DC Family Ranch

🍇 Homemade Blackberry Jelly Alert! 🍇

We're so excited to share our latest kitchen adventure with you all. We've just turned a batch of fresh, foraged blackberries into the most delicious jelly! It's incredible to think how this treat is practically free food.

We took a stroll and gathered these juicy berries from the wild, and everything else we needed was already in our stocked pantry. There's something so rewarding about using what nature provides and creating something truly special. Plus, it feels great to make use of what we have on hand.

Who else loves foraging and making homemade goodies? Share your favorite foraging finds and homemade recipes with us!

'sBounty

🌿🍇 **Foraging Fun Facts** 🍇🌿

Hey everyone! Today, while exploring at my in-laws' place, I stumbled upon a HUGE patch of garlic with scapes that are almost ready! Plus, the red and black raspberries are looking incredible. Let’s dive into some cool facts and tasty ideas for these foraged finds!

🍇 **Red & Black Raspberries: Nature's Candy!** 🍇
- **Antioxidant Powerhouses**: Both red and black raspberries are loaded with antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals and keep us healthy.
- **Vitamins Galore**: These berries are rich in vitamins C and K, great for boosting your immune system and keeping your bones strong.
- **Versatile Treats**: Enjoy them fresh off the bush, toss them into your morning smoothie, or sprinkle them over your favorite dessert for a sweet and tangy twist.

🌿 **Garlic Scapes: The Twisty Delights** 🌿
- **Nutrient-Rich**: Garlic scapes are packed with vitamins A and C, plus fiber and manganese.
- **Flavor Boosters**: They have a milder garlic flavor than the bulbs, making them perfect for adding a subtle kick to your dishes.
- **Culinary Magic**: Grill them, chop them into salads, blend them into pesto, or even pickle them for a crunchy, tangy treat.

🧄 **Forage & Feast Ideas** 🧄
- **Raspberry Salad**: Mix fresh raspberries with baby spinach, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.
- **Garlic Scape Pesto**: Blend scapes with Parmesan cheese, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), lemon juice, and olive oil. Perfect for pasta or as a dip!
- **Berry Infused Water**: Add red and black raspberries to your water for a refreshing and antioxidant-rich drink.
- **Scape Stir-Fry**: Sauté garlic scapes with your favorite veggies for a delicious, garlicky side dish.

Happy foraging and feasting! Have you tried any of these? Share your favorite recipes and ideas below!

I've been experimenting with some freeze-dried asparagus, and I wanted to share some of the amazing benefits and discoveries with you all!

🌟 Health Benefits:

Nutrient-Rich: Asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, as well as folate, iron, copper, calcium, protein, and fiber. Freeze-drying preserves these nutrients, making it a convenient and healthy snack.
Antioxidants: It's loaded with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and can boost your immune system.
Digestive Health: Asparagus is a great source of fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system.
Low in Calories: It's low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
✨ Versatile and Convenient:
Freeze-dried asparagus is incredibly versatile! You can:

Enjoy it as a crunchy snack right out of the package.
Rehydrate it for use in soups, stews, or casseroles.
Add it to salads for a nutritious crunch.
Incorporate it into smoothies for an extra nutrient boost.
I'm excited about the possibilities and the positive impact this can have on our health. Have you tried freeze-dried asparagus before? Let me know your favorite way to enjoy it in the comments below! 🌱💚

Grayson and I are teaming up for an exciting new adventure—selling delicious freeze-dried goodies! 🎉 Keep an eye out for our yummy list of treats coming soon. We're kicking things off with our very first order: freeze-dried strawberries! 🍓 Stay tuned for more tasty surprises!

Not going to say that sun tea is the best part of summer, but it is definitely up there!

Fun Facts About Sun Tea:
1. Simple and Natural: Sun tea is made by brewing tea bags in a jar of water placed in direct sunlight. The heat from the sun naturally brews the tea.
2. Slow and Steady: The process of making sun tea usually takes 3-5 hours, giving the tea a smooth and mild flavor.
3. Perfect for Summer: Sun tea is a refreshing and hydrating drink, perfect for hot summer days.
4. Customizable: You can add your favorite fruits, herbs, or sweeteners to create a personalized flavor.
5. Eco-Friendly: Making sun tea uses no electricity, making it an environmentally friendly option.

