Edible flowers have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. They add a unique touch of beauty and flavour to dishes, and their health benefits have been recognized by many cultures throughout history. In this article, we will explore the world of edible flowers, including their history, health benefits, and how to use them in your cooking.
History of Edible Flowers
Edible flowers have been used in culinary and medicinal practices for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, they were used to make lotions and perfumes, while the Greeks and Romans used them in salads and as garnishes. In traditional Chinese medicine, flowers have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including depression, anxiety, and digestive issues. The use of edible flowers has also been a significant part of Indian Ayurvedic medicine, where they are used to improve digestion, treat skin conditions, and boost immunity.
In the Middle Ages, flowers were a popular ingredient in medieval cuisine. They were used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, and desserts. During the Renaissance, the use of flowers in cooking became more elaborate, with chefs creating elaborate edible flower arrangements for banquets and other special occasions.
Health Benefits of Edible Flowers
Edible flowers are not only beautiful but also have numerous health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from harmful free radicals that can cause cellular damage. They also contain vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron, calcium, and potassium.
Different flowers have different health benefits. For example, chamomile flowers have a calming effect on the body, while marigold flowers are anti-inflammatory and can help soothe irritated skin. Calendula flowers are also anti-inflammatory and have been used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Lavender flowers have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help alleviate anxiety and stress.
Using Edible Flowers in Cooking
Edible flowers can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to desserts and cocktails. They add a unique touch of flavour and beauty to any dish, and their health benefits make them an excellent addition to any diet. Here are some ways to use edible flowers in your cooking:
Salads: Edible flowers add colour and flavour to salads. They pair well with bitter greens such as arugula and radicchio. Nasturtium flowers have a slightly peppery flavour and can add a spicy kick to salads.
Soups: Add a few edible flowers to your soup for a pop of colour and flavour. Chive flowers are a great addition to creamy soups, while rose petals can add a delicate floral flavour to clear soups.
Desserts: Edible flowers are a beautiful addition to desserts, especially cakes and cupcakes. Lavender flowers pair well with lemon cakes, while rose petals can be used to decorate chocolate cakes.
Cocktails: Edible flowers can be used to garnish cocktails, adding a touch of elegance and flavour. Hibiscus flowers can be used to make delicious and refreshing hibiscus margaritas.
Types of Edible Flowers
Roses – petals can be used in salads, jellies, jams, and teas.
Lavender – can be used to flavour desserts, sauces, and drinks
.Nasturtiums – have a slightly peppery taste and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Calendula – also known as marigold, can be used in soups, stews, and as a natural food colouring.
Chamomile – can be used to flavour tea, baked goods, and desserts.
Hibiscus – can be used to make tea, syrups, and as a garnish.
Pansies – have a mild, sweet flavour and can be used in salads, desserts, and as a garnish.
Violets – can be used in salads, desserts, and as a natural food colouring.
Dandelions – have a slightly bitter taste and can be used in salads, stir-fries, and as a natural food colouring.
Chrysanthemums – can be used in soups, stews, and as a garnish.
Note: It’s important to note that not all flowers are edible, and some can be toxic. Make sure you do your research before consuming any flowers.
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Living by the sea has always been a dream for many people. The tranquillity, beauty, and serenity of coastal areas offer a perfect escape from the hectic city life. With the growing demand for development projects by the sea in Turkey, it has become an attractive destination for people seeking a second home or an investment opportunity.
High Demand for Development Projects
The Turkish coastal areas have witnessed a tremendous increase in demand for real estate in recent years. The market is teeming with offers from those wishing to buy property directly from the developer at the lowest price.
There is also an opportunity to buy an off-plan property under construction, which will provide not only even greater discounts, but also the opportunity for customization. The Turkish government has also launched various initiatives to promote the development of the coastal regions, which has further boosted the demand for real estate by the sea.
Benefits of Living by the Sea
Living by the sea comes with numerous benefits, including a healthier lifestyle, better quality of life, and a more relaxed pace of life. Coastal areas offer fresh sea air, beautiful sunsets, and stunning views, making them an ideal place to call home. The proximity to the sea also provides opportunities for water sports, fishing, and other outdoor activities, which can be enjoyed all year round.
Turkish Real Estate Market in Coastal Areas: Future Trends
The real estate market in the Turkish coastal areas is expected to continue its upward trend in the coming years. With the increasing demand for properties by the sea, the prices are expected to rise, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The government’s initiatives to promote the development of the coastal regions, combined with the growing popularity of the country as a tourist destination, are expected to drive the growth of the real estate market in the coming years.
