This small-batch ginger syrup is useful for sparkling water, iced tea, mocktails and desserts.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons finely cut Dried Ginger Root
500 ml water
300 g white sugar
Method
Combine the ginger root and water in a saucepan.
Simmer gently for 15 minutes.
Strain through fine muslin or a fine tea strainer and discard the ginger pieces.
Measure 350 ml of the strained liquid and return it to a clean saucepan.
Add the sugar and stir over low heat until completely dissolved.
Simmer for 5 minutes, then carefully pour into a clean heatproof bottle or jar.
Cool and refrigerate.
Good to know This is a refrigerator syrup, not a shelf-stable preserve. Refrigerate within 2 hours and use within 2 weeks. Discard it if you notice mould, fizzing, a bulging lid or an unusual smell. Hot syrup can cause serious burns.
Turn dried orange slices into a simple natural Christmas garland. Pair with dried botanicals for a rustic handmade decoration.You will need
8–12 completely dried orange slices
Cotton twine and a blunt needle suitable for threading
Optional dried sprigs of Australian Lavender
Optional cinnamon sticks and wooden beads
Method
If drying fresh orange slices yourself, slice thinly and dry using a food dehydrator according to its instructions until fully dry, not tacky. Allow to cool.
Cut a length of twine with extra room to tie loops at each end.
Carefully thread through each orange slice, spacing them along the twine.
Secure dried lavender sprigs or cinnamon sticks between slices with small twine knots if desired.
Hang somewhere dry, away from open flames, heaters, condensation and curious pets.
This is a decorative craft, not food. Replace any pieces showing moisture or mould.Shop the botanicals: Australian Lavender. Orange slices and craft materials can be sourced separately.
Make simple botanical ornaments for the Christmas tree, gift wrapping or table settings using air-dry clay and dried flowers.You will need
Air-dry craft clay (follow the manufacturer's directions)
Rolling pin, cookie cutters, drinking straw and ribbon
Clean, dry Alpine Calendula Petals or Australian Lavender
Baking paper for the work surface
Method
Roll the clay to approximately 5 mm thick on baking paper.
Press a few dried petals lightly into the surface and cut ornament shapes.
Use the straw to create a ribbon hole in each shape.
Air-dry completely according to the clay manufacturer's instructions, turning if recommended.
Thread ribbon through the hole and hang in a dry indoor area.
Decorative only, not edible. Keep away from candle flames, moisture and pets. Use only clay approved for this crafting method.Shop the botanicals: Alpine Calendula Petals and Australian Lavender.
Make a beautiful festive potpourri jar to gift or display using dried botanicals. A lovely way to bring natural colour and seasonal fragrance into the home.You will need
1 clean, fully dry glass jar
2 handfuls thoroughly dried orange slices or peel
2–3 cinnamon sticks
3–4 whole star anise
Optional: a small spoonful of dried Australian lavender or Alpine Calendula Petals
Ribbon and a gift tag
Method
Make sure all botanicals are completely dried and cool. Any dampness can encourage mould.
Layer the orange, cinnamon and star anise into the clean dry jar.
Add a little lavender or calendula for a botanical accent.
Close the jar and finish with ribbon and a handwritten label: “Decorative potpourri — not for eating”.
Display in a dry bowl away from heat and flames. Keep out of reach of children and pets; avoid concentrated essential oils in this project.Shop the botanicals: Australian Lavender and Alpine Calendula Petals. Other decorative supplies can be sourced locally.