I wanted to create a medicinal loaf of Calendula Sourdough, because I believe that herbs can be added to the diet to help maintain wellness. Or to make an additional avenue for herbal delivery, especially with children or the aged. When I created my Calendula concentrate for the sourdough, I wasn't thinking of the benefits of Calendula or its potency, and therefore I killed the sourdough lift and loaf.
After some thought and some rethinking, I had success with these Calendula Cinnamon Scones with Orange Zest. This recipe is very forgiving and can be adapted to fit a person's dietary needs.
Calendula Cinnamon Scones with Orange Zest Recipe
2 cups All Purpose Flour, Unbleached
2 Tablespoons Sucanat Sugar
2 Teaspoons Baking Powder
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
1/2 Teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 Teaspoon Nutmeg
1/2 Cup Cold Butter
1 Tablespoon of Calendula Powder
1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
Zest of 1 to 2 Oranges, your choice (I used two)
1/4 cup Orange Juice
1/2 Buttermilk, or milk of choice
...
In a medium bowl, mix all the dry ingredients, except the Calendula powder, together. Then cut in the butter until it resembles crumbles. Stir in liquids and then add the Calendula powder, knead smooth, about six to eight times. Pat into eight-inch circle, on slightly floured surface and then divide into eight scones.
Place the scones onto a baking sheet and sprinkle the tops with Calendula petals and sugar. Bake twelve to fifteen minutes at 425. Or until golden brown/done. Option: You can incorporate the Calendula petals into the dough as well, or instead of the tops. Also, you may play around with the Calendula powder here, just add additional liquid for proper consistency.
This recipe delivers approximately 300 mg of Calendula in eight scones.
Calendula {Calendula officinalis} is a member of Asteraceae family, related to the Chamomile, Yarrow, and Dandelion. It has many beneficial properties such as helping fight inflammation within mucus membranes, addressing fungal and yeast issues - hence why I think it negatively impacted my sourdough - and is known for its effectiveness with skin issues.
Easy to grow, Calendula often reseeds and thrives in a variety of soils. The blossoms are most used, and if you are interested you may read more about Calendula here.
Let me know if you make the scones and your thoughts.