Types of Accommodation: Flats, Apartments, Duplexes
There are a variety of accommodation options available in the Turkish coastal areas, ranging from flats to apartments to duplexes. The prices of these properties vary depending on the property’s location, size, and age. A flat in a popular coastal area can cost anywhere between 50,000 to 250,000 Turkish lira, while an apartment can cost anywhere between 75,000 to 500,000 Turkish lira. Duplexes, on the other hand, can cost anywhere between 150,000 to 1 million Turkish lira.
Real Estate As an Investment
Investing in real estate in the Turkish coastal areas can be a profitable and secure investment option. With the increasing demand for properties by the sea, the prices are expected to rise, providing investors with a solid return on investment. Additionally, the growing popularity of the country as a tourist destination has led to an increase in rental demand, making it possible for investors to generate additional income through holiday rentals.
How to Choose a Suitable Property in Turkey
Choosing the right property in Turkey can be a daunting task, given the numerous options available. It is important to consider factors such as location, budget, and the type of property you are looking for. To make the process easier, you may consider using an online aggregator, for example Yektahomes.com, which can help you compare different properties and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Amenities in Turkish Coastal Areas
The Turkish coastal areas offer a range of amenities and facilities, including supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Additionally, there are several parks and public spaces, as well as sports facilities, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities. The coastal areas also have a well-developed infrastructure, making it easy to get around and access other parts of the country.
Summary of Coastal Turkish Real Estate
In conclusion, living by the sea in Turkey is an attractive option for those seeking a second home or an investment opportunity. With its growing popularity as a tourist destination, the Turkish coastal areas offer a range of accommodation options at competitive prices, making it possible for people of all budgets to make their dream of living by the sea come true. The growing demand for properties by the sea and the increasing popularity of the country as a tourist destination is expected to drive the growth of the real estate market in the coming years, providing investors with a solid return on investment.
Chartreuse is a French liqueur that is made by Carthusian monks in the Grande Chartreuse monastery located in the Chartreuse Mountains in southeastern France. It is a green or yellow herbal liqueur that has a long and storied history, dating back to the 17th century.
The recipe for Chartreuse is a closely guarded secret, known only to two monks at any given time. The recipe is said to contain over 130 different herbs and botanicals, and the exact combination and proportion of these ingredients are what gives Chartreuse its unique flavour.
The liqueur is named after the Chartreuse Mountains, which were named after the Carthusian monks who founded the Grande Chartreuse monastery in 1084. The name “chartreuse” has since come to refer to any greenish-yellow colour.
There are two primary varieties of Chartreuse: green and yellow. Green Chartreuse is the original and more famous of the two, with a higher alcohol content of 55% ABV. It has a complex and powerful flavour, with notes of herbs, spices, and flowers. Yellow Chartreuse is slightly sweeter and mellow, with a lower alcohol content of 40% ABV. It has a more citrusy and floral flavour profile, with hints of honey and vanilla.
Chartreuse can be enjoyed on its own as a digestif, or as an ingredient in cocktails. Some popular cocktails that feature Chartreuse include the Last Word, the Champs-Élysées, and the Bijou.
The Carthusian monks have produced Chartreuse since the 1700s, and its production has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. The process begins with the maceration of the various herbs and botanicals in a high-proof neutral spirit. The resulting mixture is distilled, and the distillate is then aged in oak barrels for several years. The final product is a complex and flavourful liqueur that is prized by connoisseurs around the world.
Chartreuse has a rich history and has been enjoyed by many notable figures throughout the centuries. In the 18th century, it was a favourite of King Louis XV of France, who granted the Carthusian monks the exclusive right to produce the liqueur. It was also reportedly a favourite of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was said to have carried a bottle of it with him on his campaigns.
Chartreuse has also been the subject of many legends and myths. One such myth is that the recipe for Chartreuse was given to the Carthusian monks by an angel in a dream. Another myth is that the recipe was discovered by the monks in a secret manuscript hidden in a wall of the monastery.
Cocktails made with Chartreuse
Chartreuse is a versatile liqueur that can be used in a variety of cocktails. Here are some popular cocktails made with Chartreuse:
The Last Word: This classic cocktail was popularized during Prohibition and features equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. Shake all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Bijou: This gin-based cocktail includes sweet vermouth, green Chartreuse, and orange bitters. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Champs-Élysées: This French cocktail includes cognac, green Chartreuse, lemon juice, sugar, and bitters. Shake all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Naked and Famous: This modern cocktail includes mezcal, Aperol, lime juice, and yellow Chartreuse. Shake all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Alaska: This classic cocktail includes gin, yellow Chartreuse, and orange bitters. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Greenpoint: This whiskey-based cocktail includes rye whiskey, yellow Chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Diamondback: This whiskey-based cocktail includes rye whiskey, apple brandy, and green Chartreuse. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Widow’s Kiss: This brandy-based cocktail includes apple brandy, yellow Chartreuse, Benedictine, and Angostura bitters. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Tipperary: This Irish whiskey-based cocktail includes Irish whiskey, sweet vermouth, and green Chartreuse. Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
The Chartreuse Swizzle: This refreshing cocktail includes green Chartreuse, lime juice, pineapple juice, and Angostura bitters. Stir all the ingredients with crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig.
