Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2026 i Better Homes and Gardens Australia

GRAHAM ROSS discovers the wonderful benefits of community gardens. CLARISSA FEILDEL whips up a classic beef and black bean stir-fry. COLIN FASSNIDGE makes this one-pan wonder – pan-fried chicken with herb butter and lemon. MELISSA KING visits The Stones Garden in central Victoria, which is eclectic and thriving!…

PINCUSHION PROTEA The big, bold and bizarre flowers of the pincushion bush (Leucospermum sp.) come in brilliant reds, oranges or yellow in spring and summer. Related to our equally unearthly grevillea, it comes from South Africa and is quite the star of the protea family. With up to three flower heads per stem, and multiple stems per plant, its spring-summer display is spectacular. ORIENTAL LILY Big and bountiful, the huge, showy flowers – up to 25cm wide – are also extremely elegant, with the curved petals adding a softness to the boldness. This lily comes in ‘look at me’ colours of white, yellow, pink or red, often speckled with freckles. And its perfume is intensely sweet and heady. It can grow more than a metre tall, so often needs staking.…

EASY PORK STIR-FRY Preparation time 10 mins Cooking time 15 mins Serves 1 150g Australian Pork loin medallions, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 green onions, white part sliced, green part shredded ½ carrot, halved, sliced diagonally ½ red capsicum, thinly sliced 50g snow peas, trimmed, halved Steamed rice, sesame seeds, to serve SAUCE 2 tablespoons char siu sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce ½ teaspoon Chinese five spice STEP 1 For the sauce, whisk all sauce ingredients in a small jug. Set aside. STEP 2 Heat a medium wok on high heat. Stir-fry pork for 2 minutes, or until browned and almost cooked. Remove. STEP 3 Add the white part of onion, carrot, capsicum and snow peas to the same hot wok. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes or until vegetables…

Go big and go bold. Forget subtle accents and drench your space with a single hue, threading it around any room for a truly dramatic style. Choose our colour of the year, spiced tangerine, for a vibrant creative space, olive green for balance and focus, or midnight blue for a luxurious calm vibe. Layer different textures and play with sculptural pieces for the finishing touches, then immerse yourself in the mood-changing effects of your favourite colour. Spiced tangerine Our colour of the year, spiced tangerine, brings warmth and a sense of creativity to this inviting dining setting. It’s a place for good food, big laughs and unforgettable conversations. This sophisticated orange combines nostalgia for the past with an energy for the future. Walls in Dulux Wash&Wear Low Sheen paint in…

SCAN ME Scan this QR code to shop these items. CHILL THRILL Keep your cool this summer with the Stanley IceFlow Bottle with Flip Straw Lid in Pink Mesa. The insulated bottle keeps your cold water chilled when you’re at the beach, on a walk or just on the go. Its updated flip straw design is perfect for quick, spill-free sipping, too; $70, from Stanley. STARS IN STRIPES Upgrade your morning cuppa with a cheery Emery Stripe mug and saucer. The matching saucer is a perfect size for a morning tea treat and each set comes gift boxed. Available in mustard, berry or green, $16.95, from Pillow Talk. Checkout chic Brighten your grocery run with a reusable shopping bag from Ruby Olive. Each bag holds up to 25kg but folds…

SEEN ON BHG TV FRIDAYS 7.00 MELISSA KING Join me as I show you other botanical wonders on BHG TV, Fridays at 7pm on Channel 7. For more garden tips, go to bhg.com.au “CHECK OUT THE MEXICAN FIRE BARREL CACTI WITH THEIR VIVID BRIGHT RED SPINES.” Looking like aliens of the plant world, many of the more weirdly shaped cacti could be characters in Star Wars’ iconic cantina scene. They can look like brains removed from a specimen jar, or a prickly den of snakes. They can be perfectly symmetrical, look like wobbly, wayward runaways, or form tidy rosettes that imitate flowers. And it’s their blooms that are especially stunning, showing beauty in dramatic colours. Most flower in spring and summer, some during the cooler months, and some only at…

