Violets and dandelions are some of my favorite plants to work with because of how abundantly they gr
Violets and dandelions are some of my favorite plants to work with because of how abundantly they grow in relatively easy to find locations like yards, woodland edges, and sunny fields.* An oxymel is a great way to preserve these flavors and it’s quite easy to make. An oxymel is typically vinegar, honey, and plant matter (in this case flowers). Oxymels can be used for soothing for coughs/sore throats and digestive tonic before or after a meal. They can either be taken by the spoonful without dilution, or stirred into a glass of warm or cold water. Personally, I mostly use them as a flavoring additive to a fizzy drink. Here’s how to make one yourself:½ cup violet flowers½ cup dandelion petals½-1 cup honey (to taste)1 cup Apple cider vinegar1 Tbs blood orange2 in chopped ginger coinsCombine violets and dandelion petals in a clean, sterilized jar. Allow the blossoms to steep in the vinegar for a week, then strain the vinegar through a sieve, removing the flowers.Stir the honey into the vinegar until completely smooth in the mixture.Once the honey has dissolved, the oxymel is ready. Add blood orange and ginger (either cut into small cubes or juiced) into the mixture and enjoy!As a beverage, spring bloom oxymel is especially refreshing over ice with a bit of soda water.*As with foraging for any plant, be mindful of where you’re picking from (consider if they are being sprayed with pesticides), and how much you’re taking. -- source link
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