Feast of St. George

The feast day of St. George is celebrated on April 23rd, the anniversary of his death, in AD303. St. George was born in Cappadocia, now Eastern Turkey. He moved to Palastine with his mother and became a Roman Soldier. He later resigned his military post and protested against his pagan Emperor Diocletian, who led Rome's persecution of Christians. St. George was imprisoned after he rebelled against the Roman Emperor. He was then dragged through the streets of Nicomedia, Turkey on 23rd April AD303 and beheaded. The Emperor's wife was so inspired by George's bravery and loyalty to his religion, that she too became a christian and was also executed for her faith. 

As the crusaders returned to England, they brought with them tales of St. George. King Edward III founded the Order of the Garter in 1348, the order of chivalry or knighthood in England. The order was put under St. George's patronage and the medal is awarded on April 23rd by the reigning monarch.

King Edward IV and King Henry VII constructed St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, which represents the chapel of the order. St. George became the patron saint of England in 1415, when the English soldiers under HenryV, won the battle of Agincourt.

The tale of the dragon emerged from when a knight of the crusades, riding by on his white stallion, dismounted and drew his sword, protecting himself with the sign of the cross to slay the beast. 

Beef is now one of the most popular dishes in England. The meat must be firm and a deep red in colour. Rub the skin with 2 tbsp of flour, 1 tbsp of mustard powder and some ground pepper. The meat should be at room temperature before it goes into the oven, to avoid shrinkage. Fry the meat on all sides to seal the juices and add beef dripping to the roasting tin. Roast in a pre-heated oven at 200C/400F/6 for 20 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 160C/325F/3 for 15 to 20 minutes per lb., basting frequently. Let the meat rest before serving. This resting period is an ideal time to make the Yorkshire Puddings and Roast Potatoes.    Happy St. Georges Day!