Milton’s tips for Aquarius season (Jan 21–Feb 20) Aquarius is an Air sign, and there is something uncatchable and unpredictable about many Aquarians. Uranus (a rebel rouser) is their planetary ruler and often creates variance with others. They may surprise, amaze, even shock people who are more orthodox. Aquarians like a variety of colour combinations, irregular patterns and anything different for their garden, such as bleeding heart, bird of paradise, euphorbia, lupin, snapdragon, sweet alyssum or gaillardia. They tend to use natural fertilisers and pest controls, the more natural the better. Aquarians also like gadgets – you may find a windmill or sculpture as a feature in the garden. ZODIAC SIGNS The 12 signs of the zodiac are divided into four groups – fire, air, earth and water. Fire signs…

SCAN ME Scan the code to shop these great reads. TOP READ DEAR NEW YORK by Brandon Stanton, Macmillan, $65 As a longstanding fan of Brandon Stanton’s Humans of New York Instagram account, I found his newest venture into the heart and soul of the Big Apple very exciting. Described as a photographic love letter to the city, this beautiful volume depicts New Yorkers from every walk of life. It delves deep into the city’s issues, exploring topics such as homelessness, drug addiction and poverty with subtlety and kindness. Dear New York truly shows what makes New Yorkers tick, from love, death, divorce, grief or assault to short, humorous quips from children. There are almost 500 portraits and stories to read, and you’ll be moved by each person’s experience. This…

Gaytime Prep time 20 minutes (+ refrigeration) Makes 10 Process 380g pitted fresh medjool dates to a thick paste. Transfer to a medium bowl with 1½ cups toasted rolled oats, ½ cup shredded coconut and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix well to combine. Using damp hands, roll 2 level tablespoons of mixture into a roll. Toss in ⅔ cup toasted buckwheat groats (kernels). Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Repeat with remaining mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm. Cherry ripe Prep time 25 minutes (+ refrigeration) Makes 18 Thaw 2 cups frozen cherries on paper towel, then pat dry. Place cherries, 3 cups toasted rolled oats, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil, 2 tablespoons white chia seeds, 1 cup moist coconut…

Crunchy chicken and egg salad Prep + cook time 25 minutes Serves 2 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 chicken breast fillet, halved horizontally 2 free-range eggs 100g mixed salad leaves 2 roma tomatoes, chopped 2 slices wholegrain sourdough bread ⅓ cup Caesar salad dressing Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 Heat oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through. Cover loosely with foil and leave to cool. Slice chicken. 2 Meanwhile, place eggs in a saucepan of cold water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes for soft-boiled or until cooked to your liking. Place in a bowl of iced water to cool. Peel eggs, then…

Tuna and avocado Caesar roll Prep time 10 minutes Makes 1 Mix a drained 125g can tuna in oil with 1 tablespoon Caesar salad dressing and 1 teaspoon finely grated parmesan. Split and butter a bread roll. Top base with baby cos leaves, then tuna mixture, sliced avocado and sliced ripe tomato. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve. Add crisp prosciutto, if you like. Tuna and roasted capsicum sub Prep time 10 minutes Makes 1 Mix a drained 125g can tuna in oil with 1 tablespoon aïoli, 2 teaspoons finely chopped basil and 2 teaspoons chopped toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds (or 2 teaspoons pesto instead of the basil and pine nuts). Butter a split long crusty bread roll. Fill roll with rocket leaves and tuna…

Colour has this magical ability to make us feel things. From the fundamental neuroscience aspects of it, through to our own well-worn memories, colour imprints itself on us in ways we rarely stop to question. We all remember an item of clothing, worn until it was threadbare, that people always complimented us on. A favourite mug that survived years of sips and chips, before finally breaking beyond repair. An early car, bike or pair of shoes that faithfully got you from A to B, with scratches and scuffs only adding character. The colour of a loved one’s eyes, a sea of lavender on holiday, or the vibrancy of raspberry sorbet on a summer’s day. Each of us will have a unique experience with a colour, and preferences that result from…

