Category: Culinary uses

Over 3 million smallholders in Ethiopia and India are involved in the production of niger seeds. However, for many, the tiny black seeds are simply known as a specialized bird food for finches. This versatile seed, also called nyjer, ramtil, or kahrale, has a rich history of human consumption and offers a surprising array of culinary, health, and gardening applications.

In many parts of the world, including Asia and Africa, sweet potato leaves are a nutritional staple, valued for their vitamins and minerals. Though less common in Western diets, these versatile greens have a variety of culinary, health, and horticultural uses that make them a worthy addition to any kitchen or garden.

During World War II, the British government famously encouraged citizens to collect wild rose hips to make vitamin C-rich syrup, a fact that highlights their enduring value. Today, many people eat rose hips for the same powerful nutritional benefits that made them a vital food source in the past.

According to a Norwegian study, crowberries contain the second-highest antioxidant content of all berries tested, surpassed only by rosehips. While raw crowberries can be bland or bitter, their flavour improves significantly after cooking or freezing, unlocking a multitude of culinary and medicinal uses. This once-overlooked arctic fruit is gaining recognition for its powerful health benefits and versatile applications.

Originally created by Justus von Liebig in 1840, beef extract was a concentrated meat product intended as a nutritious food source. Today, this thick, savory paste or powder remains a staple for enhancing flavor and nutritional content in a variety of foods, from simple soups to gourmet dishes.

Originating from unique floral sources like Siberian wildflowers enriched with rosehip, pink honey is not just a visual curiosity but a potent health ally. Beyond its pleasing color and taste, understanding what is pink honey good for reveals its impressive range of antioxidant and immune-supporting benefits.

While often considered a simple indulgence, a 2024 study noted that croissants can be adapted with ingredients like sourdough or fiber, offering a new perspective on their nutritional profile. So, what are croissants good for beyond a simple pastry?

Used for millennia in traditional medicine and cuisine, a single tablespoon of fenugreek seeds contains 3 grams of fiber and 3 grams of protein. This guide explores the multifaceted answer to what is the use of Mathi, also known as fenugreek.

Used for centuries in traditional East Asian medicine, fish mint, or Houttuynia cordata, has been scientifically studied for its impressive array of health benefits. This perennial herb is packed with bioactive compounds, including potent flavonoids and essential oils, which contribute to its effectiveness in addressing various ailments from infections to inflammatory conditions.

While the garcinia fruit's rind has been historically used in Southeast Asian and Indian cuisine as a souring agent, the raw fruit is generally not eaten fresh due to its intense sourness. The modern reputation of garcinia fruit is tied to its use in dietary supplements, which raises distinct safety considerations compared to traditional food applications.