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Tag: Herb

Chermoula Herb Sauce

Chermoula Herb Sauce

Chermoula Herb Sauce

 

1 tsp. cumin seeds, toasted

1 tsp. coriander seeds, toasted

1 cup cilantro (small stems ok)

1 cup Italian parsley (or sub more cilantro)

1 tsp. fresh ginger (a thin slice about the size of a quarter)

1 tsp. fresh thyme (optional)

2 garlic cloves

½ cup olive oil

Zest from 1/2 lemon (about 1-2 tsp)

2 T. lemon juice

1/4 tsp. aleppo chili flakes -add more for more heat

1/4 tsp. salt, adding ¼- 3/4 tsp. more if using as a marinade

 

Toast seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring until fragrant and golden. Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until well combined, but not too smooth. Keep in an air tight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Sorrel Crackers

Sorrel Crackers

Sorrel Crackers

 

1⅔ cups gluten-free flour (I used ½ cup almond flour, ½ cup quinoa flour, and ⅔ cup ivory teff flour)

½ tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. olive oil

½ cup water

1 cup packed fresh sorrel leaves (spinach may be substituted for a milder cracker)

 

Preheat oven to 325° F. Blend oil, water, and sorrel in a blender until smooth. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl, whisking together. Add the sorrel purée and mix well. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky. Let the dough chill for 30 minutes or as long as overnight. Between two lightly floured sheets of parchment, roll out the dough. Slice into desired cracker shape. Sprinkle with more salt if desired. Bake at 325° F for 20–30 minutes or until dry and firm, but still green in color. If the crackers retain moisture, finish in a dehydrator at 200° F, or on the warm setting in oven, making sure they do not overbrown.

Wild Mushroom Confit with Garlic and fresh herbs

Wild Mushroom Confit with Garlic and fresh herbs

Wild Mushroom Confit with Garlic and fresh herbs

 

1 lb (455 g) assorted wild mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, Chanterelles, morels, black trumpet…) – medium in size

2 C. extra virgin olive oil

8 large garlic cloves – peeled and halved

12 large sage leaves

4 rosemary sprigs

6 thyme sprigs

8 winter savory sprigs

2 fresh bay leaves

2 tsp. whole black Tellicherry peppercorns

1 tsp. sea salt

1 1/2 T. aged sherry wine vinegar

 

Brush the mushrooms clean and trim the stems, but keep the mushrooms whole. Set aside. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. (I recommend a 12″ skillet.) Add 1/3 cup of oil and the mushrooms, toss carefully, and sauté undisturbed for 2 minutes until the mushrooms begin to brown. Toss again and continue to sauté until the mushrooms are golden-brown, about 4 to 5 minutes, tossing only from time to time. Add the garlic pieces and sauté for 1 minute, until the garlic is golden but not brown. Reduce heat to medium, add the balance of the oil and the herbs and peppercorns, and gently heat until the oil reaches 170ºF (80ºC) (use a thermometer). Once the oil has reached the desired temperature, continue poaching the mushrooms for 6 to 7 minutes, maintaining the temperature at 170ºF (80ºC), until the herbs are crisp and have turned a shade darker. Transfer the mushrooms, herbs and oil into a large bowl. Stir in the salt and vinegar and allow to cool to room temperature. To serve, scoop out the mushrooms with a slotted spoon and place in a serving bowl. Cook’s note: Once cooled, the mushrooms can be refrigerated in their cooking oil for up to 1 week. (Make sure they are covered with the oil.) Bring to room temperature before serving. To serve as a side dish, gently heat the mushrooms in their oil, drain, remove the herbs and peppercorns and serve warm.

 

Tip: Once you’ve consumed all these amazingly delicious mushrooms, don’t throw the oil away. Strain it through a fine sieve and use it to make another batch of the mushroom confit; or use it to make vinaigrettes, to drizzle over roasted or grilled vegetables, to sauté vegetables or to make sauces. It’ll bring beautiful aromas and flavors to anything you cook with it. Refrigerate the strained oil for up to 1 month.

Chive-Dill Batter Bread

Chive-Dill Batter Bread

Chive-Dill Batter Bread

 

Chives are the first herbs to come up in the garden once the snow has melted, a certain sign of spring. Young chives add mild onion flavor not only to omelets and salads but also to this batter bread.

 

1 pkg. or 1 scant active T. Active Dry Yeast

¼ C. Warm Water (105-115F)

2 T. Sugar

1 tsp. Salt

1 ½ dried Dill

2 T. finely chopped Fresh Chives

2 T. Butter

1 C. lower fat Cottage Cheese

1 large Egg, lightly beaten

2 C. Flour

 

Grease a 1½-quart casserole or soufflé dish generously and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the yeast, warm water, sugar, salt, chives, and dill. Set aside until the yeast begins to foam, about 5 minutes. Add the butter, cottage cheese, egg, and ½ cup of the flour. Beat on low speed until well mixed. Add the remaining 1½ cups flour and beat to make a stiff batter. Cover and let rise for 10 minutes. Transfer the batter to the casserole dish. Cover and let rise in a warm place until almost doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake until golden and a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean and dry, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove the loaf from the casserole and place on a rack to cool.

Spring Salad with Ramps and Herbs

Spring Salad with Ramps and Herbs

Spring Salad with Ramps and Herbs

 

1 bunch ramps

Handful sugar-snap peas

Handful lovage

Several sprigs tarragon

Several sprigs dill

Sage flower (or other edible herb flowers)

Salt

Olive oil

Cured egg yolk, grated

 

Cut the roots off the ramps and wash them, along with the peas and herbs. I like to cut a few of the snap peas lengthwise to open them up, but you don’t have to. Toss the ramps, peas, herbs and flowers together. Sprinkle with salt and a few drops of olive oil and a generous amount of egg yolk. Serve with fish or poultry.