CHICKEN TACOS WITH FRESH TOMATO SALSA Preparation time 20 mins Cooking time 20 mins Serves 4 (makes 12) 2½ tablespoons (25g) Mexican Style Spice Blend 4 tablespoons olive oil 3 medium chicken breasts 15cm street tacos (you’ll need 12) 300ml sour cream 1½ cups shredded red cabbage Coriander sprig, lime wedges, to serve FRESH TOMATO SALSA 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons maple syrup Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 250g cherry tomatoes, quartered 4 green onions, finely chopped 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickled jalapeno ¼ cup chopped coriander leaves STEP 1 For the fresh tomato salsa, whisk oil, vinegar, maple syrup and salt and pepper together in a medium bowl. Add remaining salsa ingredients, stirring to combine. Set aside. STEP 2…

It’s always nice to have a bit of something bright in your home, but painting a wall or buying a vibrant new sofa can feel daunting. One easy way to upgrade your space without going all-in is with a colourful lamp. Easy steps to RE-COVER A LAMP Safety notes Be careful when using spray adhesive indoors. Work in a well-ventilated area or use it outdoors. How to STEP 1 Remove the lampshade from the base and take out the lightbulb. Wipe down the frame so it’s clean. Remove the lampshade from the base and take out the lightbulb. Wipe down the frame so it’s clean. STEP 2 Lay your fabric flat on the table. Place the lampshade upside down on top and roll it in a full circle to see…

FRECKLE DIPPED BERRY YOGHURT POPS Preparation time 5 mins (plus freezing time) Makes 8 1 cup Greek-style yoghurt, plus 1 cup extra 250g punnet strawberries, chopped 1 banana, sliced 1–2 tablespoons water ⅔ cup hundreds and thousands STEP 1 In a small blender, pulse yoghurt with strawberries and banana until smooth. Divide mixture between eight ⅓-cup capacity ice-block moulds and insert sticks. Freeze overnight until set. STEP 2 Place remaining yoghurt in a glass and stir in enough water to slightly loosen. Remove pops from moulds and transfer to a tray lined with baking paper. STEP 3 One at a time, dip ice-creams into yoghurt at an angle, dipping a third of the way down. Sprinkle with hundreds and thousands. Return to the tray, then place in freezer to firm.…

At BHG, we’re big believers in work smarter, not harder. So when Chrissie Swan’s The Shortcut Queen came across our desks, we were instant fans. In her cookbook, the radio host and mum of three shares shortcuts that save her “time, money and sanity”. We chatted to Chrissie about her tips and share an edited extract of her book on the following pages. BHG: What are some of the shortcuts that help you cook for your family? CS: I’m a fan of ‘one mess, many meals’. I very rarely cook one meal at dinner time because once you’ve got the chopping board out, or the specific combo of herbs, spices or sauces… why wouldn’t you make another batch or three? Crumbing chicken fillets is a drag, so I do it…

Rainbow roads What: Do a walking tour of perhaps the world’s most colourful streets in the Chilean port city of Valparaiso. Houses in its historic quarter are painted in a rainbow of colours – a tradition that started when residents used leftover paint from the port on their homes. This cultural hotspot is renowned for its bohemian scene and there’s a wealth of street art and murals to explore. But beware! The city is built on 42 hills, so pack comfy shoes. You’ll be climbing stairs or grabbing a ride on a funicular. Where: Valparaiso is about an hour’s drive from Chile’s capital, Santiago. When: Summer (Dec–Mar) is best for beach weather. Try: Head to the quirky La Sebastiana House Museum, former home of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. SCAN…

“DELICATE ELDERFLOWER PAIRS BEAUTIFULLY WITH FRAGRANT SUMMER STRAWBS.” HOT HONEY HALOUMI BURGER WITH CHARRED PINEAPPLE SALSA Preparation time 30 mins Cooking time 25 mins Serves 4 50ml honey 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (deseed it first if you prefer less heat) ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika 4 tablespoons sunflower oil 4 burger buns, halved 1 tablespoon sesame seeds 3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs 250g haloumi, cut into 8 thick slices 50g garlic mayonnaise SALSA ½ pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into 6 wedges 2 green onions, finely sliced ¼ cup coriander, finely chopped Juice of 1 lime 1 teaspoon mild chilli powder Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season SLAW ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar ¼ red cabbage, thinly sliced…

