Here at Bushgear, we stock a variety of unique products that can help provide that "wow" factor to your guests' stay. This isn't just speculative, we provide several examples of businesses our products have helped here.
Undoubtedly our top suggestion is the Bohemen wood fired hot tub made by Swedish company Hikki. This is not your standard tub! First, it is visually striking, hinting at something special, something a little bit different. Second, bathing outdoors in a beautiful tub, surrounded by nature is always a memorable experience. Third, from a practical viewpoint, the tub requires very little maintenance and is very economical to run. The Bohemen can also be used as cold water plunge pool.
Entertainment value - Another way to add value to your accommodation business is to provide your guests with various forms of entertainment. This breaks up the day for your guest, creates a memory and could be something as simple as providing your guest with a drink. However, we have some alternative recommendations for entertaining:
Hikki wood fired pizza ovens (The Gomsle and the Faster Greta) - These fast heating and easy to use pizza oven are unique looking and fun to cook with. In conjunction with a box of ingredients, your guests can enjoy some al fresco cooking and dining. The Gomsle and Faster Greta are made from corten steel and can be left outside year round.
The Hikki Lillhalla Firepit - Creates a nice focal point for an outdoor area and increases the amount of time your guests can spend outdoors. Combined with an overhead covering, the Lillhalla can in effect extend the space available to your guests. Who doesn't like roasting some mallows over an open fire? Using the included grill, the Lillhalla can be used to cook full meals too!
The Weltevree Serpentine Freestanding Shower - Cool off in the summer with this striking outdoor shower. Requires no plumbing, merely the attachment of a hosepipe and can be set up anywhere.
The Weltevree Field Chair and Woodlounger - Two unique folding chairs made from larch wood. Large enough to truly relax in, they are great for gardens and open areas or as statement pieces indoors.
The Solight Origmai Solar Lantern - Add a focal point and light to any garden. These folding lights provide an even diffused light and are weatherpoof.
Please click on any of the photos above for more information about a product.
We hope you find these suggestions useful and wish you success with your accommodation business venture.
The Bushgear Team
]]>"ultimately it is our long experience of the Nordic weather that guarantees the high quality and usability of our rubber boots".
Nokian currently produces specialty boots for the Finnish military, amongst several others. As one would expect, these boots are built to high standards, are very hard wearing and provide lots of protection and warmth. Secondary users now include ice fishermen, hunters and orienteers. In other words, these are boots for tough conditions and tough daily use. With the addition of Hai colours range, scope of use has now extended to gardeners, festival goers and hikers/walkers.
There are several models and colours to choose from, depending on planned activity. All boots in the range are waterproof and feature tricot linings which add warmth to the boots. For extreme conditions; we recommend the full felt lined versions which feature an incredibly thick felt wool lining which is bound to keep your feet warm. The felt linings are removable, extending the season of use into Summer and Spring.
Material: Each pair of Nokian boots is made by hand from natural rubber material which is impermeable and temperature stable from -50oC to +50oC. Being made by hand means quality is maintained across the range. Being made of a natural rubber compound means that the boots are largely biodegradable so have a smaller environmental impact.
Design: Having won several awards for design, the Nokian range represent Finnish design and design application. They look unique and feature some design flourishes.
Construction: Unlike many other wellington style boots on the market, Nokian boots feature a durable subframe which provides excellent support and rigidity whilst walking. The deep tread pattern is designed to prevent the accumulation of debris meaning traction does not become hindered i.e. better grip.
If you are looking for a performance waterproof boot, suited to year round use, look no further than our Nokian range of wellington style boots. Bushgear is the official UK supplier. See our range here:
NOKIAN BOOTS
The Bushgear Team
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Using the latest manufacturing techniques and materials, CountyComm create interesting and useful products, with an unique take on problem solving. From camping, to everyday carry, to bush-craft and survival, CountyComm manufactures something for you.
"CountyComm designs, manufactures and sells select products to federal, state and local government agencies. Excess inventories are sold on to the public."
You can see our CountyComm range of products here.
]]>We want everyone to be as safe as possible so have created this simple checklist which may help you avoid breakdowns and be somewhat prepared, should you become stranded by your car.
Vehicle Checks
1) Check washer fluid levels. This is a legal requirement in the UK! Being able to clear your windscreen is a must and is vital to motoring safety. Failing to do so may constitute the offence of "carless driving" with a fine varying between £100 and £5000 depending on the severity of the offence. Most likely, you will also receive three points on your driving licence. Use season appropriate washer fluid i.e. winter or summer rated.
2) Check your oil levels. Cold weather can make certain engine oils more viscous meaning that engine damage is more likely to occur due to metal parts rubbing against each other, particularly when the engine is cold.
3) Check tyre condition and tyre tread. Cold, damp weather increases stopping distances considerably. Particularly for winter conditions, ensure you have plenty of tyre tread remaining so you can stop quickly if necessary.