Lamb Chops with Lovage and Ramps

Lamb Chops with Lovage and Ramps

Lamb Chops with Lovage and Ramps

 

8 lamb chops

Salt and pepper

1–2 T. olive oil, divided

16 ramps

2 handfuls lovage

½ green apple

1 clove garlic

¼ tsp. chili flakes

 

Salt and pepper the chops generously then throw them on the grill on medium-high heat for 3 minutes on each side. Drizzle olive oil and some salt onto the ramps and grill for 1 to 2 minutes until they are soft and slightly charred. Pulse the lovage, apple, garlic and chili flakes in a food processor until coarse, slowly add the olive oil until you have a thick chimichurri-like sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chops with the ramps on the side and a generous drizzle of the sauce.

Lemon, Ginger, and Mint Sweet Iced Tea

Lemon, Ginger, and Mint Sweet Iced Tea

Lemon, Ginger, and Mint Sweet Iced Tea

 

5 cups water, divided

8 black tea bags

2 lemons, sliced, plus additional slices for garnishing

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, plus additional mint for garnishing

1 T. sliced ginger

 

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Combine the tea bags and lemon in a large pitcher and pour the hot water over top. Steep for 30 minutes, then remove the tea bags and lemon.  While the tea steeps, make a simple syrup by combining one cup water, sugar, mint leaves, and sliced ginger in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves and simmer for one minute. Remove from the heat. Steep for 15-20 minutes and strain simple syrup through a fine mesh sieve.3. Add the simple syrup to the tea, according to your sweetness preference, then refrigerate. Serve on ice with additional lemon wedges and fresh mint leaves.

Spring Salad with Lemon, Mint, and Peas

Spring Salad with Lemon, Mint, and Peas

Spring Salad with Lemon, Mint, and Peas

 

About 4 Cups Chopped Escarole and/or Baby Arugula

3 Cup Thin Asparagus (about 1 bunch, bottom ends removed)

2 Cups Sliced English Cucumber

8 oz Sugar Snap Peas (sliced and chopped)

1 ½ Cups Quartered Artichoke Hearts (1 can, drained and rinsed)

1 Cup Thinly Sliced Radishes

½ Cup Chopped Fresh Mint Leaves

lemon vinaigrette:

¼ Cup Fresh Lemon Juice (about 2 large lemons)

¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

⅓ Cup Chopped Scallions

1 Tsp Minced Garlic

Zest of 1 Lemon (optional)

Salt and Cracked Black Pepper (to taste)

 

Chop and slice all your veggies before adding them to a large serving bowl. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon vinaigrette ingredients until combined. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad in the bowl and toss well to coat. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge to marinate and soften until ready to serve.

 

Fresh Herb and Cream Cheese Scramble

Fresh Herb and Cream Cheese Scramble

Fresh Herb and Cream Cheese Scramble

 

10 large eggs

1/4 cup milk (not nonfat)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/4 stick)

2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces

1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh herbs, such as dill, chives, parsley, chervil, or a combination

 

Place the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and whisk until the eggs are broken up and the mixture is thoroughly combined; set aside. Melt the butter in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-low heat until foaming. Pour in the egg mixture. Let sit undisturbed until the eggs just start to set around the edges, about 1 to 2 minutes. Using a rubber spatula, push the eggs from the edges into the center. Scatter the cream cheese pieces over the eggs and gently stir to combine. Let sit again until the edges start to set, then spread back into an even layer. Repeat, pushing the eggs from the edges into the center every 30 seconds, until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted and combined, for a total cooking time of about 4 to 5 minutes. (The top of the eggs should still be slightly wet.) Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle in the herbs and gently stir to combine. Serve immediately.

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Frittata)

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Frittata)

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Frittata)

 

4 T. olive oil

1 bunch of spring onions, trimmed and thinly sliced

150g fresh herbs (use any combination of parsley, coriander, dill, chives, mint, tarragon), leaves only, finely chopped

100g spinach, very thinly sliced

½ tsp ground turmeric

6 medium eggs, beaten

1 T. plain flour

½ tsp sea salt

freshly ground black pepper

To serve (optional):

 

2 T. walnuts, chopped

1 fresh green chilli, thinly sliced

Method

 

Preheat the grill to medium. Heat half the olive oil in a large frying pan and cook the spring onions for 2–3 minutes until softened, then tip the oil and onions into a large bowl. Add all the remaining ingredients to the bowl and stir to combine. Add the remaining oil to the frying pan and place over a medium heat. Pour in the mixture, cover the pan and cook for 5 minutes over a low heat until almost set, then place under the grill for 1–2 minutes to set the top. Serve topped with more freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of sea salt and the walnuts and chilli (if using).

The Ultimate Tomato Sandwich, With Jammy Eggs & Herby Mayo

The Ultimate Tomato Sandwich, With Jammy Eggs & Herby Mayo

The Ultimate Tomato Sandwich, With Jammy Eggs & Herby Mayo

 

The is a recipe for those times when you find the world’s best-looking tomato and you’re so excited to eat it, you don’t even have the patience to close your sandwich before taking a bite. It celebrates heavy-handed mayonnaise application, yolky dregs, and flaky salt.

 

 

2 eggs, plus 1 egg yolk

1 tsp. white vinegar

1/2 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. room-temperature water

1 cup safflower oil (or another neutral oil)

1/2 cup loosely packed basil and chives, very finely chopped (I like to blitz mine in a food processor, for ease); plus more for sprinkling

2 slices rustic, crusty bread

1 large ripe tomato (I like beefsteak), sliced roughly 1/2-inch thick

1 pinch each flaky salt and freshly ground pepper

1 T. olive oil for drizzling

 

Set a pot of water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, gently add two eggs. Let them boil for six minutes exactly. Meanwhile, fill a bowl with ice and a large splash of cold water, and place it nearby. After six minutes, transfer the eggs to this ice bath. Make the herb mayonnaise. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, white vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon, kosher salt, and water. While whisking like your life depends on it, begin to dribble in the oil a few drops at a time, checking that it’s fully distributed before adding more. Go slowly! Once you’ve added about a third of the oil this way, you’ll have the beginnings of a thick, creamy mayonnaise. Stream in the rest of the oil steadily, continuing to whisk frantically as you go. Once you’ve added all of the oil, fold in the herbs. Set aside as you prepare the other elements. (Note: Mayonnaise can be made a few days in advance and kept in the refrigerator—wait to chop and add the herbs until you’re ready to serve.) Toast the bread slices however you like (I prefer to do it in the stove at 450° F for 4 minutes). While the bread is toasting, peel the soft-boiled eggs in the ice bath. To compile your sandwich, slather one side of each piece of toast with herb mayo. Layer tomato slices on top, and drizzle with olive oil and a pinch each of flaky salt and pepper. Slice the soft-boiled eggs lengthwise and immediately layer on top of the tomatoes, so you don’t lose any yolky dregs! Garnish with a sprinkling of herbs, serve open-faced, and eat immediately.