The New Year is one of my favourite times to refresh our home to start the year feeling calm, organised and inspired. A quick declutter of key areas can make a big difference to your home and how you feel in it. Whether it’s stacks of paperwork, an overflowing make-up drawer or a cupboard filled with items you rarely use, clutter can make you feel stressed and takes up valuable space. Taking the time to sort through what you use and let go of what you don’t helps create a relaxed and peaceful environment. Decluttering doesn’t have to be daunting! My biggest piece of advice is to start small. Focus on one space at a time – whether that’s one drawer, one shelf or one room. And celebrate the wins…

Stay in the black Your annual finance review to help keep you out of the red. PAY UTILITIES BY THE MONTH When they arrive, those quarterly utility bills can come as a shock. Here’s a way to ease the pain: contact your provider to find out if you can pay per month instead. Paying every month in smaller increments means you can manage your budget better. Another plus is you’ll be more aware of your energy usage and be reminded to adjust your habits, such as taking shorter showers or changing the temperature on the air conditioner. DO A HEALTH INSURANCE CHECK-UP It’s important to regularly review your health insurance to check you’re covered for your current and future needs, and that you are getting the best deal. Sometimes the…

"A late summer garden has a tranquillity found no other time of the year." SEASON SPECIALS Summer flowering trees give you shade on hot days. BLOOMING BEAUTIES If you want a small magnolia with huge, white, fragrant flowers, try ‘Little Gem’. ALL FLUFF AND PUFF The clouds of flowers on the smoketree (Cotinus sp.) are its unique feature. FANTASTICALLY FROTHY A crepe myrtle has vibrant summer colour and beautiful bark in winter. PLANT NOW In each issue we give ideas, tips and planting advice for cooler, warmer, wetter and drier areas in each zone, so ask at your local nursery which zone best matches your conditions. FLOWERS ALL ZONES Ageratum, alyssum, cleome, cyclamen, Iceland poppy, lobelia, nigella (top left) and polyanthus. ZONES 1–3 African marigold (bottom left), celosia, coleus, gerbera,…

February is Pet Dental Month, so it’s the perfect time to lift the lip and take a peek! A dog’s healthy gums should be a soft pink colour – smooth, moist and even in tone, says Sydney dental veterinarian Christine Hawke. 1234567 “Press your finger gently on your pooch’s gum: if the pink colour returns within one to two seconds after you release, that’s a good sign of normal blood flow and hydration,” she says. Keep an eye out for these shades, which may require a vet visit: • If gums look pale or white, it may indicate blood loss, anaemia, pain, shock or poor circulation. • Red, inflamed or bleeding gums often point to gingivitis or more advanced gum disease from plaque and tartar build-up. • A distinct red…

Prep time 15 minutes (+ refrigeration) Makes 20 squares 400g dried apricots 2 cups desiccated coconut 2 cups unsalted roasted cashews 1 cup almond meal ½ cup quinoa flakes or oat flakes 2 tablespoons white chia seeds ¼ cup coconut yoghurt 2 tablespoons orange blossom water 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons honey ½ cup shaved coconut, toasted (optional) 1 Line a 20cm square cake pan with baking paper, extending the paper 5cm over the long sides. 2 Place all ingredients, except the shaved coconut, in a food processor. Process until finely chopped and combined. The mixture should clump together and start to come away from the side of the bowl. 3 Press the apricot mixture into the prepared pan, using the back of a large spoon to spread out…

Prep + cook time 20 minutes Makes 2 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 small red onion, chopped finely 1 clove garlic, crushed 200g baby spinach leaves, chopped coarsely 1 free-range egg, beaten lightly 200g feta, crumbled 1½ tablespoons finely grated parmesan 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest 2 tablespoons chopped dill, plus extra sprigs to serve (optional) Freshly ground black pepper, to season 4 wholegrain tortillas Tzatziki, baby cos lettuce wedges, to serve (optional) 1 Heat oil in a large heavy-based frying pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and spinach, then cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until softened. Transfer to a bowl to cool. 2 Add egg, feta, parmesan, lemon zest and dill to spinach mixture, then season with pepper. Mix well to combine. 3 Divide filling mixture…

