|
GIFTS FROM THE GARDEN This year I refuse to buy any holiday gifts made in China -- let’s just say issues of trade deficits, and carbon and lead surfeits, concern me. But as I start my shopping, I realize I may have set myself “mission impossible.” All those little gifts in particular, the ones I enjoy offering to hostesses and postmen and neighbors, seem to be stamped “Made in China.” What’s a conscientious gift-giver to do? … Perhaps I can search closer to home, starting with my own pantry. Dried herbs! I’ve been saving pretty little bottles for years; I’ll fill some with dill and basil and mint. These savory ingredients can cost a small fortune in stores, but come free from the early summer garden. After years of experimentation, I’ve perfected a simple drying system, under the oven light for an overnight stay. And dehydrated tomatoes! I grow ‘Principe Borghese’ for this purpose, but any small tomatoes will do. Halve them and arrange on trays in an electric dehydrator, which works its magic in a day or two. Tall skinny jars will hold a nice stack of these tangy morsels, laced with basil, and bathed in olive oil. What about dilly beans? Long thin ‘Emerite’ filets work well, arranged vertically in jars with garlic cloves and dill florets. Cover with boiling brine, screw on lid, and invert. Old-timers love the nostalgia of these pickles. Then there are all those colorful beans that dried right on the vine -- ‘Scarlet Runner’ and ‘Vermont Cranberry’ and ‘Speckled Calico’ for a start. Can’t you just picture antique green canning jars filled with a colorful mix, ready for soups and stews? For those with a sweet tooth, there are jams and compotes and chutneys made with all sorts of fruits from the orchard and berry patch. These look especially attractive presented with ribbons or fabric bonnets. For a special treat, a homemade bread, or artisanal cheese, could be added. So no need to purchase suspect gifts from half way around the world. Just shop in your own pantry, finding festive ways to present your home-grown labors of love. Kathleen Arcuri Published December 2, 2007 – The Danville Daily Item |
|
Kathy’s Garden Writing |