tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272214052024-03-12T18:54:19.616-07:00flower food | fleurs, faeries and floral confectionsthe fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-34955697704383445902008-12-22T10:01:00.000-08:002008-12-22T10:03:02.705-08:00Happy Holidays!<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/3126179902/" title="Strawberry Cupcakes with Vanilla-Rose Buttercream Frosting by faeriefurballs, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/3126179902_bb80df2d26.jpg" alt="Strawberry Cupcakes with Vanilla-Rose Buttercream Frosting" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:85%;" >Strawberry Cupcakes with Vanilla-Rose Buttercream Frosting</span></div>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-89136702007283056562008-11-08T12:05:00.001-08:002008-11-08T22:45:52.641-08:00Cosmic Chocolate: Cinnamon + Roses<a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SRXxuEtOmII/AAAAAAAAAq4/Toh85rzKi-Y/s1600-h/cosmic+chocolate.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 345px; height: 172px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SRXxuEtOmII/AAAAAAAAAq4/Toh85rzKi-Y/s400/cosmic+chocolate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266381113119381634" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">I generally don't spend more than $4 on a bar of chocolate unless, of course, it's one that I haven't tried and there are edible flowers involved. (Or bacon - but that would be fodder for a different kind of blog.) </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I found this bar of Cinnamon + Roses milk chocolate from </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.cosmicchocolate.com/" target="_blank">Cosmic Chocolate</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> at a local Frenchy shop. I was weary of the cinnamon and rose combination; I have found this to create some kind of odd, indescribable and non-flowery taste (When I tried - and failed - to make rose-flavored Snickerdoodles). But, alas, I am no professional chocolatier.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The chocolate is actual quite good. For </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;">milk chocolate</span><span style="font-family: arial;">. But the roses were nowhere to be found. The cinnamon had a slight floral note but I didn't pick up rosy-ness. I guess I want a $7 chocolate bar to taste rosy when it has roses in it! </span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://cosmicchocolateshop.com/shangrila.html" target="_blank">Cosmic</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> also make these spa-inspired truffles with flavors like Lavender Honey, Jasmine Orange and Chamomile Green Tea. But I'm not certain how flowery they would be.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-26803053519301126862008-10-13T14:01:00.000-07:002008-10-15T12:53:27.065-07:00More Reasons to Move to France<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/SPO3pt-1FmI/AAAAAAAAABQ/ogJxKHhyIPQ/s1600-h/florian.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256747117417141858" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/SPO3pt-1FmI/AAAAAAAAABQ/ogJxKHhyIPQ/s320/florian.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Well, I finally ordered several items from the aforementioned <a href="http://www.confiserieflorian.com/">Confiserie Florian</a>. They have an amazing selection of flower items and I was delighted with everything that I got. First, there were rose and violet gels. They are little soft gel square candies covered in sugar. Both have flower petals in them and and nice flavor. I also got white chocolate rose and white chocolate violet bars. The chocolate is rich and flavorful and both have a lot of candied flowers in them. Lastly, I got some <span style="font-style: italic;">calissons</span>: almond shaped candies with a firm paste-like consistency. They are made with melon and are flavored with rose or violet and coated with a rose or violet icing. In a previous order, I got some crystalized petals from them. It was a nice assortment of roses, violets, verbana, and mimosa. The nice thing about these petals was that they were bigger than most others.</p><p>In domestic flower food news, I ordered some very nice lavender-vanilla sugar from the <a href="http://www.spicebarn.com/">Spice Barn</a>. It's great on French Toast and I imagine that it would be great on lavender scones or shortbread.</p>judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15443452110962819501noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-70848054103056822942008-10-11T23:34:00.000-07:002008-10-11T23:45:23.950-07:00Jasmine Flavoring; Or, the Joys of the Indian Market<a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGavSoj_fI/AAAAAAAAAeA/fJHbgbndGoo/s1600-h/jasmine-flavoring.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGavSoj_fI/AAAAAAAAAeA/fJHbgbndGoo/s400/jasmine-flavoring.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256152377364577778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">One of the things I love about the SF Bay Area is the large Indian community. I mean, I LOVE Indian food and up there there are restaurants a-plenty. This also means there are a lot of Indian grocery stores...and flowery foods! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">On my last trip up north I stopped by a local Indian market near my parents' house. Inside I spied rose ice cream, rose spread (like jam), rose syrup, wild violet syrup from Pakistan (egads, I almost bought this one but I still have most of a bottle of Monin's violet syrup in the fridge!), Turkish Delight (rose and lemon), some spectacular ground rose petal and sugar concoction AND this little bottle of jasmine flavoring. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I exercised a considerable amount of self control when presented with so many pretty and flowery things but I allowed myself this one, as I do not have any jasmine-related items at home. I haven't tried this yet...perhaps a simply little pavlova with rose-flavored meringue topped with jasmine whipped cream would be a good test.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-76372174345505790222008-10-11T22:57:00.000-07:002008-10-11T23:27:19.054-07:00Nostalgic Violet + Green Fairy Treats<a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGSVoMOTzI/AAAAAAAAAd0/NMD-bHEUeEM/s1600-h/violet-marshmallow.