Prep + cook time 20 minutes (+ cooling) Makes 2 2 free-range eggs 50g green beans, trimmed 2 gluten-free wraps 6 baby gem lettuce leaves, trimmed 2 x 125g cans tuna slices in springwater, drained 8 cherry tomatoes, quartered ¼ cup pitted kalamata olives, halved ⅓ cup store-bought yoghurt feta dill dressing (optional) Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 Place eggs in a small saucepan, cover with cold water. Bring to the boil over high heat, then boil for 6 minutes. Drain. Cool in a bowl of iced water. Peel eggs and cut into quarters. 2 Boil, steam or microwave beans until just tender, drain. Rinse under cold water, drain. Cut in half lengthways. 3 Place wraps on a chopping board. Divide lettuce leaves, tuna, tomatoes,…

Loaded hummus Pomegranate and pine nut hummus Prep time 10 minutes Serves 4 Stir 1 teaspoon ground cumin into a 200g tub of hummus until combined. Spoon hummus into four sealable containers. Scatter hummus with pomegranate seeds, toasted pine nuts and thinly sliced red onion, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Harissa and chickpea hummus Prep + cook time 25 minutes Serves 4 Spoon a 200g tub of hummus into four sealable containers. Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan-forced. Drain and rinse a 400g can chickpeas, then pat chickpeas dry with paper towel and place in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon each harissa and olive oil, then stir to combine. Spread chickpea mixture, in a single layer, on a baking tray lined with…

Prep + cook time 35 minutes Serves 4 500g chicken mince ⅔ cup fresh breadcrumbs 1 free-range egg 1 small onion, grated coarsel ¼ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves, plus extra to serve Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 2 tablespoons olive oil 200g snow peas, trimmed 2 cups finely shredded wombok 300g can corn kernels, drained 1 large red capsicum, chopped 100g packet fried noodles ½ cup store-bought oriental salad dressing 1 Place chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, onion and parsley in a medium bowl, then season. Mix well to combine. Roll level tablespoons of mixture into 24 balls. 2 Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook meatballs, in batches, turning, for 8 minutes or until browned and cooked through. 3 Meanwhile, place…

Cheesie twiggy twists Prep + cook time 12 minutes Makes 8 Partially thaw 1 sheet butter puff pastry and cut into eight 1.5cm x 20cm strips. Squeeze a thin line of American mustard along the middle of each strip. Using four 40g packets mild salami Stix and tasty cheese, cut each piece of cheese and salami in half lengthways. Stack a cheese half on top of a salami half, then wrap each stack with a strip of pastry, mustard-side down, to form a spiral. Brush pastry with egg wash, sprinkle with a pinch of dried oregano and chilli flakes. Preheat a 5.3-litre air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes. Taking care, line the air-fryer basket with baking paper and place twists in the basket. Cook for 6 minutes or until…

CHRISSIE SWAN Media personality Chrissie Swan has been charming Aussies on radio and television for more than 20 years, appearing on Big Brother, The Project and the Nova radio network. As a busy mum of three, she’s learned more than a few shortcuts to get food on the table fast. See page 68 for an extract from her new cookbook. JONO FLEMING Interior designer Interior designer, stylist and writer Jono Fleming is passionate about making great design accessible and personal. In his debut book, A Visual Feast, he shares his practical guide to creating spaces that are deeply personal and full of life. Read an extract starting on page 86. CHANTEL MILA Author Since she began posting in 2020, Chantel Mila (aka ‘Mama Mila’) has gathered 4 million followers on…

