The Blackthorn

The Blackthorn or Prunus Spinosa is a deciduous shrub which can grow to twelve feet in height. . It makes an excellent barrier hedge due to the strong and prickly thorns which would make it very difficult for intruders to penetrate. Blackthorns would probably have been the hedges in “Sleeping Beauty” through which the prince … Continue reading The Blackthorn

Citrusy Squash and Corn Bread

Autumn Equinox is considered the Witches Thanksgiving, Here are a few recipes that uses the foods that we harvest during the second harvest and would not be out of place at a Thanksgiving celebration. Citrusy Mashed Squash with Toasted Pecans Ingredients 3 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks 2 tablespoons butter 1/3 … Continue reading Citrusy Squash and Corn Bread

Mythological Creature of Mabon — The Sphinx

There are three types of sphinx. The androsphinx, the typical lion with a human face/head The criosphinx, a ram-headed lion. The hierocosphonx has the body of a lion and the head of a hawk. When the Egyptian sphinx was portrayed as a female it symbolized Isis and/or the reigning queen. The Egyptian androsphinx is a … Continue reading Mythological Creature of Mabon — The Sphinx

Cider-Spiked Apple and Pecan Tart

Cider-Spiked Apple and Pecan Tart Ingredients 1/3 cup butter, cut into small pieces 3/4 cup pecans, toasted* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 egg yolks 2 tablespoons ice water 5 assorted firm-tart apples (such as Rome Beauty, Stayman Winesap, Granny Smith, Idared, Northern Spy), cored 3 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup boiled cider (see recipe ), applejack, apple brandy or dry sherry 2 tablespoons lemon … Continue reading Cider-Spiked Apple and Pecan Tart

Spiced Pomegranate-Apple Cider

SPICED POMEGRANATE-APPLE CIDER A classic fall and winter beverage tastes even better with the addition of fresh pomegranate juice. To serve chilled, after the mixture has steeped, store sealed in the refrigerator. 6 cups apple cider 6 cloves 1 stick cinnamon, about 3 inches in length 1 ½ cups pomegranate juice 1 ½ cups rum … Continue reading Spiced Pomegranate-Apple Cider