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

 

2 large handfuls mixed herbs, such as flat-leaf parsley, basil, and mint, washed, dried, and de-stemmed

1 clove garlic, peeled

¼ preserved lemon, rinsed and finely chopped

1 T. Dijon mustard

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

 

Roughly chop your herbs into one large pile. Add the garlic into the mix and continue chopping until the herbs are finely chopped and the garlic is nearly a paste. Spoon into a small serving bowl and whisk in the remaining ingredients. The oil should coat the herbs and pool around the sides of the bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper, or more preserved lemon as desired. The flavor should be fresh and a little sour.

Bruschetta with Gorgonzola, Red Roasted Peppers & Kalamata Olives

Bruschetta with Gorgonzola, Red Roasted Peppers & Kalamata Olives

Bruschetta with Gorgonzola, Red Roasted Peppers & Kalamata Olives

 

1 16 oz can of pitted Kalamata olives

1 cup of Gorgonzola cheese

3 to 4 medium size red sweet peppers, roasted

1 loaf of crispy Italian bread, thinly cut into 1/4 inch slices

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 garlic cloves, roasted

1 large bunch of Italian parsley

 

Preheat oven to 375. Cut peppers lengthwise and remove seeds. Place on a cookie sheet or baking pan and brush with olive oil. Roast until blackened. Place in a brown paper bag to cool and let the skin fall off. At the same time, roast the garlic cloves until soft. In a food processor, put gorgonzola, olives, roasted peppers, and roasted garlic. Pulse on slow speed and slowly add the olive oil until blended but not too soft. Brush bread with olive oil on both sides and toast in oven on a baking sheet until golden. Spread some of the mixture on the top of each slice and garnish with a sprig of parsley.

Zesty Lemon Mint Turmeric Dressing

Zesty Lemon Mint Turmeric Dressing

Zesty Lemon Mint Turmeric Dressing

 

2 T. vinegar, ( tarragon or white wine vinegar)

1/4 C.+ 1 T. olive oil

3 T. lemon juice

1/2 tsp. mustard, (hot english mustard OR Dijon mustard)

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

9 mint leaves ( or 1 full branch ),, finely chopped

1 tsp. dried parsley

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

 

Put all of the ingredients into a medium sized bowl and whisk until the mixture thickens.

Avocado Goddess Dip

Avocado Goddess Dip

Avocado Goddess Dip

 

1 avocado, peeled and pitted

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 clove garlic, smashed

2 T. lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)

1/4 cup chopped green onion

1/2 cup flat-leaf Italian parsley

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 tsp. kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper

 

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Store refrigerated. Delicious with zucchini-carrot pancakes or simple vegetable crudites.

Herby Poached Egg on A Spring Onion & Chèvre Tartlet

Herby Poached Egg on A Spring Onion & Chèvre Tartlet

Herby Poached Egg on A Spring Onion & Chèvre Tartlet

 

1 sheet quality puff pastry dough

1 pound leeks or spring onions or a combination, well-rinsed

3 T. unsalted butter

⅔ C. heavy cream

2 T. fresh tarragon, chopped, divided

2 T. fresh parsley, chopped, divided

2 T. fresh chives, chopped Kosher or sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

4 ounces chèvre (goat cheese), crumbled

4 large fresh farm eggs, plus 1 for egg wash

2 T. milk for egg wash

Water

1 T. white vinegar

 

Remove puff pastry from freezer so it can soften slightly while you cook the onions. Thinly slice the white and light green parts of the leeks or spring onions. Melt butter in a large sauté pan, add leeks or onions and cook over low-medium heat, stirring often, 30–40 minutes or until soft and golden. Add cream, 1 T. each chopped fresh herbs (reserving remainder for garnish). Season with salt and pepper. Stir and simmer over low heat, 20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside (or refrigerate up to 1 day). Preheat oven to 425°. Roll out puff pastry sheet on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 4 equal rounds using a large biscuit cutter or 4-inch inverted bowl. Place puff pastry rounds onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick each pastry with a fork to prevent uneven cooking. Whisk 1 egg with milk to create an egg wash, and brush lightly onto pastry. Divide onion mixture onto pastry rounds and top each with goat cheese. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. (If pastry rises unevenly during cooking, push down gently with a fork while still warm.) Set aside in a warm place. Fill large saucepan with water, add white vinegar and bring to a simmer. Crack eggs into four individual dishes, taking care not to break the yolk. Slide eggs, 1 at a time, into simmering water. Gently cook each egg until desired doneness, or about 4 minutes for a slightly runny yolk. Remove with a slotted spoon and pat dry. To serve, place each egg atop a warm onion tart, sprinkle with remaining chopped herbs and enjoy.