4) Check battery. Cold weather negatively effects car batteries as more energy is required to keep the engine turning over when the engine is cold. This can be more of an issue if you do lots of shorter journeys where the alternator does not have sufficient time to provide charge to the battery. Some obvious signs of a flat or damaged battery include; difficulties in turning over the engine on start, dimmer than normal lights, a perceived decrease in the brightness of the lights, more smoky output from the exhaust than normal, a strong smell.
5) Check brakes. Once again, stopping distances are grater in the cold and wet. Maker sure you can stop when you need to.
6) Check lights. Fog, mist and early evenings all mean visibility is greatly reduced. Allow others to anticipate for your vehicle, person or movements by maximising your visibility. Check your brake lights work when applying pressure to the brakes.
7) Engine coolant. Even in the winter, your car's engine can overheat. Make sure the coolant is at the right level.
Equipment Checklist
1) Phone charger. If for any reason you are unable to charge your phone from your car (for example if your battery completely fails!), you will need a way to charge your phone, to reach out to rescue services, for example.
2) Blanket. If you are stranded in or by your vehicle for several hours, you may get very cold. Equally, if you happen to come across an injured party, you can keep them warm and help prevent the onset of shock.
3) First aid kit. If you or another are injured in a collision or other roadside accident, you can keep yourself or a third party more comfortable until emergency services arrive. You may even be able to treat injuries in full without the need for medical practitioners.
4) Torch + spare batteries. Keeping a torch with spare batteries will allow you to inspect damages, apply first aid, find your way to safety, alert others to your presence or to the position of your vehicle. Some flashlight have "flashing" modes which can be particularly useful in these situations.
5) Hat/gloves and waterproofs. Again, you may have to wait a long time for rescue or indeed, you may have to travel far to find help. If you have left the house in just a thin shirt, you will really appreciate the backup.
6) Drinks. Staying hydrated is vital to cognition, motor function and health in general. Hot drinks will have the added benefit of helping maintaining body temperature during cold weather. For added redundancy, you may wish to add a portable camping stove and fuel, to allow for the preparation of hot drinks or even meals.
7) A map. Phones and GPS signals can fail! A printed map of you destination as a backup can be invaluable, particularly in more remote areas.
8) Digital jump starter. If you are unable to start your car for the simple reason your battery has gone flat - a digital jumper can instantly solve your problem, without the need for third party assistance. Some units are capable of multiple jump starts. Conveniently, many can be recharged in-car via USB.
9) Ice scrapper - The practice referred to as "port-holing" i.e. only clearing the snow away from the area directly in front of the driver, can land you a moderate fine and up to three points on your license. The whole windscreen must be entirely clear. A simple ice scrapper is just the tool for the job.
10) Portable petrol tank or "Jerry Can". A surprising proportion of roadside breakdowns occur as a direct result of simply running out of fuel. Instead of waiting for three hours for roadside rescue, you can walk ten minutes up the road to a petrol station and get yourself back on the road. Strangely, many petrol stations in the UK do not stock jerry cans!
What to do if you break down on the motorway
1) Try and get off the motorway. It is best practice to pull over at the earliest possible exit or slip road. If this is not possible, then you should attempt to pull over on the hard shoulder/layby. If you do have to leave the car on the road or on the hard shoulder, then you should exit the vehicle, provided you can safely make it to roadside. Remaining in your vehicle is on of the most common ways to get injured on the road, other than through direct accident. Sometimes, it will be impossible or extremely dangerous to get to the side of the road. Under these circumstances, best practice is to keep your seatbelt on, apply your hazard warning lights, call the National Highways Services and await their assistance within your vehicle. They will stop traffic and will direct you to safety at which point you can call your breakdown service provider.
2) Contact rescue services / vehicle recovery. Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself in the middle of the road. Most modern engines are difficult to access and parts can not be improvised, so the likelihood of a roadside fix is minimal.
3) Maintain visibility. Do not stand in the road or on the hard shoulder, especially between your vehicle and oncoming vehicles. Wear high viz if possible. Stand behind roadside barriers if possible.
Thanks for reading, stay safe!
The Bushgear Team
Photo courtesy of Kaboom Pics via Pexels
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Optional: a sprinkle of lemon zest and chopped shallots
Instructions:
Cut each aubergine in half lengthways. Score each cut side in a criss-cross pattern to allow the flavors to penetrate.
In a small bowl, combine the white miso paste, soy sauce (or tamari), mirin, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, and 1/3 cup of water. Stir this mixture until it becomes smooth and well blended.
Steam Aubergine for 5 minutes. Heat up the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Place the eggplant halves cut-side down in the hot pan and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until they achieve a beautiful golden color. Flip them over and fry the other side to perfection.
Now, it's time to introduce our unique ingredient, saltbush. Add the miso mixture to the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, making sure to turn the aubergine halves halfway through the cooking process. Your aim is to have wonderfully tender aubergine soaking up those delicious flavors.
Remove the aubergine from the sauce and arrange them on your serving plate.
