Dahlia Mystic Enchantment

Are you a member of the Dahlia Fan Club?

I certainly am!

I remember the first time I met a dahlia; it was love at first sight.

I was seven years old, and it was a destined meeting in my grandma's cottage garden.

In 'Mia Bella Passions' Homestead garden of the past,

there were many.

Collected from school fetes, garden centres and market days.

When I moved to the Lake and life became more transient due to art and painting work, I thought, 'No, I'm not creating big gardens'!

But guess what happened?

Once gardening is in your blood, there is no stopping it!

I bought three favourite Dahlias with me when I moved, and each Spring, a few more are added to the collection.

Today I'm sharing the newest one.

The 'Dahlia Mystic' series is a contemporary dahlia colour range that was created by Dr Keith Hammet, a leading New Zealand plant breeder.

'Dahlia Mystic' Enchantment is bright engine red, single-petaled, yellow-stamened, with the most amazing black mahogany-toned filigree leaves.

I've potted mine because it looks fabulous in the black fleck pot, but it is just as happy in front of a garden border.

Plant it en masse, and you have an instant statement in your garden bed design.

Eventually, it will grow about 60cm wide and 80cm tall, so they don't require staking like much larger dahlia varieties do.

This strong, hardy plant loves a sunny position; just keep your plant well watered. 

They will die back in winter, hardy to -6 degrees Celsius, and then will re-emerge in Spring to put on a show with a brilliant mass of saturated red flowers throughout the warmer months.

Deadheading once the prime show of blooms is finished will promote more flowers.

Consistent fertilising will also promote more flowers.

It is disease-resistant but will need snail and slug control as it's like a delicious dessert for those slimy critters.

And last but not least, the cut flowers are long-lasting in a vase.

The dried base of the flower is really kind of cool, don't you think? So if you also enjoy dried flowers, these are a keeper for crafts.

Once your flowers are finished in the vase, hang the stems to dry.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#dahlia #dahliamystic #dahliamysticeenchantment

Delicious Spicy Mango Chutney

   Homemade spicy mango chutney is more than just a condiment; it is an explosion of flavour that balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes in a single spoonful. Unlike mass-produced store-bought versions, crafting this at home allows you to control the texture: keeping chunky fruit more intact and achieving a heat level that suits your palate.

To create a chutney with depth, the base begins with firm but ripe mangoes, which provide natural sugars and a buttery texture. The complexity is built through a slow reduction with apple cider vinegar, providing the necessary acidity to cut through the sweetness.

The "spice" in a truly great spicy mango chutney usually comes from a layered approach:

· Heat: Red chilli provides the kick.

· Aromatics: Ginger and minced garlic add a pungent, zesty undertone.

· Warmth: A blend of cumin and turmeric creates the signature golden hue.

By simmering these ingredients until the juices thicken into a syrupy, jam-like consistency, you develop a condiment that is both rustic and refined.

Versatile Pairings: 

Spicy mango chutney is the traditional companion to Indian appetisers like samosas and poppadoms, but its versatility extends far into global cuisine. Here are other ways to utilise this delicious condiment:

1. The Ultimate Cheese Board Addition

Move over fig jam. The acidity and heat of mango chutney are the perfect foil for rich, creamy cheeses. It pairs exceptionally well with a sharp aged cheddar, a pungent Brie, or even a salty goat cheese. Spread it onto a cracker with a slice of mango for a sophisticated snack.

2. Glaze

The high sugar content in chutney makes it an ideal glaze. Brush it onto grilled chicken thighs, roasted pork tenderloin, or even salmon fillets during the last ten minutes of cooking. The chutney caramelizes under the heat, creating a sticky, spicy crust.

3. Sandwiches and Wraps

Spicy mango chutney can transform a standard sandwich into a gourmet meal. It also wonders spread inside a grilled cheese sandwich, a turkey wrap, or a halloumi burger. 

4. Accompaniment to Curries and Rice

Naturally, a dollop of chutney on the side of a fragrant Biryani or a spicy Madras curry provides a cooling, sweet contrast to the intense spices of the main dish. It acts as a palate cleanser, making every bite feel fresh.