Stir-Fried Beef with Cilantro

Stir-Fried Beef with Cilantro

Stir-Fried Beef with Cilantro

 

1 T. Asian chili Paste

2 T. Vegetable Oil

1 lb. Sirloin, cut into ¼” slices

¼ C. fresh cilantro, chopped plus ½ C. fresh cilantro leaves

1 tsp. Naam Pla

 

Stir together paste with ½ C. water. Heat wok or heavy bottom skillet over high heat until drop of water evaporates immediately. Add 1 T. oil and heat until almost smoking, then stir fry half meat until browned; transfer to a bowl. Repeat with second half of beef. Return all beef and juices to wok. Add chile paste water and ¼ C. chopped Cilantro and stir fry until liquid is reduced to a quarter cup. Remove from heat, stir in Naam Pla and top with cilantro leaves for garnish.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

 

1 small log (4 ounces) goat cheese

1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp. chopped fresh tarragon

1 tsp. chopped fresh chervil

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

12 large shrimp, peeled, tail-on and butterflied

12 thin slices of prosciutto

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Drizzle of White Truffle Oil

 

In a small mixing bowl, blend the goat cheese, herbs and garlic together. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Press one T. of the filling in the butterfly-cut of each shrimp. Wrap each shrimp tightly with one piece of prosciutto. In a sauté pan heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the stuffed shrimp and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp cook through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and place on a large serving plate. Drizzle the shrimp with truffle oil and serve warm.

Grilled Mushrooms with Rosemary-Lemon Basting Butter & Variations

Grilled Mushrooms with Rosemary-Lemon Basting Butter & Variations

Grilled Mushrooms with Rosemary-Lemon Basting Butter & Variations

 

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 teaspoon pepper, divided

1 pound white, cremini, shiitake, portobello, oyster, maitake, and/or king oyster mushrooms, at least 2 inches wide

½ teaspoon vegetable oil

¼ teaspoon table salt

 

Use any mix of mushrooms you like, as long as the caps measure at least 2 inches in diameter. A grill basket is helpful here but not essential. These mushrooms make a great accompaniment to other grilled foods. The parcooked mushrooms can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

 

Melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Add soy sauce, rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture is simmering and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm until ready to use. Trim tough ends of stems on white and cremini mushrooms and cut in half. Remove stems from shiitake mushrooms. Remove stems from portobello mushrooms and halve caps if smaller than 4 inches; quarter if larger. Trim oyster and maitake mushrooms and tear into 2- to 2½-inch pieces. Trim stems on king oyster mushrooms and slice crosswise ¾ inch thick. Combine mushrooms and ½ cup water in bowl. Cover and microwave for 1 minute. Stir well; re-cover; and microwave until mushrooms have reduced in size by about one-third and liquid has increased to almost 1 cup, about 2 minutes. Remove from microwave and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes to finish cooking. Drain well. Dry bowl and return mushrooms to bowl. Let stand at room temperature while preparing grill. FOR A CHARCOAL GRILL: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter three-quarters filled with charcoal briquettes (about 4½ quarts). When top coals are partially covered with ash, pour evenly over half of grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely. Heat grill until hot, about 5 minutes. FOR A GAS GRILL: Turn all burners to high; cover; and heat grill until hot, about 15 minutes. Leave primary burner on high and turn off other burner(s). Clean and oil cooking grate. Toss mushrooms with oil, salt, and remaining ½ teaspoon pepper. Arrange mushrooms on hotter side of grill. Cook (covered if using gas), flipping mushrooms every 2 minutes, until well browned on all sides, 4 to 6 minutes. Carefully brush mushrooms with half of basting butter and continue to cook until butter is sizzling and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes longer. Transfer to bowl with remaining basting butter and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve.

 

Garlic-Parsley Basting Butter

 

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon pepper

 

Melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Add Worcestershire, parsley, garlic, and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture is simmering and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm until ready to use.

 

 

Ginger-Miso Basting Butter

 

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon white miso

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger

1/2 teaspoon pepper

 

Melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Add miso, soy sauce, ginger, and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture is simmering and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm until ready to use.

Pork Chops with Cider, Horseradish & Dill

Pork Chops with Cider, Horseradish & Dill

Pork Chops with Cider, Horseradish & Dill

 

½ cup (120 ml) cider vinegar

½ cup (120 ml) hard or pressed apple cider

2 tablespoons (30 grams) freshly grated or prepared horseradish

½ teaspoon table salt

Pinch of cayenne pepper

 

4 bone-in loin pork chops, ½ inch thick (1½ pounds/680 grams total), preferably at room temperature

Table salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

 

Cooked together, these flavors are my happy place: tangy, sweet, and salty with a mellow, clearing bite.

Whisk the glaze ingredients together in a small dish and set aside. Trim any excess fat around chops until it is but a thin ribbon, no more than ⅛ inch thick. Pat the chops dry with a paper towel, and generously season them with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a heavy 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the oil starts to smoke. Add the pork chops to the skillet, and cook them until they are well browned, about 3 minutes. Turn the chops and cook 1 minute longer; then transfer chops to a plate and pour off any fat in skillet. Pour glaze mixture into the emptied skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook until mixture thickens enough so your spatula leaves a trail when scraped across the pan, about 2 to 4 minutes. Return the chops and any accumulated juices from their plate to skillet; turn to coat both sides with glaze. Cook them over medium heat in the glaze until the center of the chops registers 140 degrees on instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Transfer the chops to a serving platter and pour the glaze from the pan over them. Sprinkle with dill and eat immediately

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

 

2 cup of leaves Garlic Mustard (and blossoms if available)

1 cup of olive oil (and 3 extra tablespoons)

2 tablespoon of lemon juice

1 tsp. of sea salt

3-4 tablespoons of parmesan cheese (or more if you’d like!)

1 clove garlic (optional if you want it extra garlicky)

Directions

 

Place all your ingredients and half a cup of olive in a food processor. Whirr (blend) to a fine texture, then add another half cup of oil. Pulse till well mixed. Pour into a large, clean jar. Pour over your three tablespoons of additional olive oil to seal off any air from getting into your mixture – keeping it fresher longer. Store in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just remember you’ll need to let warm to room temperature first – otherwise it will be a bit waxy.

