SERVES 8
Katniss shared a cup of her mother’s broth with Haymitch shortly before leaving once again for the Capitol to participate in the Quarter Quell.
This traditional recipe is probably similar to what Mrs. Everdeen would have been able to make. If marrow bones aren’t a regular sight in your supermarket, ask the butcher if they’re available. They often are, but only if you ask.
3 QUARTS WATER
3 BEEF MARROW BONES
1 CARROT, COARSELY CHOPPED
½ TURNIP, PEELED AND CHOPPED
2 STALKS CELERY, CHOPPED
1 LEEK, SLICED
SEVERAL SPRIGS OF FRESH THYME
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE
½ CUP FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED
Bring the water to a boil in heavy-bottomed stockpot.
Add the marrow bone, carrot, turnip, celery and leek.
Add the thyme sprigs, salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil and then simmer gently over medium heat for 4 hours.
Remove the bones from the pot. Strain broth through fine mesh strainer.
Return to a boil and then stir in the parsley. Season broth with salt, pepper and fresh parsley.
Serve hot or freeze broth and substitute for beef stock in future recipes.
THE TRAIN TO QUARTER QUELL
“And I’m left standing at the window, watching District 12 disappear, with all my goodbyes still hanging on my lips.”
KATNISS, CATCHING FIRE BY SUZANNE COLLINS, CHAPTER 13
THE FIRST TIME THAT KATNISS AND PEETA took the train to the Capitol they were overwhelmed by not only what was ahead of them, but also by the foods that were placed before them.
On this second trip, the food was no less startling, and no less needed. Unfortunately the tension between Katniss and Peeta and the knowledge of what they were returning to in the Arena distracted them from any enjoyment they might have gotten from the meals.