Comfort corner

When working with vulnerable clients in the context of systemic stress, we need to remember to look after ourselves too, so this blog offers two sources of comfort  -- a Chai Latte mixture and a very easy to make but flavoursome slice. The slice recipe comes from a much used collection of recipes collated by the Presbyterian Social Service Department, and given to me many years ago as an engagement present.

Chai Latte mixture

2 cups powdered milk

1 cup sugar

2 tsp ground ginger

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground cloves

1 tsp ground cardamom

Process in a food processor until well mixed and smooth.

Store in a cool dry place in an airtight container.

Stir 2 heaped tablespoons into boiling water, adding instant coffee or a tea bag.

Enjoy!

Chocolate and lemon slice

125 g butter

1 beaten egg

1 cup coconut

½ cup sugar

1 cup S.R. flour

2 tbsps. cocoa

Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees centigrade (160 degrees for fan forced) or 350 degrees farenheight .

Melt butter gently in saucepan and remove from heat.

 Add egg and then coconut, sugar, flour and cocoa and mix well.

Press into slice tin lined with baking paper.

Cook for 20 minutes (15 minutes fan-forced, then check if cooked).

Ice with lemon icing whilst warm. Make lemon icing with 1 tsp lemon juice mixed into 1 ½ cups icing sugar mixture (add water if too stiff).

Enhance the workspace

Keep an attractive cup to use at work, as this enhances the experience, rather than drinking from an aged and stained one that has been retrieved from the back of the staff room cupboard!