A Visit to Quinta do Galo, and A basket of Blueberry Muffins

This past weekend, my family and I were invited, to visit a most wonderful place, on the island, Quinta do Galo. The purpose of the visit, an interview for "Azoresgal", and a chance for our family to get to know this special place. The Quinta do Galo, is tucked away in the lovely village of Terra Cha, amidst many trees, andat the foot of some rolling hills. At the front gates you are greeted, by chickens and roosters who roam freely, and are not at all bothered by the presence of humans. Along the path, there are orange trees, chestnut trees, lemon trees and even some wonderful Magnolia trees. Once inside, it is almost as if you have been transported into an old village, with all its wonderful little cottages, and ox carts. That of course, is just the surface of this magical place. They have all the ammenities for you to be able to spend the day there, even have a party or get married in the chapel. They have horses, and ponies for riding, they will even host birthday parties for the kiddos. My family and I had such a fantastic time there, the owner Jose Nogueira, was so kind to us. His eyes sparkle when he speaks of this place, he has put alot of time, and love into every little detail, at Quinta do Galo. Someone else who was very kind to us was, Luis Silva, it is because of his invitation, and interview, that we got to spend such a beautiful morning, at Quinta do Galo. To the both of them, my heartfelt thanks.
I did not show up empty-handed, I decided to bake some blueberry muffins, for our visit. I had found, frozen blueberries,yes I jumped for joy! at a local grocery store,, and had saved them for a special occasion. This was special, and the muffins were delicious.

Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 bag frozen blueberries

In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In a small bowl beat the egg, milk  and oil. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Add in the bluberries. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full and bake at 180º/ 350 for 18-20 minutes. This makes one dozen muffins.

Ingredients for Streusel Topping: (optional, but yummy)

• 1/4 c. brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. soft butter
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tbsp flour

Mix together, and sprinkle on top of muffins before baking.

xo, Diana