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A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=5230
Author:  Cat C [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:00 pm ]
Post subject:  A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Well, here goes nothing... This bit is very introductory, and I'm not sure when the next installment will appear, but all (constructive) comments welcome in the meantime!

Hilda Annersley looked at her old friend and colleague Nell Wilson quizzically. She was interested as to whether the former co-head of the Chalet School, and now head of the finishing branch would agree with her suggested method of solving the school’s latest staffing problem.

“It’s a novel idea, certainly,” said Nell at last. “Especially given that we’ve no old girls who could step into the role, it really would be better to give each candidate a trial in the post – and if you say they all have the means to take a week at least out of their regular schedules to come here, I really don’t see the snag. It would give them an opportunity to try the chalet for size as living quarters too. But my dear, it does seem you have a rather long short-list of candidates. Could you run them by me again so I can get them straight?”

“Certainly I could,” replied Hilda. As you say, it’s rather a long list though, so perhaps we should consider the first candidate due, and I shall ask Rosalie to provide you with a copy of the information I have for all the other candidates for you to peruse at your leisure?” Hilda paused, and picked up a sheaf of papers from a table by the side of her comfortable arm chair, positioned by the fire in her study. “As you say, we’ve had such a lot of interest for some reason; I think we should be here half the night if I were to appraise you of all seven candidates now.”

Filling the vacancy left by the long-standing domestic science mistress, Anna Meiders had been a daunting task, although Miss Annersley reflected, a new start in Switzerland was not a bad time to be making some enforced staff changes.

“To some extent, the order in which we expect the candidates has been dictated by their availability, of course. But I’m bound to say that on paper at least, the first two ladies in particular would seem to be the best suited.” Nell Wilson nodded in response. “The first lady is a Mrs Charles Saatchi, although she’s published several cookery books under her maiden name Nigella Lawson.” Hilda paused, and looked up from her papers with a sudden smile. “I can see Jo liking that name, can’t you?

“That aside, her CV looks most promising. No formal training in domestic science, but she has a degree from Oxford, and a career in journalism behind her as well as all her cookery writing. She’s very well-connected in terms of family, and was herself widowed with two children before marrying her current husband, who also has a daughter. Her daughter Cosima and the step-daughter Phoebe might fit in very well here if she takes up the post. I suppose her son would go to school in England.

“My only slight concern is the impression I get from some of the photographs in her books. But one mustn’t judge from appearances, I suppose. Oh, and she describes herself as being ‘singularly unathletic’ but it may be that some time spent in the wonderful climate here will change that! I don’t think there’s any suggestion of ill-health at any rate.”

Nell Wilson nodded thoughtfully. “It certainly seems she may be very suitable. But the proof of the pudding is in the eating, as they say, and we shall have to see what happens when she starts her teaching on Monday.”
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
This looks interesting. Are all the candidates female or are some male??

I can see some current chefs fitting in better then others. Jamie Oliver and Delia for example would cause different responses.
Author:  Emma A [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Excellent start, Cat C - I'm looking forward to the rest of this when you can. I wonder how Mrs Saatchi will fit in? :D
Author:  Cat C [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Quote:
Are all the candidates female or are some male??


I have some male candidates in mind :lol:

Actually I wrote a Hilda and Nell discussion covering all of them, but then had a re-think - figured presenting it this way might be more fun. Although it seems to be rather serious so far.
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 6:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
I do like this - though am wondering if some of the candidates might have to mind their language! :lol:
Author:  Liz K [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 7:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Lesley wrote:
I do like this - though am wondering if some of the candidates might have to mind their language! :lol:



You're not talking Gordon Ramsey at all are you!! :evil: :twisted:

(sorry, I'm just feeling extremely naughty right now).
Author:  Sarah_K [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 8:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
I think Nigella would fit right in with their "feather beds of whipped cream" etc.

:D
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 9:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Liz K wrote:
Lesley wrote:
I do like this - though am wondering if some of the candidates might have to mind their language! :lol:



You're not talking Gordon Ramsey at all are you!! :evil: :twisted:

(sorry, I'm just feeling extremely naughty right now).



Yep! :mrgreen:
Author:  Sugar [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 10:40 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
This looks great Cat. Can't wait to see where it goes!
Author:  KJX [ Wed Nov 12, 2008 10:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Oh please let Gordon have a trial! And imagine the carnage the Hugh Fearnly-Whitting-Wotsit could create with his 'eat the whole animal' and butchery ethos.

Oh, and the mistresses all a flutter over James Martin (or is that just me?)
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:00 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Can I cast a vote for Maggie and Simon (The Cook and The Chef, ABC-1, Wednesdays at 6:30. http://www.abc.net.au/tv/cookandchef/) ?

Thank you Cat, I'm can see this will be hugely enjoyable.
Author:  MaryR [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:35 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
A novel idea, Cat. :lol: Am envisaging Hilda's and Nell's reactions to these characters and having a good giggle to myself.

Thank you.
Author:  Sarah [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 12:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Looking forward to seeing what happens! :D
Author:  Elle [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 12:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
So am I!
Author:  abbeygirl [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
I'd like to see Ali and James appear - fresh from their adventures on "the Restaurant" .....
Author:  Elle [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
What about the Hairy Bikers??? Please??? :halo:
Author:  Cat C [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Here's the next bit. I've not got to the really fun bits yet, but I've dropped a few hints here and there! Thank you for all your comments so far - and you've managed to identify several of my other prospective candidates, you may be pleased to hear/read.

The first of the school’s prospective domestic science teachers duly arrived at the Platz the following Sunday. She, her husband and the three children were staying at a small, vacant chalet a short walk from the school grounds, which it was hoped would become the permanent home of the successful candidate and his or her family.

Miss Annersley had invited Mrs Saatchi to tea on the Sunday afternoon, in order that they could meet in person, and that Mrs Saatchi could ask any questions she might have. Mrs Annersley had been rather startled by the nature and quantity of the supplies Mrs Saatchi had suggested should be in place for the start of term, but had done her best to comply, and after all the school prided itself on the excellent food it provided for both staff and pupils.

At the appointed time, Mrs Saatchi was shown into the head’s study by pretty Rosalie Dene the school’s secretary. Miss Annersely rose to greet her:
“Good afternoon Mrs Saatchi, I am Hilda Annersley, the head-mistress” she started politely. “I do hope your journey went smoothly?”
“How do you do?” replied Mrs Saatchi, extending her hand. “And yes, it was a lovely trip. We stopped off in Geneva – I couldn’t possibly refrain from indulging in the fabulous coffee and chocolate and cakes there. I had to be removed for my own good after the first day.” She looked conspiratorially at the head as she spoke. “I don’t know how on earth anyone maintains their figure living out here I must say!” As she spoke, Mrs Saatchi unbuttoned and removed her big coat, with its thick fur collar to reveal an obviously expensive, but rather low cut cashmere sweater, in a pretty pale blue, a long black skirt, and a gust of expensive perfume.

“I’m glad you managed to find time to enjoy Geneva,” replied Miss Annersley cautiously. “And we are so lucky here to have Karen in the kitchen to keep us supplied with cakes and biscuits at elevenses and for afternoon tea, which we refer to as ‘kafee und kuchen’ of course. Do sit down here and I’ll ring for some coffee and cakes now.

“I understand that during your week here you’re happy that the food cooked in your classes is served to the school at abendesson.” Miss Annersely continued. “I must say that would probably be very welcome for Karen, since she would welcome the time to organise the kitchen to her own satisfaction, and of course there is the question of domestic staff; we’re still not up to our full complement on that front. But are you sure that you are happy catering for the whole school?”

Mrs Saatchi beamed, and the head was forced to reflect that although very sophisticated, this new mistress was also blessed with striking good looks, and she began to wonder what effect she might have one on or two of the more impressionable members of the senior school.

“Oh, I just adore cooking for crowds,” explained Mrs Saatchi. “Never knowingly under-catered, that’s me! I couldn’t bear to think of anyone going hungry. I can assure you that everyone will be more than adequately provided for if I have anything to do with the arrangements. But I can assure you that also while I may be extravagant, I am never wasteful. Some of my most successful innovations have resulted in serendipitous experimenting with left-overs from previous efforts.”

