Winter is a quiet time in the garden as growth slows down and our plants are bedded down preparing to reward us with abundance in Spring! There are some exceptions of course, and citrus fruits are one example. If anyone has excess fruit from their citrus trees (or any other produce for that matter) at home we would be very grateful recipients in the school kitchen. We will always find a delicious and creative way to use any donated produce so please don't be shy!
Students in Year Three and Four are enjoying, "The Term of Pasta" in Term 3, with everyone getting the chance to try their hand at making, rolling and cutting fresh pasta.
Before that began, the Year One and Two students enjoyed a kitchen visit as mentioned previously. I promised them I would include the recipe for damper in the newsletter, so here it is. A quick and tasty bread easily made at home. Enjoy with butter or maybe a sneaky dollop of golden syrup !
Damper
Ingredients
450g (3 cups) self-raising flour
Pinch of salt
80g butter, chilled, cubed
185ml (3/4 cup) water
Equipment
knives
chopping boards
measuring cups & spoons
mixing bowl
baking paper
baking tray
What to do
Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl.
Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add the water to the flour mixture and use a round-bladed knife in a cutting motion to mix until the mixture just comes together, adding 1-2 tbs extra water if the mixture is a little dry. Use your hands to bring the mixture together.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes or until smooth.
Shape into an 18cm disc and place on tray. Use a sharp knife that has been dipped in flour to mark 8 wedges on top. Dust the damper with a little extra flour and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the damper is cooked through and sounds hollow when tapped on the base.
Transfer to a wire rack for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
