There is one food that every culture has in common – bread – a unifying force across the world. It has sparked revolutions and has been the heart of countless cities built around flour mills and community bakeries. Although bread has changed over the past century, there is still one thing that remains – that undeniable feeling of home that bread of all kinds gives us.
Valley of the Moon Honey Apple Fry Bread
Bread, for me, brings back the fondest memories: the smell of my mom’s old wooden bread box; my Aunt Mary’s Wonder bread with margarine, cinnamon and sugar, “poor folk” dessert as she called it; the sweet aroma wafting through the crisp morning air as I walked past the Mexican bakery down the street on my way to work at 4 a.m.; and Sunday afternoon visits to my best friend Alonzo’s house for fresh tortillas. Bread, to me, signifies family, friendship, celebration and connection.
About this time last year, I got to know Tiffany through her work on the mountain with honey bee relocation as well as wolf and wolfdog advocacy and education. In the last year she started fostering three wolfdog puppies, building trust with them with the end goal of giving them to their forever homes to be used as ambassadors. She started a nonprofit called Valley of the Moon Wild and Sweet and wrote a children’s book called It Takes a Pack: Adventures With Nala.
When we think of wolves, we might think about the tale of little Red Riding Hood but we don’t often think of wolves as being in California. I learned otherwise and want to share this interview as well as the recipe inspired by Tiffany.
- Why is wolf and wolfdog advocacy important in California?
California is experiencing the natural return of wild wolves. Their return gives us an opportunity to replace generations of fear and misunderstanding with education, awareness and coexistence. It’s an opportunity to change the narrative and learn to live alongside these remarkable animals rather than fear them.
Wolfdogs face a different set of challenges; their lives depend entirely on the people who choose to care for them. Many are captivated by their majestic appearance but fail to understand the unique challenges and lifelong commitment these animals require. As a result, too many wolfdogs are surrendered, leaving rescues and sanctuaries overwhelmed and overcrowded. Through education, we can help people understand the differences between wild wolves and wolfdogs while raising awareness of the responsibilities that come with caring for these animals.
- What drives your advocacy? Why do you do what you do?
The highlight of my day is working with these majestic creatures. They have taught me the value of trust, patience and understanding. My passion comes from the connection I share with them and the opportunity to help others see beyond their appearance and discover the incredible animals they truly are.
I’ve learned that advocacy means standing beside the animal, even when it’s difficult. It’s about the relationships we build, the knowledge we share, the people we inspire and our willingness to keep learning and growing.
- How can people help and follow your journey?
You don’t have to work with wolves or wolfdogs to make a difference. Attend educational events, volunteer, support responsible sanctuaries and share what you learn. Every act of compassion helps create a better future for these animals.
Valley of The Moon Honey Apple Fried Bread
Yield: 6 desserts
All-purpose flour – 4-1/2 cups
Powdered milk – 1-1/2 cups
Ground nutmeg – ½ Tbsp
Ground cinnamon – ½ Tbsp
Warm milk – 1-1/2 cups
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Warm water – 1-1/2 cups
Baking powder – 2 Tbsp
Granulated sugar and cinnamon (for dusting after frying) – ½ cup sugar & 1 tsp cinnamon
(1) Gather a few friends or family together in good spirits! (2) Using a large bowl, mix dry ingredients together until well blended. (3) Slowly pour in wet ingredients and mix gently until well combined. The dough will be sticky! (4) Heat frying oil of choice in a large pot or pan (sunflower oil works great for this). (5) Fry until golden brown, poking a hole in the center to release the steam; flip and do the same to the other side. (6) Remove onto a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with granulated sugar and cinnamon.
Ingredients for Honey Whipped Cream:
Heavy Cream – 1 cup
Nutmeg – ½ tsp
Cinnamon – ½ tsp
Honey (local, if you can find it) – 1 Tbsp
Powdered Sugar – ½ cup
Using a hand blender or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, add all ingredients and blend together until stiff peaks are present. Cover and set it aside in the refrigerator.
Toppings: 2 apples sliced thin; toasted pecan halves – ½ cup; honey drizzle
To assemble: Place fried bread on the center of a plate and generously apply the honey whipped cream, top with a fan of sliced apples, toasted pecans and lightly drizzle honey over the top. Share, laugh and enjoy your comforting creation rooted in respect, understanding and love for our wild friends!
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