Drizzle the remaining sauce over the aubergine, and sprinkle the dish with saltbush and toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of texture and taste.
For an optional extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest and some finely chopped shallots.
The Kakadu Plum Co. range brings us ethically sourced Native Australian Bush Foods and Indigenous Products in the form of spices and food powders.
Read on to see an overview of the range and its benefits and uses...
Benefits
Uses
Benefits
Uses
Benefits
Uses
Benefits
Uses
Benefits:
Uses:
Saltbush
Benefits/Uses:
Strawberry Gum
Benefits/Uses
Wattleseed
Benefits
Uses
Other features include sun protection equating to 50SPF, a wicking internal headband, reflective elements which help keep you visible during low light levels and at night. As if that wasn't already enough, the hat also floats if accidentally dropped whilst out on the water. The handy inside stash pocket is perfect for storing small items such as cash, credit cards, lighters etc.
Many well thought out and useful design features.
Bushgear is the official UK retailer!
Click here to see our range of Shelta hats.
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1) Unrivalled Vitamin C Content: Kakadu plum boasts the world's highest natural concentration of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant known for boosting immunity, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting various bodily functions.
2) Abundant Antioxidants: Kakadu plums contain six times more polyphenols and 13.3 times more antioxidant activity than blueberries, also helping combat oxidative stress and related health conditions.
With its rich antioxidant content the Kakadu plum is a rapidly becoming a valuable friend to the skincare and beauty industry.
Antioxidants are known for their potential to offer various heart-protective benefits, primarily by preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a crucial risk factor for heart disease. Research conducted at Edith Cowen University is exploring the potential protective effects of plum antioxidants extracted from Kakadu plums against cell diseases associated with Alzheimer's.
While promising, it's important to recognize that Alzheimer's is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and ongoing research aims to uncover the precise mechanisms by which antioxidants may mitigate its effects.
3) Bone and joint Health: The plum may have positive effects on bone health by promoting the body’s production of collagen a protein which is essential in the creation of new skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels
4) Anti-inflammatory: Due to high amounts of the polyphenols Ellagic and Gallic acids it aids in protecting against inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
5) Antibacterial Properties: Kakadu plum is traditionally linked to reducing food-borne illnesses. We now know this is due to the high levels of Ellagic acid that also contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties
6) Dietary Fibre: High in dietary fibre, Kakadu plums support weight management and may reduce cholesterol levels.
7) Environmentally Friendly: Kakadu plums are wild-harvested, free from chemicals and artificial substances, promoting natural biodiversity and sustainability.
Risks and Side Effects
While there are no reported negative side effects associated with Kakadu plums, individuals experiencing adverse reactions to plums or with plum allergies should cease consumption immediately.
Incorporate the power of the Kakadu plum into your daily routine
Savour its positive effects whether through a bowl of muesli or other creative culinary endeavours. Tap into the true power of this native Australian superfood
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Known by various Indigenous language terms, including Kabinyn, Madoor, Kerewey, Murunga, and Gubinge, the Kakadu plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana) is also referred to as the billy goat plum or green plum in English. This diverse nomenclature reflects the wide distribution of its wild-growing trees, extending from the Dampier Peninsula in Western Australia across the Northern Territory.
In recent years, the Kakadu plum has garnered significant attention, particularly for its extraordinary vitamin C content. While many turn to oranges for an immune boost, the Kakadu plum, about the size of a walnut, boasts a staggering 100 times more vitamin C than its citrus counterpart.
The harvest season for Kakadu plums spans from December to February in northern Western Australia and from March to May in the Northern Territory. During these periods, men, women, and families come together to engage in traditional practices of foraging, gathering, and family bonding while on the land. This unique experience allows them to connect with their heritage and the traditional bush tucker.
Kakadu Plum Consumption - A History
Traditionally, Indigenous Australians would consume the Kakadu plum in two forms. While the leaves and inner bark of the Kakadu plum tree were brewed into a bush tea to promote relaxation and digestive health, the fruit itself was consumed whole. The Kakadu plum consists of both the flesh and seeds, with Aboriginal communities recognizing its potential to ward off colds. However, they were cautious not to overindulge, as excessive consumption could lead to stomach discomfort or even a mild laxative effect, akin to prune juice.
Kakadu Plum - Uses beyond Tradition
Today, Kakadu plum has found new applications, expanding its reach beyond traditional consumption. Freeze-dried Kakadu plum is used as a natural health powder, ensuring its availability throughout the year. It has become a popular ingredient in smoothies, plum juices, purees, sauces, jams, and as a topping for soups and salads. The beauty industry has also embraced Kakadu plum extract, incorporating it into body lotions and hand creams.
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First, it will be necessary to fully drain the hot tub and allow all wood paneling to fully air dry, do not attempt to dry it our with an artificial heat source as this may warp the wood. Please ensure that the stove is completely extinguished before attempting to empty the tub of water otherwise the stove or wooden components may become damaged.