5. Dressing and Dipping

Whisk a tablespoon of chutney with olive oil and lime juice to create a tropical vinaigrette for a shrimp salad. Alternatively, thin it with boiled water and use it as a dipping sauce for shrimp, chicken or fish bites, spring rolls, or sweet potato fries.

Storage and Maturation

One of the best features of homemade chutney is its shelf life. When stored in well-sterilised jars, the flavours continue to meld and develop over time. A batch made today will often taste even better two weeks from now, making it an excellent handmade gift for food lovers or a reliable staple to keep in your own pantry for whenever a meal needs a burst of sunshine, spice and heat. 

SPICY MANGO CHUTNEY RECIPE

Ingredients:

2 cups of ripe mango - diced

1/2 large red onion - finely chopped

1 Tablespoon olive oil

1 clove garlic - finely chopped or 1 teaspoon minced jar garlic

1 tablespoon fresh grated or powdered ginger

2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 Tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon each of cumin and turmeric powders

1/2 teaspoon red chilli sauce or powder

Method:

In a saucepan, add the oil and fry the onion, ginger and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Add the mango, spices and vinegar.

Bring to a boil while stirring.

Reduce heat to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Using a potato masher tool or a fork, break up the mango chunks a little.

You should now have a jam-like consistency.

Place in sterilised jars.

Makes about 1 and 3/4 cups of chutney.

You will find a printable recipe HERE.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#chutneyrecipes #mangorecipes #homemadepreserves

Upcycled Wall Sconce And Rake Head Bird Feeding Station

 Many moons ago at my old abode, I created a bird feeder from an old rake head.

It was a huge success with my feathered friends!

(You'll find the original post HERE)

Attached to the top of a fence, loaded with fruit, the birds loved it.

As did the butterflies.

Since then, I've shifted to the Lake, so I found another old rake head, as my new home is teeming with birds that love to eat fruit and nectar.

 But this time I've set up the bird feeder with a few modifications.

And some fun rusty tin bird accessories.

Firstly, I dug a hole and placed a tall half-round post into it.

On top of that, the rake head that holds the fruit was attached with large-size nail staples.

I painted the post in Resene 'Scoria' paint. 

In my stash, I had an old brass wall sconce.

It's not a French antique, but a Flemish Baroque Revival replica light that was popular in New Zealand and Australia in the 1970s.

I removed the old wiring, the fake candle drip holder and the screws holding the brass flower base.

Then I used a super strong glue that bonds metal to metal, and reattached the flower.

I left it overnight to dry.

 I glued small ceramic pots onto the brass flowers using the strong glue. Next, I screwed the wall sconce to the post.

The ceramic pots are full of sugar water.

My mixture is 1/2 cup sugar to 4 cups of warm water.

(Stir until sugar is dissolved).

Oranges cut in half were added to the rake spikes.

The birds also enjoy pears, apples, persimmons, kiwifruit, and mandarins too!

These sweet, rusty tin birds are from the Temu online store.

I placed two more short pieces of wood (painted in Resene Scoria) to make a shelf for a potted plant, a bee water station and the ornamental birds.

It was only a matter of minutes before my first feathered visitor arrived!

The next day he brought back lots of friends.

WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE BIRDS FEEDING HERE

 These beautiful birds are Silver Eye, also known as a 'Wax Eye'. They are native to the South West Pacific and were introduced to New Zealand in the 1800s.

You might also enjoy creating an easy-to-make 'Bee Water Station'.

You'll find the instructions HERE.

Or the 'Orange Peanut Butter Bird food ' HERE.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#diybirdfeeders #birdfeederideas 

Two 'Unusual Ferns' For Your Plant Collection!

Asplenium Ferns:

Asplenium ferns are primarily native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa. In their natural habitat, they are often epiphytic, meaning they grow on tree branches or in rock crevices rather than in the soil. The "Cobra" and "Chrissie" varieties are 'cultivated' selections of this fern bred specifically to enhance its unique structural form, making it a living piece of art for modern interiors.