“I see,” replied Miss Annersley, thinking that whatever else she might worry about in this somewhat exotic creature, a lack of enthusiasm for her work was not some of them. “Ah, here comes the maid with our coffee and cakes. I suggest we enjoy them, and then we can go and inspect the domestic science rooms so that you can see you have everything you need for Monday’s lesson. I believe you said you would like to begin with roast chicken?”

The next Monday, the two sixth forms were gathered in the domestic science kitchens of the Chalet School. It had been decided that the time-table should be arranged so that each candidate could have a civilised introduction to teaching at the school. And also, it must be admitted, so that, in the case of some of the candidates, if the potential domestic science teacher were wholly unsuitable, that the younger and more impressionable girls would not be influenced.

The girls were dressed in their attractive gentian blue and cream uniforms, with their hair tied neatly back, and were wearing the white cotton aprons that matron insisted on in case of any stains or spills. They were rather startled therefore, when Mrs Saatchi arrived dressed as she had been at the school assembly that morning, in a long black skirt, a deep pink, v-necked angora sweater, and shining dark hair loose around her shoulders.

The staff who had so far met Mrs Saatchi had also been somewhat surprised by her statuesque figure and immaculate make-up and hair, and still more by her low-cut sweater, but had refrained from comment, being somewhat reassured Mrs Saatchi’s air of relaxed composure, and friendly manner.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 4:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
This is definitely going to be fun!

Are we to have the Two Fat Ladies (I know Jennifer Paterson is no more - but, come to that, nor is Fanny Craddock and I don't suppose that ever stopped anybody), but Clarissa Dickson Wright would be quite fun, I think.
Author:  KJX [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 4:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Did anyone see the episode of Two Fat Ladies where they did indeed cook for a boarding school - it was a lacrosse team tea, and if those girls were capable of movement, let alone lacrosse afterwards I'd be amazed!
Author:  RroseSelavy [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 4:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Oh, the Two Fat Ladies would fit right in at the CS! And I have to confess to rather a soft spot for Gordon Ramsay...

Thanks, Cat :D
Author:  Elbee [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Looking forward to meeting all the "candidates" :D .

Thanks Cat, this is going to be fun!
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Love the impression Nigella is making! :D


Thanks Cat
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Cat C wrote:

Mrs Saatchi beamed, and the head was forced to reflect that although very sophisticated, this new mistress was also blessed with striking good looks, and she began to wonder what effect she might have one on or two of the more impressionable members of the senior school.



:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: This is great Cat!
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 11:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
KJX wrote:
Did anyone see the episode of Two Fat Ladies where they did indeed cook for a boarding school - it was a lacrosse team tea, and if those girls were capable of movement, let alone lacrosse afterwards I'd be amazed!

As well that team teas happen after the match, not before! I think I did see that episode, although details are hazy....
Author:  Elle [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Is it too early to start a chant demanding more?
Author:  Cat C [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 3:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
Here's some more - the first lesson seemed to take forever! I'll be writing up some staff and pupil reaction to the food (and Nigella) for the next installment.

“Good afternoon girls,” began Mrs Saatchi in her low, clear cultured tones. “Today we’re going to roast some chickens,” she paused and smiled. “I always think that nothing smells of home like a roast chicken in the oven, and I don’t think I’d want to cook for anyone who wasn’t happy to eat one! Now, since we’re catering for the whole school, you will be roasting three birds each. I usually reckon on one bird for every three people, and I would also like to have plenty left over for tomorrow’s lesson. Oh, and also plenty of chicken carcasses for making stock, too!

“We’ll roast some potatoes and other vegetables with them to minimise the effort needed on our part, and we’ll be making a chocolate cherry trifle for desert, which means the first thing we’ll be doing is making some chocolate custard, so that it has time to cool before we assemble the rest of the layers.”

The sixth formers began to collect the ingredients necessary, some of them looking slightly stunned at the volume of food they seemed to be preparing, and some of the more thoughtful ones thinking that the trifles in particular did not come under the heading of economical food.

“Our first step will be to separate the eggs for the custard,” announced Mrs Saatchi. “You each need six yolks, but please collect the whites into a small bowl, since I’ll be using them up in one of my other classes this week. I find the easiest way is to break the egg neatly into my hand, and then let the white run through my fingers into the bowl underneath – although when the number of egg-whites I have stored in my freezer makes it look like a sperm bank, I must admit I sometimes just let the whites run into the sink!”

The girls looked rather stunned, and in some cases mystified, but all had (just) enough self-control not to squawk at this speech, although one or two of them had to be prevented by their colleagues from dropping their eggs.

“Right, so, time to get cracking,” twinkled Mrs Saatchi, apparently unaware of the sensation she had just created. “I think we’ll cheat just a little bit this time, and add some flour to the custard, you can whisk it into your yolks with the sugar and cocoa powder – it makes it into crème patissière technically, but it does stabilise it so that you needn’t worry about it splitting. And I’m not convinced I want to have you all needing to plunge your saucepans into iced water in this confined space.”

The lesson proceeded relatively smoothly while the girls separated their eggs, then washed their hands, and transferred the resulting whites into pre-labelled plastic bags. “It may help you to know,” instructed Mrs Saatchi, “that a single egg white weighs about an ounce and a half, or 40 grammes in new money. I tend to store them in pairs, although that isn’t necessary on this occasion.”

The girls then put a panful of milk and cream on to heat while they measured out the correct quantities of sugar, cocoa and flour to whisk into the egg yolks, and the requisite weight of chocolate to add to the thickened custard. One or two of the girls set their flames rather high, and Carola Johnstone was grateful to her friend Clem Barrass for turning hers down before it boiled over.

The picturesque flow of language continued as they poured their milk and cream onto the yolk mixture, whisking rapidly, and then returned the eggy mixture back to the pans. “Turn down the flame if you need to girls,” called Mrs Saatchi, “although not too low, or we shall be here all afternoon. Let me know if you’re not sure whether your custard is thick enough – it should be like mayonnaise in terms of consistency – such a voluptuous texture I think. When you get to that stage, take the pan off the heat and stir in the chocolate, then just keep stirring for a few minutes to make sure the chocolate has all melted in and the custard has a chance to cool. I’ll be coming around with some cling film, so you can leave it without a skin forming while we get on with our chickens and the rest of the trifle layers.”

Julie Lucy reflected, as she stirred her cooling custard, that the new mistress looked set to rival Miss O’Ryan, the school’s history mistress for flow of language, although some of her imagery was startling to say the least, and she was dying for the end of the lesson so that she could discuss her impressions with her peers. In the meantime, she accepted her sheet of clingfilm and laid it carefully over the surface of her custard before waiting for further instructions. Various other members of the sixth were in a similar state to Julie, although hugely enjoying the lesson and anticipating the reactions of the rest of the school to their efforts.
Author:  Emma A [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 3:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 13/11
*laughing at Nigella's imagery*
Hope nothing goes badly wrong...

Thanks, Cat C - I'm really enjoying this.
Author:  Lesley [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 4:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 14/11
Fridge like a sperm bank? Oh my!!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Lovely meal they're having - makes me feel hungry just thinking about it!

Thanks Cat.
Author:  Cat C [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 5:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 14/11
Emma A is a speed-reader!

Quote:
Fridge like a sperm bank? Oh my!!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:


I got that bit from one of her books, honest! Glad you're enjoying it so far. I'm trying to work up the courage for a Nigella / Joey meeting - exhanging views on working motherhood and so forth, but Joey's supposed to be in quarentine (?sp) at about this point in the series, so I'm letting myself off at the moment :oops:
Author:  Jennie [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 5:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 14/11
Well, Joey would be expecting Nigella to do her cooking for her, so perhaps it's as well that she's in quarantine.