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

 

¼ cup sugar (I used turbinado raw sugar)

½ cup water

1 star anise

3 whole cloves

3 whole allspice

⅛ teaspoon dried red pepper flakes

Lavender leaves and flowers (optional)

3 cups assorted citrus fruit (I used pink grapefruit, grapefruit and navel oranges)

 

Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.  Add the star anise, whole cloves, whole allspice, dried red pepper flakes and lavender leaves if available.  Boil for 2 minutes, watching carefully so as not to burn.  Remove from heat and let cool.  Peel the citrus fruit, removing all the pith and seeds.  Cut into bite-size pieces and place in a glass bowl; pour spiced syrup over all, stir to mix. Cover tightly and refrigerate for several hours.  Serve in a clear bowl to show off the pretty colors.  Garnish with fresh lavender flowers.

What to do with Celery Leaves

What to do with Celery Leaves

What to do with Celery Leaves

 

Celery leaves are actually quite tasty and incredibly versatile.

 

Add celery leaves to salads: My aunt likes to cut up the leaves and add them to her green salads. I had never tried it myself until I went to her house for lunch one day. I was surprised to find that it can be a delicious addition to change up and add a burst of flavor to your raw greens. (I think that it especially pairs up well with salads with apple slices.) I think the best leaves for salads are the lighter green, younger leaves, but that is a matter or taste, of course.

 

Add celery leaves and stalk pieces to stocks and bone broths: I like to freeze some of the leaves, and the small, ugly stalk bits I cut from my snacking pieces, so I can have them handy whenever I make stock or bone broth. Celery is probably my favorite vegetable for adding to stocks and broths. Not only is it incredibly healthy, adding its vitamins and antioxidants to your already healthy broths, but it also adds delicious flavor. I also often blend celery leaves and stalk pieces, along with onions, into soups with an immersion blender to give them great flavor and a thicker consistency. (That was a tip I learned from another one of my aunts.)

 

Chop celery leaves and use them as an herb. Celery leaves make a great replacement for fresh parsley in many recipes. You can chop the fresh leaves and add them to salsa and homemade salad dressings, for example. You can also dry the leaves and crumble them, using them as you would dried parsley.

Make pesto sauce with celery leaves.

 

Make celery powder with leftover leaves and ugly stalk pieces. This is actually probably my favorite use of leftover celery leaves and bits and pieces. It’s simple enough to dehydrate the leftover pieces and grind them into a fine powder once they are fully dry. The nice thing about celery powder is that it doesn’t take up much space at all and it keeps very well. I like to add it to soups, sauces, and all sorts of other dishes to add flavor and nutrients.

 

Make celery salt. Celery salt is just a modified use of celery powder. It is often made with ground celery seed that is mixed with salt. Don’t have celery seeds? You can also make a wonderful celery salt using the leaves and other not-so-pretty celery bits. Celery salt is often asked for in recipes, but I like to use it in place of regular sauce in all sorts of recipes to add extra nutrients and flavor!

 

Save for chickens or compost. If you don’t want to use the celery leaves yourself, don’t throw them away! When I’m short on time (and my freezer is full, and I have an abundance of celery powder on hand already), I throw them to my hens and they seem to love them. You can also add them to your compost bin.

 

Celery Powder

 

Wash and dry celery leaves and other celery bits and pieces. (To reduce drying time, consider chopping stalks into smaller pieces.) Fully dry leaves and stalk pieces in a dehydrator or at the lowest heat and convection setting of your oven. (Check occasionally and remove dry, brittle pieces, leaving the rest of the celery pieces to continue drying until brittle.) Once they are fully dry, grind up the celery leaves and stalk pieces until you obtain a fine powder. Celery leaves can be easily pulverized with a mortar and pestle. If using stalk bits, though, I find it much easier to use a spice grinder of coffee grinder.   Store the homemade celery powder in a well-sealed container to keep moisture out, preferably out of direct sunlight.

 

 

Celery Salt

 

2 Tbsp celery powder

2 Tbsp salt

 

Mix together celery powder and salt. Store in a well closed container in a cool, dark place.

Lemongrass Lemonade

Lemongrass Lemonade

Lemongrass Lemonade

 

1 cup granulated sugar

2 stalks lemongrass, bruised lightly with the side of a knife and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

3 cups water

1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3 large lemons)

1/2 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)

Pinch salt

2 cups ice

1 lemon, thinly sliced

2 stalks lemongrass, cut into 4 swizzle sticks (optional)

 

In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, lemongrass pieces, and water and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Lower the heat and simmer for 20 min. Remove the syrup from the heat; let it sit for about an hour. Strain it into a glass pitcher. Just before serving, add the lemon juice, lime juice, and salt. Stir well and add the ice. Serve in tall glasses with more ice. Garnish with the lemon slices and the lemongrass swizzle sticks.

Chunky Rose Petal Pesto

Chunky Rose Petal Pesto

Chunky Rose Petal Pesto

 

​Two cups fresh basil

One cup rose Petals

4 peeled garlic cloves

1 cup toasted walnuts

1 cup of olive oil

1 Teaspoon rosewater

1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan Cheese

1/4 cup of freshly grated Romano Cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Combine everything in the food processor – but hold back 1/4 cup of the rose petals. Give it a few short whirs (pulses) so it has a chunky texture. Remove into a bowl. Mince your remaining rose petals finely.

Blend minced petals into your pesto. Leave a few for garnishing.

Summer Solstice Herby Honey Cookies

Summer Solstice Herby Honey Cookies

Summer Solstice Herby Honey Cookies

 

1 & 3/4 cups of flour

¾ cup softened butter

¼ cup honey

¼ cup brown or cane sugar

1 teaspoon minced thyme

1 teaspoon lavender buds

1 teaspoon minced rosemary

1 teaspoon minced sage

a few crushed cardamom seeds

pinch of salt

 

NOTE: I used more like a tablespoon of each herb in my cookies, but this might be too herbaceous for some, so adjust accordingly. And I also added 3/4 cup oatmeal to another batch of cookies and cut back on the flour. Feel free to experiment or use whatever cookie recipe you like…after all it’s not the cookie that matters as much as the spirit!