   The Asplenium Cobra and Asplenium Chrissie are striking cultivars of the Bird’s Nest Fern. They have become a favourite among indoor plant enthusiasts for their architectural flair and prehistoric aesthetic. 

The Cobra is defined by its stiff, upright growth and distinctive "cobra-head" cresting at the tips of its green leaves.

While Chrissie develops with age, displaying tassled tips at the end of the leaves.

  Origins and Background

Uncultivated Asplenium ferns are primarily native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa. In their natural habitat, they can be epiphytic, meaning they grow on tree branches or in rock crevices rather than in the soil. They grow in dappled light under jungle canopies.

Growth Habit and Size

The Asplenium Cobra is a slow to moderate grower. While it retains a compact footprint compared to large outdoor ferns, it can eventually reach a height and spread of about 12-24 inches (30–60 cm). Asplenium Chrissie grows 40 to 60 cm. They both have growth that radiates from a central "nest" like fuzzy rosette from which new fronds emerge. Direct afternoon sun will scorch the leaves, while too little light will cause the plant to lose its vibrant green lustre and tight, upright structure.

The Asplenium 'Chrissie' fern is often confused with Microsorum Green Flame. The leaves are the same, but the difference is that 'Chrissie grows from a rosette, whereas 'Green Flame' grows from runners.

Watering: These ferns enjoy consistent moisture but dislike "wet feet." Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage. During the winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, you can allow the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings. It is important never to water directly into this centre, as it is highly susceptible to rot.

Humidity and Temperature: Coming from the tropics, they thrive in high humidity. It is an ideal candidate for a well-lit bathroom or a kitchen. If your home is dry, consider using a pebble tray or a humidifier. It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C–27°C) and should be kept away from cold drafts and heating vents.

Soil and Fertilisation: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; a mix designed for orchids or ferns with added peat moss works well. Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser once a month during the spring and summer growing season.

The Asplenium 'Chrissie' fern is often confused with Microsorum Green Flame. The leaves are the same, but the difference is that 'Chrissie grows from a rosette, whereas 'Green Flame' grows from runners.

 Air Purifier: Like many members of the Asplenium family, it is an excellent natural air filter that assists clearing common household toxins from your environment.

Why Grow Them?

The Asplenium Cobra and Asplenium Chrissie are both non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet owners. The glossy, leather-like fronds are more resilient than the delicate foliage of Maidenhair ferns, offering a hardy yet exotic option for those looking to add a touch of the jungle to their home.

Or if you live in a subtropical or tropical environment, they can be grown in the garden under a canopy that provides dappled light.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#interestingferns #aspleniumferns #junglepotplants

Mia Bella Passions Quotes

 'Mia Bella Passions' has a new dedicated Instagram quote page!

It's where you will discover all the quotes I have created for the love of words, using my art and photography as backgrounds.

Follow for direct quote updates on Instagram HERE.

Artwork by Tracey Lee Cassin.

#heartquotes #artquotes #lifequotes #dreamquotes

Dairy Free Classic Vanilla Crème Brûlée

 

The classic Crème Brûlée is a masterpiece of culinary contrast, a dessert that relies on the perfect marriage of texture and taste. 

The textural symphony of a Crème Brûlée is the dramatic interplay between its two distinct layers. The crowning glory is the brittle, caramelised sugar crust—the cassonade. This amber pane should shatter with the light tap of a spoon, providing a sharp, glassy crunch.

The soul of the dish is a chilled, silk-smooth custard that has a rich, luxurious, velvety consistency.

Each bite of this dessert delivers a controlled explosion of flavour: the dark, bittersweet notes of the sugar crust followed by the soothing, cool sweetness of the vanilla bean cream.

The allure of the French dessert, the Crème Brûlée, lies in these contrasts.   

This recipe has been adapted for dessert lovers who are dairy-free, baked using the bain-marie method.

The taste is the same as a dairy-based Crème Brûlée, with the custard just slightly heavier.

I'm a lover of Crème Brûlée and thought the dairy-free version was more delicious.

Dairy Free Classic Vanilla Crème Brûlée 

Preheat oven to 160C (71F)

2 1/3 (400ml) cups dairy-free cream

6 size 6 egg yolks

1/2 cup (110g) white sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla paste

pinch salt

About 1/2 cup sugar for caramel crust

Put the egg yolks, salt  and the vanilla in a bowl, then whisk to combine.

