Barmbrack is a traditional Irish bread. Barmbrack means "speckled loaf" in Gaelic. It is baked in either a loaf pan or cake pan depending on your family tradition. The brack foretells the future. Baked with charms, a piece is served to each member of the family, and your … [Read more...] about Psychic Irish Barmbrack
Downtown. Abbey recipes
Spooky Soul Cakes, The Original Halloween Treat
Trick or Treating originated in Britain and Ireland. Children and the poor would go "souling", going door-to-door singing songs on All Soul's Day (Nov. 2), saying prayers for homeowners, and performing other tasks to receive a soul cake a spiced biscuit. A soul! A soul! A … [Read more...] about Spooky Soul Cakes, The Original Halloween Treat
Fabulous Light Fruitcake
If you are not a fan of fruitcake it is likely that you have been subjected to the introduction of mass-produced cakes in the early 20th century which took all the love out of the process, and just a lack of knowledge as to how to make a great moist cake. I defended the … [Read more...] about Fabulous Light Fruitcake
Satisfying Shepherd’s Pie (Cottage Pie)
Shepherd’s Pie is a simple dish made of lamb or mutton, topped with mashed potatoes. When beef is used it is properly called "cottage pie" It dates back to the 1800s, originating in the sheep-raising areas of northern England and Scotland, when frugal housewives sought … [Read more...] about Satisfying Shepherd’s Pie (Cottage Pie)
Colorful Squash Risotto
Risotto is one of those simple, hearty, low fat glorious dishes. It is essentially arborio rice, stock, parmesan and whatever ingredients you wish to include. For Halloween or any harvest meal, try squash which is in season and have that lovely orange color. Roasting the … [Read more...] about Colorful Squash Risotto