Daldinia Concentrica

These fungal growths, which look as if they have been burned, are nicknamed King Alfred Cakes.

Story has it that King Alfred was on the run from the Vikings when he hid in the home of a woman.

She asks him to watch her cakes baking by the fire, but he got distracted and burnt the cakes.

On occasion I have been reminded of this story about King Alfred in regards to my own cooking skills.

Later today we have planned to have a chicken dinner, and if I remain focused, and don't get distracted, I won't do a King Alfred;-)