I can just hear her, 'Well, I know you won't mind knocking up six dozen cup cakes for me for when I have the Upper Vth over for tea, and I'll get Anna to bring over the recipe for lemon biscuits, and eight dozenof them will do.'
Author:  Cat C [ Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 14/11
And a bit more. Why is it that the more forbidding my dead-line the more active the bunny gets? Oh, and rest assured Jennie, I have plans in that sort of direction, I'm building up towards some things :wink:

With their pans of chocolate custard cooling, the girls were instructed as to how to prepare their chickens for the oven. Most were to be lemon flavoured, with the cut side of half a lemon rubbed over the skins, plus a dribble of olive oil, and a scattering of sea salt, and half a lemon pushed inside the chicken, and some were to be ginger flavoured, with juicy ginger roots rubbed over in place of the cut lemon, and the root placed inside the bird. Mrs Saatchi explained that chicken cooked in this way made for an excellent cold chicken salad, the meat being paired with plenty of crunchy salad leaves.

Having put the birds into the big ovens on their roasting trays, along with plenty of vegetables, the girls turned back to their trifles, assembling the layers at their new teacher's direction.
"It's not really worth using good sponge cake in a trifle," Mrs Saatchi explained, as she handed out packets of shop-bought chocolate sponge. "Although I may say that sometimes I'll stash a chocolate cake that hasn't risen properly into the deep-freeze and resurrect it for such purposes - or sometimes make a double batch of my all-in-one chocolate loaf cake, if the mood takes me. Now, you need to open your packets of cake, and start making jam sandwiches with the cherry jam provided. I must say I was thrilled when Miss Annersley told me I could use some of the jam that your matron makes here. Just wodge the sandwiches into the bottom of your glass trifle dishes, it doesn't have to look pretty." The glass dishes in question had been purchased by the school on Mrs Saatchi's instruction, even though Miss Annersley had blanched somewhat at the expense.

The next stage was to cover the sponge layer with bottled cherries, also provided by matron, and to use a little of the liquid in which they were preserved to moisted the sponges. Mrs Saatchi reminded the girls to reserve a few of the cherries for decoration. The next layer was the chocolate custard, which the girls scraped carefully out of the saucepans onto the cherry layer. Next each girl was given a pint of double cream which they were instructed to beat until soft, and just holding its shape. Having piled the soft cream onto the custard, the final stage was to scatter the cherries onto the cream, and to grate a little dark chocolate over the top. Mrs Saatchi produced a small bar for this purpose and instucted the girls to pass it around, explaining that it was almost entirely for decoration, and added very little to the taste.

After the trifles had been removed to a safe place, the final task for the girls was to wash up and to clean the kitchen. The sight of the trifles and mingling smells of lemon and ginger roasting chickens as they worked were delightful, and the girls looked forward to the reactions of the rest of the school to their afternoon's work.

At the end of the lesson, the girls filed out of the kitchens bursting to discuss the latest (if temporary) addition to the teaching staff, but had to wait until they reached the safety of their common room to do so - talking in the corridors would not be fitting behaviour for the most senior girls in the school!

On reaching their common room, Clem Barrass, second games prefect was the first to speak.
"Well, what on earth do you make of that?" she asked the assembled company
"She certainly knows her stuff," replied Julie Lucy, the head girl that year. "But my goodness she wasn't what I was expecting! I can't put my finger on what exactly it was that made it so, but it was almost as though she was performing rather than teaching!"
"But that's exactly it," chimed in Rosalind Wynyard. "I almost expected to be told we were going to stop and start again from the beginning now that we'd had a rehearsal!" The other girls laughed.
"I can't imagine what some of the younger forms will make of her," remarked Valerie Arnott, thoughtfully. "But in the meantime, we haven't too much time before we have to be ready for abendesson and supervising our respective tables." The other girls looked at the time, and shrieked in horror, before making their way to the senior splasheries to make sure they were tidy in time for the meal.

The sixth form beamed with pride as the rest of the school was served with the roast chicken and vegetables they had prepared in their lesson. Everyone tucked in with good appetite and the mistresses were heard to murmer that they seemed to be on good pasture in this new location. The kitchen staff were rather dismayed at the amount of food that seemed to be surplus to requirements, but Mrs Saatchi swooped in, apologised for not having arrived earlier, and instructed the staff to store the unused chickens and any carcasses in the big fridges in the domestic science rooms. She then bagged one of the half-denuded chickens and explained that she had to leave to attend to her own family.

In the meantime the school tucked in happily to the meal the sixth formers had prepared, and Barbara Chester was heard to remark to her cousin Vi Lucy that she wished she'd been able to come to school years ago if this is what what the food was like. Vi told her that this was in fact exceptional, but sincerely hoped that things would continue in a similar way. She also started to look forward to her form's lesson the next day, especially when the remains of the chicken were cleared away and the trifles were brought one to each table to be served by the presiding prefect.

Matron was heard to mutter something about possible bilious attacks given the inch-thick blanket of whipped cream over the layer of rich chocolate custard, but was pleased to observe that due to the generous portions of chicken, most girls were happy with a modest amount of trifle.
Author:  LizzieC [ Sat Nov 15, 2008 1:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 14/11
Cat C wrote:
And a bit more. Why is it that the more forbidding my dead-line the more active the bunny gets?


:shock:

You have a procrasti-bunny! Those are the worst kind! You'll never get rid of it while there's a deadline to be had.

*sprinkles some bunny food round Cat C while she's not looking* :halo:
Author:  tiffinata [ Sat Nov 15, 2008 7:46 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice
Miss Di wrote:
Can I cast a vote for Maggie and Simon (The Cook and The Chef, ABC-1, Wednesdays at 6:30. http://www.abc.net.au/tv/cookandchef/) ?

Thank you Cat, I'm can see this will be hugely enjoyable.
Me too.

Ooh yes!! Love Maggie and Simon.
*adds pleasepleaseplease!!
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Nov 15, 2008 9:02 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
Sounds wonderful!


Oh and Cat? That bunny never goes away!!! :lol:
Author:  Sarah_K [ Sat Nov 15, 2008 10:02 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
The only problem I have with this drabble is that reading it I'm getting hungrier and hungrier!
Author:  Sarah J [ Sat Nov 15, 2008 10:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
This is wonderful but I am also getting more and more hungry.
Author:  leahbelle [ Sun Nov 16, 2008 8:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
This is fabulous! Thank you.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Nov 17, 2008 2:06 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
I'm glad I was eating lunch while reading the latest episodes (chicken schnitzel sarnie actually).
Author:  Elle [ Mon Nov 17, 2008 11:07 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
I have a chicken to roast tonight, and I also have some ginger. Hurrah! This drabble is not only fun, but is going to liven up my dinner too! Are the recipes from a Nigella book?


Thanks!
Author:  Cat C [ Mon Nov 17, 2008 11:12 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
I'm using recipes from various Nigella books - the trifle should really have cherry brandy in it, if anyone decides to try it, but I wasn't convinced that was a good idea! If I decide on a Keith Floyd section things might change :shock: :lol:

Glad you're all enjoying it. Next bit is planned, but today is dead-line day (next one in January), so probably no more until tomorrow.
Author:  Cat C [ Tue Nov 18, 2008 5:18 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated twice 14/11
Some more. I hope I will be excused spree-ing on this occasion!

The following morning, the staff were just sitting down to their mid-morning repast of coffee and biscuits (the girls being under supervision of the prefects), when their newest member of staff arrived, wreathed in smiles, and a beautiful fur coat, and bearing several large boxes.

“Good morning, everyone,” she greeted the assembled company. “I found some time to play in my new kitchen at home last night and this morning, and thought you might like to sample some of the results!” Mrs Saatchi deposited her pile of boxes on the nearest clear table, and divested herself of her coat, hanging it on the stand near the door. “I thought I’d come in a little bit early today to start making up some chicken stock from the carcasses, and it seemed a shame not to take the opportunity to join you.”

“Well, we certainly can’t fault your enthusiasm!” replied Miss Annersley warmly. “Do please have a cup of coffee, and we can start sampling some of these goodies you’ve brought for us.”

Mrs Saatchi accepted her coffee with alacrity, and encouraged her new colleagues to help themselves to the macaroons, short bread, flap-jacks, and cup-cakes of various flavours that she had provided. “Goodness this coffee is wonderful,” she remarked. “I always seem to make terrible coffee, and I’m no good with gravy either – something to do with brown liquids perhaps?” she smiled apologetically.

