Eggs get me scrambled

Dear Betsy, Is there a fool proof way to make scrambled eggs? Mine always end up lumpy. I dream of the elusive fluffy eggs you see in cookery books.

Christa

Dear Chista,

I always feel that applying the KISS principle (Keep It Simple Stupid ) when cooking brings the best results.

Firstly, you should try to find the best, freshest ingredients possible. My favourite way to make scrambled eggs is to begin with organic English or French eggs, available in Jawads, Alosra and Geant.

I normally only use two ingredients when making scrambled eggs. Eggs and butter.

If I am serving them with some smoked salmon for a special breakfast or brunch then I may add a generous dollop of single cream.

Whisk the eggs (two per person) in a clean bowl. Melt some butter over a low heat in a frying pan.

Once melted, add the eggs to the pan, stirring constantly with a spatula.

Remove the pan from the heat when the eggs are still soft and a little runny, as they will continue to cook a bit more due to the heat of the pan.

Serve over hot buttered toast and season with freshly-ground black pepper and a little sea salt.

Let your ingredients speak for themselves, Christa and if you want to discover more fail safe ways with eggs and basic cooking techniques, then I can recommend Delia Stewart's cook books, especially Book No 1.

Dear Betsy,

What ever happened to your two little tidbits in your column?

I really enjoy reading your 'IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS WEEK' and 'BETSY SAYS RELAX' pieces each week as they are always very sensible and inspiring.

My friends and I are missing them Betsy, please reinstate them.

Jenna and friends.

Dear Jenna,

Thank you for your email. Sometimes, space on my page is restricted so these smaller items are often the easiest to edit out. Hopefully this week there will be enough space for them.

BETSY SAYS RELAX

With the flu season upon us, it is important to harness the power of nature to strengthen your immune system. This is the best 'stay well' strategy for all of us.

A big mug of green tea with fresh ginger root each day, including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, taking regular exercise and drinking at least two litres of water a day are all helpful. Add turmeric to your cooking as well as fresh garlic and onions and if you are a smoker then take an additional 2g of Vitamin C each day in the form of an effervescent tablet dissolved in water.

If, despite your best efforts, you fall foul of a cold then try eliminating mucous forming foods from your diet for a few days

Mucous forming foods include diary products and wheat, so no cheese sandwiches! Regular baths with a few drops of lavender and lemon essential oils can help strengthen your immunity too.

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS WEEK

Stress weakens your immune system and therefore your resistance to illness. Scientists have discovered that the stress of worrying about being ill is enough to reduce your immunity.

Use positive thinking and visualisation to help you remain healthy. Find a mantra, such as 'I am strong, fit and healthy' and repeat it to yourself several times a day.

Have you ever noticed how healthy your optimistic friends are and how pessimistic your hypochondriac friends are?