Put the cream in a pot, heat on the stove until almost boiling.

When almost boiling, slowly add the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously until incorporated.

Pour the Brulee mixture into ramekins.

Boil the jug and fill a baking pan with water for the bain-marie.

Place the ramekins into the bain-marie. The water should come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

Bake for 30 minutes.

When baked, sprinkle the tops of each custard ramekin with a good layer of sugar.

You can use a chef's blowtorch or hot grill to caramelise the sugar tops.

Refridgerate until serving.

Serves 4 large ramekins or 6  small.

You will find a printable recipe HERE.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#dairyfreerecipes #cremebrulee #dessertrecipes #dairyfreedesserts

Let's create Fun Bubble Art!

    Creating personalised home decor doesn't require professional training—sometimes, all you need are some acrylic paints, a bit of dish soap, and a straw. Bubble art is a mesmerising DIY technique that produces abstract, ethereal patterns perfect for modern wall art or creative holiday projects for older children.

The Science Behind the Art:

Bubble art relies on the surface tension of soapy water mixed with acrylic pigments. When you blow air into the mixture, you create clusters of bubbles that hold the paint in thin membranes. When these bubbles pop against the surface of the art paper, they leave behind delicate, circular imprints and marbled textures that, as a newbie artist,  are difficult to replicate with a brush.

To create your own fabulous abstract bubble artwork:

 You Will Need:

· Acrylic Paints: Bright, high-pigment colours work best. (the paler the colour, the more pastel the end result will be)

· Liquid Dish Soap: This is the secret ingredient for structure.

· Water: To thin the consistency.

· Straws: For blowing the bubbles.

·  Art paper or Canvas: 200gsm+ watercolour paper or heavy plain white sketch paper

· Shallow Bowls or plastic cups: One for each colour you plan to use.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Mix Your Solution

In a shallow bowl or cup, combine one part acrylic paint, one part dish soap, and two parts water. Stir gently until the mixture is fluid and consistent. The goal is a watery, ink-like texture that still retains the  colour of the acrylic.

 

2. Create the Bubble Dome

Place your straw into the mixture and blow gently. Instead of blowing "into" the liquid like a drink, aim to create a mountain of bubbles that rises above the rim of the bowl. For older children, this is the most entertaining part, but remind them to only blow outward!

3. Capturing the Print

Once you have a thick head of bubbles, carefully lower your paper or canvas onto the foam. Do not press all the way down to the liquid; let the bubbles pop against the surface. Lift the paper straight up to reveal the intricate, overlapping rings.

4. Layering for Depth

Wait for the first layer to dry and then repeat the process with a complementary colour. For a stunning decor artwork, overlapping metallic gold bubbles over a deep red, navy, or forest green base will create a high-end, gallery-style look.

5. Add More Interest!

Use a paintbrush to create hand-painted leaves.

Use a black Sharpie pen or a contrasting coloured paint pen to add abstract dashes to the artwork.

 

Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays

If you’re looking for a holiday activity for older kids (ages 8+), bubble art offers the perfect balance of "cool factor" and artistic results. It’s less "crafty" and more "abstract expressionist," making it something they’ll actually want to hang in their rooms.

During the festive season, you can use this technique to create custom wrapping paper and personalised holiday cards.

Pro Tips for Success:

· Control the Bubble Size: Blowing slowly creates larger, more defined rings; blowing quickly creates a fine, frothy texture.

· Safety First: Ensure the workspace is covered with a drop cloth, as popping bubbles can spray tiny droplets of tinted water. 

Or as I did, I placed the artwork station on an outside table with a drop cloth under it.

Wear old clothes.

· Seal Your Work:  Once dry, you can spray your DIY art with a clear acrylic sealer to protect the delicate patterns and make the colours pop.

· Frame The Art: Place in a frame of your choice.

FOR MORE DIY ART IDEAS, VISIT HERE!

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#diyartideas #childrensartideas #howtodobubbleart #funabstractart