“How are you finding your living quarters?” asked Biddy O’Ryan, politely.
“Oh, the chalet is charming,” replied Mrs Saatchi. Plenty of room for all of us, and I must find some time to explore some of the area too – I think if I don’t force myself, I shall spend all my time tied to the stove, and much as I enjoy it, it would be something of a wasted opportunity.”

“I’m sure you’d be welcome to come along on one of our school rambles,” remarked Miss Derwent. “We do find ourselves so tied to the house when the really bad weather comes that we like to make the most of it when we can go out.” She looked at Miss Annersley enquiringly.

“I see no reason why not,” replied Miss Annersley. “It’s a great shame we can’t currently call on Jo to take you around a little, but she’s stuck at home with her brood, who are indulging in German measles presently, and we really don’t want to risk infection at this stage in term. But if you would like to explore with us, would your children like to come along too?”

“I’ll have to sound them out,” chuckled Mrs Saatchi. “I may say they seem to be about as inclined to physical activity as I am, which is to say not at all! I may succeed in chivvying them into a walk one day. And if I were to take up the post here it would be nice for Mimi and Phoebe to get acquainted with some of their future play-mates ahead of time.”

“Ah, yes, indeed,” replied Miss Annersley. “Now, how old did you say they are?”
“Cosima is fourteen, and Phoebe my step-daughter is twelve,” replied Mrs Saatchi.
“Oh, well that sounds perfectly feasible,” replied Miss Annersley. “We’ve decided not to take juniors out here, at least initially, so Phoebe would be among our youngest members, but with other girls her own age. But we are getting ahead of ourselves somewhat, I think. I do hope your lesson today goes well – you’ve got the Upper IVs I believe. I’m sure they’ll be thrilled to be entrusted with catering for the whole school.”

“I do hope so,” replied Mrs Saatchi. “After all, food and the preparation of it is one of life’s greatest pleasures.” With that, she picked up her coat, and left the room, to spend a happy morning, boiling up chicken stock, and picking alternately at one of the previous day’s unfinished birds and some small chocolate macaroons that she had brought with her in her bag.

The staff remaining in the staff room gathered together the necessary materials for the next lesson, leaving a small mountain of unfinished biscuits and cakes on a table, although safely sealed in their respective boxes. Biddy O’Ryan was heard to remark to one of her colleagues that it was a good thing the Chalet School believed in keeping active, since if the current bounty continued it was safe to say that they would be rolling around the corridors if they were not careful.
Author:  Emma A [ Tue Nov 18, 2008 5:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
She seems to be fitting in rather well! Thanks, Cat.
Author:  Lesley [ Tue Nov 18, 2008 5:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
She does, doesn't she? And she'll be very popular if she keeps bringing them all goodies!


Thanks Cat.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Tue Nov 18, 2008 6:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Thanks, Cat - this is excellent stuff! I bet she has dished herself, though, by saying she doesn't care for physical exercise!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 2:14 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Thanks Cat-goody a new drabble. Really like this
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 2:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Mrs Redboots wrote:
Thanks, Cat - this is excellent stuff! I bet she has dished herself, though, by saying she doesn't care for physical exercise!



Well as fun as Nigella is, we do want to move along and see the rest of the candidates! :twisted:
Author:  Cat C [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 2:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Quote:
Well as fun as Nigella is, we do want to move along and see the rest of the candidates!


Oh, so do I - I'm having to spend longer on Nigella than I really intended to. Since when do these things ever go according to plan?! :?

Glad people are enjoying it meantime though.
Author:  Elle [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 4:09 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Cat C wrote:

Since when do these things ever go according to plan?! :?



As far as I can tell, never!

I am already looking forwards to the next bit. :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
Author:  Cat C [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 5:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
The next bit.

The thirty members of the Upper IV forms arrived at the appointed time to find the domestic science room smelling enticingly of chicken stock. They took their places at the benches, and waited for instruction from the mistress. In a change from the previous few days, Mrs Saatchi was wearing a relatively demure twin-set with another long black skirt, of which she seemed to have an endless supply.

“Good morning,” she greeted the class. “I trust you enjoyed the efforts of your colleagues yesterday evening.” Most of the girls nodded and smiled in reply.
“Good, well today we should be producing something just as good. Since making stock takes a good long while, I’ve done it for you today, using the chicken carcasses left from yesterday, and we will be using it to produce some risotto. Fortunately there are a good number of you, so you won’t be making too vast a quantity – risotto isn’t something I like making in a huge batch. But before we get on with that, I’m going to distribute four egg-whites to each of you, to beat up for the pavlovas we’ll be making for dessert.”

Seeing some of the puzzled looks around the room, Mrs Saatchi explained, “If you’ve not come across it before, a pavlova is a layer of meringue, topped by a layer of cream, topped with some fruit. I can’t bear to see a whole fruit salad – far too determinedly cheery for my liking, so there is a choice of fruits and you may choose one, or possibly two for each pav. I daresay some would think that having cream-covered desserts two days running is excessive, but I’m with Mae West on this one: Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!”

With this latest edict, Mrs Saatchi began rapidly dispensing bags of egg whites to each girl, instructing them to put them into a large bowl in preparation for whisking. She then instructed them to measure out four ounces of caster sugar, to add to the egg whites once they had reached the soft peak stage.

The girls began whisking their egg whites, having been instructed to add the sugar gradually once they got the appointed stage in the process, even so, Francie Wilford was only just prevented by the watchful Mrs Saatchi from tipping hers in all together. The mistress had been warned by the head about which girls in particular classes would bear watching. “Trust Francie!” remarked Vi Lucy, to her friend Mary-Lou Trelawney in an undertone, as she energetically beat at her set of whites.
“Mrs Saatchi,” she asked. “Do you think mine are ready for me to start adding the sugar yet?” Mrs Saatchi turned around and walked over. “Do you know, I’m still not used to being addressed in that way,” she said, before inspecting Vi’s efforts to date.
“Yes, they look about right, but remember to put the sugar in one table-spoon at a time, and beat it in well before adding the next one.”

“Why, what are you used to being called?” asked Mary-Lou – famed for her habit of treating all grown-ups as the dearest of friends. Several of the other girls looked rather startled at the question, and Barbara Chester, who was new that term nearly dropped her whisk into her bowl in surprise, but Mrs Saatchi looked unflustered.
“Ah, well, I use my maiden name of Lawson, professionally, and then of course I was Mrs Diamond before I re-married,” she explained.
“Oh, like Aunty Jo writes as ‘Josephine M. Bettany’ even though she’s Mrs Maynard now?” exclaimed Mary-Lou eagerly.
“Yes, exactly like that, if Bettany was her name before she married,” replied Mrs Saatchi. “Now, how many of you are close to adding all your sugar?”

Under Mrs Saatchi’s watchful guidance the Upper Fourths all managed to create passable meringue mixtures, which she then instructed them to spread out into ten-inch circle on grease-proof paper laid on baking trays. The trays were then placed in the big ovens on a low heat to cook while the forms proceeded with their risottos. Mrs Saatchi explained they would use bacon and peas in the risottos that day, but lots of other combinations were possible.

The school was once again very well fed that night, although Miss Annersley made a mental note to quiz Mrs Saatchi on her plans for the rest of the week’s menu. Much as everyone was enjoying all the food so far, she could see the budget being stretched somewhat, although she had to admit there was nothing going to waste that she could see. She reflected that at least the next candidate, Ms Smith, due to arrive on the following Sunday had been happy to have the school’s catering revert to Karen in the kitchen, so any strain on the budget would be temporary at least.