Once fully dry you can stop there! With no further interference, the oak elements will slowly turn a light grey colour, over the course of weeks. This will not damage your tub! Before it turns grey you may notice spots of black mould developing. Again these will not damage your tub but may look unsightly. However, if these are a concern, it is possible to remove these spots; take a utility razor blade and simply scrape the mould off keeping the blade perpendicular to the surface of the wood, taking care not to cut or damage the wood). If left untreated, the mould will naturally recede, allowing the natural "greying" of the wood.
Keeping the wood maintained; again if you choose to carry out some maintenance, all that really needs to be done is the wood needs to be oiled. This will help seal the surface of the wood, preventing the natural greying process of the wood. This is more a question of aesthetics as compared to providing physical benefit i.e. the wood will not "last" any longer if oiled. It will simply look like oiled wood. Hikki suggest using either rapeseed or linseed oil for the oak panels.
Cleaning the aluminium parts of your hot tub; designed to be very low maintenance the Bohemen requires minimal cleaning. Use a mild detergent such as washing up liquid and soft sponge to gently scrub the aluminium surface. Rinse thoroughly with water.
Cleaning the stove; remove the stove from the unit and tip out all ashes and debris. Wash out the interior with a mild detergent and a scrubbing brush. The interior of the stove does no need to be spotless but by removing the crust and soot that will eventually build up, there will be an increase in efficiency of the stove,meaning less wood is required.
We suggest giving your Bohemen a thorough drying and cleaning every 6 months.
See the Hikki Bohemen tub here.
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Weltevree present a range of high quality, thoughtfully-made products which work in harmony with their surroundings, to maximise your enjoyment. This is achieved by developing an atmosphere of relaxation, comfort and coziness in your garden, home or business.
The time we have is finite so it is paramount that we make the most of it - spending time with those that matter, in a relaxed, enjoyable manner. Dispense with frivolities and take things back to "the basics". Warmth, fire, food, drink and light. Combine these with good company and you have everything you need for a satisfactory existence.
Whether you have thousands of acres or very limited outdoor space - Weltevree have a range of products to repose in comfort and style.
]
If you are not planning to vacation this year, why not have a "staycation" instead? The Wiki definition is
"A staycation, or holistay, is a period in which an individual or family stays home and participates in leisure activities within day trip distance of their home and does not require overnight accommodation."
Turn your garden into an outdoor retreat or relaxation zone with the help of Weltevree.
Bushgear is an official UK retailer.
See our Weltevree range here.
The Bushgear Team
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Starting your fire.
Create a pile of charcoal in the firebox, with the largest pieces at the bottom and then proceed to filling in the gaps with smaller chunks. The height of the pile should reach the fire ring, if you want a full "burn". The pile does not need to be packed very tightly as good airflow between the chunks is desirable.
Charcoal, wood fuel and sources of ignition.
Next, use an appropriate tinder source such as our "Hammaro Tinder Cards" to ignite the fire. Remember, your ignition source may add unwanted flavours or chemicals to your food. Therefore, we would recommend against using petroleum based products or fire lighters made form non-natural materials (e.g. lighter fluid, hexamine etc.). Another option is to use an electric firelighter (similar to a heat gun) to light the charcoal directly. This has the advantage of not leaving any chemical residues and being reusable.
Type Of Charcoal
The type of charcoal/wood used is also very important. We would suggest using high quality, responsibly sourced charcoal for best results (we recommend our Lump Charcoal here). Be sure to choose charcoal that has not been impregnated with accelerants, as again, these can leave chemical residues on your food which can impair flavour as well as your health!
Knowing when your coals are ready.
Once a good amount of the coals are burning, stir the pile to ensure all coals are lit. We suggest using a piece of stiff cardboard or an electric fan/blower to fan the coals to ensure that all coals are burning and hot. At this point, the dome of the Kamado unit should be open for approximately the first 10 minutes after lighting.
Due to the excellent heat retention of the ceramic elements within our larger models, it is best to raise the temperature slowly rather than to initially overshoot the temperature desired and then attempting to lower it back down. Achieving the correct temperature stability may take up to 30 or 40 minutes.
Once ready, the charcoal should be glowing white hot with red middles (for searing at high temperatures) or they should be an ashy white colour but still very hot (for cooking larger bits of food that need time e.g. whole chicken, large vegetables etc..).
Keeping the temperature stable.
This is important for many different types of foods, particularly those that require much longer cook times. As mentioned previously, it is easy to vary the cooking temperatures by opening or closing the "Kontrol Tower" vent. Many Kamado models feature a built-in thermometer so that perfect cooking temperature can be achieved and maintained. .
Good luck and may you achieve BBQ perfection.
