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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Orange Chicken

 

 Ingredients:

Chicken:

  - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

  - 1/2 cup cornstarch

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - Vegetable oil for frying


Orange Sauce:

  - 1/2 cup orange juice

  - Zest of 1 orange

  - 1/4 cup soy sauce

  - 1/4 cup rice vinegar

  - 1/4 cup sugar

  - 2 tablespoons honey

  - 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

  - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

  - 2 cloves garlic, minced

  - 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

  - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)


Instructions:

1.  Prepare the Chicken:

   - Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

   - Dredge each piece in cornstarch, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess.


2.  Fry the Chicken:

   - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. 

   - Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).

   - Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.


3.   Make the Orange Sauce:

   - In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, honey, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger.

   - Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

   - Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook until the sauce has thickened.


4.   Combine and Serve:

   - Toss the fried chicken pieces in the orange sauce until they are well coated.

   - Serve hot, garnished with orange slices, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.






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