The following day saw Mrs Saatchi arriving with another consignment for the staff, this time in the form of several cakes, one flavoured with chocolate and espresso powder, another made with apples and almonds, together with a huge slab of gingerbread, topped with lemon icing. She explained that the fifth form would be preparing ham in coca cola, and black bean soup (made with the resulting ham stock), and that she herself would undertake to make chicken and ham pies for the following day, in order that she could devote the lesson time with the lower fourths (the youngest members of the school) to making various delicacies to be served at kaffee und kuchen.
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 6:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Thanks for the update I think Matey will be worried about obese students soon if Nigella stays much longer.
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Nov 19, 2008 11:52 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Do you think she could come and cook me some meals? I'm sure they couldn't possibly be fattening! :wink:


Thanks Cat
Author:  Elle [ Thu Nov 20, 2008 7:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
I'm so hungry...
Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Nov 20, 2008 12:55 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Difficult to read this without getting hungry :roll:

Thanks Cat, really enjoying this :D
Author:  Emma A [ Thu Nov 20, 2008 1:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
abbeybufo wrote:
Difficult to read this without getting hungry :roll:

Thanks Cat, really enjoying this :D

Agree completely! Thanks, Cat.
Author:  Elle [ Thu Nov 20, 2008 2:43 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Cat C wrote:
"Oh, like Aunty Jo writes as ‘Josephine M. Bettany’ even though she’s Mrs Maynard now?” exclaimed Mary-Lou eagerly.
“Yes, exactly like that, if Bettany was her name before she married,” replied Mrs Saatchi. “Now, how many of you are close to adding all your sugar?”


Hang on! You mean she hasn't heard of Josephine M Bettany? Oh dear, that and the lack of exercise must surely mean she won't get the job.
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri Nov 21, 2008 2:07 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 18/11
Elle wrote:
Cat C wrote:
"Oh, like Aunty Jo writes as ‘Josephine M. Bettany’ even though she’s Mrs Maynard now?” exclaimed Mary-Lou eagerly.
“Yes, exactly like that, if Bettany was her name before she married,” replied Mrs Saatchi. “Now, how many of you are close to adding all your sugar?”


Hang on! You mean she hasn't heard of Josephine M Bettany? Oh dear, that and the lack of exercise must surely mean she won't get the job.




Choke. Splutter. Glad I haven't got that lunch you're making me want!

I do sympathise with Nigella not being used to answering to Mrs S. I never know who people are talking to when I get called Mrs T. I've never used SLOCs name - we have lived together for 17 years but not married (my sister's wedding was such a traumatic affair it put me right off weddings). But too hard to explain that to the newsagent, the ironing lady, etc.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Nov 21, 2008 1:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Really enjoying this and can't wait to see how the other chef's fare as well. Does Nigella really have 3 different names?! Can see why she'd hold onto her maiden name with that
Author:  leahbelle [ Fri Nov 21, 2008 3:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Loving this. I always liked the cookery classes in the books. My tummy is rumbling, though!
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Fri Nov 21, 2008 4:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
And we are having tomato, butternut squash and mushroom risotto for supper tonight.... :: is already hungry::
Author:  Billie [ Sat Nov 22, 2008 12:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
Oooh, Cat, what a delicious story. It makes me want to go to the Chalet School if she's in charge of cooking.
Author:  Cat C [ Sat Nov 22, 2008 5:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 19/11
A bit more, although somewhat less food-centric, as you shall see. And in answer to the question about the names, she was born Nigella Lawson, married John Diamond, who died in 2001, and then married Charles Saatchi.

Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson had been pleased to note that their first candidate had studied modern and medieval languages at Oxford, and that, when questioned on the subject had commented that 'given a bit of a run-up' as she put it, she should be able to manage to take classes in French on the relevant days of the week quite easily.
"I'd have to do some serious boning-up on my German though," she had explained, almost apologetically. Italian would be easier than French of course, given the time I've lived in Italy - and I do have more a penchant, so to speak, for Italian food than I do for German in the general scheme of things, whihc makes life somewhat easier."

Mrs Saatchi had also been charmed by the idea of introducing her daughter and step-daughter to the idea of multi-lingualism at school by way of the Thursday morning ramble, which would, as with all other school activities on Thursdays and Mondays, take place in French.
"They've learned French at school of course," explained Mrs Saatchi. "Or at least been taught it; but I sometimes despair that either of them will ever get to the point of happily using it very much," she concluded with a somewhat resigned expression.
"Oh, it sounds as though they'll fit in just fine," laughed Miss Annersley. "I wouldn't want to claim that all our young hopefuls are angels of compliance on days when they may not speak their own language, but it really is amazing how quickly most of them progress when they learn it's either that, be dumb four days a week, or get into endless trouble for breaking the rule!"
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Nov 22, 2008 6:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Some good bits - speaks French, some bad - doesn't know much German or German foods.


Thanks Cat
Author:  KatS [ Sun Nov 23, 2008 12:43 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
She sounds IDEAL to me - which is astonishing, as if you had asked me before this drabble whether Nigella Lawson would be an appropriate dommy sci teacher at the CS I would have laughed hysterically.

Thinking about Frau Mieders, though, (and I may be wrong here) but I don't remember her being a keen rambler or French speaker? So perhaps the standards for domestic science are rather different. (Or Frau Mieders has just been around for so long they can't get rid of her)
Author:  leahbelle [ Sun Nov 23, 2008 8:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Thanks, Cat. I also think she'd be a great choice.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Tue Nov 25, 2008 5:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Thanks Cat. So do I - she looks as though she would be a great success.
Author:  Cat C [ Tue Nov 25, 2008 5:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Just to reassure you all, there will be more of this - the ramble is being difficult to write for some reason.

And I really am planning to move onto other candidates too.

(And apologies to anyone who thinks this is another update when they see I've posted!)
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Tue Nov 25, 2008 6:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Cat C wrote:
(And apologies to anyone who thinks this is another update when they see I've posted!)


Alas...... :cry: :cry:
Author:  Elle [ Wed Nov 26, 2008 8:02 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Alas indeed...


Actually this drabble has inspired me to cook dinner rather than to order from the nearest take away place!
Author:  KatS [ Thu Nov 27, 2008 4:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
I need more of this drabble!!! Please, please, please write more! I LOVE reading cookery books, particularly Nigella, and the Nigella/CS combination is fantastic.
Author:  Cat C [ Thu Nov 27, 2008 6:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 22/11
Some more, at last! Not sure I'm entirely happy with this bit, but I felt I couldn't spend the entire story in the kitchen.

The Thursday morning dawned bright and clear, and the prospective mistress arrived at the appointed time with two slightly apprehensive-looking charges, who stood close together, despite being well wrapped up against the chill of the September air.

"Ah, there you are!" exclaimed Miss Derwent. "Now, let's see, Cosima," she turned to the older girl, "you're 14 I believe, that should put you in the Upper Fourth somewhere. These two are Ghislaine and Clare - they can both speak French well enough, and will make sure you're not left out. And Phoebe, isn't it? Miss Moore is taking the Lower IVs, so I’ll take you over to her and she’ll make sure you have someone to look after you.” Phoebe looked somewhat surprised at being separated from Cosima so rapidly, but went along to join Miss Moore’s group readily enough, where she joined up with other girls her age.

Miss Derwent and the Upper IVs in the meantime were happily setting off in the direction of the Auberge, which Jo Maynard had assured the staff was well worth a visit, although she had refused to explain why, when asked. The form set off at a brisk pace, and looking somewhat surprised, Cosima clearly decided to keep up with her new companions, although it was obvious from the colour in her cheeks that it was something of an effort.

“Do people usually call you Cosima?” queried Clare, in slow and careful French, as she walked briskly beside her.
“No, well, at least my mother usually shortens it to Mimi,” replied Cosima somewhat breathlessly. “I say, we seem to be walking at quite a rate. Are we in a hurry?”
“Oh, no, not ’specially, er, I mean, non, pas vraiment,” replied Clare, surprised. “But nobody wants us to catch cold,” she continued, still valiantly sticking to French.

In the meantime, Cosima’s mother, having ascertained that the ramble would follow a clearly-marked path, and that the party would be stopping for a while at their destination, walked slowly behind the rest of the group, having assured the mistress in charge that she was quite happy ‘ambling along’ and that she did not wish to delay the girls. Miss Derwent looked surprised, but remembered that the idea behind her participation in the ramble was to give her daughters a chance to meet some of the current Chalet Girls. Mrs Saatchi for her part was quite happy to wander along the path and enjoy the glorious Swiss scenery, and was secretly rather impressed than Mimi was managing to keep up with the girls and suspected that it might be the case that she would collapse before admitting that the pace was too much for her. Smiling at this thought, and finding that she was feeling a little warmer, she increased her pace somewhat, and arrived at the promised auberge just ten minutes after the main group of girls and mistresses.

