If you happen to be associating with local ladies who like to bake, especially those who want to make Easter Bread, the hottest question is town is “where can I get anise seed?”

 

And my answer is “I do not know.”  I have sent out several of the ladies at the Progressive Woman’s Association in search of it and one has reported that the bulk food store in Quiet Dell has some, but it is not the real Italian seed.  I am sure it will season your bread just as well, but it still is not the authentic anise. 

 

I have even heard from my Italian contacts that it is very hard to come by in Italy and that it is very expensive.  I understand that the price at Quiet Dell is $11 a pound, but you certainly do not need that, much. There is also an anise oil, which will add the flavor, but the bread will lose its personality without the black seeds.  The oil is very strong, and you must be careful about how much you use.

 

I know it is a little early for Easter Bread, but I thought I would put out this blog so that I could advise you about the seeds and give you the opportunity to search for it or at least a substitute. The PWA will have Easter Bread for sale the week before Easter and I would recommend that you place your order by calling 304-624-6881.  We will only be making a limited number of loaves, and I am sure they will go fast.

 

If you do not have the recipe and cannot read the picture in this blog, the recipe is in the Arrividerci cookbook.

 

The PWA held another free meal for those need.  If you would like to help by donating, please call the PWA.  You really do not know how the other half lives until you have the opportunity to interact with them at one of these functions.  It certainly makes you feel thankful for what we have.

 

I suppose with the price of eggs we will not be using real eggs for Easter.  I suggest you purchase your plastic eggs early before there is a run on them.

 

Really and truthfully, I know that there is a Valentine and St Patrick holiday coming up soon and I hope you take the time to celebrate both of them!  Send a valentine to a shut in or someone who lives alone. No matter what I still enjoy receiving a bouquet of flowers, especially roses.

 

Stay healthy, take care and until next week “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.

Editor's Note: Pictured below is the Burnett family Easter Bread recipe.  The recipe was put on a cutting board and is the the original handwriting of matriarch Florence Burnett.