Recipes from the Books: Queen Anne's Lace

China Bayles' Pecan Springs Mysteries #26

Each of the China Bayles mysteries involves a plant. This book (#26) focuses on an herb called Queen Anne’s Lace, which belongs to the carrot family and has seen wide traditional use as an abortifacient. Carrots and their Daucus relatives are worthy of a recipe collection all their own. Here are recipes for some of the cookery in Queen Anne’s Lace.

Cass’ Couscous Carrot Salad

If you prefer, substitute 2 tablespoons candied ginger for the grated fresh ginger. For an entirely different taste, omit the basil and add ¼ cup chopped fresh mint. This salad can also be made with white or brown rice.

½ cup slivered almonds
1 cup water
Grated rind of ½ lemon
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup couscous
¼ cup raisins
1 cup grated carrot
1½ tablespoons grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon allspice
½ cup chopped fresh basil
Juice of 1 lemon

Toast the nuts in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until they are golden (about 3 minutes). Set aside. Combine the water, lemon rind, salt, and oil in…