ишак пинком

So, the chitlins in my Cooking/Folktales class learned a little about Russia this week, and began the steps for Russian apples this week. Talking to the kids about Russia was so interesting, as the former U.S.S.R. fell when I was the same age as some of the kids sitting in front of me. It's interesting what you remember about history--living it as it happens really changes the way you think about a huge world event. I love that each time we have one of these classes I learn so much about the country to be covered, since I do research to see what I can teach the kids. Like, did you know that Russia was taken from the Mongols in the 12th Century and was called "Muscovy?" Interesting, right!?! I also learned this week that I love Russian folktales. If you are interested read, Onions and Garlic, Baba Yaga, or The Fool and the Fish.

Anyway, this week it was cool to note that the kids were doing the measurements a lot faster; even the younger kids now seem to be understanding how to read the measuring cups and spoons and look for the proper fractions.

After the kids finished the dry ingredients end of the recipe one of the mothers came in and read a story to the kids in Russian, and then told each kid how to say, "Hi, my name is ____" in Russian. (I found out just before class that she moved from Russia to the U.S. about 15 years ago! How perfect is that!?) It was a very cool class and the end of a long day.

The recipe for Russian Bakes Apples for any takers:

• Mix: 1/2 c. granulated sugar, 1 c. flour, 1 c. brown sugar, 1 tsp. cinnamon
• Slice 8 apples into thin pieces. (Macintosh Apples are great!)
• Butter a bread pan.
• Mix 1/3 Cup butter w/dry ingredients.
• Toss Apples w dry ingredients/butter.
• Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.
• Enjoy!