THE DISH

Share joy. Try these easy solutions to spread cheer this holiday season.

&Eat

BeMerry

This time of year, many emphasize the “giving” part of the holidays over the “getting,” but if you’re the one in your family who carries the burden of checking off names on the gift list, “giving” can become a bit stressful. It’s usually easier to find that “just right thing” for our loved ones, but what about your children’s teachers, neighbors and the people you want to do a little something for but never know what they want or need? Easy. Give them food. Everyone eats, and everyone loves a special treat.

Even better? Make it yourself. When you share the fruits of your labor with someone, it means so much more than anything you could have bought. When dealing with edibles, it probably tastes fresher and better too. And you don’t have to spend a fortune, be crafty or even be that much of a cook to whip up something yummy that anyone would appreciate getting. Try these three recipes that are quick, inexpensive and easy enough to let you get the kids involved. This year, give edible gifts. They never go out of style, always fit and are always appreciated. And homemade treats make memorable presents, even after they’re eaten!

Cherry-Pistachio Bark

Go Easy on Yourself

It only takes three ingredients and just a few minutes of work to make CherryPistachio Bark.

(makes enough for 5 or 6 small gifts) 8, 4-ounce dark chocolate bars 1 1/2 cups dried cherries 1 1/2 cups pistachios (shelled)

Break up the chocolate bars and in a large double boiler, melt them slowly, stirring often. Be very careful not to let any water get into your melting chocolate or it will seize up. Once the chocolate is completely melted, pour it onto a parchment- or wax-paper-lined sheet pan. NOTE: Wipe the bottom of the pot off before pouring to make sure no water drips into the chocolate as you pour it. Use a spatula to spread it out in an even layer on the pan. Drop the cherries and pistachios onto the melted chocolate and if needed, push them down into the chocolate a bit with your fingers. Place in the refrigerator to harden (about an hour or so). Once it is set up, use your hands or a large knife to break it into pieces. If you’re using your hands, work fast. Their heat will begin to melt the chocolate. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to give them away!

Blackberry Barbecue Sauce

A whole bunch of blackberries add their sweet-tart punch to this zippy barbecue sauce. (makes enough for 3, 8-ounce mason jars)

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup onions 2 cups blackberries (frozen work fine) 1/2 cup ketchup 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon good balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes salt to taste

In a heavy bottomed saucepot, sauté the onions until soft. Add the blackberries and cook down on medium heat for about 15 minutes. Add the ketchup, cider vinegar, garlic power and brown sugar and bring to a boil. Cut the heat down and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes on low heat. Add the balsamic vinegar and pepper flakes and simmer about 10 minutes more. If you want it smooth, use an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender.

Rather not DIY? Internet to the rescue! Order some goodies from these Alabama food producers and send them along to lucky friends and family.

Jams, Jellies & Pickles: hornsbyfarms.com, wicklespickles.com Teas: teatownalabama.com Cookies: Ellenjay.com, madecookies.com, gmommas.com Cheese: dayspringdairy.com Salsa: jalajalafoods.com Honey: eastabogabeecompany.com