Anyone who knows me will tell you that chocolate freckles are my absolute favourite treat. Celebration time? Freckles. Tough week? A bag of freckles is the answer. To turn this chocolate favourite into a dessert worthy of being our cover star, I decided it needed to become a no-bake cheesecake. There’s a reason no-bake cheesecakes are so popular. They’re easy to prepare ahead, no oven needed and a simple two-ingredient biscuit base never lets you down. To combine these two favourites, at first I considered topping the whole cheesecake with a crunchy freckle layer. It didn’t take long to realise trying to cut through hard set chocolate into cheesecake would be a nightmare! Instead, I created a silky chocolate ganache topped with hundreds and thousands. It delivers that nostalgic freckle…

If colour could capture a mood for 2026, then Spiced Tangerine would be it. Our BHG Colour of the Year is deep, warm and unapologetically rich, and we found the perfect swatch for it with Benjamin Moore’s Racing Orange 2169-10. This shade has quietly crept from fashion runways and pop culture into interiors and lifestyle products, and it’s poised to be the defining colour of 2026. From sunbaked terracotta walls to persimmon-hued accessories, this burnt orange embodies an indulgent optimism that feels both vintage-inspired and energetic and modern. Recent months have seen a resurgence of warmer, richer tones, perhaps as a collective craving for connection. We noted how shades like baked clay, toasty terracotta and earthy ochres provide depth and reassurance in a time of global uncertainty. The BHG colour…

With farming roots and a lifelong love of fresh, seasonal produce, Aussie chef Matt Moran knows good flavour starts with great ingredients. His latest range available in supermarkets, My Perfect Stock, is designed to help home cooks bring chef-level quality to everyday meals – with minimal effort, of course. No stranger to harvesting his own produce, Matt finds magic in all the colours you can grow, right in your own backyard. For this issue, we spoke to Matt about cooking with colour. BHG: When you think of colour on a plate, what’s the first ingredient that comes to mind? MM: In summer, that might be beautiful green asparagus, vibrant red tomatoes and fresh herbs straight from the garden. In the cooler months, you start to see deeper, earthier colours come…

SCAN ME Scan this QR code to shop these items. Mauve moment Groove to a 1970s vibe with this sculptural coffee table. Its glass top sits on a lilac-washed base, giving the illusion it’s floating. It’s a little bit Rubik’s cube, a bit Fred Flintstone and a whole lot stylish! Bedrock coffee table in mauve, $1300, from Fenton & Fenton. TAKE YOUR PICK Tommy Cotton towels have 16 patterns, so everyone can find a fave! Tommy Cotton Poppy Stripe towels, from $30 for a hand towel, from Sheet Society. Colour queen Sandra Gale’s joyful artworks celebrate the people and things that light up our lives. Sandra cuts and reassembles layers of painted paper to create bold artworks that explode with dopamine-filled blooms. She also works on one-off commissions. This Is…

Ice dyeing creates abstract patterns that range from a tie-dye look to ombre blends. The results are often a surprise. EASY STEPS FOR AN ICE-DYE TABLECLOTH Here’s how STEP 1 Wash the tablecloth in mild detergent. There is no need to dry it. STEP 2 In a large dyeing saucepan, mix up a solution of 1 cup of soda ash to 1 litre of water until you have enough to submerge the fabric. For one large tablecloth, you’ll need 4–6 litres. Bring to the boil, stirring occasionally, until the soda ash is completely dissolved. Turn off the heat, then add the tablecloth to the pot to soak for about 30 minutes. (Or pour the mixture into a heatproof tub, and soak the tablecloth in that.) Wearing latex gloves (the soda…

ONE-POT GLASS NOODLES WITH BRAISED CHINESE MUSHROOMS Preparation time 15 mins plus 1 hour soaking Cooking time 25 mins Serves 4 50g dried whole shiitake mushrooms (see tips) 15g dried wood ear fungus (see tips) 50g dried bean curd stick, cut into thirds (see tips) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 clove garlic, finely grated 20g piece ginger, finely grated 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing) 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 ½ tablespoons light soy sauce 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce 2 teaspoons sugar ½ teaspoon sea-salt flakes 1 carrot, cut into thin strips 45g bean thread vermicelli noodles 1 green onion, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon sesame oil STEP 1 Place shiitake mushrooms, wood ear fungus and bean curd stick in three separate bowls. Pour about…