A few sprigs of mint or lemon balm makes it so refreshing!

Enjoy your summer sip!

🍲🥄 Canning Chronicles: Today, I took a delightful leap into the past and the future all at once in my canning kitchen! 🌟👩‍🍳 I decided to experiment with Grandma's cherished potato soup recipe - a timeless classic from our family cookbook. 📖❤️

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, just like Grandma does. 🥔🍵 It's simple yet full of flavors, and guess what? It doesn't even contain a drop of dairy! 🚫🥛 But, I must admit, I was a tad nervous about adding the bacon. 🥓😬

However, as the lids popped, sealing in the savory goodness, I knew I had nailed it! 🎉 The aroma alone took me back to Grandma's cozy kitchen, filled with love and laughter. The soup turned out amazingly - rich, hearty, and oh-so-comforting! 🤤👌

As I lined up the jars, gleaming with golden soup, I couldn't help but feel Grandma's presence, smiling down with pride. ✨👵 This is more than just soup; it's a warm hug from the past, a tradition preserved, and a delicious legacy to carry forward. 💖🌿

To those wondering about canning - give it a try! It's a wonderful way to connect with your roots and create something truly special. 🌱🤗 Grandma, your recipe lives on, and it's as delicious as ever! 🙏🥰

👩‍🍳 Kitchen Chronicles: Took my renowned homemade Pico, went full mad-scientist by freeze-drying & powdering it, and used it as a secret ingredient in a marinade for skirt steak! 🥩 Sizzled that beauty on my griddle and voilà - the most epic Fajita bowl was born! 🍲 Who knew kitchen experiments could taste THIS good? 😋

📣 Announcing the latest marvel in the world of gardening: The Incredible Hulk of Cabbages!! 🥬🥦 We're not sure if we've been feeding this beast Miracle-Gro or super soldier serum, but it's blowing up! 💥

Picture this: it's so massive that if cabbage had a heavyweight championship, this one would be a legendary undefeated champion! 🥊🏆 And we're not just talking regular big - this is 'might need a crane to harvest' big! 🏗️👀

Now, it's no secret that I am a cabbage aficionado - a connoisseur of coleslaw, a fanatical follower of fermented fare (who knew Sauerkraut could be so addictive? 😅). Cabbage is my crunch, my companion in culinary creativity, and frankly, I can't get enough of it! 😍

And because I believe in sharing the joy, I want to know - what are YOUR favorite ways to celebrate this versatile veggie? 🍽️💚 Sauerkraut? Coleslaw? Cabbage rolls? In a hearty stew or stir-fry? Or maybe you like to keep it simple and savor it steamed?

Share your best cabbage recipes or eating habits! Bonus points for those who have the courage to create culinary magic with a cabbage of this size! 🤩👩‍🍳👨‍🍳

🐔Well, well, well... it appears that seven days have passed since our chicken butchering extravaganza. You might think we'd just wing it from here, but nope! We're all about patience in this flock. Rigor Mortis, aka "Rigger", has officially left the coop, making it prime time for a little clucking awesome activity – chicken canning day! 🍗🥫
👩‍🍳We've waited for Rigger to strut off because it makes the meat tender and flavorsome. We know, we know, waiting is tough - it's almost as if time's been 'poultry-ing' its legs! But just as a good egg doesn't hatch in a day, good food needs its sweet time too. ⏰️
✨️So here we are, about to stuff mason jars with succulent, homegrown chicken, ready to seal in all the freshness and flavors that Mother Nature intended. It's like putting sunshine in a jar, but way more delicious! 🌞🍗
🤩So, raise your canning lids high - today, we don't just preserve chicken; we celebrate the circle of life, the patience of farming, and most importantly, the divine art of homemaking. It's not just chicken canning day, folks, it's a testament to our self-sufficiency and a celebration of sustainable living! 💚🌎

🐔🐔🐔 It's a clucking good day over here at the farm! 👩‍🌾👨‍🌾

🎉 Today we took on the task of butchering our first batch of meat chickens. Quite the milestone! We raised these little chicks with loads of love and care, and it's a testament to the circle of life that they'll soon become nourishment for our families.

