Fiddlehead Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh fiddlehead ferns
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Clean and rinse the fiddlehead ferns thoroughly under cold running water. Cut and discard any brown ends or leaves.
2. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
3. Add fiddlehead ferns to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the fiddleheads are tender.
4. Add chicken stock to the pot, bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Puree the soup in a blender until smooth and creamy.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Heat on low until the soup is heated through. Serve hot.

Verdict and Serving Suggestions:

This Fiddlehead Soup is creamy, rich, and delicious. It is perfect for a light lunch or an appetizer on a cool evening. Serve with hot crusty bread or crackers.

Sesame Crackers

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. To a baking sheet, add sesame seeds and place in the oven for 3 – 5 minutes or until slightly toasted.
3. In a mixing bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sesame seeds. Mix well.
4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then add oil and water. Mix the dough until it comes together and is smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal parts, roll each out very thin (about 1/8 inch thick) on a lightly floured surface.
6. Cut the dough into your desired shape using a cookie cutter or a knife.
7. Place the cut dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for approximately 10 – 12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Verdict and Serving Suggestions:

This sesame cracker recipe is a crunchy and savory snack. To give the crackers even more flavor, you can add herbs or spices to the dough. They are great as a standalone snack or served with hummus or other dips.