See our Kamado Joe range here:
https://www.bushgear.co.uk/collections/kamado-joe
Buy Hammaro Tinder Cards here:
https://www.bushgear.co.uk/products/hammaro-tinder-card
Buy our high quality charcoals and woods here:
https://www.bushgear.co.uk/collections/charcoal-and-wood
The Bushgear Team
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We will be stocking a selection of our famous Barmah hats as well as our Redback boots. We will even be displaying one of our famous Hikki wood-fired hot tubs. Come and have a look at our great product range or pop in for a quick chat. All are welcome!
Bushgear is on STAND 115 @ The Goodwood Festival Of Speed 2023
]]>However, carbon steel does require a little care and maintenance when used regularly. If you absolutely need your pot or saucepan to be non-stick then seasoning your cookware is an absolute prerequisite.
We believe the best way to achieve this is as follows:
1) Wash your pot or pan using hot water and a gentle detergent such as regular washing up liquid. Some carbon steel cookware is supplied pre-seasoned and in those cases, you will need to remove this seasoning. You can use a soft bristled brush or sponge to make this easier. Once clean, thoroughly dry the item.
2) Add two soup spoons of vegetable or sunflowerr cooking oil to the pot/pan. We suggest avoiding viscous and strongly flavoured oils such as virgin olive oil or rapeseed oil as they can impact the flavour of dishes being cooked and tend to "burn up" at higher temperatures
3) Place the pot or pan over a medium heat and add 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Swirl the oil and salt mixture around the pan continuously, whilst keeping the pot over the heat. Continue for 15 minutes.
4) Repeat step 3.
5) Discard all oil and allow to cool. Wipe away or wash under water to remove all traces of oil. Once dry, immediately place on a low heat and apply another, thin, final layer of oil to the pot/pan. Allow to cool fully.
Your cookware is now properly seasoned and ready for use. Food will now be much less likely to stick during cooking.
The Bushgear Team
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Advantages
Durability. Much tougher than its aluminium or stainless steel counterparts.
Quick response to temperature changes. Heats up and cools down much faster than stainless steel or aluminium.
Affordability. Generally easier to manufacture and work, meaning it can be produced for less money.
Multipurpose. Due to its physical characteristics of being extremely hard as well as resistant to high temperatures, carbon steel products are safe to use on stovetops, barbecues, grills, open fire cooking and in ovens.
Non-stick. If properly seasoned, carbon steel can be given "non-stick" characteristics similar to Teflon coatings or stainless steel.
Food safe. Carbon steel is comprised of iron and carbon so no harm will ensue if consumed. In juxtaposition to this, there are many health concerns associated with exposure to Teflon coated and aluminium cookware.
Disadvantages
Requires regular seasoning to prevent food sticking. Carbon steel cookware definitely requires some maintenance compared with its stainless steel and aluminium counterparts.
Reactive to overly acidic or alkaline foods. Cooking these types of foods can remove the pot's seasoning layer which can result in the development of rust and a metallic taste which many will consider unpleasant.
One piece design. Generally, carbon steel pots and pans have handles attached closely to the body. This causes the handles to become extremely hot when in use. Extra caution is advised when handling and using carbon steel cookware and using an oven glove or similar is mandatory.
Uneven surface heating. Although carbon steel heats up faster, heat distribution can be relatively "patchy". This is not ideal for cooking certain foods where even distribution of heat is an advantage.
You may want to read our article - How to Correctly Season a Carbon Steel Pot or Pan.
If you are interested in swapping to carbon steel cookware, be sure to check out our range here - Carbon Steel Cookware.
]]>Roughly speaking, pickles can be divided into two categories; fermented pickles or those preserved in vinegar. The former is the healthier of the two as it allows for a natural fermentation process to occur which allows for the growth of probiotic "gut-friendly" bacteria. These are the bacteria you want, to maintain a healthy gut. The true fermentation process takes about 2-4 weeks to complete so is definitely a more involved process but does produce a healthier end product.
Making a vinegar based pickle
What you will need:
Vegetable(s) or fruits of your choice. You can use pretty much any vegetable that can be eaten in its raw state. From experience, we can recommend the following vegetables: cucumber, cabbage, cauliflower, radishes, carrots, peppers, courgette, onions, mushrooms beetroot and even lemons. Many fruits can also be pickled, some examples include: figs, watermelon rind (the white bit under the outer green skin), apples, mango, strawberries and more.
Feel free to mix various vegetables or fruits together. A nice combination is radish, carrots and cucumbers.
1) A 1 litre mason jar or or similarly sized airtight container.
2) Pure water (unchlorinated - as chlorine can inhibit the growth of the beneficial bacteria). Use bottled water or allow tap water to sit in an open container for the chlorine to evaporate.
3) 20 grams of pure sea salt. If you are concerned about the clarity of the brine produced, use a specific pickling salt.
4) 100 millilitres of apple cider vinegar (we think this produces the nicest tasting pickles but you can use a different vinegar to suit taste).
5) A variety of herbs and spices. For a classic Polish style pickled gherkin, for example, you would need 10 fresh garlic cloves, a bunch of fresh dill, 20 black peppercorns, a teaspoon of mustard seeds and 2 large bay leaves. All these will add fantastic flavour and tang. Try various combinations and quantities to tailor the recipe to your palette.
