Saturday, February 23, 2013

Garlic Grater designs


The Garlic Grater is a delightful little dish with a ribbed design on the bottom used to very simply grate a clove of garlic, making it a little gourmet treat when adding olive oil!
I have just started making these and have whole heartedly added them to my line of pottery! 


Hedgehog Garlic Grater



Use of the Garlic Grater:
Separate cloves from the garlic bulb. Hit a clove with the back of a wooden spoon or kitchen hammer. This will slightly mash the clove making it easier to peel. Peel one or more large garlic cloves. Press the clove on the bottom of the dish or bowl and rub back and forth. This will grate the garlic clove, releasing it's spicy oil and turning the grated clove into an intensely flavored garlic paste.
Add your favorite oil to the paste and enjoy dipping torn pieces of  french bread.
For tasty variations, add: Balsamic vinegar, Parmesan cheese or soy sauce to the garlic oil.








Saturday, February 9, 2013

Crows & Ravens



Crows and Ravens have always fascinated me! Their almost human movements combined with an uncanny ability to even sound human make them an irresistible subject to study. I am intrigued by all the of the mysteries surrounding them in superstitions and folklore.

Some of my favorites: If a raven perches on a house in Wales, it will bring prosperity to the family within.

Alexander the Great was supposedly guided across the desert by two ravens sent from heaven.

Rooks feeding in village streets or close to nests in the morning means inclement weather is to come - usually storms or rain.

Conversely, rooks flying far from their nest means fair weather

I have started a new design with the crow/raven as my subject. I have enjoyed trying out different poses and crow possibilities!