Winter in Middle Earth
BY Alison Wiebe
As the frost takes over, let us journey to Middle Earth to sample the delicacies of a winter feast!
Winter in Middle Earth
With the cold days and long nights of winter coming upon us, let us imagine the hearty and rustic fare that would warm tables across JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. As the nights lengthen and the days grow dark, we can wonder at what foods would be served in the great halls of the Dwarven kings or at the lavish feast tables of the Elven kingdoms. What delicacies would be served by the hobbits, snug in their cozy hobbit holes as the winds of winter howl across the land? Let us explore together some of the culinary delights from different lands for a Winter Feast in Middle Earth.
Pork Stew with Bacon, Apples and Prunes in the Misty Mountains
Journey to the Misty Mountains for a rich hearty slow braised pork stew with smoky bacon, fresh apples and dried prunes. Serve with creamy mashed turnips for a delicious, warming winter stew.
Creamy Sage Mashed Turnips in the Misty Mountains
Mashed turnips are infused with a sage and garlic cream. A tasty root vegetable side dish, perfect to accompany a rich hearty stew.
Wild Mushroom Soup in the Shire
Creamy mushroom soup simmering over the hearth in a cozy hobbit hole is the perfect winter Shire comfort dish. This soup is made with cremini and wild mushrooms, and infused fresh herbs and a splash of sherry.
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in the Shire
Homemade soda bread flavoured with sharp cheddar cheese and a blend of fresh herbs, is a quick and easy recipe. Enjoy fresh from the oven with butter or alongside a creamy mushroom soup.
Roasted Delicata Squash in Rivendell
Roasted squash with a sweet and nutty brown butter vinaigrette, toasted hazelnuts and dried cranberries are an elegant dish for the etheral Elves during the frosty winter days in Rivendell.
Balsamic Bourbon Short Ribs in Mordor
For the ferocious orcs who are known to enjoy a tasty morsel, these succulent beef short ribs are falling off the bone and braised with tangy balsamic vinegar and strong bourbon. Top with a tangy homemade creamy horseradish sauce.
Potato Bacon Pie in the Shire
Chase away the winter chill with a slice of cheesy potato bacon pie from the warmth of your hobbit hole. A flaky pie crust is stuffed with layers of potatoes, bacon and cheese and topped with a drizzle of cream.
Winter Honey Sage Cocktail with Galadriel
Journey to Lothlorien where Lady Galadriel awaits with an enchanting elixir. This refreshing golden hued cocktail is flavoured with sweet honey and woodsy sage.
Cardamom Pear Bread Pudding in the Shire
This warm bread pudding is made with brandy cooked pears and a cardamom egg custard. Top with a sweet and citrusy cardamom infused caramel sauce.