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGSVoMOTzI/AAAAAAAAAd0/NMD-bHEUeEM/s400/violet-marshmallow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256143140381675314" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:arial;">Violet is probably my favorite flower flavor. During my last trip to Paris I stumbled upon the most amazing and beautiful supermarket. The name escapes me but it wasn't too far from the Eiffel Tower and there was a large department store next door. (If that rings a bell for anyone.) Anyway, it was so <span style="font-style: italic;">very</span> French and gourmet and had a large assortment of flower-flavored candy, including some pretty, pastel-y marshmallows. I chose violet, of course. Back home, I tried to find them here (and online) but to no avail. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But here it is! Years later, picked up on a post-brunch walk last weekend. (I bought two: ate one, savoring the other. I'm sure it won't last!) Never did I think I would find them here in the states.</span><br /><br />The <a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://nougatsoubeyran.com/" target="_blank">Soubeyran website</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> has an online shop now although it's not clear to me if this is for retail customers and whether or not they ship to the U.S. They have an </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://nougatsoubeyran.com/boutique/achat/produit_details.php?catid=42&id=56" target="_blank">assortment pack</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> (that includes violet) or you can buy a box of </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://nougatsoubeyran.com/boutique/achat/produit_details.php?catid=42&id=68" target="_blank">orange blossom</a><span style="font-family:arial;">! (Which I'll have to try next time.)</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGSR08b5gI/AAAAAAAAAds/sUt26zBEVPo/s1600-h/absinth-candy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SPGSR08b5gI/AAAAAAAAAds/sUt26zBEVPo/s400/absinth-candy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256143075085641218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:arial;">Leone, an Italian confectionery company, creates little pastilles that you might find at your local gourmet market or coffee shop. I've </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://flowerfood.blogspot.com/2006/06/my-floral-recommendations.html" target="_blank">blogged about the violet</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> before. Recently I spotted this one, Absinth(e), with a lovely Art Nouveau design. I haven't tried it yet..the packing is too pretty to tear. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Oh, and apparently they come in </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.smallflower.com/product/28917">orange blossom</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> too!</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-26217146983015121152008-08-06T14:49:00.001-07:002008-08-06T14:52:04.766-07:00Strawberries with Rose Whipped Cream and Violet Syrup Drizzle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SJoclHf5qgI/AAAAAAAAAXY/rqp5Rj_bYpc/s1600-h/alice-rose-strawberry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SJoclHf5qgI/AAAAAAAAAXY/rqp5Rj_bYpc/s400/alice-rose-strawberry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231525341137840642" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The recipe is so simple, it hardly seems any effort at all. But wait until you taste it.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://thefabledneedle.blogspot.com/2008/08/what-to-eat-at-your-next-iced-tea-party.html">» Little Strawberries with Rose Whipped Cream</a>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-50907267655847446152008-07-05T13:32:00.000-07:002008-07-05T13:36:15.973-07:00Fresh Raspberry Cupcakes with Violet Buttercream<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SG_aksPxILI/AAAAAAAAARE/sj5JIvjQRgY/s1600-h/rasp-violet-cupcake-detail.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/SG_aksPxILI/AAAAAAAAARE/sj5JIvjQRgY/s400/rasp-violet-cupcake-detail.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219630817033134258" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I just posted about these delectable cupcakes I made this week on my other blog:</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://thefabledneedle.blogspot.com/2008/07/fresh-raspberry-cupcakes-with-violet.html" target="_blank">» the fabled needle's raspberry cupcakes with Violet buttercream!</a>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-87110870654802975492008-04-10T12:12:00.000-07:002008-04-10T12:29:38.084-07:00Cherry Blossoms Return this Spring<a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/2403198203/" title="Cherry Blossom KitKat by faeriefurballs, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/2403198203_9b8aa9af7c_o.jpg" alt="Cherry Blossom KitKat" height="273" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I've blogged about it before but here it is again, Cherry Blossom KitKat! I think it's different from a couple of years ago: the wafers are covered in pink and white chocolate swirl (as opposed to just pink) and the cherry flavor seems more intense. I don't suppose those of you with a cherry flavor aversion would like these (churning up not so found memories of children's cough syrup) but to me, the cherry-ness is quite yummy and not medicinal.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The real deal, appropriately displayed on a cherry blossom plate:</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/2404025802/" title="Cherry Blossom KitKat by faeriefurballs, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2091/2404025802_2b7c27c472_o.jpg" alt="Cherry Blossom KitKat" height="435" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">They've also got these "Little" KitKat bites that come in white and light pink, with a more mild flavor and a very sugary taste.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/R_5op9mFRJI/AAAAAAAAAKU/RxKhK7akZIA/s1600-h/cb-kitkat-mini.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/R_5op9mFRJI/AAAAAAAAAKU/RxKhK7akZIA/s400/cb-kitkat-mini.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187698890895606930" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Lastly - and oddly - I found some cherry blossom potato chips:</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/R_5ohtmFRII/AAAAAAAAAKM/cLcGqrrdkYw/s1600-h/cb-chips.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M5dKBd5_Vfk/R_5ohtmFRII/AAAAAAAAAKM/cLcGqrrdkYw/s400/cb-chips.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187698749161686146" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I know! So weird! But...not? They look like regular chips but they do have a unique taste...kind of a flowery flavor that is more natural and herby, not fruity or perfumey. They don't taste bad at all but I don't find myself craving them.