Showing posts with label shortbread. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shortbread. Show all posts

Wednesday 19 June 2024

First Steps in Cooking with Lavender: A Beginner’s Guide

As my wife and I are eagerly awaiting a 1kg bag of culinary lavender sourced from a small business called Mimea via their Amazon shop, we decided to take a look at writing a blogpost on the culinary uses for lavender and here are the results:

Lavender, with its distinctive aroma and subtle floral notes, is a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. 

Though often merely associated with fragrances and potpourri, lavender’s culinary potential is vast, especially when used in moderation. Here’s how you can begin your culinary journey with this delightful herb.

Understanding Lavender Varieties

Before you start cooking with lavender, it's essential to choose the right variety. Culinary lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia or English lavender, is the best option for cooking. Avoid ornamental lavenders, as they can have a strong, camphor-like flavour that’s unsuitable for culinary use.

Preparing Lavender for Cooking

Lavender can be used both fresh and dried, but dried lavender is more commonly used in cooking. Here’s how to prepare it:

Drying Lavender: If you have fresh lavender, hang it upside down in a cool, dark place for about two weeks until it's completely dry. Once dried, remove the flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container.

Grinding Lavender: For most recipes, you’ll need ground lavender. Use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to achieve a fine texture. This helps to evenly distribute the flavour throughout your dish.

Using Lavender in Cooking

Lavender’s strong flavour means a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and gradually adjust to taste. Here are some tips and simple recipes to get you started:

1. Lavender Sugar

Lavender sugar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in baking and beverages.

Ingredients:

200 grams of granulated sugar

1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

Method:

Combine the sugar and lavender flowers in a food processor.

Pulse until the lavender is finely ground and mixed well with the sugar.

Store in an airtight container and use it to sweeten tea, sprinkle on biscuits, or add to cake batters.


2. Lavender-Infused Honey

This fragrant honey can elevate your morning toast or be used in various desserts.

Ingredients:

250 grams of honey

2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers

Method:

In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey until it’s warm but not boiling.

Stir in the lavender flowers and remove from heat.

Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to infuse, then strain out the lavender.

Store the infused honey in a jar and use as desired.


3. Lavender Shortbread Biscuits

These buttery biscuits are perfect for an afternoon tea.

Ingredients:

225 grams of unsalted butter, softened

100 grams of caster sugar

300 grams of plain flour

1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

Method:

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or Gas Mark 3.

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Gradually add the flour and lavender, mixing until a dough forms.

Roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick and cut into shapes.

Place the biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.honey,sugar,


4) Lavender Scones Recipe (My wife's lavender scones are absolutely delicious!)

Ingredients:

225g self-raising flour

55g butter (cold, diced)

25g caster sugar

150ml milk

2 tsp dried culinary lavender

A pinch of salt

1 egg (beaten, for glazing)

Method:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or Gas Mark 7.

Prepare the Baking Tray:

Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and dried culinary lavender. Mix well.

Add the Butter:

Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Add the Sugar:

Stir in the caster sugar.

Add the Milk:

Make a well in the centre of the mixture and gradually add the milk, mixing with a knife until you have a soft dough. You may not need all the milk.

Knead the Dough:

Lightly flour a surface and gently knead the dough until it is smooth. Do not over-knead.

Shape the Scones:

Roll out the dough to about 2.5cm thick. Using a 5cm round cutter, cut out the scones and place them on the prepared baking tray. Re-roll any remaining dough and repeat.

Glaze the Scones:

Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scones are well-risen and golden brown.

Cool:

Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve warm with butter, clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam. Enjoy your lavender scones with a cup of tea!

Scone Hints:

Ensure your butter is cold before rubbing it into the flour to achieve the best texture.

Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.

If you don't have a round cutter, you can shape the scones with your hands.

Enjoy your delightful lavender scones!


Tips for Cooking with Lavender

Pairing Flavours: Lavender pairs well with other herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and mint. It also complements citrus fruits, berries, and honey.

Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with lavender in savoury dishes. It can add a unique twist to roasted meats, soups, stews, sauces, and salads.

Moderation: Always use lavender sparingly. Its potent flavour can easily overpower a dish if too much is used.

Conclusion

Cooking with lavender can be a delightful way to add a touch of elegance and a unique flavour to your dishes. By starting with simple recipes and gradually incorporating it into your cooking repertoire, you’ll soon discover the many ways this aromatic herb can enhance your culinary creations. Happy cooking!