She discovered the girls standing around in small groups, chattering like magpies in the closest approximation they could manage to French, and was pleased to see Cosima being included in one of the groups, and thought that even if her inclusion were due to the good manners of the Chalet girls that was no bad thing. She noticed, looking more carefully that Cosima seemed a little pinker and more out of breath than the other girls she was talking to, but considered that was hardly surprising given their normal slow walks on the London ‘school run’ that they had been accustomed to.

At this point, a man emerged from the auberge, and noticed the group of uniformed school girls, smiled, and went back inside to emerge once again shortly afterwards with a large cow-bell. He walked over to the edge of the clearing outside the inn, and rang the cow-bell loudly. The girls cried out in alarm at first, and then their faces changed to expressions of delight as the sound of the cow-bell was reflected back from the facing mountain in a glorious echo.

Miss Derwent laughed out loud. “So that’s what Joey meant when she said we should come here and discover the secret of the place!” she remarked.
“Yes girls, you may try out the echo for a few minutes, but we haven’t much time before we must be getting back to school.” She turned to her fellow mistress.
“And how did you find the walk up her?” she enquired.
“Not too bad, for an exercise-phobic,” smiled Mrs Saatchi. And I suppose it will be mostly downhill on the way back as well. Just the thing to work up an appetite for lunch, or I suppose I should say mittagessen,” she corrected herself.

“And can you tell me what you propose to do with our youngest members this afternoon?” she enquired. “The ham last night was superb, incidentally.”
“Yes, I have to force myself to cook ham any other way since I tried it in Coca-Cola,” confessed her colleague. “When I first tried it, it was more in a spirit of amused interest than anything else. And the stock you get is wonderful as the basis for black bean soup too! I just can’t bear to throw things away you see. And if I do come out here permanently next term, I’d be fascinated to see what could be done with any local ingredients. Goats’ milk and cheese for example.”

“As for this afternoon, I plan to show the little darlings how to ring the changes on a basic Victoria sponge recipe. There are so many interesting variants – coffee flavour with walnuts, boston cream pie and so on.”
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Nov 27, 2008 7:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
I don't know that I want the search to movr on from Nigella - I'm finding it fascinating just seeing her and her family settling in. :D

Thanks Cat.
Author:  Cat C [ Thu Nov 27, 2008 7:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
Well, if they do eventually decide on her, then part two would be describing her first full term at the school...

And I really do have plans for the other candidates.

And I have just had another thought about something I could include to make it more interesting!
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Nov 27, 2008 7:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
Sounds good Cat - I didn't want you to change your plans - just saying how much I'm enjoying Nigella.


But it would be good to see other candidates too. :D
Author:  leahbelle [ Fri Nov 28, 2008 3:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
I agree it would be good to see other candidates, but I'm thoroughly enjoying reading about Nigella and the girls. I wonder if Nigella ever browses the CBB? Wouldn't she be surprised to read a drabble featuring her good self :D .
Author:  KatS [ Sun Nov 30, 2008 2:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
I, too, am loving Nigella! I've been inspired by this drabble to try my hand at some baking this afternoon (my kitchen is the tiniest, most basic stove + sink you could imagine, so I normally avoid anything even remotely "fancy") But please, please, more drabble to inspire me! I purchased $10 worth of ground cloves, so will now have to bake constantly to use them all up, and thus need much more drabble to keep up my interest level... :oops: :lol:
Author:  Cat C [ Wed Dec 03, 2008 5:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/11
At last, some more! And if anyone wants any of the recipes I've referred to in this thread, do say - I can look them up and post them quite easily.

Miss Derwent and her new colleague continued talking on the way back to school – Mrs Saatchi found the way back considerably easier, and Miss Derwent reflected that the new mistress was hardly in the first flush of youth. As they went, Mrs Saatchi explained her latest enthusiasm for meals and other dishes that could be prepared with the minimum possible time commitment, without compromising on taste or quantity.

“Don’t get me wrong”, she explained. “I’m hardly a food snob – I am a happy convert to the joys of a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, or just Laughing Cow wrapped in white plastic bread, but when I’m hungry for a meal, then I want to eat properly!” Miss Derwent laughed.

“We aren’t generally deprived here on the food front! So many of our girls have come here because of relatives needing treatment in the San, or because they’re delicate themselves, that we look after their general health very quickly. And really we couldn’t expect them to work hard at lessons and games if they weren’t well fed.”

“You won’t find me arguing with that,” replied Mrs Saatchi. “Although I can’t say that I’ve ever been much inspired by the idea of healthy outdoor activity – I always preferred cooking to pushing swings as a child-care option.”

When they reached the school, Phoebe and Mimi were reunited and told to walk back to the Chalet where they were staying for the week with Mr Saatchi and their brother Bruno, but they both put in earnest pleas that they be allowed to come back to the school and continue to get to know the Chalet girls, even if it did mean having to speak in French.
“I see no reason you couldn’t come and join in our Saturday evening entertainments this week,” remarked Miss Derwent. “I shall check with Miss Annersley when I get a chance. And you may be pleased to know that Saturday is an English day here.” She laughed at the relieved expressions on the girls’ faces.

The Chalet girls clattered back to the splasheries to change out of their outdoor coats and shoes, and to wash before elevenses, while the mistresses retired to the staff room. Afterwards, Miss Derwent had a free period, and Mrs Saatchi invited her along to the domestic science room, since she said she always liked company, and was planning to experiment with some biscuit recipes. Miss Derwent accepted willingly, and the two women made their way along the corridors that led to the room.

Once inside, Mrs Saatchi delved into one of the fridges for a half-finished ham (left-over from the ham-in-coca-cola lesson), and began carving slices from it.
“Would you like a sandwich?” she asked cheerfully.
“Oh, yes, that would be lovely,” replied the rather surprised Miss Derwent.
“I am just one of the greediest people I know,” confided Mrs Saatchi, as she began to slice into a loaf of white bread she had pulled out of a nearby bread-bin. “It really is horrifying the amount I can consume sometimes, but I really can’t bear to waste food. Now, would you like to put on your own mustard – I expect I like more than most people!” She spread her own ham generously as she spoke, before adding the top slice of bread and transferring the generously proportioned snack onto a plate, and moving aside to let Miss Derwent finish making her own sandwich.

“Now we’re organised for food, I was thinking about making some biscuits, as I mentioned before, so I’ll put the oven on to pre-heat now. And I also ought to get the eggs out of the fridge for this afternoon, and the butter as well of course.” Mrs Saatchi suited action to the word, and removed several trays of eggs and packets of butter from the fridge, pausing to take bites of her sandwich between whiles.

“Luckily for us, I keep a stash of room-temperature ingredients around for spur-of-the-moment cookery,” Mrs Saatchi smiled. “And happily my sweet and salty peanut biscuits are one of the quickest recipes I know!” The domestic science mistress washed her hands, and then rapidly assembled a set of ingredients, and then paused. “How many do you think I should make?” she queried. “It has to be in multiples of about 30 since that’s how many one egg comes out at, if that makes sense?”
“Oh, what about making a three-egg mixture?” she continued without pausing for reply. “I’m sure it won’t be hard to find people to eat them.”

She began tipping quantities of light brown sugar, butter, vegetable shortening, eggs and some vanilla extract into a bowl, and then energetically beat it together.
“In the ordinary way of things I’d use my electric mixture,” she remarked. “But sometimes a bit of physical exertion is therapeutic.” Having combined the first lot of ingredients, she then stirred in the flour and salted peanuts, and paused to pull half a dozen ready-lined baking sheets from a cupboard. “I would just hate to live without reusable baking paper,” she remarked, as she began dropping blobs of dough onto the sheets from a teaspoon. Once the dough was all distributed, Mrs Saatchi took a drinking glass, and put a little oil in one bowl, and some sugar into another and began dipping the glass into the two bowls before using it to flatten the tops of the biscuits. Once that was done, the sheets were transferred into the oven.
“They shouldn’t take more than ten minutes,” explained the cook, while she arranged some wire racks for the cooling biscuits to come, and then rapidly washed up her bowls, wooden spoon and glass before taking the opportunity to finish her neglected ham sandwich.

