blackbirdsbackyard

Fennel and Apple Salad

This salad is so versatile. Perfect for a summer picnic or potluck as it transports well. Add a bit of yogurt and you have a yummy breakfast or side dish for brunch. I love that it uses both the bulb/stalk and the leaves. I have a bumper crop fennel this year. It is finally establishedContinue reading “Fennel and Apple Salad”

Fever Tea (ELECAMPANE)

I make a lot of tinctures and infused oils. They store a long time and don’t require a lot of fresh plant material. I am lazy and often forget the aesthetic and medicinal values of teas, tisanes, decoctions and water infusions. Some chemical constituents are better released by heating/simmering them in water. Many tea formulasContinue reading “Fever Tea (ELECAMPANE)”

Lavender and Blueberry “soda”

The girls are really into making “sodas” this year. We have made several syrups together (violet, lilac, rose, and elder flower). They are fun to add to soda water, enjoying them on a hot day. Not all flavors are well liked, some like elder are an acquired taste. Lavender and Blueberry syrup recipe 1 TBPContinue reading “Lavender and Blueberry “soda””

PLANTAIN Tincture

I think plantain needs to be included in my “herb of the month subscription”. This June I have needed it in some form for 1)a burn 2) a bug bite that looked a bit red 3)and a broken toe. I have it as an ingredient in many of my salves and liniments. I ordered threeContinue reading “PLANTAIN Tincture”

Gluten Free Elder Flower Cake

A fresh and tart cake to celebrate the solstice. Soaked in elder flower syrup and topped with fresh whipped cream. Elder Flower Cake In a large bowl add together….. 3/4 cup of white rice flour 1/4 cup of tapioca flour 1 cup of almond flour 1/2 cup of buckwheat flour 1 tsp of baking powderContinue reading “Gluten Free Elder Flower Cake”