These are just a few examples of the many cocktails that can be made with Chartreuse. Its unique flavour profile can add depth and complexity to a wide range of cocktails, making it a favourite ingredient among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Spices are an essential part of every kitchen. They add flavour, aroma, and colour to dishes, and can take a simple meal from bland to delicious. While some spices are commonly used, there are many others that are often overlooked. In this article, I will introduce you to three under-used spices that you should try to enhance the taste of your meals.
1 Sumac
Sumac is a spice made from the dried berries of the sumac plant. It has a tangy and lemony flavour that can add a refreshing twist to your dishes. Sumac is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines and is often used as a substitute for lemon juice.
One way to use sumac is to sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, or carrots. It adds a unique flavour and can make the dish more interesting. Sumac can also be used in chicken, fish, or beef marinades. Mix sumac with olive oil, garlic, and other herbs to make a flavorful marinade that will make your meat juicy and tender.
Sumac can also be used to make a spice blend called za’atar. Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes sumac, thyme, sesame seeds, and salt. It is often sprinkled on bread, such as pita or focaccia, or used as a seasoning for meat or vegetables.
2 Smoked Paprika
Paprika is a spice that is made from dried and ground peppers. Smoked paprika, also known as pimentón, is made by smoking the peppers before they are ground. This gives the spice a smoky flavour that can add depth to dishes.
Smoked paprika is commonly used in Spanish cuisine and can be found in dishes such as chorizo, paella, and roasted potatoes. It can also be used in other cuisines to add a smoky flavour to meat or vegetables.
One way to use smoked paprika is to sprinkle it on roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes. It adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavour that pairs well with the earthy flavor of the potatoes. Smoked paprika can also be used in marinades for chicken or pork. Mix smoked paprika with olive oil, garlic, and other spices to make a delicious marinade that will infuse the meat with flavour.
3 Saffron
Saffron is a spice that is made from the stigmas of the saffron crocus flower. It has a unique flavour that is both floral and slightly bitter. Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world, but a little goes a long way, and it can add a luxurious touch to dishes.
Saffron is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines and is often used in rice dishes, such as paella or biryani. It can also be used in desserts, such as saffron-infused ice cream or rice pudding.
One way to use saffron is to steep it in hot water or broth before adding it to a dish. This will release the flavour and colour of the spice and help it distribute evenly throughout the dish. Saffron can also be used to make a spice blend called
ras el hanout, which is commonly used in Moroccan cuisine. Ras el hanout typically includes saffron, cinnamon, cumin, and other spices and can be used as a seasoning for meat or vegetables.
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1 Honey never spoils. It can last for thousands of years.
2 Apples float in water because they are 25% air.
3 McDonald’s once made bubblegum-flavoured broccoli to encourage children to eat their vegetables.
4 Carrots were originally purple, not orange.
5 Pineapples used to be so expensive that people would rent them to use as centrepieces at dinner parties.
6 Cashews come from a fruit, not a nut.
7 Peanuts are not nuts, they are actually legumes.
8 The world’s most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, is made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by a civet cat.
9 The hottest chilli pepper in the world is so hot that it can cause a person’s airways to close up and lead to death.
10 A
durian fruit is so pungent that it is banned from public transportation in many countries.
