In North Somerset now is the time. The sun is shining, the flowers are outing still fresh. So not particularly cheap, but wholesome homemade cordials. I have made more in the past but it is best to keep to the seasons, so the recipe below will last several weeks if in sterilised bottles.
CHEESE BISCUITS
Basic dough is 150g self-raising flour; 80g butter, splash of olive oil, pinch of salt and 50g cheese plus 25g to top before cooking for 10 min at 220C. I think dough in fridge for 30 minutes might be good?
Variations with types of cheese, I think a little parmesan. Then divide the dough and add separately basil, rosemary, garlic, pepper, chilli, lemon zest, parsley, mint(Moroccan), mint (ginger). Dust with smoked paprika and sesame seeds? Recipe below for added inspiration/experiment. Get the variants ready before hand – all finely chopped. To make all options and combinations I might double up basic ingredients for the dough.
RICHARDS HERB GARDEN
MINT COCKTAILS
MINTED
Lovers of mint look no further. I am just planting out 18 types of mint and hope to have a few more shortly.
I am not sure why, but I have Japanese;l Spanish; Moroccan; Inguano; Curly; Garden; Mojito; Strawberry; White peppermint; Banana; Pineapple; Chocolate; Basil; Berries and cream; Apple; Eau de Cologne; Spearmint; then Lemon balm and Lemon bergamot. And I am on the lookout for a couple more!
I think I might offer a Christmas collection of dried mints, or experiment with a tea mix.
I also have sage, rosemary, tarragon, oregano, sweet basil, greek basil, lemon basil, lemon thyme, thyme, creeping thyme, dill, pot marigold, nasturtium, fennel, parsley, hot and spicy oregano, bay. Donations welcome!
TODAYS GUARDIAN
RECIPES – PICKLES and veggie burger
Sorting out a brunch with lots of finger foods – so thought I would make some pickle – this is my sort of recipe (few measurements) so I will see how it goes.
HONEYSUCKLE
The scent of honeysuckle and wisteria first light is fantastic – when it is dry enough. I think I will dry some flowers for …. whatever? Maybe just the scent, wine would be good, but I am not sure.
A PARISH RECIPE -CHEESEY HERB STRAWS
CROWD FARMING
I have just received my second purchase from Crowd Farming Both times the deliveries have been fast and the quality excellent. Firstly clementines then olive oil. The price is ok – not the cheapest but organic olive oil for £10 ltr is not bad.