August 7, 2012 - Wild (and Not So Wild) Mint
I’m a big fan of mint. Mint grows wild here in the foothills of the Appalachians, and many other places as well. A lot of people hate mint–it takes over garden areas and is almost impossible to get rid of once it gets started. I’ve never understood the problem–I love mint, no matter where it...
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July 30, 2012 - How to Steep Sassafras Roots
My farm is covered in sassafras trees. Sassafras trees are native to the United, from the mid-west to the east coast, and from Florida to Ontario. They’re usually found in open woods and along fences or in fields. Sassafras is an aromatic tree whose roots and root bark can be used to fragrance soap and...
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March 2, 2011 - Roasting Coffee Beans in an Iron Skillet
I’ve been thinking about roasting my own coffee beans at home for a long time–ever since Cathy (CATRAY44 on the forum) posted about it on the Chickens in the Road forum last year. Several months ago, CindyP posted about it on Farm Bell Recipes. CindyP even gave me some organic Arabica green coffee beans to...
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April 22, 2010 - How to Pasteurize Milk
Start with a cow. Tie her up, tie her down, tie her sideways. (Shades of Clover.) Okay, a cow is not quite as much trouble to milk as a goat, but cows are quite strong. Get ‘er milked and take your booty home. I have a post specifically about handling milk here: Handling Milk. I’ll...
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February 28, 2008 - Make Kahlua at Home
Kahlua is a simple coffee liqueur and it’s easy to make at home. Pour yourself a glass of homemade coffee liqueur tonight. It’ll be ready in an hour. I’ll tell you how! How to make Kahlua: 3 cups sugar 3 cups brewed coffee 3 cups vodka 3 teaspoons vanilla extract In a medium-sized pot, simmer...
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