Elderberry. A tree which produces berries 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.
Lobster. The European lobster is a large, marine shellfish with huge claws and is dark, mottled blue-black before cooking, turning red during the process. The flesh is sweet and tender. The Maine or American lobster found in the United States is huge in size and lacks the wonderful sweetness of its European cousin. American varieties may sometimes be brick red before cooking. In Europe they are likely to up to 2 kg (4¼ lbs) while North American ones may be a lot larger. Increasingly, American lobsters are imported for use in Europe.
