Long ago, when the hills were younger and rivers still sang, there lived a spirit of the earth known only as Bhumiyai. She was neither goddess nor demon- only the ancient one, older than stone, older than flame. Her hair was the roots of trees, her bones were the mountains, and her skin was the […]
Folktale: The Pumpkin that Fed the Spirits Read More »
For the story please go to Tales From The Hearth (for the recipe, keep reading below) “There are meals made in pots and pans – and then there are meals carved from fire and soil. This is the latter.” The following recipe had been preserved by my grandmother, who in turn got it from her
Recipe: The Pumpkin that Fed the Spirits Read More »
The Hearthkeeper’s Guide to Piti Soup Gathering Ingredients (Serves 4–6): Lamb (or Mutton): 500 grams, cut into chunks Dried Chickpeas: 1 cup (soaked overnight, then drained) Large Onion: 1, coarsely chopped Garlic: 3 cloves, minced Carrots: 2 medium, cut into thick rounds Tomato: 1 large, roughly chopped Dried Lemon (Preserved Lemon): 1, broken into pieces
Piti: The Soul of the Clay Pot (Recipe) Read More »
A Hearthkeeper’s Tale from Azerbaijan In a remote village nestled among the rugged highlands of Azerbaijan, a gentle shepherder named Farid cared for his flock with quiet diligence. One bitter winter, as icy winds howled across the mountains and a relentless blizzard blanketed the land, Farid found himself isolated from his village. With the storm
Piti: The Soul of the Clay Pot (lore) Read More »
Here’s an enchanted, folklore-infused stew recipe in true “Ladles & Lore” style—a dish meant to warm the body and stir the soul. Long ago, on a wintry eve in a mountain hamlet, the wise Hearthkeeper gathered the season’s bounty, and a well-worn silver ladle whispered ancient secrets as it stirred her great cauldron. They said
The Hearthkeeper’s Enchanted Stew Read More »
Here’s an enchanting folklore narrative that embodies the spirit of “Ladles & Lore” – a tale where a humble kitchen tool becomes the keeper of ancient culinary secrets: Long ago, in a time when kitchens were sacred sanctuaries and every meal was an offering to the gods, there lived an old cook in a remote
The Silver Ladle of Lore Read More »
Bread is one of humanity’s oldest prepared foods—a humble staple that has nourished civilizations for millennia. Its history is as rich and varied as the cultures that have made it, evolving from simple flatbreads to the leavened loaves we know today. In this post, we’ll explore how bread came to be, tracing its journey
Story of Bread: A Journey Through Time Read More »
In a quiet coastal town in Kerala, generations of Orthodox Syrian Christians have observed a cherished tradition: after forty days of Lent, families come together to celebrate Easter. What better way to end the period of Lent, than a traditional breakfast of Appam and Stew? This meal is more than just food, it is a
Easter Feast of Appam & Stew (Ishtu) Read More »