With Spring in full bloom, I found it fitting to feature a gourmet honey often described as “the champagne of honey.” It’s a honey so rare and original that I imagine Pooh Bear would go mentally insane if he couldn’t get his hands on it.
Fireweed is a vivid purplish-red wildflower grown throughout the American Northwest. It got its name from being the first plant to appear in wide-open areas left behind by forest fires. Golden, velvety and oh-so-slightly smokey, this honey symbolizes the magnificence and renewal of Mother Nature herself. While Smokey the Bear runs a killer campaign on forest fire prevention, he should take the time to hibernate so this honey can continue to go into production.
T <3
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BASICS
Brand: Moon Shine Trading Company
Origin: Woodland, California
Plant: Chamaenerion
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HEALTH
Nutrition: carbohydrates • fructose • low in fat, fiber, and protein
Benefits: strengthens the immune system • soothes the upper respiratory tract • fights against blisters, boils, and other skin problems • has antibacterial and antiviral properties
Ingredients: pure, raw honey
Replaces: other sweeteners
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SHOP
Where: Fireweed is most prominent in the American Northwest, you’ll likely find it in specialty shops in California or Washington.
Online: Amazon • Zingermans
Other Products: Hawaiian Lehua • Black Button Sage • Eucalyptus
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PREPARE
Storage: Keep in a cool location away from direct sunlight in a tightly sealed container; room temperature is ideal. If your honey crystallizes, re-liquify it by placing the jar in a pan of hot water and stir while gently it heats.
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EAT
Taste & Texture: lightly sweet • floral • fruity • smooth • buttery • hint of spice
Suggested Uses: use in scrubs and creams for the skin • sweeten oatmeal, tea, coffee, and cocktails • drizzle on cheese, yogurt, toast, ice cream, and popcorn • add to baked goods, substituting 3/4 cup honey for 1 cup sugar
Recipes:
Salted Honey Pie (via David Lebovitz)
Honey Biscuits (via Serious Eats)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey Glaze (via Bon Appetit)
Honey Chicken (via NY Times Cooking)
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COOK’S NOTE
Due to environmental factors, the production of Fireweed Honey is not always guaranteed to be in stock. It’s a rare product so get it whenever available!
What do you think of Fireweed Honey]?