A whopping 2️⃣5️⃣ birds are all prepped and ready for the canner! And what a whirlwind process it was. Nothing quite like a hands-on farm life, right? 🍗🍲

The best part? None of this would have been possible without the help of some amazing friends who joined us in this chicken journey! So here's a massive THANK YOU 🙏🙌 to everyone who lent a hand today.

BUT... that's not all for today's news! 📰 These adorable babies 🐣🐣 have now got a new home. Here's to more fun-filled, feather-rustling days on the farm! 🌽🍅🍃

Feeling grateful for the support, for our thriving farm, and for the life that allows us to be closer to nature. Here's to good food, great friends, and the never-ending adventure that is farm life! 🌞🌿🚜

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, let me introduce you to Cheyenne's magnificent new feeder calf for this year's fair. Please put your hands together and give a warm welcome to none other than... Limp Brisket!

Limp Brisket is a truly unique and charming calf, capturing hearts with every step. This little one has a character all its own, and despite the name, it's an absolute delight to behold. With its striking appearance and endearing personality, Limp Brisket promises to be a standout at the fair this year.

As Cheyenne's prized feeder calf, Limp Brisket has will be raised with utmost care and attention. His diet has been carefully curated to ensure optimal health and growth, resulting in a calf that is both sturdy and full of energy. Limp Brisket's coat shines with a glossy sheen, and its muscles are testament to the nutritious feed and exercise it gets.

So, when you visit the fair this year, don't forget to stop by Cheyenne's stall and witness the captivating presence of Limp Brisket. Its unique name tells a story of resilience and determination, while its charm and beauty will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who meet it. Get ready to cheer for Cheyenne and Limp Brisket as they embark on this exciting journey together at the fair!

🐣🎉 Exciting News! Our mischievous second batch of meat chicks is keeping us entertained on the farm. But hold onto your feathers because we're almost ready to harvest the first batch! Get ready for some super yummy chicken goodness filling our pantry soon! 🍗 Stay tuned for updates!

Hey everyone, the farm has been blessed with some adorable new arrivals! Rory the goat surprised us all by giving birth to not one, not two, but THREE cute little kids! We have 2 bucks and 1 doe, and they are all healthy and full of energy.

Rory was smaller than last year, but she definitely made up for it in quantity! Now the only problem we have is what to name these little cuties. Any suggestions? We're open to anything fun and creative.

In the meantime, we'll be busy cuddling and taking care of our new furry friends. If you're in the area, feel free to come by and say hello to the newest additions to our farm family!

Hey, Facebook friends! I'm feeling a bit nostalgic today, so I thought I'd share a little memory with you all. Every time I make "hillbilly stew," a delicious concoction of smoked sausage, potatoes, and green beans with onions, it takes me back to my childhood and memories of my beloved Grandpa "pop."

It's funny how something as simple as a meal can transport you back in time and bring back such sweet memories. I feel so lucky to have had such a wonderful grandpa and to have these memories to cherish.

So tonight, as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of hillbilly stew, I'll be thinking of him and feeling grateful for the love and warmth he brought into my life. What's a special memory or tradition that you have with your loved ones? Share in the comments below! ❤️🥘

Hey, hey, hey, check it out! Our farm just got a couple of rockstar new members, Potato Chip and Korn! Cheyennes new weathers are so stinking cute, we can't get enough. We are super pumped to have them on board and can't wait to see them strut their stuff. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on these two and all the amazing things we have planned for them. Let's give it up for Potato Chip and Korn, y'all! 🤘🐑🌾