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Stop by your local Japanese market soon. I'm pretty sure these</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;"> Sakura</span><span style="font-family: arial;">-flavored treats are only available in the spring!</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-26545238275536051912008-02-21T21:46:00.001-08:002008-04-10T12:30:03.180-07:00Eve: Rose Gum<a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/2282578261/" title="Eve - Rose Gum by faeriefurballs, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2019/2282578261_4b146f843c_o.jpg" alt="Eve - Rose Gum" height="190" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The first time I had this, I liked it. Definitely not for everyone because it's so perfumey. The second I had it (different packaging, as shown above) I didn't care for it so much. It really tasted perfumey. Faux rosy. Too bad. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">There's also Acacia flower gum by the same company, but that is even MORE perfumey tasting.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-74126288574989305192008-02-21T21:29:00.000-08:002008-02-21T21:49:14.509-08:00The Tea Room: White Chocolate w/Honey and Chamomile<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/2282583853/" title="Tea Room: White Chocolate Bar w/ Honey & Chamomile by faeriefurballs, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2276/2282583853_1469e3d404_o.jpg" alt="Tea Room: White Chocolate Bar w/ Honey & Chamomile" height="300" width="135" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Found this at my local While Foods Market. It's pretty good though a little sweet for me. I think I prefer white chocolate when it's covering fresh strawberries.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-63321698849422710832007-11-03T11:15:00.001-07:002008-02-21T21:43:38.639-08:00Roses Galore!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy666xhpyI/AAAAAAAAAAs/8-McW4HTlEw/s1600-h/100_0301.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128679597040314146" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy666xhpyI/AAAAAAAAAAs/8-McW4HTlEw/s320/100_0301.JPG" border="0" /></a> On my recent honey- moon, I was happy to come across lots of flower foods. In Greece, on the island of Rhodes, they make a lot of rose products. I brought several home. First, there's Rose Flavored Greek Delight. They are square jelly candies covered in powered sugar. They are incredible. The rose flavor is excellent, the texture is nice and the powered sugar add the perfect finishing touch. Next, there's "Rose Caramels." While I expected them to be rose flavored caramels, they're <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">actually</span> little rose flavored hard candies. Once again, they have a really nice rose flavor. I also got a rose product whose name I don't know. (The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">writing</span> was all in Greek.) It's basically a really dense rose fudge that comes in a little tub. The flavor is really <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rosey</span>. I also bought some rose jam which I didn't care for. It was very sweet and it didn't have a strong rose flavor. I prefer the rose jams from France. They also had lots of rose and rose-honey <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">liqueurs</span> which I didn't get since I already have some from France.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy-E6xhpzI/AAAAAAAAAA0/Uu2huQwMB1w/s1600-h/100_0264.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128683067373889330" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy-E6xhpzI/AAAAAAAAAA0/Uu2huQwMB1w/s320/100_0264.JPG" border="0" /></a> It Italy, I found some more of the aforementioned rose cookies. I also got some "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">crema</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">di</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">rosa</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">canina</span>." I was rather disappointed. It tasted more like fruit than roses. Oh well.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy-E6xhpzI/AAAAAAAAAA0/Uu2huQwMB1w/s1600-h/100_0264.JPG"></a><br />Back at home, I was very excited to come across <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Langford</span> Foods' Petals Shortbread. They come in three flavors: Lemon, Cranberry and Orange. Sadly, I was disappointed. The flowers are really just decorative and do not impart any flower flavor to the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">shortbread</span>. The shortbread itself was very bland and natural tasting, not rich and buttery as shortbread should be. They also make a bark of grains, granola and petals.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy_aKxhp0I/AAAAAAAAAA8/LyHKWq1rDiU/s1600-h/100_0267.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128684531957737282" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/Ryy_aKxhp0I/AAAAAAAAAA8/LyHKWq1rDiU/s320/100_0267.JPG" border="0" /></a>Lastly, while searching the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">internet</span> for flower foods, I came across <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Charssi</span> spoon fudge in White Chocolate Rose and Chocolate Lavender. The white chocolate rose was somewhat disappointing. Although it had a nice flavor, I couldn't really taste any rose. The chocolate lavender however was amazing. It has a rich milk chocolate base with a wonderful lavender flavor. You can order them at <a href="http://www.charssi.com/">http://www.charssi.com/</a>.<br /><br />I found a website for a store in France called that has the most incredible selection of flower foods. They have lots of sweets, such as white chocolate with rose or violet, nougat with rose or violet, flower j<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">elly</span> candies, jams, syrups, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">liqueurs</span> and many other wonderful things. They also have flower <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">recipes</span>, but they're in French. I have not ordered anything yet (the shipping costs more than the products.) The site is: <a href="http://www.confiserieflorian.co.uk/">http://www.confiserieflorian.co.uk/</a>judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15443452110962819501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-39411573270860631022007-09-28T13:53:00.000-07:002007-09-28T14:01:51.400-07:00Orange Blossom Cream Ale<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/1454953406/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1235/1454953406_0335a85921_o.jpg" alt="Orange Blossom Ale" height="676" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.buffalobillsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">» Buffalo Bill Brewery</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> brings to you this Orange Blossom Cream Ale. When I saw this at Ralph's (So Cal Supermarket chain) I could not resist, of course. And I don't even like beer. (With the exception of Ethiopia's Hakim Stout - the best brew I've ever had.)