Strawberry Hibiscus Limeade

I wanted to make this before the weather turns cool. In Michigan the temps go back and forth from 60s to 70s to 80s as we transition into Fall. I am a big fan of hibiscus flavored beverages and this one from Millie Peartree via New York Times Cooking sounded so good. This recipe serves … Continue reading

Hibiscus Pickled Red Onions

This is a component of a Mexican recipe that Yotam Ottolenghi developed with one of his test kitchen chefs, Ixta Belfrage. I have never tasted such well balanced, flavorful pickled red onions. They are perfect for Mexican or Tex-Mex recipes with the addition of shaved lime peel and hibiscus flowers. Hibiscus flowers are a popular … Continue reading

Bees Love Lavender Flowers

The honeybees are very busy here in Michigan as they gather pollen from the remaining flowers still blooming. This bee is enjoying my lavender flowers which is a favorite. Food is scarce now and they do become a bit aggressive in their search for “sugar”. Winters are long here and they are trying to be … Continue reading

Salami Roses

A salami rose is a must for your next charcuterie platter. So easy to assemble and adds some real interest to your board – everyone will ask how you made it. Combine it with other meat, cheese, dips, nuts, fruit, etc. for a stunning presentation. Because I am interested in charcuterie ideas on Pinterest these … Continue reading

National Honeybee Day

I just received an email from Savannah Bee Company that today is NATIONAL HONEYBEE DAY! This little honeybee is enjoying the flowers on my oregano plant. Bees love flowering herbs… Do you have bees in your garden?

Bumble Bees – 2021

This is one of the best pictures I have taken of any bee – it was focused, showed the details of its wings, the body looks like its covered in soft fur instead of hairs, the orange pollen sac collected on the hind legs which is a part of the tibia. They use this in … Continue reading

Honey Lavender Butter with Cream Biscuits

Compound butters are wonderful to make ahead and have on hand when you prepare your meal. Whether you put it on your biscuits, vegetables, fish or steak it adds a nice flavor to your recipe. As my lavender is blooming I decided to make one fit for the summer season and served it with cream … Continue reading

Jamaica or Hibiscus Flowers BBQ Sauce

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States to honor the American labor movement and the contributions of laborers to the achievements of America. It also signifies the unoffical winding down of summer, cooler temperatures, sports and returning to school. Many people are grilling such things as  hamburgers, steaks, or chicken. Barbecuing a … Continue reading

Hibiscus-Lime Vodka Tonic with Homemade Hibiscus Syrup

I’m mainly a wine drinker who also loves a good liqueur and an occasional bloody mary. Recently, I’ve been using edible hibiscus flowers in recipes, such as Hibiscus Tea. So, when my Food Network Magazine had recipes for using edible flowers in cocktails I was inspired to make this and use my homemade hibiscus syrup. … Continue reading