I had a mini crash course in collecting honey recently just a few blocks away from our home in Astoria, New York. My son’s classmate’s family houses bee hives on their rooftop a few avenues north of the Queensboro Bridge. With the colder weather nearing, beekeeper Nick Hoefly of Astor Apairies had to collect the honey that the bees have been nurturing all summer. We sat rapt looking afar from up in the children’s treehouse as if waiting for some magical development. As dusk fell, the 40 pound boxes were heaved down from the roof. Nick pulled a frame out of the honey super (box) and we all dipped a finger into the comb. Sweet honey heaven was all I could muster. This was the magic we were envisioning! A sweet gift from the Queens Bees. Thank you!
I included a few recipes that include honey, perfect for the cooling temperatures. If you’re hungry for a sweet local New York City treat, you can experience the Queens Bees honey, New York City Raw Honey, through Astor Apiaries. It’s clean floral sweetness truly is the best honey I have ever tasted. Support your local beekeepers!
iPhone snaps Beth Horta for Sweet Sabelle.
Jennifer Segal’s, Once Upon a Chef, Autumn Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup
bon appétit’s, Japanese Curry with Winter Squash and Mushrooms
Found on Astor Apiaries’ blog, Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Found on Astor Apiaries’ blog, Spanish Coffee with Honey