Preparation
1) Sterilise your pickling jar with boiling water for a couple of minutes then allow it to cool. Traditionally, this would have been done by boiling the entire container and lid.
2) Wash and cut your chosen vegetables into manageable, bite-sized chunks. This will allow for maximum absorption of flavour and make serving easier.
3) Add your chosen herb/spice mix to the empty, sterilised jar.
4) Place your vegetables on top of the spice/herb mix.
5) Add the vinegar.
6) Fill the jar with the water to completely cover all of the vegetables.
7) Close the container and give the ingredients a shake to ensure even distribution within the jar.
8) Place the jar in the fridge and make sure to shake it once a day to ensure even coverage and pickling rates across all contents. Do this for 3 to 4 days. Your pickle is now ready to eat! Very simple and delicious.
Making a "true fermented pickle"
What you will need:
Vegetable(s) of your choice. Classic vegetables for a fermented pickle include: cabbage (think sauerkraut/kimchee) and cucumber. Ultimately, all the vegetables listed above will do.
1) A 1 litre mason jar or or similarly sized container.
2) Pure water (unchlorinated - as chlorine can inhibit the growth of the beneficial bacteria).
3) 35 to 45 grams of pure sea salt. If you are concerned about the clarity of the brine produced, use a specific pickling salt.
4) A variety of herbs and spices. For a classic Polish style pickled gherkin, for example, you would need 10 fresh garlic cloves, a bunch of fresh dill, 20 black peppercorns, a teaspoon of mustard seeds and 2 large bay leaves. All these will add fantastic flavour and tang. Try various combinations and quantities to tailor the recipe to your palette.
5) A "pickle pebble" - essentially a flat round weight made from glass or stone.
Preparation
1) Sterilise your pickling jar and pebble with boiling water for a couple of minutes then allow it to cool. Traditionally, this would have been done by boiling the entire container and "pebble".
2) Wash and cut your chosen vegetables into manageable, bite-sized chunks. This will allow for maximum absorption of flavour and make serving easier.
3) Add your chosen herb/spice mix to the empty, sterilised jar.
4) Place your vegetables on top of the spice/herb mix.
5) Fill the jar with the water to completely cover all of the vegetables.
6) Place the weight/stone on top of the vegetables, ensuring that they are all beneath the waterline.
7) Place the jar in the fridge or in a cool, dark area. Allow to sit for 3-4 weeks. This process will take longer at the lower temperature of a fridge. You should be able to observe bubbles forming inside the jar as the probiotic bacteria do their thing.
The longer you leave the jar, the tangier the pickle (up to a point).
Before consumption, please check the contents for mold, smell and texture. If anything seems off, best practice is to discard. Things to watch out for, make sure all veggies remain below the waterline at all times. Use a sufficient proportion of salt (approximately a 3-4.5% concentration is ideal, depending on preference). Store the jar in a cool or cold area away from sunlight.
If the pickling is successful, the pickles can be stored for over a year in a cold/cool place away from direct sunlight.
Good luck pickling!
The Bushgear Team
]]>For the Outdoor Chef...
The ultimate in BBQ and outdoor cooking - our range of Kamado Joe ceramic BBQs and Masterbuilt Grills offers something to suit all styles of cooking and sizes of outdoor space.
From the compact Joe Jr (only w50cm x h69cm) and the Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grill (only w114cm x h91cm x l48cm) to the more sizeable Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Charcoal Grill and the massive 2903 cm², 3-tier cooking capacity of the Big Joe III you're sure to find the perfect fit for your al fresco kitchen!
And specially for the Pizza Lovers...
With not one, but two pizza ovens in our Outdoor Living collection you can choose between the Dutch and Scandi designs of the Weltevree Outdooroven (also available in XL version) and the Hikki Faster Greta. Both ovens are made from incredibly tough and resilient Corten steel and weather beautifully. The Faster Greta has the larger cooking capacity and both will double up as a heat source on chillier evenings.
Take the weight off...
Our outdoor furniture range from Weltevree features two choices for a folding wooden chair - the reclining Woodlounger and the Field Chair, accessorize with a soft and cosy Sheepscoat (also available in Brown). We also offer the Weltevree Bended range of metal furniture including bench, table and bench with backrest for outdoor dining.
To keep you warm...
Extend your evenings past sundown with a Lilhalla Fire Pit - slotted together from Corten Steel, the unique design can fit into even the smallest gardens.
And for the ultimate in garden relaxation...
Relax and unwind with a soak in our ever-popular Hikki Bohemen Wood Fired Hot Tub - simplistic beauty combined with durable materials and ease of use, the perfect addition to your outdoor space!
]]>A relatively simple, long-term solution to process this saltwater would be to create a saltwater filter bed for your garden (provided you have the space). This will remove the salt and other impurities from the waste water which can then be allowed to drain away into the surrounding landscape (or it can be collected for subsequent use).
