The Alban Bun

It's only available during Lent and I keep missing it, usually because I am away, and I've missed it for this weekend, but I'm determined this is the year I'll taste one - or two! (not knowing when Lent is or going to the Cathedral are also factors)


What is the Alban Bun? The link tells the tale.

https://www.stalbanscathedral.org/the-alban-bun

Those look very good. Grains of Paradise might have been quite expensive in those times!

If you do get a pack from the next offering, let us know if it's cardamom or GoP. Although they are the same family it is really easy to tell the difference!

Those look very good. Grains of Paradise might have been quite expensive in those times!

If you do get a pack from the next offering, let us know if it's cardamom or GoP. Although they are the same family it is really easy to tell the difference!

I don't think I've ever had GoP.
I collected a pack of 4 on Friday , put it in freezer and took out two for lunch today.

Back in the 1300s Brother Thomas Rocliffe probably didn't have to disclose ingredients, but the current bakers* have a sticker listing on the packet which lists Green Cardoman as one of the ingredients.

20210321_Alban_Bun-small.jpg

We found it like a less sweet hot cross bun**, thus very pleasant halved and toasted.

* pun alert
**do you have HCBs in the US?

do you have HCBs in the US?

Yes! Typical Easter food.

I don't think I've ever had GoP.

I like them. They're not so floral as proper black peppercorns but they are citrussy and woodsy and do have a spiky bite.
https://www.thekitchn.com/grains-of-paradise-are-the-best-spice-youve-never-heard-of-190970

Back in the 1300s Brother Thomas Rocliffe probably didn't have to disclose ingredients, but the current bakers* have a sticker listing on the packet which lists Green Cardoman as one of the ingredients.

Green cardamom is typically used in baking so makes sense.
https://www.thespruceeats.com/all-about-cardamom-995599

**do you have HCBs in the US?

Oh, yes, and with all the expected American frippery: I've seen them glazed with Stars of David, chaos symbols, smiley faces,etc.

Fortunately, it's easy to extend the song to match, e.g.,
Hot anarchical buns
Hot anarchical buns
Break the windows
Steal the pastries
Hot anarchical buns

Offer in my email today... HCB, $14 for six: https://biencuitprovisions.com/collecti ... cross-buns