HERB THERAPY

I recently had time to visit Chelsea Physic Garden. It is a haven of peace and nature in a walled garden amidst the smart residences of Chelsea. It was set up in 1673 by the Worshipful Company of Apothecaries for their apprentices to grow and learn about medicinal plants in what was then considered the countryside.

It is well worth a visit for both locals and visitors to London. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

The garden has medicinal, historical and edible plants. Within the culinary beds, herbs and plants are arranged by vitamin content.

I thought I would check out those with vitamin C content!

When I returned home I could not resist knocking up a batch of cheese and thyme scones.

Just making them is so therapeutic!

I follow my usual recipe for scones

500g (I lb) self raising flour

100g (4oz) margarine or butter

100g (4oz) caster sugar

300ml ½ pint milk

100g (4oz) cheddar cheese

5ml salt

dash of cayenne (optional)

2 tablespoons of dried thyme or herb of your choice

 In a food mixer mix the flour and fat, then add the sugar and seasoning.

Add milk to make a soft dough and mix in the herbs and cheese.

Knead and then roll out dough about 1cm thick

I  like to cut them quite small into 1 ½ cm rounds but you find a more traditional and slightly lager scone to your liking.

Place on a floured baking sheet for 10 – 15 minutes at Reg 7 / 220 F.

Then the idea is then to allow them to cool on a rack but they are just so good when just out of the oven. Add a dab of butter.