Here's a little guide to using the recipes in Nostalgia Pie:

​

MEASUREMENTS/WEIGHTS/CONVERSIONS

​

1. The majority of these recipes have been taken from old school recipe books and magazines. So it's no surprise that a lot of them use pounds and ounces. Use the conversion chart.

2. Where possible we have included both metric and imperial units for every recipe. If we haven't done so, please refer to the conversion chart.

3. Even though Nostalgia Pie based in the US, most of the recipes used on Nostalgia Pie are taken from British cook books and magazines published between 1960-2000 where we didn't really use cup measurements ( I once asked my American husband what size cup I was supposed to use when a recipe called for it. He actually thought I was joking for about five minutes. And then was stunned when he realised I wasn't! - Angel) so if you're using cups, you can refer to the conversion chart.

3. If you use another unit of measurement, we've clearly never heard of it so you won't find any conversion charts for it!

4. Unless otherwise stated, all spoon measures are level.

5. Unless otherwise stated, all pan, tin and dish measurements are of the base.

6. Sometimes we find that that the best units of measurement are 'a pinch of this,' 'a handful of that,' and 'a glug of the other.' And when it comes to flavouring things with alcohol, sky's the limit! The moral of the story is that with certain things, you don't always have to be precise - so don't be surprised if you come across such 'measurements!'

​

INGREDIENTS

​

1. We don't have an allegiance to any one particular store or brand. So buy your products from wherever you like and use your favourite brands. If however, on the rare occasion we are using a product that is exclusive to a particular store, we will mention it only because it will save you from hunting around for it.

2. If it's impossible for you to find certain obscure ingredients, try to use alternatives wherever possible.

3. We understand that it's not always possible to buy the finest ingredients. The mind and body are willing but the bank manager isn't thus the pocket is weak! So always go for the best that you can afford.

4. We have absolutely no time and zero tolerance for food snobs. Although being healthy is important and it's best to create dishes from good quality, fresh ingredients, there is nothing wrong with shortcuts if it means it saves you time or money AND the dish still tastes great. So if you'd rather use shop bought pesto, bread, pasta, custard etc. go ahead - see if we care!

5. All the recipes here serve as a guide. Nothing's set in stone so if you don't like a particular ingredient, don't be afraid to use a suitable alternative...

6. ...However we firmly believe that baking is a science, so unless you're Mary Berry, we suggest you stick to the recipe!

​

FLAVOUR/TASTE

​

1. When the recipe creator was creating these delightful recipes, you weren't around. So therefore these recipes were designed to suit their palate. But don't let that stop you amending the recipes to suit yours. Add more spice, less sugar, cut out the herbs altogether if that's how you like it.

2. If you prefer the taste of limes to the recommended lemons, then use limes instead. The police will not come knocking on your door.

3. Salt and sugar bring out the flavour of food but many people are wary of using them or at least prefer to use less. There are plenty of healthy alternatives - just ask your friendly health food shop assistant for advice (which once upon a time used to be me - Angel!)

​

HYGIENE

​

1. Wash hands before handling food. That's basic common sense.

2. If you have long hair, tie or clip it back. That's also basic common sense.

3. Wash unpeeled fruit, vegetables and herbs thoroughly before use.

4. Thoroughly wash your hands after handling raw meat, poultry and fish.

​

HEALTH

​

1. The consumption of raw or lightly cooked eggs should be avoided by those susceptible to infection (e.g. - babies, pregnant women, elderly etc.)

2. Even if you're one for eating things cooked rare, where chicken's concerned that's a definite no-no. Always make sure chicken is thoroughly cooked through.

3. We all like a drink - (I know I do - Angel)  - but with alcohol comes the importance of being responsible. So please drink responsibly. And if you can't, just stick to milkshake.

4. Daily calorie intake: 2,000 calories

5. Daily salt intake: no more than 6g.

6. Daily fat intake: no more than 70g.