Elderberry. Berries of a tree that are used for making syrups and wines, while the flowers are used for wine or cordials or may be dipped in batter and fried. Elderflowers are also a traditional accompaniment to gooseberries in crumbles. In France the flowers may also be used to flavour a confection. Folklore has it that elderberries gathered on St John's Eve (23rd June) protect against witchcraft. I am not sure I have ever seen an elderberry ripe for picking so early in the year. The dried berries can be used as a substitute for raisins. Also a liqueur made from them.
"Pink berry." Pink pepper. This may either be the familiar rose-coloured peppercorn of Piper nigrum, usually preserved in brine or vinegar. It may also refer to the dried berry of a Brazilian plant related to poison ivy. This contains cardanol, which is an irritant to many people and it makes little contribution to cooking anyway.
A bain-Marie is a water bath - a container of warm water in which smaller pot(s) rest to provide slow, even cooking, protecting the extremities from over colouring. Ideal for sauces and custards or for keeping food hot. Au bain-Marie refers to food which has been so cooked. This is apparently named after Moses' sister, Mary, who was a chemist or after the Virgin Mary.
