Catholic Recipe: Almond and Honey Ring

This feast day is celebrated in remembrance of the infants of Bethlehem who were slain by the order of King Herod, who believed the newborn Christ to be a rival king. Thus on December 28 we honor the Holy Innocents as the first martyrs.

Almonds are a symbol of infancy and innocence, and we should use them in at least one dish that is to be served on this day.

Here is a traditional Italian Christmas confection that combines the Biblical ingredients of honey and almonds.

DIRECTIONS

Cut almonds into slivers. Arrange in a single layer in jelly roll pan. Bake in slow oven (300°) 30 minutes, or until golden, stirring occasionally. Heat honey in large heavy frying pan until it has boiled 1 minute; add hot almonds; blend together with wooden spoon until mixture clings together — about 2 minutes. Brush wooden board with water; turn mixture onto board; dip hands in water, and shape quickly into round ring; use back of wooden spoon to shape center of ring. Sprinkle with colored candies, if you wish. Allow to cool on board 1 hour; then wrap in aluminum foil. It keeps well for weeks. Center may be filled with ice cream, if desired.