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">It's actually not bad, even refreshing. It's hard for me to detect the orange blossom, though I can certainly taste the orange peel. It's sort of like a lite beer with and orange cream soda flavor. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Available at select supermarkets.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-86033959851775435652007-09-16T21:52:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:07:52.235-07:00Bovetti White Chocolate with Violet Sugar<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/1395320822/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1276/1395320822_09cdd1c16c_o.jpg" alt="Bovetti White Chocolate with Violet Sugar" height="300" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I've been waiting for another flower-related product to blog about! Funny, Miss Judy and I were </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >just</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> talking about some of her recent finds. (To be blogged about very soon I hope!) </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Anyway, when I stopped by a local bakery to get a blended coffee thing, I spied some purplish candy out of the corner of my eye. (I think I have candy radar - cay-dar? Ok, lame.) There was a pretty display of imported chocolates and I zeroed in on the White Chocolate with Violet Sugar. Zing! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">$8.50 for a candy bar is not cheap. It's a big candy bar, but still. Of course, I had to get it anyway. I mean, it's still cheaper than flying to France. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">So, I'm kinda particular about my white chocolate. I'm not some white chocolate aficionado, but you know how sometimes white chocolate can have that weird artificial taste? Bovetti's white chocolate is pretty good, I think. I mean, it does have a strong, distinct white chocolate taste. But I felt that this taste overpowered the violet a bit. I know, violet can be so delicate, but I really want to taste the violet more than the white chocolate.<br /><br />White chocolate should just be the vehicle for the violet flavor, IMHO. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">» <a href="http://www.bovetti.com/EN/m2.php?gamme=7&id=21" target="_blank">bovetti.com</a></span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-22505003369493651282007-08-01T00:16:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:09:28.873-07:00Flowers Can Heal Too<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/970804375/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1330/970804375_61306674bd_o.jpg" alt="Rescue Pastilles" height="176" width="180" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Perhaps this is a very good example of the placebo effect but there's something about these elderflower-flavored pastilles that set me at ease. I'm not about to go into a long explanation of flower essences and how, according to some, they have healing properties because I'm sure I'll screw up some details. You can find a lot of info online and in books about this branch of homeopathy.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">For these pastilles, please visit: </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.bachrescuepastilles.com/">» Bach Rescue Pastilles.</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And I wanted to thank those who have commented on this blog! Regarding your questions about recipes, I can only, at the moment, refer to those that are listed in the right-side of the page. A lavender sugared-rim (on a Lavender Mojito, for example) is probably a mixture of fine sugar and dried lavender flowers...beyond that, I'm not sure! I haven't done a lot of experimenting lately, making candy and such. If anyone has any good links they'd like to share, please leave a comment. :)</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-79176140555258322242007-06-07T13:29:00.001-07:002007-09-16T22:09:53.991-07:00Herb-Scented Summer Fruit Sorbet<span style="font-family:arial;">How else can I convince myself that we're having a balmy summer?</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/531937308/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1303/531937308_50432c4787_o.jpg" alt="Yellow Fruit Sorbet" height="533" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Sorbet. Of course.</span><br /><br /><strong style="font-family: arial;">Herb-Scented Summer Fruit Sorbet</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 lb canteloupe, seeded, rind removed and cut into pieces</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2 white peaches, peeled, pitted and cut into pieces</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 ataulfo mango, peeled, pitted and cut into pieces</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2 T vodka*</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 T lemon juice</span><br /><br /><em style="font-family: arial;">Syrup</em><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 c. granulated sugar</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 c. water</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 tea bag, chamomile flowers</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 tea bag, peppermint leaves</span><br /><br /><em style="font-family: arial;">Optional Garnish</em><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Candied flower petals (</span><em style="font-family: arial;">Shown:</em><span style="font-family:arial;"> Lilacs) or fresh edible flowers</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Mix sugar and water in a small pot. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat. Place tea bags in syrup. Let cool to room temperature. Move syrup to the refrigerator to chill. Remove tea bags.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">In a food processor, add fruit, vodka and lemon juice. Puree until smooth.