A decadent collection of magical dishes and feasts created by the herbalist, witch, chef and co-owner of Catland Books, Melissa Madara.
Both food and magic are creative acts that require practice, intuition and a little bit of experimentation. They are also seductive arts, with an air of secrecy, served as an act of devotion to our environment. The Witch's Feast invites you to the ritual table, to engage with the craft through cooking, eating, and sharing delicious feasts with others.
Written by herbalist, witch, chef and co-owner of the famous occult bookshops Catland Books, Melissa Madara, this book reveals the storied history of kitchen witchcraft. Through decadent recipes, accompanied by correspondences, lore and historical context, this practical introduction to magical cooking explores five different facets of the occult tradition- traditional pagan dishes, cooking through the wheel of the zodiac, devotional meals to the planets, seasonal feasts to celebrate solstices and equinoxes, and practical spellwork through food and potions. Recreate an ancient roman feast with Roasted Lamb with Milk and Honey Marinade, followed by Cheesecake Baked in Fig Leaves. Celebrate a Libra birthday with Floral Pappardelle with Pistachio Sauce, with Roasted Pineapple and Basil Mousse for dessert. Align with Saturn over Blackberry Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Honour the autumn equinox with a feast of Crostini with Roasted Grapes, Pomegranate-glazed Turkey with Roasted Fennel, Curried Apple Soup, and Earl Grey Bundt Cake. Or share an intimate evening of storytelling over Mugwort Catnip Divination Tea.
Full of sumptuous photography, this book will not only make mouth-watering inspiration for any cook but also a workable praxis for exploring manifestation and spiritual art. Emphasising seasonality and sustainability, The Witch's Feast shows that magic is easily integrated into our lives, beginning with one of the most fundamental of human rituals - gathering, sharing and dedicating ourselves to the great work of the ritual feast.