🐔🚜🎉 No More Chicken Tractor Gymnastics! 🎉🚜🐔

Hey there, Facebook friends! You know how much I love my meat chickens (yup, the ones that eat like perpetual teenagers 🍽😅). Well, I've got some FOWL-tastic news! 📣

No more squeezing into the chicken tractor every day to feed these hungry birds! 🐓🚫🤸‍♀️ That's right, folks. We've finally upgraded to an automatic feeder system and our lives have just gotten SO much better! 🎊

But wait, there's more! 💧🚰 Next week, we're also adding a waterer that can be filled from the outside! No more splashing around inside the chicken tractor - just easy peasy, mess-free hydration for our feathered friends! Stay tuned for the big reveal! 📸

So, now I get to watch my lime-loving, perpetually hungry teenagers chow down and drink up from the comfort of my porch! 🏡🍈🐔

Here's to saving time, energy, and the occasional bruise or two! 🕒💪🤕 Cheers to freedom, happy chickens, and even happier farmers! 🥂🐓👩‍🌾

🚜🐥🌾💧

Foraging for wild edibles is a wonderful way to connect with nature and discover new flavors and ingredients. One plant that is worth seeking out is the dead nettle, a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in many parts of the world.

Dead nettles (Lamium spp.) are often found in woodland areas, meadows, and along hedgerows. In my case I just picked it out of my yard. They have a distinctive square stem, heart-shaped leaves, and small pink, white or purple flowers. Despite their unappealing name, dead nettles are not related to stinging nettles and are safe to handle and eat.

When harvesting dead nettles, it's important to pick the leaves and flowers when they are young and tender, usually in spring or early summer. Be sure to avoid areas that have been sprayed with chemicals or are close to busy roads or polluted areas.

So what can you do with dead nettles? Here are a few ideas:

Make tea: Dead nettle leaves and flowers can be steeped in hot water for a refreshing and soothing herbal tea. They have a slightly sweet and earthy flavor and are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Use in cooking: Dead nettles can be added to soups, stews, and sauces to impart a delicate and unique flavor. They can also be sautéed or stir-fried with other vegetables, or used as a substitute for spinach or kale in recipes.

Decorate dishes: Dead nettle flowers make a beautiful and colorful addition to salads, desserts, and cocktails. They are edible and have a mild floral taste that complements many foods.

So next time you're out for a walk or hike, keep an eye out for the humble dead nettle and experiment with its many culinary and medicinal uses!

🚜➡️🏙️ We've left the bustling DC Ranch behind for a few days, embarking on an exciting adventure to the Windy City, Chicago! 🌬️🌆 We're filled with immense pride as we prepare to watch the oldest of our bunch graduate from A school in the Navy! ⚓🎓🇺🇸

As we navigate the bustling streets of Chicago, we can't help but think about the incredible farm sitters back home. Their dedication, hard work, and love for our animals have given us the peace of mind to fully enjoy this momentous occasion with our family. 🙌🏼🐮🐔

A huge shoutout to the amazing farm sitters who've made this adventure possible! Without you, we couldn't be here to support our son as he takes this significant step in his life. 🙏💚👨‍🎓

I mean 🤷‍♀️

Good morning, my friends! Today is a new day, a fresh start, a clean slate. It's a day filled with endless possibilities and opportunities waiting for you to seize them. Take a deep breath, feel the warmth of the sun on your face, and let that feeling of hope and inspiration wash over you.

Remember that you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. You have the power to make your dreams a reality, and all it takes is a little bit of courage and a lot of hard work. Believe in yourself, and know that anything is possible.

So go out there and make today count! Take small steps towards your goals, stay positive, and never give up. Even if you face setbacks or obstacles, keep pushing forward and stay focused on the bigger picture. Remember that every step you take is bringing you closer to your ultimate destination.

And above all, enjoy the journey. Life is a beautiful and precious gift, and every moment is an opportunity to create memories, learn, and grow. So take the time to appreciate the little things, be grateful for what you have, and keep moving forward with confidence and determination.

Have a wonderful day, my friend, and always remember that you are capable of greatness!

How did everyone fair in yesterday's wind?