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Strain mixture into a large mixing bowl. Discard pulp. Stir in syrup. Pour this</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">mixture into an ice cream maker and follow manufacturer's instructions.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Scoop sorbet into an airtight plastic container and freeze for a couple of hours, until sorbet has firmed up a bit. Keep up to 1 week.</span><br /><br /><em style="font-family: arial;">To Serve</em><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">If the sorbet has been in the freezer for several hours, let container thaw on counter for 5-10 minutes. Scoop into bowls and garnish with candied petals.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">*Vodka is used to keep the sorbet from freezing too hard. This ingredient can be omitted.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-39907724459890844372007-05-22T08:43:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:09:02.968-07:00Lavender Mojito<a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/509516505/"><img alt="lavender-mojito" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/509516505_bec44b737b_o.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">What could be more pleasurable than a spontaneous trip out to the wine country for dinner? How about a delightful flower-infused drink?<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.thegirlandthefig.com/html-sonoma/index.html"><span style="font-family:arial;">The Girl & the Fig</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"> -- probably the most adorable restaurant name EVER -- is a low-key, <em>brasserie</em> that has friendly service and good food. Located in Sonoma, you'll find Frenchy-inspired tartines, entrees and dessert.<br /><br />I wasn't in the mood for wine (I know, I know - it's the WINE country, I get it!), or plain old water. What did my little eye spy on their lengthy list of libations? Lavender Mojito! I couldn't help but squeal just a little. It wasn't a hard decision to make.<br /><br />Lavender and rose-infused simple syrup and a lovely lavender sugar rim are what make this drink so special. And yes, it was delicious!</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-67166178527425999142007-05-13T15:33:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:10:56.029-07:00Lots of Flowery Treats<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeXZvxL8HI/AAAAAAAAAAk/708rGzaxpFA/s1600-h/lav.+rose+tea.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5064182774576705650" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeXZvxL8HI/AAAAAAAAAAk/708rGzaxpFA/s320/lav.+rose+tea.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is a very nice rose-lavender tea made by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shonfelds</span>. You can really taste both flowers. It comes in a pretty glass canister as well!<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeWivxL8GI/AAAAAAAAAAc/a3LWdP8mE_A/s1600-h/cho.+rose+tea.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5064181829683900514" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeWivxL8GI/AAAAAAAAAAc/a3LWdP8mE_A/s320/cho.+rose+tea.JPG" border="0" /></a> I came across this Valentine's day tea by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Harney</span> and Sons. It's chocolate with rose petals. The rose flavor is subtle, but overall the tea is quite good. Plus, it comes in a nice little tin.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeUqvxL8FI/AAAAAAAAAAU/arBvF9d5gg0/s1600-h/rose+cookies.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5064179768099598418" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeUqvxL8FI/AAAAAAAAAAU/arBvF9d5gg0/s320/rose+cookies.JPG" border="0" /></a>On a now not so recent trip to England, I discovered some wonderful flower foods. First were these delicious Italian rose cookies: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Biscotto</span> Di <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Frolla</span> Ricca <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">alla</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">rosa</span>. They were rich butter cookies with a strong rose flavor. They were buttery, almost like shortbread. They were delicious!<br /><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeUA_xL8EI/AAAAAAAAAAM/m3o2qFlvgN8/s1600-h/violet+tea.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5064179050840059970" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XotwoFg55Vw/RkeUA_xL8EI/AAAAAAAAAAM/m3o2qFlvgN8/s320/violet+tea.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div>While shopping the in oh-so-posh Harrods department store in London, I was very happy to discover that they had opened a location of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">aforementioned</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Laduree</span> in the store. After having a fancy rose pastry there, I took some violet tea home. The flavor is delicate, but nice.</div></div></div></div>judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15443452110962819501noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-36309405456615169662007-05-02T09:59:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:11:18.113-07:00Bi-Rite Creamery<span style="font-family:arial;">If you live in SF, get your sweet little buns over to </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://biritecreamery.com/" target="_blank">Bi-Rite Creamery</a><span style="font-family:arial;">, at 18th and Dolores, near the Park. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Have yourself a scoop each of the Honey Lavender and Chocolate ice creams. You won't be sorry. These frozen confections are so creamy and good, you won't notice that your hands have grown numb. (From the ice cream or the fog. Err, probably both.) </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Even on a typical grey weekend day, you'll see a line out the door. For added enjoyment, take your scoops across the street and watch the dogs on their play-dates.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://biritecreamery.com/">» Bi-Rite Creamery</a>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-78741303483318853822007-03-11T23:14:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:11:45.551-07:00Dry Lavender Soda<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/418524349/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/123/418524349_3950bfb36c.jpg" alt="Dry Lavender Soda" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">We spent a GORGEOUS day in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Yountville</span> this weekend, walking through the mustard flowers and dining at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Bouchon</span>. When inquiring about non-alcoholic beverages (I was drunk on the sunshine already), the waiter ticked off a list of ho-hum, been-there-done-that drinks until I heard the words "Dry Lavender Soda." If I were a cat, my ears would have perked up. Instead my bum bounced in its bistro-style seat and an "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ooo</span>!" came out of my mouth.