Yes, the title is correct – I am going to discuss the many ways you can eat your Christmas tree! It’s a great way to get more use out of something that would otherwise be wasted – especially in Australia, where the odds of using it for firewood are pretty slim. And another benefit – pine needles are apparently very high in Vitamin C (much higher than citrus fruits).
Sometime this week, we are going to pull the decorations off the tree. Then we’ll pull off a fair portion of the needles and freeze them. It will be Christmas all year round!
I have a few ideas in my head, and hopefully more will develop over time.
The first thing I will do is to wash and then dehydrate as many pine needles as will fit in the dehydrator, then turn this into a fine powder in the TM. I plan to use this powder to flavour roast dinners, pasta and rice dishes, and even to put in breads, cakes and biscuits (the ultimate Christmas shortbread!!).
I also want to do pine needle-infused oil and vinegar. This should be simple enough to do, and will add a wonderful subtle flavour to a huge range of dishes.
And last, but not least, I want to make pine needle tea! Apparently this is not the tastiest way to enjoy pine needles, but is worth doing simply for the health benefits. And just to give it a whirl!!
Look out for some interesting and hopefully delicious Christmas tree-inspired recipes appearing on my blog soon. I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas! 🙂
I’m impressed Sarah!! Bear Grylls says pine needle is so good for you 😀 (That’s where I’ve heard of it!) Never thought to grind them up in baking – let us know how it goes!!
*pine needles ARE so good for you* I mean! Must learn to read my comments over before clicking ‘publish’! lol
That’s what I’ve read too. I will definitely post my results. I’m going to use some in a braised lamb shank dish too! Eventually. I have yet to dismantle it – feels a bit sad to eat a Christmas tree, but better than wasting it I suppose!