 

Icing:

 

3 teaspoons milk

1 cup icing sugar

a wee bit of grated lemon rind. (I also added lavender buds to the second batch of icing)

Coloring. I used a combination of golden beet juice, St. John’s Tincture and a pinch of turmeric powder, but of course, you could use a store-bought natural food dye.

 

Combine your milk and icing sugar. Slowing add in your coloring and mix until you find the desired color/consistency

 

Preheat Oven to 300 F. Beat flour, sugar and soft butter together until creamy. Slowly drizzle in honey while beating until mixture pulls together. Add minced herbs and petals, mix well through the dough. Divide into four balls and chill for an hour or so. Roll out and cut into round shapes. Add flour as needed.

Bake at 300 for 10-15 minutes. Let cool. Decorate using the flowers and herbs of the sun: petals of calendula, lawn daisies or ox-eye daisies (not store bought daisy chrysanthemums), St. John’s Wort, rose, or sprigs of rosemary, thyme and sage.

Lemon Verbena Jelly

Lemon Verbena Jelly

Lemon Verbena Jelly

 

3 C. apple juice

1 cup fresh lemon verbena leaves

2 T. fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar

1 package powdered pectin

4 C. sugar

1/2 tsp. butter

1 fresh herb leaf for each jar

2 – 3 drops green food coloring (optional)

 

In saucepan, make herb infusion with juice and herb by bringing juice to a boil and adding the verbena leaves. Boil for about 10 seconds, then let cool completely. Strain and discard leaves. You’ll need 1 1/2 C. of herb infusion liquid.  Combine the herb infusion with lemon juice (or vinegar), food coloring and pectin. Bring to a rolling boil. Mix in sugar and bring to a full rolling boil again. Boil hard for one minute. Add butter, stir. If any foam remains, skim off and discard. Pour into hot sterilized jars with optional leaf in each jar. Wipe jar edges with damp cloth, then screw on hot jar lids, tightening moderately but don’t over-tighten. Turn jars upside down to seal, for about 30 seconds. Turn upright and let cool on dishtowel. Store in a dark, cool place.

Spaghetti with Green Tomato Pesto

Spaghetti with Green Tomato Pesto

Spaghetti with Green Tomato Pesto

 

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup Italian parsley leaves

1/4 cup arugula, washed and spun dry

5 green tomatoes, chopped

2 clove garlic, chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus 2 T.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 pound spaghetti

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus extra for garnish

 

Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot and add 2 T. salt. Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine the mint, basil, parsley, arugula, 1 clove of garlic, Parmigiano and olive oil and pulse to form a chunky purée. Season aggressively with salt and pepper and set aside. In a sauté pan add 2 T. of olive oil. Add chopped tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Add full ladle of pesto into pan. Cook the pasta in the boiling water until just al dente. Drain the pasta and add to pan with tomatoes and pesto. Add some of the pasta water and toss to coat. Top with sprinkle with the Parmigiano and serve immediately.

Rose and Basil Pesto

Rose and Basil Pesto

Rose and Basil Pesto

 

2 C. fresh basil

1 cup fragrant rose petals

3 cloves garlic

1/2 cup pine nuts (or pistachios or walnuts)

3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp. food grade rose water

1 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice (don’t substitute bottled juice)

1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

1/4 cup Romano cheese, freshly grated

Salt, optional

 

Peel and coarsely chop garlic, then add rose petals, basil, nuts and olive oil in food processor. Pulse blend until everything is well pulverized. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. This can be stored for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Roasted Garlic–Herb Sauce

Roasted Garlic–Herb Sauce

Roasted Garlic–Herb Sauce

 

1 head garlic, separated into cloves, unpeeled

2 cups (packed) fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves with tender stems

1 cup (packed) fresh mint leaves

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest (from about ½ large lemon)

4 tsp. fresh lemon juice (from about ½ large lemon)

1 tsp. red pepper flakes

¾ tsp. kosher salt

 

Heat a medium, heavy (preferably cast-iron) skillet over medium heat. Roast the garlic cloves, stirring occasionally, until the skins have darkened on all sides and the insides are soft, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool. Peel away the garlic skins and discard; transfer the cloves to a blender. Add the parsley, mint, oil, lemon zest and juice, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Blend until a pesto-like sauce forms. Store the sauce in a jar or other airtight container and keep in the refrigerator, where it will last for at least a week, often longer.

Just Barely Basil Buttermilk Dressing

Just Barely Basil Buttermilk Dressing

Just Barely Basil Buttermilk Dressing

 

1/2 C. roughly chopped (1/2 to 1 inch) basil stems (a few errant leaves are fine, too)

1/2 C. buttermilk

1 medium-size garlic clove, grated on a Microplane or very finely minced

2 T. mayonnaise

2 T. plain Greek yogurt

Fine-grain sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Combine the basil stems and buttermilk in a small bowl and let steep, covered, in the refrigerator for 8 to 12 hours. Strain and discard the basil stems. Combine 1/4 C. of the infused buttermilk, the garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, a pinch of sea salt, and a few grinds of pepper in a small bowl or glass jar. Shake to combine. Season to taste and thin with extra buttermilk if desired. This dressing will keep up to 3 days in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Charred Asparagus End Pesto

Charred Asparagus End Pesto

Charred Asparagus End Pesto

 

1/4 C. plus 1 T. extra virgin olive oil

1-to 2-inch ends cut from the bottom of 1 bunch of asparagus

1 C. loosely packed fresh shiso or basil leaves

1/1 C. pine nuts, toasted

1 garlic clove, minced

1/j C. finely grated pecorino Romano cheese

1 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice

 

