A bunch of elderberries are surrounded by white flowers
September 2, 2024
Summer’s wrapping up, and while we might be doing a happy dance as the kids head back to school, we all know what’s lurking around the corner—the dreaded back-to-school cold. But don’t worry, I’ve got a little secret that’s been a game-changer for my family: elderberry syrup. Why I Swear by Elderberries * These tiny, dark berries are like nature’s multivitamins. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost your immune system, making them a perfect defense against colds and the flu. And if you’re already starting to feel that scratchy throat or stuffy nose, elderberry syrup can help lessen the symptoms. It’s like having a natural, sweet-tasting remedy that actually works. Where to Find Elderberries If you’re lucky enough to live in the countryside, you might just find elderberry bushes on a walk or drive. They love soaking up the sun, so check along roadsides or open fields. There’s something satisfying about picking your own berries, knowing you’re gathering the good stuff straight from nature. But if foraging isn’t in the cards (or you’re just not up for it), don’t worry! You can easily order organic elderberries online and have them delivered right to your door. It’s like having a little piece of nature shipped directly to you. Harvesting Elderberries: My Favorite Part Some varieties of elderberries can be toxic when eaten raw – the best way to avoid this is to make sure you always cook your elderberries well first When you find a bush full of those gorgeous, deep purple berries, it’s a bit like discovering a hidden treasure. I always bring along a pair of scissors and a bucket or bag to collect them. Snip the clusters, let them fall into your container, and you’re set. Back at home, give the berries a good rinse to wash away any dirt or bugs, and let them dry on a towel. Here’s a trick I love: freeze the berries overnight in a bag. The next day, give the bag a shake, and the berries will pop right off the stems. It’s oddly satisfying and a great way to relieve some stress!
The Perfect Tea Biscuits For Any Meal
Dawn's Simple Life

Follow Your Heart with Flavours


What goes better with any meal than tea biscuits? Ummmm, nothing!! At least in my family. These scrumptious morsels are so versatile, you can throw in just about anything! Maple bacon, cheddar and chives, garlic and chives, or even brown sugar and cinnamon are some of our household favorites. The best part? You don’t need to stress about measurements or perfection—just follow your heart with the flavours you love. I don’t measure; I just go with what feels right, and honestly, that’s when the magic happens in the kitchen!



I came across this recipe in an old, beat-up recipe book at a yard sale, and let me tell you, those are the best kinds of recipe books. You know the ones—dog-eared, with little handwritten notes, and even a few stains from spills and kitchen mishaps. That’s when you know it’s full of recipes a family truly loved, and this tea biscuit recipe has become a staple in mine!


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 Tea Biscuits Recipe (No Stress, Just Love)


Ingredients:

- 2 cups flour 

- 4 tsp baking powder 

- ¼ cup margarine 

- 1 cup milk 


Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 450℉. 

2. In a large bowl, combine flour and baking powder. 

3. Cut in margarine until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. (Or, if you’re like me, toss everything but the milk into your trusty KitchenAid mixer with a dough hook and let it do the work!)

4. Make a well in the center and add the milk all at once. 

5. Mix well using a dough hook in your mixer until the dough no longer sticks to the bowl. 

6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a few seconds. 

7. Roll out the dough to about ½” thick—or, if you’re like me and usually in a rush, just scoop and dump! 

8. Cut with a floured biscuit cutter or go rogue and shape them however you want. 

9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. 


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I always say, trust your taste buds and follow your heart with flavors. Want to add extra cheese? Go for it. Feeling like cinnamon today? Sprinkle away. There’s no need to be precise—cooking from the heart is the best way to make something truly delicious.


Store your biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or pop them in a freezer-safe container to save for later (they freeze beautifully for up to three months).


No matter what you add to these biscuits, they’re perfect with any meal—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—or even just as a quick snack slathered in butter and jam. 



More Dawn's Simple Life inspirations

A bunch of elderberries are surrounded by white flowers
September 2, 2024
Summer’s wrapping up, and while we might be doing a happy dance as the kids head back to school, we all know what’s lurking around the corner—the dreaded back-to-school cold. But don’t worry, I’ve got a little secret that’s been a game-changer for my family: elderberry syrup. Why I Swear by Elderberries * These tiny, dark berries are like nature’s multivitamins. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost your immune system, making them a perfect defense against colds and the flu. And if you’re already starting to feel that scratchy throat or stuffy nose, elderberry syrup can help lessen the symptoms. It’s like having a natural, sweet-tasting remedy that actually works. Where to Find Elderberries If you’re lucky enough to live in the countryside, you might just find elderberry bushes on a walk or drive. They love soaking up the sun, so check along roadsides or open fields. There’s something satisfying about picking your own berries, knowing you’re gathering the good stuff straight from nature. But if foraging isn’t in the cards (or you’re just not up for it), don’t worry! You can easily order organic elderberries online and have them delivered right to your door. It’s like having a little piece of nature shipped directly to you. Harvesting Elderberries: My Favorite Part Some varieties of elderberries can be toxic when eaten raw – the best way to avoid this is to make sure you always cook your elderberries well first When you find a bush full of those gorgeous, deep purple berries, it’s a bit like discovering a hidden treasure. I always bring along a pair of scissors and a bucket or bag to collect them. Snip the clusters, let them fall into your container, and you’re set. Back at home, give the berries a good rinse to wash away any dirt or bugs, and let them dry on a towel. Here’s a trick I love: freeze the berries overnight in a bag. The next day, give the bag a shake, and the berries will pop right off the stems. It’s oddly satisfying and a great way to relieve some stress!

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