Moving into a rental usually means putting up with what’s there. But adding a splash of colour can shift attention away from dated or ugly elements while making that rental feel like home. Changing rusty window frames, old carpets or scratched benches usually requires written permission from your landlord. Instead, try these DIY decor tricks that will leave no trace when you move out. • For full-length drapes, choose a tension rod that matches the width of the wall, extend to fit and thread on lightweight or sheer fabric. Position the rod, then twist to lock, checking it’s straight and firmly fitted. Twist in reverse to remove. • Plant up supertunias (also called trailing petunias) in bright planters from Capra Designs to hang from a rod in front of a…

Celebrating romantic love on Valentine’s Day goes back to the 15th century in England and France. That we observe it by giving our loved ones long-stemmed red roses is a much more recent phenomenon, given that in Europe in February there are no red roses blooming. Traditionally, the day was celebrated with a loving note, and perhaps a sprig of sweet-scented, winter-flowering daphne or a posy of hellebores. These days, the roses given to lovers all over the world are often flown in from South America or Kenya and they are bred for durability. With that, perfume has been sacrificed and many traditional Valentine’s roses simply don’t smell as sweet, but they are still iconic. Along with the famous rose, here are some other flowers that are in season now…

SCAN ME Scan this QR code to shop these items. IN TUNE James Galway is a legend of the flute and his namesake double-bloomed climbing rose could soon be just as famous. This romantically pink rose repeat flowers, is near thornless and climbs quickly up to 3.75 metres. Grow it beside blue salvia or lavender for a spectacular effect. From David Austin Roses, order bare-root plants now through nurseries for winter delivery. GET REFRESHED Clean up after a day tilling the soil with a Sola freestanding outdoor shower, or just use it to wash your pup. Made of rust-resistant stainless steel, it comes in brushed brass, brushed copper or brushed gunmetal finishes, $1899 from ABI Interiors. Private bliss Go behind the hedges and fences of some of Sydney’s prestigious coastal…

YOUR SHOPPING DIRECTORY Bunnings Warehouse bunnings.com.au Eckersley’s eckersleys.com.au Knitting Co knittingco.com.au Target target.com.au ICE & EASY, PAGE 94 Project supplies Eckersley’s Jacquard Procion MX Dye available in a variety of colours, 19g, $12.75 each. Jacquard Procion MX Dye Soda Ash Dye Fixer, 450g, $11.75, 2.25kg, $35.95. Knitting Co Jacquard Procion MX Dye, set of eight colours, $59.95. Target Anko extra large, linen-look cotton tablecloth, 325cm x 150cm, $17. SERVE IT UP, PAGE 148 Project supplies Bunnings Johnson Tiles light grey gloss Opal mosaic wall tile, 284 x 296mm, $15.40. Dunlop Ready-to-Go Tile & Grout tile adhesive, 250g, $13.65. Dunlop Ready-to-Go Coloured Grout, 800g, $16.30. Target Anko timber decor tray, 40cm x 24cm x 4cm, $15. PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of Better Homes and Gardens is published by Are Media Pty…

Air fryer chewy apricot seed bars Prep + cook time 35 minutes Makes 18 ½ cup plain flour ½ teaspoon mixed spice 3 cups quick cook rolled oats ⅔ cup desiccated coconut 150g natural seed mix 125g dried apricots, chopped finely 200g unsalted butter, chopped ½ cup golden syrup ¾ cup firmly packed brown sugar ½ cup crunchy peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 Preheat a 7-litre air fryer to 160°C for 5 minutes. Grease a deep 20cm square cake pan, then line its base and sides with two layers of baking paper. 2 Sift flour and mixed spice into a large bowl. Add oats, coconut, seed mix and apricots. Stir to combine. 3 Place butter and golden syrup in a small saucepan, then stir over low heat until…

