Friday, February 22, 2013

Maple syrup

Well the sap is flowing in SE Ohio so Winter is finally losing its' hold and Spring is just around the corner. We have already boiled 3 gallons of syrup down and this weekend looks like good sap weather. Sugar sand settles on the bottom of each jar even though we strain it through cheese cloth. I am sure this is just mineral deposits so I will probably just put it in some water and drink it. Did I mention it is wonderful on pancakes, cornbread, anything!

Friday, February 8, 2013

Stewing hens

Yes, those are featherless chickens. I am butchering my old hens(1 1/2 - 2 year olds) to get ready for a straight run of Delaware chicks this spring. I love to make a good stock from these chickens and Sally Fallon has a good one in her book. I scald my birds at a 160 degree temp and all those feathers  pull right out. Contrary to what most people think the skin is very nutritious when used in a stock pot.