This recipe is for the ends of middle-of-the-road asparagus: If the ends are extremely woody, they’re best saved for stock. And if the ends don’t seem very woody at all, you might just want to peel the ends of your stalks instead and save those peelings for tempura)! This is a thick pesto, meant for tossing with hot pasta or smearing on sandwiches. I also think it would make an excellent dip (maybe mixed with softened cream cheese). Thin it out with additional olive oil to use it as dressing. Shiso is a Japanese herb in the mint family; I think of it as basil’s Asian cousin (basil is also the best substitute should you not be able to find shiso). Look for shiso in the produce section of Asian grocery stores or at your local farmers market. Since it can sometimes be hard to find, I opt to grow my own supply. If you can find shiso leaves,. they’ll quickly grow roots when their stems are placed in a glass of water on a windowsill. After they do, plant them. I’ve also grown shiso from seeds procured online and from small plants found at my local farmers market – both options work well.  In a medium-size heavy skillet, heat 1 T. of the oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus ends to the hot pan, and let them cook, undisturbed, until the side touching the pan chars, 3 to 5 minutes. Move them around a bit to expose another side to the heat, and let them cook, undisturbed, until they are charred on all sides and can be easily pierced with a knife, another 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and let cool slightly. Using a knife, finely chop the asparagus ends. This is important: If you try to skip this step, the food processor will shred the cooked ends and you’ll have stringy pesto. Add the chopped asparagus ends, shiso, pine nuts, and garlic to a mini food processor and pulse to process all ingredients, scraping down the bowl a couple of times as needed. Then add the cheese and lemon juice and pulse a few more times. Finally, add the rest of the olive oil and process again until smooth. The pesto is at its best when used immediately, so the basil doesn’t discolor, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Raspberry Mango Salsa

Raspberry Mango Salsa

Raspberry Mango Salsa

 

1 pint red raspberries

Meat of 2 mangoes, cut into chunks

½ C jícama, julienned

½ C red onion, minced

2 red fresno chiles, minced

Juice of 2 limes

2 T. fresh-squeezed orange juice

1 bunch cilantro, chopped

1 tsp. brown sugar

½ tsp. mild New Mexico red chile powder

½ tsp. table salt

 

Mix all ingredients together, let blend for 2 hours. • This tropical salsa is an unexpected addition to grilled fish, poultry and pork.

Foil Barbecued Shrimp

Foil Barbecued Shrimp

Foil Barbecued Shrimp

 

2 pounds shrimp, shelled and deveined

1/2 cup snipped parsley

3/4 tsp. curry powder

6 T. butter

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. salt

Dash of pepper

 

In a saucepan melt butter, stir in parsley, curry powder, garlic, salt and pepper. Add shrimp; stir to coat. Divide shrimp mixture equally among 6 (18 x 12−inch) pieces of heavy-duty foil. Fold foil around shrimp, sealing the edges well. Grill shrimp over hot coals about 8 minutes. Turn and grill until done, 7 to 8 minutes more. Serve in foil packages, if desired.

Butter Lettuce Salad with Citrus Honey Vinaigrette

Butter Lettuce Salad with Citrus Honey Vinaigrette

Butter Lettuce Salad with Citrus Honey Vinaigrette

 

For the Dressing

2 1/2 T. lemon juice plus the zest of one lemon (zest before juicing)

2 T. lime juice plus the zest of 1 lime (zest before juicing)

1 T. honey

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Sea salt (I recommend Maldon) or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

6 T. canola oil

For the Salad

3 heads butter lettuce (also called Bibb, Boston or living lettuce)

1/2 cup fresh tarragon leaves, roughly chopped

 

Make the Dressing: Whisk lemon juice and zest, lime juice and zest, honey, and Dijon in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle in the oil, whisking constantly, to emulsify the dressing. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Set aside. Make the Salad: Cut the root end off the lettuces and gently wash and dry the leaves. I like to rinse leaves separately, under the tap, and spin them dry in my salad spinner. Tear the larger leaves into smaller pieces. Pile leaves into a large bowl. Sprinkle in the tarragon and toss it gently with the lettuce. Just before serving, toss the salad with just enough dressing to coat. Serve immediately.

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

 

For the blossoms:

 

14 to 16 large zucchini squash blossoms

3/4 cup/6 ounces fresh soft goat cheese or whole-milk ricotta

1/2 cup/4 ounces mascarpone or crème fraîche

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 to 2 T. fresh chopped mint and basil, plus more for garnish

Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

 

For the Batter and Frying:

 

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

About 1/2 cup chilled seltzer or other unflavored sparkling water

About 3/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Optional: fresh tomato sauce, for serving

 

Carefully open each blossom and remove stamen; set aside. Combine goat cheese (or ricotta) with mascarpone (or crème fraîche) and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan. Stir in mint and basil and season with salt and pepper. Gently stuff blossoms with cheese-herb mixture, twisting end of blossom to close. NOTE: You might have some cheese mixture leftover; if so, stir into a pasta sauce or spread on toast and eat with tomatoes. Make batter by combining flour, cornstarch, and baking powder with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Whisk in beaten egg and sparkling water, adding a bit at a time, until batter is well-combined and is the consistency of heavy cream or a loose pancake batter. Pour oil to about a half inch into a large (10-inch) heavy skillet and heat to about 365° (or until oil begins to shimmer but not smoke; add a bit of batter to test oil. The batter should bubble and float). Fry blossoms, in two batches, if necessary, turning over once until golden, about 2 minutes total time. Place on a paper-towel-lined cooling rack or plate. Sprinkle while hot with a bit of Parmesan or salt, such as Maldon or other finishing salt. If serving with sauce, spoon some fresh tomato sauce on bottom of plate and top with squash blossoms. Eat at once.  Notes: To prepare blossoms, gently open the blossom (they might tear, but that’s OK) and pull out stamen. Rinse gently and place in a paper towel-lined colander. Pat dry.