Friday 10 May 2024

A Culinary Adventure: Exploring Scotland's Traditional Fare

Image courtesy Benjaphon Khidhathong of Pixabay
Step into the land of mist-shrouded mountains, rugged coastlines, and ancient castles – Scotland. 

Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Scotland boasts a rich culinary heritage deeply rooted in tradition and local ingredients. Join me on a journey through the flavors of Scotland as we uncover the delights of its traditional foods.

Haggis:

Let's kick off our culinary exploration with Scotland's national dish – haggis. While its ingredients might raise an eyebrow or two (sheep's heart, liver, and lungs minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, and spices, all encased in a sheep's stomach), haggis is a true Scottish delicacy beloved by locals and visitors alike. Served with neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes), and often accompanied by a dram of whisky, haggis is a hearty and flavoursome meal that captures the essence of Scottish cuisine. Although vegan haggis is now available.

Scotch Broth:

For a taste of Scottish comfort food, look no further than Scotch broth. This nourishing soup is made with lamb or beef broth, barley, root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, and leeks, and sometimes pulses like peas or lentils. Simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld together, Scotch broth is a hearty and wholesome dish that's perfect for warming up on a cold Scottish day.

Cranachan:

No Scottish meal is complete without a sweet treat, and cranachan fits the bill perfectly. This indulgent dessert is a delightful combination of whipped cream, toasted oats, raspberries, honey, and a generous splash of whisky. Layered together in a glass, cranachan is a celebration of Scotland's natural bounty, with each spoonful offering a harmonious blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity flavors.

Cullen Skink:

Seafood lovers rejoice – Cullen skink is here to tantalize your taste buds. Originating from the fishing village of Cullen in Moray, this hearty soup is made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk, resulting in a rich and creamy dish that's bursting with flavor. Served with a chunk of crusty bread for dipping, Cullen skink is a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases Scotland's coastal culinary heritage.

Shortbread:

No discussion of Scottish cuisine would be complete without mentioning shortbread – a buttery, crumbly delight that's been a favorite treat for generations. Made from just three simple ingredients – butter, sugar, and flour – shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that's perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a sweet indulgence any time of day. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavor, it's no wonder that shortbread holds a special place in the hearts of Scots around the world.

Conclusion:

From the savory depths of haggis to the sweet delights of cranachan, Scotland's traditional foods offer a tantalizing glimpse into the country's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're savoring a bowl of Scotch broth or indulging in a piece of buttery shortbread, each dish tells a story of tradition, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. So why not embark on your own culinary adventure and experience the flavors of Scotland for yourself? You're in for a delicious treat. SlĂ inte mhath!

Tuesday 20 February 2024

Walker's Shortbread. The sweet way to show your Mother you love her

There are two absolutely delicious gifts produced by the iconic Walker's Shortbread baker's that your mother is sure to absolutely love.

The team at Walkers's Shortbread has curated a few of their most beloved products to create the ultimate gifting selection.

And what better way could there be to show your appreciation this Mothering Sunday/Mother’s Day than with a delicious treat that can be enjoyed over and over 'til the last crumb is eaten?

Whether it’s your shortbread loving mum or nan, or a treat for that special someone who’s always looked out for you? These are ideal.

The Deluxe Mother's Day Gift Box (RRP: £40), includes 11 of Walker’s delicious shortbread products, including the famous Shortbread Fingers and Shortbread Rounds, as well as Stem Ginger Shortbreads, Orange Royals and White Chocolate & Raspberry biscuits.

The Mother’s Day Gift Bag (RRP: £20), includes a gorgeous 'With Love' tin of Shortbread Rounds, NEW shortbread assortment in Walker's updated packaging, a box of Ginger Royals and our White Chocolate & Raspberry biscuits for an extra indulgent treat.

The keepsake tin is full of scrumptious all-butter thistle shaped shortbread and can be used to keep mementos in long after the shortbread has been enjoyed.

Each gift comes with a Walker's gift card and customised Mother's Day message. Share these special treats with your loved ones – and make them go one step further by re-creating some amazing no-bake shortbread recipes at home! 

You can learn more here about the recipes and place your orders with Walker's Scottish Shortbread who have been making absolutely delicious Scottish shortbread throughout three centuries, having first began baking in 1898, here: https://www.walkersshortbread.com/product-category/shortbread