Miss Derwent watched – quite happy to let the flow of culinary chatter wash over her, impressed at the relaxed and efficient way in which her colleague worked.
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu Dec 04, 2008 2:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
I have to ask. What is laughing cow and reusable baking paper? (Personally, I like my cow to be dead before eating not sitting there laughing at me)
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu Dec 04, 2008 2:34 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
Laughing Cow is a brand of processed cheese, usually foil-wrapped triangles packed into round boxes, which are dark blue, red and white, if I remember rightly.

The re-usuable baking paper has a silicone, non-stick coating, and the sheets can be used until that starts to wear off - I don't *think* they have to be greased, either.

Thanks, Cat C, I'm really enjoying this, even if I rarely have time to post. And I'd forgotten that Nigella had remarried after John Diamond died, too.
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Dec 04, 2008 9:04 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
She seems to be making friends with Ruth!


Thanks Cat
Author:  Emma A [ Fri Dec 05, 2008 6:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
Really making me feel hungry for naughty food! Thanks, Cat.
Author:  tiffinata [ Sat Dec 06, 2008 8:02 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
Laughing cow is available here too, Miss Di. It should be near the Vegemite. It is a very nice cream cheese
Author:  Lyanne [ Sun Dec 07, 2008 3:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
I haven't tried reusable paper yet but always line tins with baking parchment - so good when you're doing a load of biscuits & haven't got enough tins, because I just put them all on the paper and trasfer that to tins as available.
Author:  KatS [ Wed Dec 10, 2008 7:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
Please, s'il vous plait, bitte can we have more?

This is such a wonderful story - and I want to see Nigella with the Juniors!
Author:  Fatima [ Thu Dec 11, 2008 5:23 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
We get BBC Food here and Nigella is one of my favourites! You've captured her perfectly here, Cat, and I really hope she gets the job! Mind you, perhaps the other contenders could still come and try their hands at teaching before she takes over...

Thanks for a wonderful story :D
Author:  Cat C [ Sat Dec 27, 2008 6:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 03/12
Finally some more!

Once the cooking time was up, Mrs Saatchi turned the oven off, and began transferring the biscuits onto the waiting wire trays.
“Do you like peanuts?” queried the cook of her visitor.
“I’ve liked them when I’ve had them in the past,” replied Miss Derwent. “But they’re not a major feature on our menus here.”
“Oh? Well, try on one of these and see what you think,” replied Mrs Saatchi, indicating the trays. “They’re still a little warm and soft, but perfectly edible for all that.”

Her visitor picked up one of the biscuits from the nearest tray cautiously, and bit into it, then chewed and swallowed - her face showing her enjoyment both of the crumbling lightness of the biscuits and the contrast in flavours between the sweetness of the biscuits and the salty peanuts.
“Goodness, they’re lovely!” she exclaimed after she had safely disposed of her mouthful. “And really different from anything else I’ve tried in the way of biscuits. Just as well you made so many. Are you planning to join us, the staff I mean, for kaffee und kuchen this afternoon? I should think you’ll be welcome with open arms if you came with a boxful of these!”
“I’d be happy to of course, although I should probably let my lot know to fend for themselves until I can get back afterwards.”
“Oh, I’m sure either someone could run over with a message, or you could ’phone them,” Miss Derwent assured her. “Unless you feel that we’re monopolising your time too much today? But I’ll leave you to decide, since I really must go and get ready for my next lesson. It’s been fascinating watching you work - I’ve always gone in for handcrafts more than cooking on the domestic front.”
Mrs Saatchi laughed. “Just the opposite of me then. I’m the living embodiment of the word klutz!” Miss Derwent joined in her laughter, and then departed for the staff room to gather the necessary materials for the remainder of her morning.

After her departure, Mrs Saatchi reflected that that she could let her family know of the afternoon arrangements when she went home for lunch, and that she probably had just time to make a batch of ‘Granny Boyd’s biscuits’ - dark, dense, chocolatey creations, before departing for that meal. She also had time to make sure all the necessary ingredients were out of the fridge to come to room temperature for the afternoon’s lesson with Lower IV.

At the appointed time that afternoon, the members of the school’s lowest form arrived in the domestic science room eager to discover what the lesson had in store. The Chalet girls were generally well-behaved in their domestic science lessons, regarding them as a break from ‘normal’ lessons in the same way as gym and games. Furthermore, the youngest members of the new Swiss branch wanted to show the rest of the school that they were just as capable of producing good things to eat as every other form.

Mrs Saatchi began by explaining that a Victoria sponge recipe was one of the easiest, and simplest cake recipes there was, but worth getting right for its own sake, and also because it was possible to produce lots of tempting variations once the basic method had been mastered. She proceeded to demonstrate how to cream butter and sugar together, then beat in four eggs one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour with each, then folded in the rest of the flour, which included a small amount of cornflour, as she explained this made a for lighter and more tender sponge. She then added a little milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla essence, before scraping the mixture into two waiting tins and slotting them in the oven.

“Almost nothing could be simpler,” she reassured the watching girls. “Unless of course you use a processor! But it wouldn’t make for a very interesting lesson in that case. What you should remember is that life is made much easier if you start with all your ingredients at room temperature, and that includes very soft butter. Fortunately for you, that is the case here.

“Now, I propose that instead of the basic mixture I just showed you, you will instead be making one of three variations on the theme. The first is a lemon-flavoured cake, the second a coffee-flavoured cake, and the last is a butterscotch layer cake. The method is no different, but the ingredients vary slightly, as you will discover when you return to your places at your benches. If you get started on creaming your butter and sugar together, I will come around and explain. Butterscotch people, you will find two sorts of sugar at your benches. The major differences beyond that are in what you will use to fill and top your creations. I shall be using cream and jam in the one I just showed you.”

Mrs Saatchi let the girls return to the benches where they were working in pairs - so that each girl filled a tin of cake mixture, destined to be sandwiched together with her partner’s cake. She explained as she went around that the butter and sugar must be well creamed together before the girls started adding their eggs, and insisted that she inspected their mixtures before they moved on to that stage. While this was going on, her own cakes had finished baking, and she removed them safely to a wire rack, explaining to the girls that they needed to cool for ten minutes before she turned them out of their tins.

By this stage, several of the girls had reached the stage of beating in their eggs, Mrs Saatchi reminded them of the need to add a tablespoon of flour with each egg, and to let her know when they had incorporated both their eggs.
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Dec 27, 2008 6:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Think I'll move to the school if they employ her! :lol:


Thanks Cat
Author:  Fatima [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 5:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Me too, Lesley! Mind you, she'd have her work cut out teaching me to cook!

Thanks Cat, I'm really enjoying this.
Author:  Abi [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 7:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Mmmmmmmmm... this is wonderful Cat. I think she would be PERFECT!!
Author:  leahbelle [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 8:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Thanks, Cat. I do think she'd be an excellent choice for the job!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 2:09 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Thanks. The food sounds yummier than usual. When can she move into my place :lol:
Author:  another_lisa [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 5:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
I haven't been on the board for ages, but this is such fun!

My own Nigella favourite is the ham soaked in red wine, star anise and fennel, before being baked with a redcurrant glaze.
Author:  KatS [ Thu Jan 01, 2009 8:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
I was cooking from Nigella for New Year's Eve and tried to explain to my family the concept of a CS/Nigella crossover. Don't think they really cottoned on, much to my frustration.

Please write more - I love this (specially the way she can't stop cooking)
Author:  Ariel [ Sat Feb 07, 2009 9:51 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
*hopeful bump*

Cat C, thank you! I have really been enjoying this and it would be truly wonderful if there was some more to come - maybe, perhaps, some day, pleeeeaaase? :heart: :D
Author:  Elle [ Sun Feb 08, 2009 9:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
I am enjoying this drabble so much that I asked for a Nigella book form my birthday - I am now the proud owner of Nigella Express, thanks Cat (and Mum!)
Author:  Cat C [ Sun Feb 08, 2009 11:09 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
I do have plenty more planned, but none written - other things (such as thesis-writing) keep getting in the way, but I promise I haven't abandoned it!