Herb-Filled Peppers on Warm Crusty Bread

Herb-Filled Peppers on Warm Crusty Bread

Herb-Filled Peppers on Warm Crusty Bread

 

2 large Bell Peppers, cut in half, seeds and membrane removed

5oz. Broad Beans in pods, shelled

40g Butter

2 cloves of garlic, minced

60g onion, minced

2 handfuls of Sorrel, finely chopped

½ bunch Cilantro

30g chervil

30g basil

30g chives

2 T. Olive Oil

Baguette

Parmesan

Fluer de Sel

 

To skin the broad beans, plunge them into lightly salted boiling water for 3 minutes, then refresh in cold water, and drain. Remove and discard the skins. Chop the beans finely and set aside. To assemble the filling, melt the butter in a sauté pan over low heat. When the butter starts to foam, add the garlic and onion and. after a few minutes the broad beans. When these ingredients have softened slightly, add the sorrel, the coriander, chervil, basil and chives, and stir to distribute the ingredients evenly. Season to taste with salt, then set aside to cool on a plate. To make the peppers easy to peel, blister their skins evenly beneath a hot grill, turning them with a skewer. Wrap them briefly in a cold damp kitchen towel, then peel them. Spoon the filling into the peppers and transfer them to a shallow roasting pan smeared with the olive oil. Bake in a preheated 200’C (400°F, Gas Mark 6) oven. When – after about 20 minutes the filling is cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and turn it off.  Cut the bread in half lengthways, then across, to make 4 rectangles about 13cm (5inches) long. Put the peppers on top and return them, in the roasting pan. to the warm oven for 30 minutes, leaving the door of the oven wide open. Just before serving, adjust the seasoning and scalier with shavings of Parmesan. Offer the peppers with a mesclun salad

Mint Jelly

Mint Jelly

Mint Jelly

 

Sage or Rosemary could be done the same way

 

2 pounds granny smith Apples, coarsely chopped

6 cup (1.5l) water

5 1/2 cup (1.2kg) white sugar, approximately

1 cup firmly packed fresh mint leaves

Food coloring, optional

 

Combine apple and water in large saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, about 1 hour or until apple is pulpy. Strain mixture through a fine cloth into large bowl. Stand 3 hours or overnight until liquid stops dripping. Do not squeeze cloth; discard pulp. Measure apple liquid; allow 1 cup sugar for each cup of liquid. Return apple liquid and sugar to same pan. Stir over high heat, without boiling, until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil and boil rapidly, uncovered, without stirring, about 30 minutes or until jelly jells when tested. Pour jelly into a large heatproof jug. Stir in a little of the food coloring. Stand until jelly is lukewarm, but not set. Meanwhile, drop mint into small saucepan of boiling water for 2 seconds; drain. Rinse under cold water; drain, pat dry with absorbent paper. Chop mint finely; stir into lukewarm jelly. Pour jelly into hot sterilized jars; seal immediately. Label and date jars when cold.

Spellbinding Sweet Woodruff Prosperity Cake for May Day Eve

Spellbinding Sweet Woodruff Prosperity Cake for May Day Eve

Spellbinding Sweet Woodruff Prosperity Cake for May Day Eve

Sweet Woodruff is a common ground cover garden plant, and while it is native to Europe it has naturalized in many of our forests. Leaves and flowers should be harvested just before and during blooming, but they must dried or at least wilted before using to capture their flavor/aroma. The stems are bitter, so make sure you just use leaves and blossoms.

 

By baking this magical Sweet Woodruff cake we can combine our magical powers together and cast a powerful blessing to enrich us, one and all and make our hearts merry. And here’s a little prosperity spell to say over your cake, while you’re making it, while it’s baking or just before you serve it. Abracadabra!

 

Money, money come to me

In abundance three times three

May I be enriched in the best of ways

Harming none on its way

This I accept, so mote it be

Bring me money three times three!

 

1 cup & 2 tsp. of DRIED Sweet Woodruff leaves and flowers (no stems!)

4 large egg yolks

4 large egg whites, at room temperature

3/4 cup organic cane sugar (or whatever sugar you like)

2 tablespoons cold water

8 tablespoons melted butter

3/4 cup of wholewheat, or spelt, or all purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tsp. lemon zest

2 cups light cream

Powdered icing sugar for dusting

 

Three days before making your cake: Take your dried sweet woodruff and place in your cream. Stir well. Cover and allow to sit in a warm place for 24hrs. Then transfer to fridge. After two days, strain the plant material from the cream. Line a 8 X 8 inch square pan with sheets of parchment paper. Leave a generous amount sticking out from the sides. These will be your “handles” when you take the cake out of the pan. Heat Oven to 325°F. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks, sugar and water together until creamy and the sugar is dissolved. 5 to 6 minutes. Drizzle in the melted butter into the egg yolk mixture and mix well. Add in the flour, lemon zest, salt and two tsp. of dried woodruff (crumbled into a powder) then blend until fully combined. Add the milk or cream and mix them in gently. Whisk the egg whites on high speed until the egg whites hold stiff peaks. Add the egg whites to the yolk mixture and flour mixture. Stir VERY gently with a large spoon just a dozen or so times, leaving large clumps of egg whites in the batter. Do not overmix! Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake until the edges are set, the top is a warm brown, and the center is still a wee bit wobbly. 50 to 55 minutes. Leave the cake in the pan at room temperature until completely cooled. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Best left overnight. Dust with icing sugar and serve!

Minty Brain Tonic Tea

Minty Brain Tonic Tea

Minty Brain Tonic Tea

 

Enjoy a cup of this brain tonic tea the next time you need to study. With its nervous system and cardiovascular system benefits, it’s sure to support healthy brain function and help you make the most of your next study session!

 

 

2 T. spearmint (Mentha spicata) leaf

1 T. holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) leaf

2 tsp. sage (Salvia officinalis) leaf

 

Bring water to a boil in a kettle or pot. While the water is heating, place your herbs in a pint-sized glass canning jar. As soon as your water comes to a boil, remove it from heat. When it stops boiling, pour hot water over the herbs. Cover the jar with a lid to prevent volatile oils from escaping with the steam. Steep for 5-20 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the stronger it will taste! Filter the herbs using a tea strainer into another clean pint-sized glass canning jar. Press down on the herb(s) with a spoon to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Sweeten as desired, and drink 1-2 C. of tea 20-30 minutes before studying to stimulate the senses and increase blood flow to the brain!