Our spanish farm Blog 
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There are parts of the garden you proudly photograph. And then there are parts you carefully crop out of every pic. My potting station was very firmly in the second category. For quite some time, this corner beside the house had technically been my potting area. I say technically, because in reality it had slowly evolved into something between a storage area, timber yard, plant nursery and general dumping ground. My brand new - Hand made set-up! There was an old table. There

Every summer, I asked myself the same question. "Why am I doing this inside?" Anyone who has ever pressure canned in the middle of August knows exactly what I mean. The kitchen turns into a sauna, every window ends up wide open and, somehow, you're still standing over a pot of boiling water while the thermometer outside is already creeping past 35°C. Loving the simple canning station Every year I promised myself that next season would be different. Then another summer came an

May always feels like the true beginning of preserving season. The garden is awake, flowers are blooming, and herbs are surging ahead. The kitchen shifts from winter cooking into that familiar rhythm of filling jars, drying trays, and making the most of what the season offers. I like May because it still feels civilized. You’re not yet knee-deep in tomatoes, courgettes, and fruit avalanches. Instead, May offers smaller, enjoyable preserving projects that help rebuild the pant

How I pressure can butternut squash in 1-inch cubes, then blend them into soup after opening: 55 minutes for pints at 15 lb on my weighted gauge ;)

I brought home 10kg of apples from a local farmer and turned part of the harvest into a small batch of low-sugar apple cinnamon jam. A taste of autumn, preserved in jars.

Learn the best tips for harvesting ripe melons and transform your summer bounty into a refreshing homemade liqueur—melonchello. Perfect for sipping chilled on warm evenings or gifting to friends.

First time trying to build! Summer in Penedès is a season of abundance. The garden overflows with tomatoes, peppers, melons, figs, and grapes, all begging to be preserved before the next harvest comes rolling in. But as anyone who has spent an August afternoon stirring jam or boiling jars indoors knows, canning in the summer heat can be overwhelming. The solution? A rustic outdoor kitchen designed for both cooking and celebrating the harvest. An outdoor kitchen here doesn’t n

How I preserve our Spanish oranges: orange marmalade water-bath canned (15 minutes for half-pints at my altitude), candied peel and orange liqueur ;)

Granola bars are the ultimate grab-and-go snack. Perfect for breakfast, post-workout energy, or a midday pick-me-up, these versatile treats are loved for their chewy texture, satisfying crunch, and customizable flavors. Making granola bars at home ensures you control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and create a snack tailored to your tastes. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the best ingredients to shaping and storing your granola bars for long-lasting

Finished product in a jar Mushrooms have been celebrated for their earthy flavors and numerous health benefits. From boosting immunity to enhancing brain function, they’re a superfood worth incorporating into your daily routine. One of the easiest and most versatile ways to enjoy mushrooms is by turning them into mushroom powder. This pantry staple can elevate soups, sauces, marinades, and even beverages with its umami-packed goodness. In this blog post, we’ll guide you throu

Tomato skins often end up in the compost bin or trash after canning or cooking, but did you know they can be transformed into a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient? Dehydrating tomato skins is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals. Here’s why I dry mine and exactly how I do it, step by step. Short answer: I dry my tomato skins in the dehydrator at 135°F (57°C) for 8–12 hours, until they are completely dry and britt

Are you looking for a natural way to soothe your skin? Calendula cream might be just what you need! Calendula, a flower in the Daisy family, has been celebrated for its healing properties for centuries. This vibrant flower is known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent ingredient for a skin-soothing cream. Plus, making it at home ensures that you know exactly what’s going into your skincare product. Let’s dive into the pro

As the chill of winter lingers on, there's nothing quite like the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. Whether you're gathering around the fireplace for a cozy evening indoors or lighting up a bonfire to enjoy the crisp outdoor air, starting your fire with homemade pine cone fire starters adds a special touch. Not only are they efficient in igniting the flames, but they also make for a delightful, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fire starters. In this blog post, w

In the world of culinary exploration, there are few ingredients as versatile and fundamental as onions. These humble bulbs bring depth, flavor, and complexity to a wide array of dishes, from savory stews to zesty salads. While fresh onions are a staple in most kitchens, dehydrated onions offer a convenient and long-lasting alternative that can elevate your cooking to new heights. Dried onions in jar I'll delve into the art of dehydrating onions and explore the myriad ways in

When it comes to spoiling our furry companions, there's no better way to show them love than with delicious homemade treats. One such treat that dogs absolutely adore is chicken jerky. Commercially available dog jerky can sometimes be filled with additives and preservatives that we'd rather avoid. That's why making your own chicken jerky at home is not only a fun and rewarding activity but also a healthier option for your four-legged friend. In this blog , I'll guide you thro

Home canning and food preservation have witnessed a resurgence in popularity recently, driven by a desire for sustainable living and reducing food waste. Whether you're new to this culinary art or an experienced enthusiast, I've compiled a list of the top 10 must-read, esssential home canning and food preservation books for your kitchen cover everything from canning basics to advanced techniques. They will help you become a master of home canning and food preservation. Before

Dehydrating apples is a fantastic way to enjoy the sweet, natural flavors of this beloved fruit all year round. Whether you have an abundance of apples from your orchard or just want to make a healthy, homemade snack, this blog post will guide you through the process of dehydrating apples and offer creative ideas on how to use them once they're dried. A Step-by-Step Guide Before you can start enjoying dried apple slices, you need to dehydrate them properly. Here's a step-by-s

Onion powder is a versatile and flavorful seasoning used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to marinades and dry rubs. While it's readily available in most grocery stores, making your own onion powder using a dehydrator can be a rewarding and cost-effective kitchen project. In this blog post, we'll explore the process of creating homemade onion powder and the numerous benefits it offers. The Process: Making your own onion powder using a dehydrator is a simple and

Dehydrating food is an age-old preservation method that allows you to extend the shelf life of your favorite fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even meats. By removing moisture from these items, you not only reduce the risk of spoilage but also create delicious, lightweight snacks that are perfect for on-the-go adventures or emergency food storage. In this blog post, I'll delve into the world of home food dehydration and explore the many benefits and techniques of this time-honor

Lovely garlic bread There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through the kitchen. That golden crust, the buttery goodness, and the unmistakable scent of garlic—it's a delight for the senses. Making homemade garlic bread is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. Let's dive into a step-by-step guide to creating your own garlic-infused masterpiece. Ingredients: 1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf 1/2 cup (1 stick) un