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I expected the lavender flavor to be stronger but as I sipped it, I found it's subtlety refreshing, especially on such a HOT March afternoon. </span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.drysoda.com/">» Dry Soda.com</a>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-23817009308115846812007-01-25T08:26:00.000-08:002008-02-21T21:44:21.267-08:00Cornmeal Violet Macaroons<span style="font-family:arial;">I discovered </span><a href="http://chocolateandzucchini.com/"><span style="font-family:arial;">» Chocolate & Zucchini</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"> sweetly by accidently last year, looking for recipes.<br /><br />In short: this blog is written by Parisan Clotilde Dusoulier, an amazing and imaginative chef who is kind enough to share her witty banter and fabulous recipes.<br /><br />Or they at least sound and look fabulous - I have yet to try out one but I plan to soon. How about </span><a href="http://chocolateandzucchini.com/archives/2006/12/macarons_mais_violette.php"><em><span style="font-family:arial;">» Macarons Maïs Violette</span></em></a><span style="font-family:arial;">?</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-1165619919200731212006-12-08T15:14:00.000-08:002007-09-16T22:12:59.524-07:00Sweet Finds<span style="font-family:arial;">Yesterday, my DB and I decided to take a break and venture off to the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero. I've heard many good things about the Market over there.<br /><br />It truly is a delightful place. One of the first things I came upon is<br /></span><a href="http://www.miettecakes.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:arial;">» Miette</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;">, an organic <i>patisserie</i>. Besides, obviously, their lovely cakes and desserts, they have a wonderful collection of cute, Frenchy cakeplates, homemade rose petal jam and candies imported from France.<br /><br /></span><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/317394679/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img alt="miette's counter at the ferry building" src="http://static.flickr.com/131/317394679_e2ad521b9b_m.jpg" height="180" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br />I bought this box of mints there that contain violet essence. Imported from Provence. (The rose-flavored Turkish Delight is actually from the Berkeley Bowl market, but I threw it in there cuz the mints looked lonely.)<br /><br /></span><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/317394579/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img alt="flower candy" src="http://static.flickr.com/140/317394579_edac4505b8_m.jpg" height="186" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br />You'll find other foodie items like this lavender salt. I had it over at Nadaly's when she and her hub were grilling up some lamb chops - yum, so good!<br /><br /></span><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/317394597/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img alt="lavender salt" src="http://static.flickr.com/134/317394597_53b61034c9_o.jpg" height="355" width="350" /></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br />Hediard French preserves, orange blossom and jasmine:<br /><br /></span><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/317394557/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img alt="ferry building: french jams" src="http://static.flickr.com/141/317394557_4b9246c46b_o.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br />Finally, some very pricey imported pastels (rose and violet flavored included in the assortment):<br /><br /></span><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/317394508/"><span style="font-family:arial;"><img alt="flower candies" src="http://static.flickr.com/131/317394508_6eac05aaa2_o.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></span></a>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-1161247389122396632006-10-19T01:29:00.000-07:002008-02-21T21:44:37.504-08:00Parisian Flower Food Update: Violet Jam<span style="font-family:arial;">Some of the food I brought home from Paris I did not try, having faith (hope) they would taste as good as they looked.<br /><br />Here's my experience so far...</span><br /><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405704/"><img alt="Violet Jam" src="http://static.flickr.com/99/269405704_e2e893d904.jpg" height="500" width="397" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The violet jam is very good, though not strong in violet flavor. We had it for brunch this morning on homemade french (ha!) toast.<br /><br /><strong>Oatmeal French Toast with Violet Jam and Raspberries </strong></span><br /><strong></strong><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2 large eggs<br />1/2 c. (soy) milk </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1 T. - 1/4 c. 1 minute quick oats<br />cinnamon to taste<br />a sprinkle of ground cloves<br />pinch of sea salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">4 slices whole grain bread </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">butter/vegetable oil<br /><br />violet jam<br />fresh raspberries</span><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;">Whisk together first 6 ingredients. Add butter or oil to a frying pan and heat on medium. Dip bread, one slice at a time into batter. When butter is melted, add battered bread to pan (depending on your stove, this may be a good time to lower the heat, if it's too hot). Cook until golden, and turn.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;">Serve with violet jam and raspberries. So easy and so, SO good.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;">Serves 2-4 </span></p><p></p><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >{This recipe is still a work in progress, but very good as is; adjust to taste.}</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-1160849556729573082006-10-14T11:04:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:14:57.035-07:00French Flowery Treats<span style="font-family:arial;">I'm still recovering from jet-lag but as promised, I've brought back many floral-infused treats from my trip to Paris, and I'm here to tell you about about them! I've found so many wonderful things, and it's odd to think flower-flavored foods are so popular overseas but not so much in the U.S. Perhaps this will change!