Thursday, April 23, 2020

Mer-inspired Munchies - Appetizer Recipe

by The Mad Mystic 
Yemaya by Yolanda Fundora
[originally posted in la Vie Sirene magazine June 2013]

Yemaya’s Yummy Crab Dip

Yemaya is one of the Seven African Powers. She is among the most powerful of the Orishas. Not only is Yemaya the mother of all living things, but she is the very essence of motherhood. Every time you look upon or touch the ocean, you are in Yemaya’s presence. Her most frequent form is the ocean itself. However, she also manifests as a breathtakingly beautiful mermaid. All sea creatures are sacred to her, so this dip may be prepared in her honor.

You will need:
  •  12 ounces cubed cream cheese 
  •  1/4 cup heavy cream 
  •  1 cup shredded parmesan cheese 
  •  2 6-ounce cans crabmeat (for extra creamy dip, use fancy white) 
  • 1 Tablespoon granulated onion 
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 
  • 3 cloves minced garlic 
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice 
  • Sea salt to taste 
  • Fresh minced dill

Place the cream cheese and cream into a slow cooker. Put the lid on, and heat this mixture on low for about 30 minutes. Add the parmesan cheese, crabmeat, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Put the lid back on, and continue to heat on low for another 30 minutes or so. Mix in the lemon juice thoroughly. Salt the dip to your taste. To garnish, sprinkle the dill over the top. Bon appétit!

Going deeper: If you wish to acquire a deeper relationship with Yemaya, you may further honor her by performing a simple ritual as you prepare the dip. First, carefully etch YEMAYA onto the side of a bright blue candle. Anoint the candle with saltwater. If you do not have access to the ocean, a mixture of spring water and sea salt may be used. Light the candle to invoke Yemaya. Then, begin making the dip. Talk to her while you work. You may request Yemaya’s help with matters involving fertility, healing, and abundance. You may also choose to simply enjoy her presence in your home. If you leave the kitchen while the dip is heating up, be sure to bring the candle along and continue communing with her. Once the dip is fully prepared, thank Yemaya for joining you. Extinguish the candle to let her know that she is welcome to leave whenever she pleases. Deities usually enjoy consuming the essence of the food that has been made in their honor. Invite Yemaya to help herself first. After about 5 minutes, dig in and savor your magickal creation. Namaste
$23 and handmade with oceanic love