List of materials you will need:
∙Shovel or digging equipment
∙Perforated pipe or drainage tubing
∙Geotextile fabric or landscape fabric
∙Coarse gravel
∙Fine gravel
∙Fine sand
∙Activated charcoal (optional but preferable).
∙Native salt-tolerant plants (optional but preferable).
Instructions:
Select the location: Choose a suitable area in your garden for the filter bed. It should be close to your saltwater source and have proper drainage. Ideally, choose an area that is at least 5 feet lower in elevation as compared to the hot tub, so that it can be emptied under the power of gravity.
Excavate the area: Dig a trench in the chosen location. Volume-wise, it should be roughly equivalent to the amount of water your hot tub holds. The Bohemen holds approximately 600 litres of water so a trench roughly 2 metres long by 1 metre wide by 1 metre deep should suffice.
Lay the perforated pipe: Place a perforated pipe or drainage tubing along the bottom of the trench. This pipe will help collect and subsequently distribute the filtered water evenly. The pipe should “stick out” from the side of the filter bed should you want to collect the water once it has been filtered. Alternatively, skip this step if you would rather let the water drain away naturally without collecting it i.e. you are not planning to reuse it.
Cover the pipe with geotextile fabric: Lay a layer of geotextile fabric or landscape fabric over the perforated pipe. This fabric acts as a barrier to prevent fine particles from clogging the pipe.
Add a 20cm layer of widely available activated charcoal on top of the fabric. This will help remove many chemical impurities from the water, including salt.
Add a 20cm layer of sand: This layer will filter the water by removing finer sediments and impurities.
Add a 20cm layer of finer gravel: This further filters the water and keeps the sand beneath it in place.
Fill the trench with a 20cm+ layer of coarse gravel. This layer acts as the initial filter, allowing water to flow while trapping larger debris. It also helps keep all subsequent layers in place and deters digging animals.
Plant salt-tolerant vegetation in and around the filter bed (optional): If desired, plant native salt-tolerant plants in the filter bed. These plants can help absorb excess water and further filter the saltwater. Consult local gardening resources for suitable options. You can even plant certain edible plants!
Connect your Bohemen hot tub to the filter bed: Use a hose to connect the waste water valve and position it above the filter bed, so it distributes the water evenly across the surface of the filter bed. You can use a shower head or another perforated pipe to help with even water distribution.
Allow for filtration: Let the saltwater flow through the filter bed. The layers of gravel, sand, cloth and charcoal will work together to filter out salt and other impurities, allowing cleaner water to seep through.
Collect filtered water: Place a collection container at the outlet end of the filter bed to collect the filtered water for irrigation or other purposes.
Regular maintenance of the filter bed, such as removing accumulated sediment and monitoring plant health, is important to ensure its optimal performance.
Hikki suggest changing the water weekly in your hot tub, if using saltwater.
Another convenient set up for filtering saltwater makes use of large multi gallon buckets. Using similar filter media to the saltwater bed described above, the water passes through a series of connected buckets and upon exiting the system, should be clean. The benefits of this type of system over the the "filter bed" type system is convenience and saving space. No excavations are necessary and the footprint is much smaller. Maintenance is also easier to carry out as everything is conveniently held in buckets.
Again, unless using an electric pump, the containers will have to be placed progressively lower down in respect to each other, if the source of power is gravity.
List of materials you will need:
∙Shovel or digging equipment
∙Perforated pipe, drainage tubing. shower heads
∙Geotextile fabric or landscape fabric or ground cloth
∙Coarse gravel
∙Fine gravel
∙Fine sand
∙Activated charcoal (optional)
∙Large volume plastic buckets/containers
Instructions
Choose an appropriate area - It should be in fairly close proximity to your Hikki hot tub. If possible, it should be 5 foot lower in elevation as compared to your hot tub. To save space, the buckets can be placed on individual platforms to raise them the appropriate distance from the ground, from the hot tub and from each other.
Set up the buckets and fill each one with the appropriate medium, trying to minimise air gaps. Connect the buckets in the sequence outlined in the below blueprint, with the final bucket being allowed to drain away to ground or large enough to hold all the water from your hot tub.
Finally, connect the Hikki output valve to the first bucket in the sequence (the one containing coarse and fine gravel), using a hose.
Allow the water to filter through the system. This may take a couple of hours or longer, depending on the density of media used, elevation of buckets and of hot tub, pipe flow rates and other factors.
NB Please note - this is not an exhaustive plan. Given that these systems are "home made", they will probably require modification, improvement and maintenance. In other words, the appropriate system will need to be "tweaked" to get the best performance, for the relevant hot tub set up.
Finally, failing these solutions, there are "off the shelf" solutions available but these are definitely less planet and wallet friendly as they involve the use of electricity and chemicals.
Good luck.
The Bushgear Team
]]>Some of the more general cleaning methods overlap (such as removing dirt from the sole).
