Urban Farm Hub

Rising in the dark on the morning of the shortest day of the year I light the fire, grind fresh coffee and set off for a morning kayak trip.

Solstice sunrise

I used to dread the dark and cold but over time this quiet part of the year with its mists, frost and cool pale light have become beautiful to me.

Crabapples

For centuries the solstice has been a time to celebrate the return of the light and prepare for deep winter by lighting candles and sharing food with friends.  I hope this season brings you and your family joy and peace.

Here’s a recipe for spiced wine to help things along:

Glühwein, (Mulled Wine)

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 5 cardamom pods, crushed
• 1 orange peel, cut into strips
• 1 ginger root, peeled and cut in half
• 2 cups Pinot Noir, or other light-bodied red wine
• 2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half
• 4 whole cloves
• Raisins

In a large pot, combine the sugar with 1/4 cup of water. Over high heat, stir the liquid with a wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved, and then bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium, and add the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, orange peel and ginger. Simmer and keep stirring so it doesn’t burn.

Add the wine and spice to taste. Ladle into mugs and garnish with raisins; serve warm. Serves 6.