The Sweet & Salt of Mabon Bread

Mabon bread is a special autumnal treat made with a unique flavor profile that celebrates the natural richness of the season. Reflecting the sabbat and the harvest, it is made with a combination of spices and grains – including honey and salt – that evoke the turning of the children’s wheel of the year. Not only is it delicious, but it is also an excellent way to introduce new flavors and textures into baking.

For this recipe, I wanted to create a sweet yet savory taste with a hint of complexity by using a combination of herbs and spices. The addition of honey and salt gives this bread just the right amount of sugars and salt and creates a wonderful contrast of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cup of spelt flour
– 1 tsp of sea salt
– 2 tsp of baking powder
– 1/4 cup of light olive oil
– 1/2 cup of honey
– 1/3 cup of raisins
– 2 tsp of caraway seeds
– 2 tsp of dried sage
– 1/4 cup of almonds, chopped
– 1/4 cup of black sesame seeds

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the spelt flour, baking powder, sea salt, caraway seeds, dried sage, and sesame seeds.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil and honey.
4. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and combine until you have a thick dough.
5. Fold in the raisins and almonds.
6. Transfer the dough onto a prepared baking tray and flatten the top.
7. Bake the dough for 25 minutes. When the Mabon bread is finished baking, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool completely.
8. Cut into slices and enjoy!

This Mabon bread is at its best when eaten fresh, but can also be stored in an air-tight container for a few days. If you’re looking for a way to extend its shelf life, consider toasting a few slices and adding butter and jams. For an extra special touch, you could even add some crumbled cheese or freshly-chopped herbs.

Mabon bread is a lovely way to bring the flavors of the season into your kitchen and spice up your traditional baking. With its unique ingredients and simple method, it’s easy-to-make and celebrates the complexity and excellent flavor of the fall. So, give this delicious treat a try and you’ll be in for a taste of autumn that sticks around for days.