July 1, 2011

Eat What You Grow: A Modern Take on Victory Gardens





It's funny how things come and go in cycles. Victory gardens were popular during the first two World Wars and now they seem to be sprouting up again. Back in the early twentieth century, troops were stationed all over the world, and resources were scarce at home. Many people answered the call to help their country by growing a portion of their food supply in their very own backyard or rooftop! 

Today, victory gardens have been renewed with a modern twist. Rising food and fuel prices have reminded many people that gardening is rewarding. There are so many great ways to incorpate your own home grown garden into foods or drinks that are not only cost effective and healthy, but FRESH.  We are currently growing mint leaves in our backyard. Mint is a herb that doesn't require a green thumb to flourish- in fact, it just can't stop growing!


My current favorite recipe is homemade lemonade/ice tea with fresh mint leaves. It's so refreshing on a hot afternoon, and I don't think that I can ever have enough of it! Make a glass for yourself by following these simple steps:




3 tablespoons crushed fresh mint leaves
1 quart boiling water
1/2 cup regular brewed tea
2 quarts cold water
1 (6 ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed

1. In a 1 gallon pitcher, combine the mint leaves, 1 quart of boiling water and brewed tea. 
Let stand for 15 minutes.
2.Stir in the cold water and lemonade concentrate. Serve in tall glasses over ice. Strain out mint leaves, if desired.


We also have a batch of blueberries growing too that surprisely haven't been eaten by animals. Mmmmmm, I can smell blueberry pancakes in the near future. 

What are your favorite things to grow in your garden? 






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