blackbirdsbackyard

“Anti-viral”Pastilles (BURDOCK)

Do you know what an herbal pastille is? I did not and only discovered them recently. Like electuaries (herbal honeys) they are a great way to get herbs into older children. You can use many bases like dried fruit, nut butters . For a throat lozenge honey is used to make them. I have beenContinue reading ““Anti-viral”Pastilles (BURDOCK)”

Lilac Simple Syrup and Scones

My girls needed something really special to happen this week. So we had a surprise tea party complete with vintage gloves and fancy hats. I have been reading a lot about lilacs being used in things like jelly. I decided to experiment by making two things. Lilac scones (gluten free) Preheat oven to 350 1/2Continue reading “Lilac Simple Syrup and Scones”

Dandelion Fritters and Capers

Dandelion fritters are a treat that you must try! Kids really like them because the are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside like a french fry. Fried blossoms are probably the easiest thing that you can make with dandelions. Children can help gather, make the batter and dip the flowers but anContinue reading “Dandelion Fritters and Capers”

Gluten Free Basil Cookies

There is no end to the herbs that can be added to baked goods. Lavender, thyme, calendula, chamomile-just to name a few. I even saw a gorgeous emerald green cake made from nettles. We had two feet of unexpected snow and I needed a project to keep the girls busy. I remembered seeing a veryContinue reading “Gluten Free Basil Cookies”

Adiveh Seasoning (Saffron)

I bet very few of you have even used dried flowers as a spice option in cooking. This looks more like potpourri than something to be sprinkled on food. It is almost too pretty to eat. Perfect for dressing up grains or a protein if you feel like have been eating the same things forContinue reading “Adiveh Seasoning (Saffron)”