Winter brings the end of the seasons. During winter, the cold and darkness drive us in to seek warmth. It is a time to rest, meditate and store physical energy. Winter is the season of the Bladder and Kidneys in Asian medicine. To harmonize with this season we become more receptive and introspective. We cool the surface of the body while warming the core. The following recipe offers the comfort and warmth of baking your own bread during the cold months. Often overlooked in our diets, save for the Thanksgiving table, the sour flavor of cranberry offers numerous health benefits.
- 1 cup organic sugar or sucanat
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/2 cup zucchini, shredded if using frozen, thaw and drain
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cup flour
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 3/4 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. cloves
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- 1/4 tsp. baking powder
- 6 oz cranberries if frozen, thaw and drain
- orange zest
- Heat oven to 350 F. Grease bottom only of 1 loaf pan, 9x5x3. Mix sugar and butter in large bowl. Stir in eggs, zucchini and water.
- In another bowl, combine all dry ingredients. Add dry mixture to butter egg mixture until well combined. Add in cranberries and orange zest. Adjust seasonings, to your tastes. I usually increase the spices--love the zip. Pour into pan and bake until wooden pick inserted comes out clean, 60-70 minutes. Cool 5 minutes, loosen sides of loaf from pan and remove. Makes 1 loaf.
Highlights: The cranberries and zucchini nourish the Yin (passive, quiet, moistening nature) of the body and benefit the Bladder and Kidneys. The cooking method and spices help to warm the spleen and the core of the body overall.
Primary Season: Winter
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