The Black forest

It would be interesting to note that the 'black forest' which so often makes an appereance in popular western fables and mythologies has indeed, an equally interesting history behind it. It is the birthplace of, and is synonnymous to a worldwide phenomennon known as the 'black forest cake', and also of the first cuckoo clock ever made. However, being a fan of the culinary arts I would rather emphasize on the former. In reality the Black forest exists in southwestern Germany in Badden-Wuttenberm, a place known for bitter winters and twisted, knotty trees. After reading the details about it, a small theme began to unfurl in my head.

The origins of the black forest gateau, (or cake) owes itself to a young, relentless landscape artist, Meinweg, who through her magic used ingredients from nature's bounty to decorate the landscape in the few months that summer lasted. Since the harsh winter would drown the townsfolk in sheer gloom, she worked very hard at creating a natural wonder with the help of the 'Ruthmeistein' or the 'faerie rabbits' that were considered a nuisance in that area. The rabbits did their bidding by helping the young girl and often contributed their own stock for this sake. The Ruthmeistein even sent food up from their burrows to be churned into pulp into the large knotty trees.

The townsfolk began to replicate the same using their baking tools, and voila! The Black Forest Gateau surfaces.

Speaking of which....I'm hungry. :P

and gawd, I'm tired!!