(Oh, and apologies to anyone who thought this was another update).
Author:  shazwales [ Tue Feb 10, 2009 2:23 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
Thanks CatC would be very very nice to see a new update :?: :?: :D
Author:  Cat C [ Tue Feb 10, 2009 7:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated 27/12 p5
It's baaa-aaack! Ah, the potency of pester power... I think ideally I'd alter the last episode to make this one work better, but it seems to work OK as it is.

Hitherto, the lesson had proceeded very smoothly, as the youngest girls in the school were anxious to demonstrate that they were just as capable as all the other girls at the Swiss branch of producing good cooking under the tutelage of their latest teacher. However, several of the girls had not previously had much experience of cake baking, either at home, or in previous lessons at the school. Added to that, several members of the form, including Peggy Harper, Barbara Kitson and Connie Winter had not developed the habit of careful and conscientious work in lessons, although Mrs Saatchi had been warned about them by sundry members of staff, consequently, they had not been allowed to work with each other, but had been paired with steadier members of the form.

Trouble started with Peggy Harper, who was engaged with making the lemon variation of the recipe. She had been working very well, but not being used to cake making a little more slowly than her partner, Nesta Williams, who was used to helping her mother in the kitchen at home. Peggy had just started folding in the last of her flour, when she realised that Nesta was already adding milk to her mixture to obtain the necessary soft dropping consistency. Consequently, she folded her flour in hastily, but competently enough, before looking at her instructions which were to add one teaspoon of lemon oil to the mixture, before adding any milk. In her hurry, she mis-read the instruction and instead added one tablespoon of the flavouring.

It was a pity nobody noticed her mistake, since if she had combined her mixture with someone else’s unflavoured batch, the two could have been used to make only a slightly more strongly flavoured cake than usual, as it was, she added milk to produce a batter that looked as it should have done, although Nesta remarked, sniffing the air, that the cakes did seem to be very lemony!
“It must be the type of lemon flavouring we’re using” remarked Connie Winter, from the next bench, where she was finishing her coffee-flavoured cake, including some fortunately pre-measured espresso powder, as well as the normal teaspoon of vanilla essence.

The girls got their mixtures safely into the pre-prepared tins, and into the big ovens, and under the instruction of Mrs Saatchi proceeded to wash up the utensils they had used before moving onto the various fillings for their creations. By the time the cakes were ready to come out of the ovens, and put on wire racks to cool, all the girls were well and truly ensconced in concocting the fillings to be used, so Mrs Saatchi told them to carry on while she took the cakes out of the ovens, being careful to arrange them in such a way that she knew who had made which cake.

The creators of the lemon cakes were especially engrossed in the filling-making, since it involved the exciting process of making lemon curd. Since there were only a few of them, Mrs Saatchi explained they should fill a sink with cold water, and plunge their saucepans in, at the slightest sign of curdling. Peggy Harper, still blissfully unaware of her earlier mistake was quite happy to let her more expert partner take charge of the exciting stage of making the necessary ‘custard’, and was watching with rapt attention when Mrs Saatchi, having removed all the cakes to racks returned to the girls still busy in their tasks.

“Which of you made lemon cakes?” she asked. The girls responsible looked up, and raised their hands.
“I’d like one person from each pair to come over with me,” Mrs Saatchi explained, smiling somewhat quizzically.
The three girls not busy with making lemon curd glanced at each other, and wondered what this was all about.
“Now, can you tell me who it was who made this cake in particular?” Mrs Saatchi asked, indicating Peggy’s effort. “I think whoever it was would have been working at that bench,” she went on, indicating the place where Peggy and Nesta had been, and then looking back at Peggy.
“It’s mine,” Peggy said, innocently. “I noticed it looked a bit more yellow than Nesta’s when we put them in the tins.”
“Yes,” came the reply. “Can you remember how much lemon oil you put in it?”
“Just a spoonful!” said Peggy looking surprised.
“Um, what size of spoon?” asked Mrs Saatchi, trying not to laugh as she began to realise what must have happened.
“Er, the big one. A tablespoon,” admitted Peggy.
“Hmmm, well in that case I think you might just find this is a little more strongly flavoured than is usual, but it might be alright since we’ll be eating it with the other half, which looks as it should be! It’s a shame nobody noticed before now, but it won’t do anyone any harm.”
Poor Peggy was blushing by this stage, and realising her embarrassment, Mrs Saatchi dismissed them back to the rest of the class.

By this time, the girls making the lemon curd had finished cooking it, fortunately without any mishaps, and the makers of the butterscotch cakes had beaten a cupful of the caramel pre-prepared by Mrs Saatchi into the cream cheese provided. The girls making coffee cakes had also happily finished their coffee-flavoured butter icing.

Mrs Saatchi explained their cakes, and the lemon curd, still needed to cool further before they could be safely assembled, and so instructed them to come and watch the constructed of the cake she had made at the beginning of the class, before instructing each of the girls to copy the recipes they had used neatly into their recipe books. She then explained there were various other possibilities for variations, and gave the instructions for a Boston Cream Pie, and a number of other cakes using the Victoria sponge method.

Finally it was time for the girls to finish their own creations. The girls who had made coffee sponges used their buttercream to fill and top the cakes, before decorating one of them with walnuts, leaving the others unadorned for the sake of those members of the school who were not keen on the taste, the lemon sponges were filled with a layer of softened mascarpone cheese topped with lemon curd; Mrs Saatchi explained that it would be perfectly alright to use good bought curd. Finally the butterscotch cakes were filled and topped with the cream cheese and caramel mixture, with the remaining caramel being drizzled over the top.

The whole form was extremely proud of their creations, and assured Peggy that it was something any of them could have done and that they would say so to anyone in the higher forms who might try to say otherwise - several of them remembered other mistakes that had been in cookery classes with far more disastrous consequences.
Author:  Elle [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 7:36 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
That is a very easy mistake to make, I have done it myself - most memorably chili sauce for a salad dressing!

Thanks for the update.
Author:  shazwales [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 8:25 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Thanks for the update :D only one problem! i'm starving now :D :D
Author:  Emma A [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 9:12 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Feel very tempted to make a lemon cake now... Hope Peggy's cake isn't too violently flavoured, and at least the yellow colour is not due to sulphur!

Thanks, Cat!
Author:  KatS [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 3:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Hooray! It's back!

And I have to say, putting a tablespoon rather than a teaspoon of something in seems like a much more realistic mistake for a 12 year old (?) to make than putting garlic into apple pies...
Author:  crystaltips [ Sun Feb 22, 2009 5:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Glad to see this back - I want the recipes for the butterscotch & lemon cakes. Are they from a particular Nigella book?
Author:  Cat C [ Sun Feb 22, 2009 9:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
crystaltips wrote:
Glad to see this back - I want the recipes for the butterscotch & lemon cakes. Are they from a particular Nigella book?


Hello - yes, both from Domestic Goddess :D They're listed under the variations on a basic Victoria sponge.

I think the lemon one just involves adding lemon essence (she recommends a particular brand ?Boijens?) instead of vanilla, and filling with a layer of softened marcapone cheese, spread with lemon curd.

The butterscotch is more complicated, but I could look it up if you can't find it.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Feb 23, 2009 1:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Glad to see Nigella back.

And I am another one who has put the wrong amount of a condiment in something...
Author:  Lyanne [ Mon Mar 02, 2009 10:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Cat C wrote:
crystaltips wrote:
Glad to see this back - I want the recipes for the butterscotch & lemon cakes. Are they from a particular Nigella book?


Hello - yes, both from Domestic Goddess :D They're listed under the variations on a basic Victoria sponge.

I think the lemon one just involves adding lemon essence (she recommends a particular brand ?Boijens?) instead of vanilla, and filling with a layer of softened marcapone cheese, spread with lemon curd.

The butterscotch is more complicated, but I could look it up if you can't find it.


I think it's the one they sell in Lakeland?
Author:  Elle [ Mon Jun 29, 2009 12:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Is it me, or has it been a while since this was updated?

*grins hopefully*


My diet finishes on Wednesday, so feel free to write some more!
Author:  KatS [ Fri Oct 16, 2009 8:02 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: A Difficult Choice - updated (at last) 10/02 p5
Just hunted up this drabble again... As fabulous as I remembered! No chance of any more, Cat? :halo:
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