On the home straight now – Christmas is just a few days away and the excitement is building.
Today we’re bringing you a reduced-fat roast potatoes recipe – you’ll still get lovely, crispy roasts but with only about half the fat. And while they’re cooking, why not do some squats? We’re moving away from the stomach/core far a day just to vary things slightly – squats are great for your thighs, bum and general posture.
Ingredients:
- 800g roasting potatoes, quartered
- 1 garlic clove, sliced
- Generous sprig of fresh rosemary
- 200ml vegetable stock (from a cube is fine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Method:
Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Put the potatoes and garlic in a roasting tin. Pour over the stock, then brush the tops of the potatoes with half the olive oil. Season, add the whole sprig of rosemary, then cook for 50 mins. Brush with the remaining oil and cook 10-15 mins more until the stock is absorbed and the potatoes have browned and cooked through.
Boot camp #AdventAbs day 20 – Squats:
Squats are technically straightforward, but are so tough and rewarding. Beginners can see, and feel, great results with no equipment. As you get better, you can increase the number of repetitions, or start holding weights in your hands.
The trick, as with any exercise, is not to rush it and keep your form steady and consistent. Start by standing straight up, and slowly bend your knees, until you’re in a sitting position. Try to reach the point where your thighs are parallel to the floor, then slowly stand up straight again. Try varying where you put your arms – either down by your side, outstretched to the side, in front of you, or even up above your head.
Beginner: 3×7 squats
Intermediate: 3×10
Advanced: 4×15
Pro: 4×20, with weights if preferred