Another positive omen

I'm afraid I love food. I'm a serious Inspector Montalbano fan. We could have been kindred spirits (fat chance). I agree that over cooking pasta is a mortal sin and I'm with him in his conviction that great food should be appreciated without the interruption of conversation.

I also like Rick Stein and his recipes. In his recent series he featured a fabulous Pork Alentejana which I've tried to replicate. It tasted ok but I wasn't too happy with it. I decided to find it when I was next in Portugal (or Madeira of course). Easier said than done but today : I found it! (extra photo )A locals place. Cheap. Down to earth. And fabulous. I will turn out my own version when I get home.

I've moved hotels and started a new adventure. If I'd flown home with BA today it would have been stupidly expensive. I'm flying (Business class) on Wednesday very cheaply and saving well more than two nights B and B! It's very different. Lovely and traditional and only two doors down.

Two lucky omens : I was greeted by a posing Monarch as I strolled through the gardens.... and the food......