We've found ourselves with some extra wide mouth jars (not sure how that happened 🤷‍♀️) but now I am on the hunt for convenience food canning recipes. ⬇️ spam me with your favorite recipes or even just a great idea ⬇️

🌸 Spring has sprung and the DC Ranch crew is feeling it! 🌼 To keep our immune systems in tip-top shape, we whipped up a batch of homemade elderberry syrup. Who knew fighting off seasonal sniffles could be so delicious? 😋🍇

🍳🥔🌱 Hey there, Facebook fam! You won't believe the mouthwatering magic that's happening in my kitchen today! A delicious, farm-fresh, and (mostly) homegrown casserole! 🥓🍖🌿

I've gathered every single ingredient from the bountiful oasis of my backyard 🏡 (huge thanks to my lovely hens and last years thriving garden! 🐔🌳). From the fresh-laid eggs 🍳 and the earthy potatoes 🥔, to the crunchy green onions 🌱 each mouthful of this delightful dish is packed with love and sunshine! ☀️❤️

Oh, and let's not forget the savory bacon 🥓and the flavorful ham 🍖! Though it may not be homegrown (I couldn't resist grabbing some at Rus-Men Farms Beef, Pork & Chicken 😉), it definitely adds that extra irresistible, smoky touch. 🤤

So, here's to a scrumptious homemade meal that nourishes our bodies and brings us closer to the earth 🌍. I wish I could invite you all over for a taste, but until then, let's share recipes, stories, and the joy of homegrown and locally-sourced goodness! 🍽️

Bon appétit, my fabulous farm-to-table friends! 🌿🥘💚

Hey everyone, I just had a snack attack and discovered the tastiest treat ever - freeze dried marshmallows! 😍 And guess what? I found buttered popcorn and fruit mix flavors on sale! 🎉

These little puffs of joy are so crunchy and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. I can't get enough of them! They're perfect for snacking on their own or adding to your favorite cereal or trail mix.

If you haven't tried freeze dried marshmallows yet, you're missing out big time! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. 😋

🐥🏡🚚 Beep beep! The cutest fluff express is on its way! 🚚🏡🐥

✨🥳 It's THAT time, folks! Our first batch of meat chick(ens) 🐤🐤 is ready to hit the road and head to their new homes! 🏡

🌟 We're so egg-cited to start this clucking amazing journey with our fluffy little pals! 🌟

👨‍🌾👩‍🌾 A big shoutout to all the farmers who have been working tirelessly to raise these happy, healthy birds. It's time to spread those wings, little chicks, and get ready to embark on your adventure! 🛣️

🎉 Stay tuned for some adorable updates as they settle into their new homes, and don't forget to share your own chick adventures using the hashtag ! 🐥💕

🚀 Buckle up, chickies, and let the journey begin! 🚀

I will simply never understand how farmers used to set their roosters forward one hour.

Hey there berry lovers! 🍓 Did you know that freeze-drying strawberries is not only a great way to preserve their taste and nutrients, but it also gives them a unique crunch that's perfect for snacking? 🤤👌 Whether you sprinkle them over your morning yogurt, add them to your trail mix, or just pop them in your mouth, freeze-dried strawberries are a delicious and healthy treat that you won't be able to resist! 😍🍓

🍋Hey everyone! Did you know that freeze drying lemons is a fantastic way to preserve them and enhance their flavor? Freeze drying removes all the moisture from the lemons, leaving behind concentrated flavor and aroma. You can use the freeze-dried lemon slices to add zest to your water, smoothies, or even baked goods! They're also great for garnishing cocktails or adding to salads. Plus, freeze-dried lemons have a long shelf life, so you can enjoy their bright and tangy taste all year round.🍋

Today has been a berry-licious day! 🍓🌞 Spent the day freeze-drying some juicy strawberries, and also canned some in syrup to enjoy throughout the year. But the highlight of my day was canning some delicious strawberry pie filling, perfect for those lazy summer afternoons. Can't wait to taste the fruits of my labor! 😋 "