Almond Paste or Marzipan

1. 500 g (1 lb) ground almonds.                                            7. 1/4 teaspoon ratafia essence.
2. 250 g (1/2 lb) icing sugar.                                                 8. Juice of 1 lemon.
3. 250 g (1/2 lb) castor sugar.                                              9. 1/2 teaspoon orange flower.
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla essence.                                             10. Water (if available)
5. 2 whole eggs, or 3 or 4 whites.
6. 1 teaspoon brandy or rum.


    Mix the ground almonds and sugar. Add flavoring and eggs and mix to a stiff paste. Put all in a basin or mortar and knead or pound thoroughly. Roll out to size of cake. Brush cake with white of egg before putting on almond paste.