Cats in the Garden.
Cat Breed: The Norwegian Forest Cat - Skogkatt

By Alex Butova, the Witch of Herbs and Cats

Meet the cats around us - they're our friends, protectors, and magical mascots. They keep us healthy and can even save us in emergencies...
Winter brings a special time called the Solstice. It's when the earth pauses its yearly cycle and starts a new one. This magical moment marks the beginning of something enchanting...
Let's begin with the Norwegian Forest Cat. It's a mysterious and northern feline friend, also called Skogkatt. It's like the wildcats in Scandinavian fairy tales...

Skogkatt's favorite flower

What's Skogkatt's favorite flower in their homeland? Viking Poms, small yellow daisies. But in more southern regions, Daisy Trees - Montanoa - serve as substitutes, reminding them of their distant Northern homeland.

Montanoa atriplicifolia - Tree Chrysanthemum, Tree Daisy - one of the most impressive winter bloomers.

Yuca Fries Recipe

Food from your garden

Ingredients:

1 medium-sized Yuca Root
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Optional: spices or herbs of your choice (paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, etc.)

Instructions:

Prep the Yuca: Peel the Yuca root with a sharp knife and remove any fibrous parts. Cut the Yuca into evenly sized sticks or fries.

Boil the Yuca: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the Yuca fries. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the fries become tender but not mushy. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork.

Drain and Cool: Drain the boiled Yuca fries and let them cool for a few minutes. Preheat your oven to 425F during this time.

Seasoning: Toss the slightly cooled Yuca fries in olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Add a pinch of salt and any additional spices or herbs you prefer for added flavor.

Baking: Arrange the seasoned Yuca fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Yuca fries for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.

Serve: Once they turn golden and crispy on the outside, take the Yuca fries out of the oven. Serve them hot as a delicious and unique alternative to regular fries. You can enjoy them as a side dish with your favorite dipping sauce or as a snack on their own.

These Yuca fries are not only tasty but also a great way to introduce friends and family to this delightful tropical root vegetable! Enjoy your yuca-culinary adventure!