of boots out there which will be a perfect fit this summer. Take a look at five we tried out, to help you put your best foot forward on a summer staycation. Berghaus Women’s Expeditor Trek 2.0 Boots (£99, tiso.com) Key features: No wearing in needed, thanks to super cushioning from the EVA midsoles and OrthoLite footbed. Their split suede upper, robust, grippy soles and all-round performance makes them good value for money. They were also the easiest boots to get on and off, with a wide entry point. Verdict: These snug-fitting – but comfy – walking boots pack a punch for the price and I did a five-miler straight from the box and didn’t suffer any ill effects around the toes or the ankles. They are reasonably lightweight and fairly generous width-wise, although I could feel a slight pinch point mid-foot by the end of the first walk, which evened out the more I used them. The grip is sufficient for tricky hills and they are also waterproof, although I suspect you won’t do the suede upper any good if you’re traipsing through boggy puddles. On the whole, a great all-rounder for the price. Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Mid Waterproof Walking Shoe (£90, columbiasportswear.co.uk) Key features: Their weight – just 290g. Their versatility and good looks mean they wouldn’t look out of place under jeans, if you’re doing a short amble with a stop-off at the pub, or some easy sightseeing en route. Verdict: These super-lightweight boots – which are actually billed as a walking shoe but have some ankle cushioning – are a cross between a sturdy trainer and a light walking boot. They have the comfortable springiness of a trainer – which is great for walking on dry ground – while the grip will hold you steady on more rocky terrain. They are waterproof, withstanding a bit of summer rain, but I wouldn’t be taking them into boggy winter conditions any time soon. They’re ideal for summer, when you don’t want heavy boots for meandering along easy country paths and green fields in the sunshine. Get a size up from your regular shoe fitting and you’ll do miles in total comfort. Helly Hansen W Switchback Trail Helly Tech (£120, hellyhansen.com) Key features: Their toe and heel caps keep your feet secure and protected, they’re fully waterproof and feel sturdy, despite being relatively light. Verdict: These are impressively sturdy boots considering how light they feel, definitely not an enhanced trainer but with an understated, stylish look, which would appeal to both younger and older walkers. During a 10-miler across mixed terrain, they had a sure grip providing stability on rocky, unstable downhill slopes, while the cushioning on super hard surfaces made you feel like you were walking on cotton wool. Get yourself a size up if you want to wear thick socks with them in the winter, but the spongy, comfortable materials used around the ankle and the tongue should assure you of a blister-free trek. Merrell Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX (£135, merrell.com) Key features: The mid-sole has extra cushioning, which protects the balls of your foot, along with a ‘rockplate’ which helps reduce the impact of unforgiving sharp rocks or stones underfoot. Verdict: With a Gore-Tex lining you can count on, I yomped through muddy fields and shallow puddles and stayed dry – it’s worth paying an extra few quid for the knowledge you won’t be squelching in your boots. In our unpredictable British summers, though, you want plenty of breathability which these boots have in spades. After trying them out on a warm spring day in thin socks, my feet emerged as dry as a bone. Eco-warriors may be impressed with the 100% recycled laces, which didn’t feel flimsy, the recycled mesh lining and 30% recycled rubber in the outsole. AKU Alterra Mid GTX (£229.90, aku.it/en) Key features: The outer sole and impressive grip helps prevent you stumbling on rocky, uneven ground, while there’s excellent protection around the ankle, yet it still feels spongy and comfortable. Verdict: The Italian specialist brand Aku says these sturdy boots are designed for medium terrain and longer rambles over mixed ground, but these were by far the toughest boots, with such impressive grippy soles that I think they’re just as suitable for winter walks. They may be a little extravagant – and a bit heavier looking – for easier summer rambles, but if you’re a hardcore hiker with aims of climbing challenging peaks this summer, these are just the job. And right on cue, Aku has brought out a new lighter weight version of the same boot, so look out for the Alterra Lite Mid GTX. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Do I need to treat my garden furniture before storing it for winter? Prince William heads to New York for UN General Assembly climate week event London Fashion Week: Jourdan Dunn walks in emotional Richard Quinn show
2023-09-18 23:59
The Best Phones for 2023
The Best Phones for 2023
For most of us, mobile phones are at the center of our universe. The typical
2023-06-22 05:17
Five dinner ideas from around the world to try this week
Five dinner ideas from around the world to try this week