Prep + cook time 20 minutes (+ standing) Makes 16 2⅓ cups sesame seeds ½ cup pepitas ⅓ cup dried sweetened cranberries 1 cup honey 1 Grease a 23cm x 33cm slice pan. Line its base and sides with baking paper, extending paper 2cm over the long sides. 2 Combine sesame seeds and pepitas in a large frying pan. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, for 5 minutes or until the sesame seeds are light brown. Stir in cranberries. Remove pan from heat. 3 Heat honey in a medium saucepan over medium heat until just starting to boil. Add sesame seed mixture and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until golden brown. 4 Carefully pour seed mixture into prepared pan. Smooth the top using the back of a large spoon.…

Prep + cook time 10 minutes Makes 2 4 slices light rye bread 30g butter, softened 2 teaspoons pistachio dukkah (optional) 8 slices Swiss cheese 6 slices pastrami ⅓ cup store-bought sauerkraut 2 tablespoons thousand island dressing Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 Preheat a jaffle maker. 2 Place bread on a sheet of baking paper on a chopping board. Spread each slice with butter, then sprinkle each evenly with ½ teaspoon dukkah. Turn two slices so the buttered-side faces down, then top each with two slices Swiss cheese, three slices pastrami, 2 tablespoons sauerkraut and 1 tablespoon dressing, then season to taste. Top with remaining Swiss cheese, then sandwich together with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up. 3 Toast sandwiches in hot jaffle maker…

Preparation time 5 minutes Cooking time 15 minutes Serves 4 ¾ cup pearl barley, rinsed 1 cup vegetable stock 200g green beans, trimmed, halved 100g sugar snap peas 1 bunch cavolo nero, stalks removed, chopped coarsely 300g hot-smoked salmon, torn into pieces 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds, toasted TAHINI DRESSING 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon tahini ½ teaspoon finely grated lime zest 1½ tablespoons lime juice 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon dijon mustard 1 teaspoon boiling water Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 Place barley, stock and1 /2 cup water in a large heavy-based saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Bring to the boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 25 minutes or until the barley is just tender.…

Prep + cook time 30 minutes (+ refrigeration) Serves 4 (Makes 8 koftas) ½ cup mint leaves 500g lamb mince 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground sumac 2 cloves garlic, crushed Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 tablespoon olive oil 80g mixed salad leaves 1 lebanese cucumber, diced 250g cherry tomatoes, quartered ½ small red onion, sliced thinly 200g feta, crumbled 200g tub store-bought tzatziki dip Tortilla strips, to serve LEMON DRESSING ¼ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 Finely chop 1 tablespoon of the mint leaves, reserve remaining leaves. Combine lamb, cumin, sumac, garlic and chopped mint in a medium bowl. Season. Using your hands, combine mixture well. Divide mixture into eight portions, shape each portion into a sausage shape. Cover and…

Prep + cook time 35 minutes Serves 2 ½ cup tri-coloured quinoa, rinsed well 2 teaspoons fish sauce 2cm piece fresh ginger, grated finely 1 small clove garlic, crushed ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 200g beef fillet steak 100g sugar snap peas, trimmed, halved lengthways 1 baby gem lettuce, quartered ½ butter lettuce, leaves separated 1 trimmed celery stalk, sliced thinly on the diagonal 2 green onions, sliced thinly lengthways 1 fresh long red chilli, sliced thinly (optional) Lime wedges, to serve LIME AND GINGER DRESSING 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2cm piece fresh ginger, grated finely 1 fresh long red chilli, seeded, chopped finely (optional) Sea-salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to season 1 Place quinoa and 1 cup water in a…

Prep + cook time 35 minutes (+ cooling, refrigeration) Makes 24 squares 4 Weet-Bix, crushed 1¼ cups self-raising flour, sifted ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup desiccated coconut, plus 2 tablespoons extra ¼ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder 185g butter, melted ICING 1 cup icing sugar mixture 2 tablespoons Dutch-processed cocoa powder 20g softened butter 2 tablespoons boiling water 1 Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan-forced. Grease a 20cm x 30cm slice pan, then line base and sides with baking paper, extending paper 2cm over long sides. 2 Place Weet-Bix, flour, sugar, coconut, cocoa and butter in a large bowl, then mix well to combine. Press mixture into prepared pan. 3 Bake for 25 minutes or until firm to touch. Cool in pan. 4 While slice is cooling, make the icing. Sift…