This recipe appears in the new Official Downton Abbey Cookbook. Orange cakes were one of the staples of the period and appear in many cookbooks. This version is originally from Margaret Black's Superior Cookery (1887) uses oranges and lemons and packs a very citrusy punch. … [Read more...] about Downton’s Orange Layer Cake
Dining Upstairs or Down
Downton’s Dundee Cake
Dundee cake is a Scottish light fruitcake. The story goes that it was originally made for Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th century, but since she didn't like cherries they were omitted and the top was decorated with concentric circles of almonds. This version comes from the … [Read more...] about Downton’s Dundee Cake
Downton’s Traditional Gingerbread Cake
This recipe comes from The Official Downton Abbey Cookbook which is quite similar to other gingerbread recipes of the era. What is particularly enjoyable about this book is that is prefaced by the historical background which I also like to provide. "Ginger was one of the … [Read more...] about Downton’s Traditional Gingerbread Cake
Spectacular Cherries Jubilee
This delightful dish dates back to the 1800s. The dish was created by Chef Auguste Escoffier in honour of Queen Victoria's Jubilee celebration. Cherries was Queen Victoria's favourite fruit so it was a good choice for dessert. The original version was not served over ice … [Read more...] about Spectacular Cherries Jubilee
Make Baba’s Cabbage Rolls!
Traditions in Eastern European families include cabbage rolls, "Golubtsi", made in a unique way that Baba (grandmother) used to make. This is peasant food since the ingredients are quite inexpensive; however, they are labour intensive to make. As a result, they are often reserved … [Read more...] about Make Baba’s Cabbage Rolls!