Sometimes dinnertime is not just about satisfying our hunger. It’s a chance to embark on a culinary adventure from the comfort of our homes. To elevate your dining experience this week, we’ve curated a selection of five diverse and sustainable dinner recipes that celebrate global powerhouses of flavour while keeping an eye on our ecological footprint. Transport yourself to the bustling markets of Morocco with an aromatic vegetarian taigne. Embracing the harvest of the season, this hearty dish brings together the earthiness of butternut squash and carrots with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas. Topped with a zesty lemon-dill sauce, the baked salmon dish below offers a refreshing twist to your taste buds while delivering a dose of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. A true taste of British comfort, a classic beef and mushroom pie is a hearty masterpiece that showcases locally sourced beef. The recipe also minimises waste and maximises taste, making it an economical choice for families. Capturing the vibrant colours of the Mediterranean, stuffed peppers are a celebration of wholesome and vegetarian goodness. Filled with couscous, chickpeas and a medley of vegetables, this dish burts with nutritious delights. Lastly, journey to the aromatic landscapes of Thailand with a tantalising green curry. Tender chicken thighs dance harmoniously with fresh vegetables, bathed in a luscious coconut curry sauce. Bon appétit! Spiced vegetable tagine This Moroccan-inspired vegetarian tagine is bursting with flavour from seasonal vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for a cosy dinner and packed with nutritious goodness. Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 1 tin (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes 500ml vegetable broth 100g dried apricots, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Fresh coriander leaves for garnish Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. 2. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant. 3. Add the butternut squash and carrots, tossing them with the spices. 4. Pour in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chopped apricots. Season with salt and pepper. 5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender. 6. Serve the tagine over couscous or rice, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Baked salmon with lemon-dill sauce This delicious and sustainable salmon dish is baked to perfection and served with a zesty lemon-dill sauce. It’s a delightful dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of omega-3 fatty acids. Serves: 2 Prep time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets 1 tbsp olive oil 1 lemon, thinly sliced Salt and pepper to taste ¼ cup (60g) plain yogurt 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped 1 tsp lemon zest 1 tsp lemon juice Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200C (180C fan). Grease a baking dish with olive oil. 2. Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, then lay lemon slices on top of each fillet. 3. Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork. 4. While the salmon is baking, prepare the lemon-dill sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, fresh dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. 5. Serve the baked salmon with the lemon-dill sauce drizzled on top. Beef and mushroom pie This classic British beef and mushroom pie is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner. The tender beef and earthy mushrooms are enveloped in a rich gravy, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. Serves: 6 Prep time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours Ingredients: 500g beef stew meat, diced 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 250g button mushrooms, sliced 2 tbsp plain flour 500ml beef broth 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce Salt and pepper to taste 1 pack (320g) ready-rolled puff pastry 1 egg, beaten Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C (160C fan). 2. In a large oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. 3. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices. 4. Stir in the plain flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. 5. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. 6. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. 7. Bake the beef mixture for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened. 8. Meanwhile, roll out the puff pastry and cut it to fit the top of the pie dish. 9. Once the beef mixture is done, pour it into a pie dish and cover it with the puff pastry. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish. 10. Bake the pie in the oven at 200C (180C fan) for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Mediterranean stuffed peppers These vibrant Mediterranean stuffed peppers are a flavourful vegetarian option that’s easy to make. Filled with couscous, chickpeas, and Mediterranean vegetables, they are a healthy and delicious dinner choice. Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color) 100g couscous 200ml vegetable broth 1 tin (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 courgette, diced 1 red onion, diced 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp dried oregano ½ tsp ground paprika Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200C (180C fan). 2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes. Brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil. 3. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat, add couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes until fluffy. 4. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and red onion, sautéing until softened. 5. Stir in the cooked couscous, chickpeas, dried oregano, ground paprika, salt, and pepper into the sautéed vegetables. 6. Stuff the mixture into the prepared bell peppers and place them in a baking dish. 7. Bake the stuffed peppers for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred on the outside. 8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Thai green curry with chicken Transport your taste buds to Thailand with this aromatic and creamy Thai green curry. Made with tender chicken and seasonal vegetables, it’s a delightful balance of spicy, savoury, and coconut goodness. Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes Ingredients: 500g boneless chicken thighs, sliced 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp green curry paste 400ml coconut milk 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 100g green beans, trimmed and halved 1 courgette, sliced 2 tbsp fish sauce 1 tbsp brown sugar Fresh basil leaves for garnish Cooked jasmine rice to serve Method: 1. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the green curry paste and cook for a minute until fragrant. 2. Stir in the sliced chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides. 3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. 4. Add the sliced red bell pepper, green beans, and courgette to the curry. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp. 5. Season the curry with fish sauce and brown sugar, adjusting the seasoning to taste. 6. Serve the Thai green curry over jasmine rice and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Read More Hi Barbie! Nine cocktails inspired by the doll’s most iconic outfits The National Portrait Gallery’s new restaurant is fabulous upgrade Three barbecue recipes to try that aren’t burgers The dish that defines me: Alex Outhwaite’s Vietnamese bun cha 3 TikTok-approved recipes for picnic season Imad Alarnab: In Calais’ Jungle refugee camp, food restored our faith
2023-07-24 17:15
15+ of the best Advent calendars for counting down to the holidays
15+ of the best Advent calendars for counting down to the holidays
Anyone who grew up in a Christian household knows two truths: One, you can learn
2023-11-02 17:58
Salma Hayek explains why she only wore mens’ suits to her early red carpet appearances
Salma Hayek explains why she only wore mens’ suits to her early red carpet appearances
Salma Hayek Pinault has explained the reason why she solely wore menswear to many of her early red carpet appearances. The actor, 56, reflected on her decades-long career in Hollywood in a new interview with W Magazine. When asked whether she remembers her first-ever red carpet appearance, Hayek recalled how she wore a “man’s suit” to the occasion because it was the only fashion connection she had at the time. “I didn’t have any connections,” Hayek said, referring to the moment she walked the red carpet at the 1996 premiere of The Birdcage. “The only connection I had was to somebody I knew at Hugo Boss, so I wore a man’s suit because no one else gave me anything to wear.” For the Los Angeles movie premiere, which took place at Mann Village Theatre in Westwood, California, Hayek wore a grey, pinstriped suit jacket with matching trousers and a mock-neck black T-shirt underneath. The Mexican-American actor previously opened up about her first red carpet in a 2021 interview with Vogue India, where she explained that designers had declined to dress her at the time because she wasn’t as well-known in the industry. “I’m Mexican. I’m also very short, which doesn’t help with the weight and doesn’t help with the design," she told the fashion magazine. "But you know, I was ingenious. I took chances. I met someone at Hugo Boss, who was the only connection I had, so I wore man suits for a while.” Speaking to Vogue India, Hayek went on to recall how she wore a “very simple black dress” to MTV Music Video Awards in 1998. While she noted that all the other women were wearing “fabulous dresses” and “beautiful jewellery,” she decided to decorate her body with butterfly tattoos. “Instead of giving me a complex and saying that I don’t have the best dress or they don’t know who I am, I was like: ‘I am fabulous,’” she said. “I painted some butterfly tattoos on myself and I felt happy about myself." While Hayek has since made a name for herself in the fashion world, she hasn’t strayed far from her menswear roots. The House of Gucci star wore another menswear look for her late-night appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 1996, where she sported a brown suit with a white button-down shirt and red geometric tie. In 2014, she was pictured wearing a navy blue Saint Laurent suit with a sharp black tie and white button-up shirt, as well as a black tuxedo dress with a matching black bow tie for the premiere of Exodus: Gods and Kings that same year. Not only is the Magic Mike’s Last Dance actor a fashion icon, but she’s also married to French businessman François Henri-Pinault: the CEO of luxury goods company Kering, which owns fashion brands including Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen. The two began dating in 2006 and welcomed their now 15-year-old daughter, Valentina Paloma Pinault, the following year. In March, Hayek walked the 2023 Oscars red carpet with her daughter as her date. She even loaned the teenager a dress from her fashion archives for the event: a vintage red Isaac Mizrahi gown, which Hayek wore in 1997. Read More Menswear has made women feel confident for centuries, but will the gendered separation ever cease to exist? Linda Evangelista makes rare comment about co-parenting with son’s stepmother Salma Hayek Salma Hayek opens up about embracing her ‘whites hairs and wrinkles’ as she shares new selfie Linda Evangelista opens up about co-parenting with son’s stepmother Salma Hayek 5 viral TikTok fake tanning tips for the perfect summer glow Jennifer Lopez shares her beauty regime – here’s how to look after skin in your 50s
2023-08-18 03:48
Don't Lose the Moment: How to Take a Screenshot on a Mac
Don't Lose the Moment: How to Take a Screenshot on a Mac
Capturing a screenshot is a simple way to share whatever it is you're seeing on
2023-12-02 02:49
China’s Top Art Fairs Are Finally Back, Testing Appetite of the Rich
China’s Top Art Fairs Are Finally Back, Testing Appetite of the Rich
China’s biggest art fairs are back in a first post-Covid test of collectors’ appetite, at a time when
2023-11-10 11:22
Advocates sue federal government for failing to ban imports of cocoa harvested by children
Advocates sue federal government for failing to ban imports of cocoa harvested by children
Child welfare advocates have filed a federal lawsuit asking a judge to force the Biden administration to block imports of cocoa harvested by children in West Africa that ends up in America’s most popular chocolate desserts and candies
2023-08-15 20:20