Reaping what I sowed

Figuratively and literally--and rather pleased about all of it. I even woke up in a good mood today. Like, bouncing around happy good mood. I have to say: I like this feeling. Not every day can be a happily manic Sunday, but I'll relish every one that comes my way. 

Yesterday, I spent some time in the garden. It feels like fall fell suddenly this year, and it was time to accept that all those green tomatoes would rot before they ripened. I left some of the almost-ripe ones for salads this week, but we've reached the tail end of tomato & pepper season here in the Northwest.

Which left me with this. On top of the blueberries that I still needed to do something with. 

Good thing I got an early start on the day!

First up, I made the lemon-blueberry tart I've been meaning to make since I harvested the rest of the blueberries. I basically followed this recipe, but I used Meyer lemons and a mix of gluten-free flour & almond flour for the crust. And am totally kicking myself that I forgot to add some jalapeños from the garden to the blueberry sauce. Might have to garnish with a little minced padron pepper.

That left me with an egg white, half a lemon, and extra blueberries. Apparently, the universe thought needed a Blueberry Gin Fizz! It was delicious.

While the tart was baking, I started processing the tomatoes & peppers. Most of them got tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh thyme and then roasted. I kept a little out to make salsa, but most of it is now vac sealed and tucked away in the freezer for future reference.

       

I had one apple left from gleaning the tree next door, so also made a green tomato & apple chutney. Threw in the rest of the blueberries, and some dried cranberries & apricots. Because...why not?

Used this recipe as inspiration, but used raw sugar and molasses instead of the brown sugar, a healthy dose of cardamom, and a combo of sherry vinegar, rice wine vinegar, and apple cider vinegar. Plus some Amontillado sherry...because alcohol soluble flavors are a thing. It doesn't suck.

Now to go check on Audrey...