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I didn't, unfortunately, find much in the way of flower liqueurs. Not such a big deal since I don't drink very often. In the Montmartre I did find a little set of <strong>rose, violet and orange blossom liqueurs</strong> for over 18 euros - I decided against it, as each bottle provided maybe one or two sips! It was the same brand as the rose and orange blossom liqueurs I got there before but the laughably small quantity was quite the turn off.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >{Please note: As I am incredibly lazy - and tired today - you will not find the appropriate accent marks on all the French names here.}</span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span><span style="font-family:Arial;">At my beloved supermarket, <em>Monoprix</em>, I found most of the products shown.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">These flower jams from <em>Albert Menes</em>...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><strong>Rose:</strong> </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405741/"><img alt="Rose Petal Jam" src="http://static.flickr.com/109/269405741_a883665dfe.jpg" height="500" width="407" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">and <strong>Violet:</strong><br /></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405704/"><img alt="Violet Jam" src="http://static.flickr.com/99/269405704_e2e893d904.jpg" height="500" width="397" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">You'll find jars of flower <em>confits</em> all over France from various makers such as <em>Fauchon</em>; I choose this brand for its quaint homemade look and affordable price. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Also from <em>Albert Menes</em>...</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><strong>Mustard with Herbs de Provence:</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405784/"><img alt="Mustard with Herbs de Provence" src="http://static.flickr.com/103/269405784_fe77814125.jpg" height="500" width="358" /></a></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Ok, what does mustard have to so with flowers? Herbs de Provence is an herbal blend, traditionally made with lavender.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I've blogged about this one before, <em>New Tree's Tranquility Bar</em><strong> </strong>with<strong> Lavender and Lime Blossom extract:</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405678/"><img alt="Lavender Milk Chocolate with Lime Blossom Extract" src="http://static.flickr.com/101/269405678_239cae7d6f.jpg" height="458" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This bar is still one of my favorites.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><em></em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>Mamie Nova's</em> <strong>Violet yogurt:</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269401326/"><img alt="Violet Yogurt" src="http://static.flickr.com/113/269401326_3f83d969d2.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This is a new flavor and was hard to find. It's very creamy and mild, not very yogurty at all. (French yogurt tends to be less sour than American yogurt anyway, but this was especially mild and rich.) She also makes a <strong>Rhubarb Rose</strong> flavor, which I did not try.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><em>Recettes & Sensations'</em> <strong>Raspberry Violet yogurt:</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269400924/"><img alt="Raspberry Violet Yogurt" src="http://static.flickr.com/122/269400924_7c4d24758b.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The sweet violet flavor went quite well with the raspberries in this mildly tangy yogurt.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">They make a <strong>Litchi Rose </strong>flavor, also good:</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269400885/"><img alt="Litchi Rose Yogurt" src="http://static.flickr.com/101/269400885_1ae6ae31c2.jpg" height="500" width="333" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>Lorina's</em> <strong>Violet-flavored Mineral Water</strong> (with gas):</span><br /><p><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269401185/"><img alt="Violet Mineral Water" src="http://static.flickr.com/93/269401185_3a858e07a7.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;">You may recognize the label - their French lemonades can be found at <em>World Market</em> and other gourmet shops in the U.S.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></p><p></p><span style="font-family:arial;">At <em>La Grande Epicerie </em>(part of <em>Le Bon Marche</em> on Rue de Sevres), I found:</span><br /><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Violet marshmallows</strong> from <a href="http://www.nougatsoubeyran.com/htm_en/product.htm#" target="_blank">» Arnaud Soubeyran</a>. {Sorry, no pic, I ate it before I had the chance to photograph it! Yum.}</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>Leone's</em> <strong>Violet Pastilles</strong> (another item I've blogged about before) in its pretty vintage wrapping:</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/170041584/"><img alt="violet_lozenge" src="http://static.flickr.com/45/170041584_1bf2364c64_o.jpg" height="115" width="118" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>Dessert Innovations:</em> little cookies, similar to macaroons (no filling) in <strong>rose</strong> and <strong>violet.</strong> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-family:arial;">This market (as well as many tourist shops and grocery stores) also had a large assortment of flowery hard candies like <strong>violet</strong> and <strong>red poppy</strong>. I'm not a big fan of hard candies so I didn't get any this time. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I was shocked to discover <em>Flavigny </em>has recently changed their packaging. The new illustrations I don't even see on their website, <a href="http://www.anisdeflavigny.com/">» www.anisdeflavigny.com</a>, which is just as well as I do not care for these new tins. Some things should never change, you know?</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></p><span style="font-family:arial;">I came across many varieties of flower-flavored syrups like r<strong>ose, jasmine, violet and red poppy</strong> in grocery stores, tourist shops and even <em>Durance</em> (soaps and perfumes from Provence), over near the Place de la Madeleine. But with all the new liquid restrictions, I thought it best I limit my goods. Besides, I can just order some <em>Monin</em> syrup at home. (See links, right.)