Guard dog

The parsnips are a triumph. 

This afternoon - after the sun had dipped behind the hill - I cut one up and made parsnip and peanut butter soup (a favourite Chez M&B). 

Another I chopped up with some potatoes and will roast them for supper, in Hugh Fearnely-Whittingstall's fabulous spice mix*. 

The final one will be used tomorrow, as the mashed topping for a lentil and tomato bake.

Further perusal of my garden diary reveals that the reason for podding all the dried beans is because I need the space on the big shelf for germinating brassicas seeds, which are due to be sown this weekend. 

The day started and will end below freezing. -4C until well into daylight. Brr. But of course that means clear sky, and it has been sunny all the rest of the day. I joined Bean a few times on the deck...she has the right idea.

*= freshly ground black pepper, salt, ground turmeric, chilli flakes, ground fenugreek - quantities as you want them.