Samhain

Samhain. Commonly called Halloween. The last day of the Pagan year. The time when the veil between the worlds thin. After dark, there is the possibility of tenuous contact with the Dear Departed. Such  time is celebrated in many cultures, respect paid to those gone before. Sadly, these things are feared in our own culture, due to the ridiculous stories and half-truths promulgated by those who do not understand, and do not want to.

 

 Among the many vegetables that grew madly this summer, were these pumpkins. Which I had to do something with, as we don't eat them! (Although we do eat a lot of Squashes.) I was quite pleased with how my carving turned out.

                                                            ......especially the Owl.

 

The clocks going back to British Meantime has meant the nights drawing in earlier. The leaves falling from the trees remind us that we are falling into Winter.
All of these things make me start to feel like baking again. One of Best Beloved's favourite things is Cherry Brownies. As they also look suitably dark, they are perfect for tonight's Trick or Treating. Having said that, they will probably be unaccountably missing, if anyone should knock on the door!

  Melt 190 grams of butter and 190 grams of good chocolate ( minimum 80% cocoa butter) together, gently. Weigh out 115 grams of plain flour, and add a pinch of salt. Whisk together 3 eggs with 250 grams golden caster sugar. Line a 6'' x10'' tin with baking parchment, and scatter 80 - 100 grams of dried cherries evenly over the base. Beat the egg mixture into the cooled chocolate, then carefully fold in the flour. Pour evenly into the prepared tin, and bake at 180 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. It is done when the top goes lighter and flaky. Keep an eye on it, as it is easy to overcook.  Five minutes is the difference between cooked and melting, or overcooked and dry. Allow to cool before removing from tin. Cut into 16 pieces. Yum!