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>Les Ruchers du Roy</em> make an abundance of different honeys from a myriad of flowers including this one of <strong>lavender</strong>:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405814/"><img alt="Lavender Honey" src="http://static.flickr.com/116/269405814_79b093a26b_o.jpg" height="449" width="400" /></a></span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.fouquet.fr/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:arial;">» Fouquet</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;">, an old candy shop since 1852, makes <em>confits</em> and candied petals. This little jar of <strong>candied lilacs</strong> is terribly exciting!:<br /></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269405866/"><img alt="Candied Lilacs" src="http://static.flickr.com/116/269405866_7545daf503.jpg" height="500" width="379" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Miss Judy introduced me to <a href="http://www.laduree.fr/public_en/produits/produits_accueil.htm" target="">» Laduree</a>,when we were in Paris a couple of years ago. This window display is from their Bonaparte (Rive Gauche) location:</span><br /><br /><p><a title=""><img alt="Laduree Window" src="http://static.flickr.com/115/269401056_9312339b39_m.jpg" height="180" width="240" /></a> </p><p></p><span style="font-family:arial;">The <strong>Saint-Honore Cake in Raspberry-Rose</strong>. This delicious cake is pastry, rose cream, raspberry and pink <em>chantilly</em> (whipped cream): </span><br /><br /><p><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269401286/"><img alt="Laduree Box" src="http://static.flickr.com/94/269401286_db8eda75d4.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></p><span style="font-family:arial;">Don't they have the loviest packaging?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269401110/"><img alt="Saint-Honore Rose Cake" src="http://static.flickr.com/108/269401110_f58dbb6913.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The macaroons are so good too. Here's <strong>Cassis (Currant)-Violet with a fruit filling, Orange Blossom with a gel filling and (my favorite) Rose with a cream filling:</strong><br /></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269401249/"><img alt="Macaroons" src="http://static.flickr.com/109/269401249_996be06e21.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">There are two other cakes, <a href="http://www.laduree.fr/public_en/produits/patisseries/patisseries_religieuse.htm" target="_blank">» "<em>religieuse</em>,"</a> one <strong>rose</strong> and one <strong>cassis-violet.</strong> Perhaps they are named that because they look like little churches? I didn't try these. Next time.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Trivia: As I recall, <em>Laduree</em> was featured as a charming backdrop in the final episodes of <strong>Sex and the City.</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">And finally, there's <a href="http://www.aunomdelarose.fr/sweets/model_detail.cgi?pid=1514&cwsid=2528anrAC194304anr9111365" target="_blank">» Au Nom de la Rose.</a> I stumbled upon this shop in the Latin Quarter. Rather, my nose did the stumbling, for the rose fragrance led me to its doors. Rose bouquets and gourmet sweets like white chocolate with candied rose petals. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269400981/"><img alt="Au Nom de la Rose" src="http://static.flickr.com/81/269400981_796f1b8744.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">The lady recommended the drops. Upon initial inspection, I thought they are gummy but alas, hard candy. Still good, very intense rose flavor. I think I will use them to make a version of rose candy ice cream - similar to one of my favorites, peppermint stick ice cream, but with rose candy instead.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><a title="Photo Sharing" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/faeriefurballs/269400956/"><img alt="Rose Drops" src="http://static.flickr.com/105/269400956_f2a1852204.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Ok, perhaps some violet jam, butter, bread and a spot of tea for breakfast. <em>Bon appetit!</em></span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-1159728548297654362006-10-01T11:41:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:15:34.821-07:00Strawberries: Favorite Recipes<span style="font-family:arial;">This lovely book, <em>Strawberries: Favorite Recipes,</em> by Oda Tietz, was recommended by our own Miss Judy. (Please see her informative post below!) I ordered it online and eagerly awaited it's arrival. Oh Judy, you were right, I love it!<br /><br />There are many recipes in here with flowers, like "Fruit Cream with Candied Magnolia Blossoms" and "Meringue Torte with Strawberries and Candied Elderberry Flower Clusters."<br /><br />Judy, I think we'll have to try out these recipes and do a little article on them together!<br /><br />Visit </span><a href="http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=61-1930603045-0" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:arial;">» Powell's</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"> online bookstore to get your own copy.</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27221405.post-1159727898335597152006-10-01T11:31:00.000-07:002007-09-16T22:15:52.467-07:00Fuchsia Epicerie Fleur | Montreal, Quebec<span style="font-family:arial;">During my first-thing-in-the-morning web-surfing (I'm a geek, I know!), I discovered this flower-themed restaurant in Montreal, Quebec (Canada) called Fuchsia Epicerie Fleur. I've aways wanted to visit Montreal. My grandparents lived there many years ago, and would regularly return on vacation.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Go here to read this little article featuring Fuchsia Epicerie Fleur in the </span><a href="http://www.canada.com/montrealgazette/news/weekendlife/story.html?id=f6672532-d5dd-4a93-944e-0a934369c3bd&p=1" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:arial;">» Montreal Gazette.</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><span style="font-family:arial;">The article is recent, so the restaurant should be there. Here's the info:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />54 Duluth East, Montreal, Quebec (H2W 1G8) </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">{at St. Dominique, Plateau}<br />phone: 514.487.3155</span>the fabled needle (jen)http://www.blogger.com/profile/07042055355643888757noreply@blogger.com1