Nubuck leather is different to oiled leather in that it has a nap to it - the leather has small fibres which can get roughed up or lie in differing directions - following this guide will help to restore the overall look of your boots and keep the nap in good condition.
As nubuck is not oiled it can be more affected by water and should be treated with a protector spray to ensure it is well conditioned and proofed. Try to avoid getting the boots excessively wet, if this occurs ensure they are dried gently and then the steps in the video followed as necessary.
See our below video guide showing how to care for and clean Nubuck leather. The tools used are:
The Bushgear Team love this magazine for its ethos - put simply and in their own words:
"We celebrate slowing down, enjoying what you have and making the most of where you live. We like to share good food with friends and family, grow some of our own vegetables, visit local markets, rummage for vintage finds, and decorate our home with the plunder. We love being outdoors, microadventures, forgotten wisdom and the satisfaction that comes with a job well done.
And we like to think that the small things we do will make a difference in the long run – whether that’s making, upcycling, growing, cooking, escaping or relaxing."
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Unlike many boots made from synthetic materials, Redback boots require a little occasional maintenance to achieve their best performance and potential lifespan. Although our standard Redback boots are not waterproof, you may find they also resist water ingress more effectively when properly cared for.
Please follow our simple guide to cleaning and maintaining your Redback boots and they will serve you well;
Your Redback boots are now ready to go!
Note on storing your boots – please avoid storing your boots in overly hot places or in direct sunlight. Do not store you boots whilst wet/covered in mud etc. especially in a place with no air circulation e.g. inside plastic bag/car-boot. Failing to follow these rules may cause damage to your Redback boots.
If you would prefer to watch the process on video:
If you have purchased a pair of CrazyHorse boots – please follow our suede boot cleaning guide here.
]]>So you've just purchased your new wood-fired hot tub from us, and now you're looking for the most cost-efficient ways to fill and maintain your new investment. One great solution is harvesting rainwater. This can help you save money and contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle. With the right equipment, such as barrels or tanks that collect runoff from the roof of your house, and proper maintenance and care, you will be able to have a reliable source of additional water that keeps your hot tub filled without breaking the bank.
What is Harvested Rainwater?
Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storing rainwater that has been gathered from a variety of sources. This water can then be used for a variety of purposes. Harvesting rainwater is becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to conserve resources, reduce pollution and save money.
The setup
Setting up a rainwater harvesting system is relatively simple and can provide an affordable and eco-friendly source of water for your home and for filling your wood fired hot tub. You will need to choose the right equipment and make sure it is properly installed, filtered and maintained in order to get the most out of your system.
The first step is to install a rainwater harvesting system. This can be done with a few simple tools and materials, like gutters, downspouts, storage containers and water filters that will catch the rainwater as it falls from your roof.
Next, you need to connect your storage tank to the hot tub. This can be done with a hose or other connecting device that will transport the water from your tank to the tub. Make sure you have a shut-off valve and backflow prevention system in place to prevent any contamination of your stored rainwater.
Once connected, it's time to start filling your hot tub! You will need to adjust the water level and test the temperature before you can start soaking.
No matter where you live, harvesting rainwater is a great way to save money and help the environment. With a little effort, you can enjoy eco-friendly hot tubbing all year round!
Harvesting rainwater in remote/rural locations
Harvesting rainwater in remote or rural locations without access to electricity is a great way to help conserve resources and save money. The most basic setup requires no more than a barrel or tank, placed in an area where it can collect rainwater runoff from the roof. By positioning it properly and using a quality filter, you can ensure that only clean water is collected for use in your wood fired hot tub.
Key takeaways
So, what are you waiting for? Start harvesting rainwater today and fill your wood fired hot tub with clean, renewable water! Your wallet and the environment will thank you.
Article written by Hannah Walters
Hannah is a freelance writer, having previously worked for a marketing company as a content writer. She says: "my love of writing and ability to cover multiple topic areas with my work experience lead me to take the lead to freelance. It's been an exciting, but also daunting experience."
]]>For your chance to win a set, please follow Bushgear on social media and leave a comment on this post on any platform. The winners will be selected at random using a random number generator. Competition closing date is midnight on the 30th April 2023.
Good luck!
P.S. Please visit our website for more information on our StrikeFire fire starters or to make a purchase directly. UK delivery included in the price.
https://www.bushgear.co.uk/collections/strikefire
The Bushgear Team
]]>The Redback Bobcat Boot in Jarrah Brown (UBJK). We can't wait to start sending these beauties out to you - restock expected mid-April.
Keep an eye on our website over the next few weeks to get your hands on a pair!
These beautiful boots are the same style as our beloved UBOK (a dark Claret Brown) but in a rich dark tan Jarrah Brown oiled kip leather.
Available in soft toe only, the UBJK comes with all the same assets you expect from a Redback - legendary comfort, soft and grippy cushioned sole and fantastic anatomical foot support.
The Bushgear Team love them and we're sure you will too!
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