Fennel Blossom Recipe

Try Fennel Blossom ice-cream for those warmer days coming.  

Makes about 1 litre
375ml coconut milk                                               5 egg yolks
450ml double cream                                             150g coconut sugar
1 star anise (crushed)                                           1 pinch of anise with 2 tbsp brandy
1 fennel blossom frond (chopped)                     A pinch of salt
 Ice for chilling

1.   Pour the coconut milk and cream into a heavy-based saucepan. Crush the star anise and add into the pan.  Add the fennel blossom frond (this will also have some of the pollen).

2.   On a medium heat, slowly bring the mix to a gentle simmer and simmer for 3 minutes.

3.   Combine egg yolks and coconut sugar into a large bowl and mix.

4.   Turn up the heat under the milk after it has simmered for 3 minutes, and bring to the boil. Pour this into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.

5.   Pour back into the saucepan and cook the custardy mixture on a low heat, stirring all the time, until it can coat the back of a spoon. Usually about 10 minutes. Do not allow the custard to boil, unless you want scrambled eggs.

6.   Strain through a fine sieve into a bowl, discard any large pieces of star anise, and add the anise/brandy mix (or substitute with pastis or pernod liquer) and a pinch of salt. Then chill in an ice bath, made by filling a larger bowl one-third full with ice and water. Stir occasionally to stop a skin forming. When it's cold, lay a piece of clingfilm directly on the surface of the custard and chill until completely cold. Transfer to a freezer-proof container and freeze until solid.

7.   Before serving, take it out of the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to soften.

Thyme - Gardening

Thyme prefers a sunny spot in free-draining soil. Add pumice or grit to improve drainage if needed.

Feed it with an organic mulch or a sprinkle of blood and bone for each plant in spring.

Thyme - medicinal uses

Thyme (thymus vulgaris) is an elixir for coughs, colds, flu, tonsillitis and laryngitis. It is a healing and antiseptic herb. Thymol is the essential oil found in thyme and is one of the most potent antimicrobials. Thyme is also rich in flavonoids, saponins and other antioxidants. The tea is very beneficial for singers and performers to help support their vocal cords.

Sore Throats and Colds:
Thyme tea: Use chopped fresh thyme or dried thyme and make a tea.

Thyme-infused honey: Gently heat 1 cup of honey and half a cup of fresh thyme for 15 - 20 minutes. Take 1 teaspoon three times a day to relieve colds, coughs and sore throats. Do not overuse dosage.

Respiratory Tract Clearance and Bronchitis
Put a few drops of thyme oil in a bowl and fill with boiling water. Then place your head over the bowl to allow the steam to come into your face, wait a few minutes first or you may scold your face. Put a towel over your head and breathe in. It will loosen the phlegm and relax the muscles in the respiratory tract. Warning: Be careful you do not allow the steam to scold.

Sources: The Herbal Apothecary, JJ Pursell.

Thyme Blossom Mask

Thyme Blossom Mask: Chop 3 tablespoons of fresh thyme with blossoms, then seep in ½ cup of boiling water for 3 minutes. In a ceramic bowl add the thyme blossoms and water and combine with 1 mashed avocado, ¼ cup of yoghurt, and 2 tablespoons of Manuka honey. Spread the mixture over your clean face, let sit for 15 minutes. While resting be mindful of its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, as your skin drinks in the nutrients. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your face dry.