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Hibiscus Mint Citrus Cooler
Fill a one gallon clear container with a handful of dried hibiscus flowers and clean water. Then, leave out in the sun for 4-6 hours. Bring inside and drain off the tea into a pitcher add in fresh mint springs, juice of 1 lemon and 1 lemon sliced. Stir gently and serve with or without ice and a fresh sprig of mint.
(to be noted: ice chilled beverages constrict the blood vessels and restrict digestion. The natural process of absorbing nutrients during digestion is slowed down and/or obstructed when you drink cold beverages with a meal. I grew up in a hot climate and have very happy memories drinking the hot sun tea fresh from sitting outside. It was very refreshing.)
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Hibiscus (hibiscus sabdariffa) has served me from the Island Nation of Hawaii to parts of North America while her origin is of tropical African. From there she has potentially migrate to many continents and/or originated in those locations. Her bright red color is most commonly enjoyed in a cup of tea or locally native cuisine. In addition, the flower and plant will redirect your attention to the heart of what matters. She has been a graceful muse in the heat of a climactic moment too gently release unexpressed pressure and guides me to take proactive measures. If you find yourself in a pivotal moment in your life, you might just make yourself a cup of hibiscus tea and be with your wisdom. (hint) Listen with your heart. She does not use words.
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Fermentation. Waste Nothing. Simply place two tablespoons of sea salt in a quart mason jar. Then, slice up the extras from the fridge or garden. Place in the jar. Next, fill with clean water. Seal with the lid. Cover with a dish towel. Place in a dark cupboard for 4-5 days (up to 10 days). At day 4-5 taste if sour enough for you. If yes place in the fridge. Otherwise return to the cupboard sealed and covered. This will keep in the fridge for several months. ENJOY.
Sweet Cherry Hand Pie
6-8
servings30
minutes20
minutesStone Fruit is still arriving. As inspire, dive into the gift of sharing pie with ease.
Pastry Dough Ingredients
2 C. all-purpose flour, organic
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. Himalayan Salt
1 C. butter, unsalted and chilled
1/2 C. Plain Greek Yogurt
2-4 Tbsps. Ice Water
- Cherry Pie Filling Ingredients
2 C. Cherries, organic + pitted
1/3 C. Coconut Sugar
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
1/4 tsp. fresh ground cardamom
1/2 lemon, juice of1
1 Tbsp. cornstarch, arrow root or flour
1 Tbsps of Butter
1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
- Topping Ingredients
1/2 C Coconut Milk
1/4 C. Coconut Sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tbsp. powder sugar
Pie Crust Directions
In large bowl blend all the dry ingredients with a fork.Ā
With a pastry knife, cut in the chilled butter. The dough will start to have small balls form. Gradually add the yogurt with a fork.Ā
Slowly add the chilled water and blend with your hands.Ā
- Cherry Filling
Heat oil and butterĀ
Add the spices. Then, add the cherries over medium heat.
Stir in lemon juice and sugar. Let all start to blend and reduce down.
Then, as it starts to look like chunky cherry jam add the cornstarch. Stir gently till it thickens (3-4 minutes).
Remove from heat and let rest.
- Assembling the Hand Pies
Take pie crust and roll out on a floured counter top.Ā
Using a small bowl about 5-6 inches wide, cut out 6-8 circles.Ā
Then, add 2 tbsps of filling on each pie crust.Ā
Fold over and use a fork or your thumb to seal off the edges.
Pre-heat your oven to 380 F.Ā
Transfer your assembled pies to a lined jelly roll sheet.Ā
In small bowl, whisk the coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon and powdered sugar.Ā
Brush each pie with the glaze and sprinkle tops with additional cinnamon and coconut sugar.Ā
Bake the pies for 18-20 minutes, until golden brown. Cool on pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer to wire rack.
Serve with fresh hand whipped cream, mint sprigs and fresh cherries. Enjoy.
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Lavender has served my practices in so many beautiful ways. She has been a faithful offering and friend at tea ceremonies and sweat lodge. She is always present in my home and in the yard. Her sweet aroma is a call, for all willing to listen, to relax, slow down and remember your feet. While the world might feel upside down, we can meet these moments with grounded consciousness. As inspired, find a few fresh sprigs of lavender and be with her. Listen deeply. (to be notedā¦for those who grasp at the plant realm there is a consequence). Why not sit back and spend some time with a handful of lavender and see what arrives after you meet her with presence?
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New Recipes Upcoming this week. You can print effortlessly from there or you can request for me to email you these cards by sending me a message. More Spring to Summer Foods, if it feels still like Spring/Fall nourish with those seasonal recipes. A few recipes can be found HERE. New Recipes up this weekend.