Sister Spinster

Two Recipes from Sister Spinster

Liz Migliorelli is the owner of Sister Spinster Apothecary in Oakland. A graduate of Ohlone Center of Herbal Studies, Migliorelli teaches herbal medicine at both Ohlone and Ancestral Apothecary. Her products are available at Homestead Apothecary.

A Winter Elixir

Share this lovely wine with friends and family during the winter solstice / holiday season.

Equal parts redwood or fir tips, rosehips, and elderberries to make 1 cup
Equal parts cinnamon, clove, and orange peel to make ¼ cup
Pinch of mugwort
Port

Place all dry ingredients in a quart-size jar and add enough port to fill the jar. Cover and let sit for a full lunar cycle, shaking daily. Strain, bottle, and serve. Shelf life is 1–2 years when stored in a cool, dark place.

Three Sisters Brandy

Perfect for chilly evenings! Take this sweet and bitter brandy by the thimbleful as a tonic, as a remedy for cold and flu, for indigestion, or for calming the nerves. For a hot toddy, add one shot to a mug of hot water, squeeze in half a lemon and add a spoonful of honey.

Equal parts yarrow leaf/flower, garden sage, and German chamomile
Apple brandy

Chop all herbs or bruise in a mortar and pestle. Place in a quart-size jar and pour in enough brandy to fill the jar. Shake daily for a full lunar cycle. Strain, bottle, and store in a cool, dark place.