There was a time when spices were as rare and precious as gold. Today, with a few exceptions, they've become more accessible - and that's a good thing, because without them, there's no real Lebkuchen! Every year, as Christmas approaches, I get back to making these famous German gingerbreads. My only worry? Where I live, it's almost impossible to find the right mix of ready-made spices. So I learned to make it myself - and that's all I've used since. It keeps perfectly well and can be used throughout the season. I always make a good batch, because it's also great for flavouring winter biscuits, compotes and cakes.