11 The world’s largest chocolate bar weighed over 12,000 pounds.
12 The term “spaghetti” means “little strings” in Italian.
13 The world’s most expensive pizza costs $12,000 and is topped with gold leaf, caviar, and lobster.
14 In Japan, there is a type of sushi that uses live fish. The fish is still moving when it is served.
15 Chocolate was used as currency by the Aztecs.
16 The word “avocado” comes from the Aztec word for testicle.
17 An average ear of corn has an even number of rows, usually 16.
18 The heaviest pumpkin ever grown weighed over 2,600 pounds.
19 The world’s largest ice cream cone weighed over 2,000 pounds.
21 Ketchup was sold as medicine in the 1830s.
22 The world’s oldest known recipe is for beer.
23 The largest lobster ever caught weighed over 44 pounds.
24 In the US, peanut butter must contain at least 90% peanuts by law.
25 The world’s most expensive burger costs $5,000 and is topped with gold leaf, truffles, and foie gras.
26 The world’s most expensive hot dog costs $169 and is topped with foie gras, truffles, and caviar.
27 It takes about 2,500 pounds of olives to produce one liter of olive oil.
28 The world’s largest pizza was over 131 feet in diameter and weighed over 50,000 pounds.
29 The world’s most expensive chocolate costs $2,600 per pound and is made with rare cacao beans.
30 In ancient Rome, people used to season their food with a fermented fish sauce called garum.
31 The world’s most expensive tea costs $30,000 per pound and is harvested only once a year in a remote region of China.
32 The world’s most expensive bottle of wine sold for over $300,000.
33 The first recorded recipe for macaroni and cheese dates back to the 13th century in Italy.
34 There is a species of banana that tastes like ice cream. It’s called the Blue Java banana.
35 In some parts of the world, people eat fried tarantulas as a delicacy.
36 The world’s most expensive potato chip costs $11 each and is made with rare Nordic ingredients.
37 The world’s largest hamburger weighed over 2,000 pounds.
38 Balut, a popular snack in the Philippines, is a fertilized duck embryo that is boiled and eaten in the shell.
39 In some countries, such as China and Korea, chicken feet are considered a delicacy.
40 The world’s largest hot dog weighed over 125 pounds and was over 5 feet long.
31 In some cultures, such as in parts of Africa, insects such as termites are a common food source.
42 The world’s largest omelet was made in Turkey and contained over 110,000 eggs.
43 In some countries, such as Japan and Korea, sea urchin is considered a delicacy.
44 The world’s largest burrito weighed over 5,000 pounds and was over 3,500 feet long.
45 In some parts of the world, such as Mexico and Peru, guinea pigs are a popular food source.
46 The world’s largest paella was made in Spain and weighed over 13,000 pounds.
47 In some cultures, such as in parts of Southeast Asia, insects such as crickets and beetles are a popular snack.
48 The world’s largest lobster weighed over 44 pounds.
49 In some countries, such as India, cows are considered sacred and are not eaten
50. In some cultures, a dish called “tuna eyeball” is made by boiling the eye of a tuna fish and serving it with soy sauce.
Dubai is a city that is known for its impressive architecture, with the world’s tallest tower and the man-made palm tree-shaped archipelago that serves as a major attraction for tourists and people who wish to live within these wonders. The city is not just a favourite destination among expats looking for work and residency, but also an increasingly attractive choice for investors. Real estate brokers in Dubai offer a variety of types of property to lease or purchase, and here’s why you should consider the city to live or invest in.
Invest in Dubai real estate
Dubai’s thriving economy, world-class infrastructure, and attractive property portfolio offer some of the best returns on property investment, making it one of the best places to invest right now.
The city’s strategic location with flights lasting four hours or less to all major business hubs in the region is a significant advantage for those who want to increase their capital.
Additionally, the real estate market is booming due to the current geopolitical situation, making the metropolis an ideal place to invest in residential or commercial property. The average ROI of residential units may be as high as 7-8% annually. You can learn more about real estate and its types on the official https://www.axcapital.ae/ website.
Lifestyle in the UAE
Dubai is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world, with a lifestyle that is hard to match. From its stunning architecture and luxurious amenities to its world-renowned shopping and dining, it is a city that offers a lifestyle that is both luxurious and modern.
One of the most unique features of the metropolis’ lifestyle is the fusion of traditional and modern cultures. While it is a modern city, it has retained its cultural heritage, and this can be seen in many aspects of everyday life. From the traditional markets known as souks, where locals and tourists can find everything from spices and textiles to gold and diamonds, to the many cultural festivals that take place throughout the year, Dubai celebrates its rich history and culture.
In terms of leisure activities, the emirate offers a wide range of options for people of all ages and interests. With sandy beaches, golf courses, and water parks, it is a popular destination for those who love outdoor activities. The city is also home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, offering visitors and residents the chance to relax and unwind in style.
When it comes to shopping and dining, Dubai is in a league of its own. From designer boutiques to high street brands, some of the largest and most luxurious malls in the world are truly a paradise if you love shopping. The city is also home to some of the world’s best restaurants, with a cuisine that reflects the city’s cosmopolitan population.
Dubai for Families
For families, Dubai is an ideal place to raise children. The city is known for its safety and security, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. The metropolis offers many areas to choose from, offering both bustling city-life and seaside tranquility. It also has a strong education system, with a range of international schools, i.e.:
- Credence High School Dubai
- GEMS Wellington Academy
- Regent International School
- Pristine Private School
- Springdales School
- Kings’ School Nad Al Sheba
- Repton School
- Durham School
- Newlands School
- Emirates International School, Jumeirah
Dubai’s economic transparency
Dubai is one of the most transparent real estate markets in the Middle East and North Africa, and the government is taking further steps to increase transparency in the market. The availability of real estate data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) is a significant step that provides a level of transparency that is unprecedented in the region.
In addition to the high yields and competitive property prices, the city’s continued growth and stability make it an attractive location for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. As the commercial and tourism hub of the Middle East, the emirate attracts a high volume of foreign investment annually, making it a prime location to consider.
