Fresh Herb Iced Tea - Tea Blend of the Month

Traditionally July is a hot month in Illinois.  I need to stay hydrated, but water loses its sparkle after a while, so I make herb iced teas.  This version allows the use of fresh cut herbs to make a tasty tea concentrate that you can keep in the fridge and enjoy for several days.

Explore the summer garden bounty with this tea idea featuring these attributes: peppermint cools, lemon balm brightens, catnip relaxes, and sage adds a soft savory note that ties everything together.

Fresh Herb Summer Iced Tea

• 5-6 stems catnip
• 4-5 stems peppermint
• 4-5 stems lemon balm
• A bit of sage 1-2 stems. 

Place stems in a roaster pan.  Pour boiling water over them and let steep 20 to 30 minutes.  Chill and store in the refirgerator until ready to serve.  Serve over ice with a splash of fresh cool water. Keeps 5 to 7 dsys in the refridge.

Five Tips for Easy Use of Herbs, even if you don't grow them!

I would like to share some valuable tips on the easy use of herbs in your home. Whether you grow and harvest herbs from your own garden, or just pick them up from the Farmer's Market or grocery. Here are five tips for utilizing herbs in your home:

1. Stock your Pantry with Dried Herbs:
   Dried herbs are a convenient and long-lasting option for enhancing the flavors of your dishes. They are readily available and can be stored in your pantry for extended periods. To use dried herbs, simply crush them between your fingertips before adding them to your recipes. Remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
   
   
   
2. Create Custom Herb Blends:
   Experiment with creating your own herb blends to suit your taste preferences. By combining different herbs and spices, you can craft unique flavor profiles that enhance your dishes. Start with simple combinations, such as Italian herb blends or Mediterranean-inspired mixes, and gradually expand your repertoire. Store your custom blends in airtight containers for easy access. Check out the Herb Blending Rules in this original article.
   
   
   
3. Utilize Herb Infused Vinegars:
   Infusing oils and vinegars with herbs is an excellent way to add subtle, yet distinctive flavors to your dishes. Simply place fresh herbs in a clean jar, cover them with your preferred vinegar, and let them infuse for a few weeks. Strain out the herbs, and you'll have a deliciously flavored vinegar ready to drizzle over salads, roasted vegetables, or even use in marinades.
4. 
   Freeze Herb Ice Cubes:
   
   Preserve the flavors of fresh herbs by freezing them in ice cube trays. Chop the herbs and place them in each compartment of an ice cube tray, then fill them with water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the herb cubes to a freezer bag for easy access. Use these cubes directly in soups, stews, sauces, or sautés to infuse your dishes with the vibrant taste of fresh herbs.
5. Experiment with Herb Butter:            Herb-infused butter adds a luxurious touch to dishes and can be used in a variety of ways. Prepare herb butter by blending finely chopped herbs with softened butter, then roll it into a log using parchment paper. Refrigerate or freeze the log until firm. Slice off rounds of herb butter to melt over grilled meats, spread on bread or vegetables, or even toss with pasta for an instant burst of flavor.

By following these tips, you can effortlessly incorporate herbs into your home cooking routine. Whether you're using dried herbs, creating custom blends, infusing vinegars, freezing herb ice cubes, or experimenting with herb butter, these techniques will elevate the taste and aroma of your dishes. Embrace the versatility of herbs and explore the world of flavors they have to offer. Happy herb-infused cooking!

Nail Whitener - Bath Blend of the Month

 I wear gloves when I garden, but the soil gets into the gloves and under my nails and as a result can still discolor my nails.  I also wear a brownish red nail polish in the summer to cover the staining under my nails which can also result in nail discoloration.  I found this recipe in an article from 2012 in the Herb Companion (Mother Earth Living) by Janice Cox author of Natural Beauty at Home, for a nail lightener that will fade this discoloration overtime, so by summer end I can get my nails looking like new again.

Nail Whitener

• 2 Tbls. orange flower water
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

Mix ingredients together and pour into a clean container.

TO USE: With a clean cotton swab or cotton ball, apply to clean dry nails and allow to dry. Repeat 2 or 3 times.  This can be done every couple of days until your nails are back to thier natural color.  Make sure you moisturize your hands and cuticles, as lemon juice can be drying. Try out this cuticle balm.