The use of angelica stems dates back centuries, with a rich history rooted in both European folklore and practical applications. As a member of the Apiaceae family, like carrots and celery, the stems possess a unique flavor that distinguishes them from other herbs. Their prominent use is in candying, but their culinary and medicinal applications extend far beyond a simple decoration.
Candying and Confectionery
Perhaps the most famous application for angelica stems is candying, a process that preserves them while creating a sweet, chewy confection. Candied angelica is the traditional, vibrant green decoration found on cakes, buns, and desserts. The process involves boiling blanched stems in a series of sugar syrups until they become translucent and fully infused with sugar. This technique transforms the stems, making them a delicious and aromatic ingredient in their own right.
How to Candy Angelica Stems
To make candied angelica, one must start with young, tender stems harvested in spring before the plant flowers. Here are the key steps:
- Blanching: The stems are first blanched in boiling water to soften them and make peeling easier.
- Peeling: The fibrous outer layer is then carefully peeled away with a paring knife.
- Simmering in Syrup: The stems are repeatedly simmered and cooled in a progressively stronger sugar syrup over several days.
- Drying: Finally, they are dried until they are no longer sticky but remain pliable.
The resulting candied stems can be stored in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed to preserve their texture and potent floral flavor.
Culinary Applications Beyond Candy
While candying is a popular use, angelica stems offer a range of culinary possibilities for both sweet and savory dishes.
- Flavoring Baked Goods: Finely chopped candied or dried angelica can be incorporated into batters for cakes, gingerbread, and biscuits, adding a floral, musky flavor.
- Enhancing Fruit Dishes: The stems pair exceptionally well with tart fruits like rhubarb or apple. Cooking chopped stems with rhubarb in pies, crumbles, or jams helps to balance the fruit's acidity and imparts a complex, sweet flavor.
- Savory Cooking: The young, tender stems can be used as a vegetable, similar to asparagus or celery. They can be added to soups, stews, or sauces for meat dishes, particularly fish, pork, and wild fowl.
- Flavoring Beverages: The aromatic properties of angelica make it a key botanical in the distillation of many spirits. It is a signature flavoring in liqueurs such as gin, Chartreuse, Bénédictine, and vermouth.
Traditional Medicinal and Herbal Uses
Historically, all parts of the angelica plant were revered for their medicinal properties, and the stems are no exception. Traditional uses have focused on digestive and respiratory support.
- Digestive Aid: Angelica stems have been chewed historically to relieve indigestion and flatulence. Its bitter and aromatic qualities stimulate digestive secretions, which can help alleviate bloating and improve appetite.
- Respiratory Support: Infusions or teas made from the stems and leaves have been traditionally used as a warming expectorant to help clear congestion and soothe coughs.
- Nerve Tonic: The essential oil present in angelica has been associated with calming and uplifting effects, making it a traditional nerve tonic for stress and anxiety.
Safety Precautions for Angelica Stems
While angelica is a beneficial herb, certain safety precautions are necessary, especially when harvesting or using large quantities.
- Photosensitivity: Angelica contains furanocoumarins, compounds that can cause phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction triggered by sunlight after contact with the plant's sap. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling fresh angelica and avoid sun exposure on affected skin.
- Proper Identification: Angelica bears a resemblance to some highly toxic members of the same family, such as poisonous hemlock. Proper identification is critical before harvesting or consuming any wild-growing angelica.
- Specific Health Considerations: Medicinal use of angelica is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with diabetes, as it can affect menstrual flow and blood sugar levels. Always consult a healthcare professional before using angelica for medicinal purposes.
Comparison of Angelica Stem Uses
| Feature | Culinary Use | Medicinal Use |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Candied in sugar syrup, cooked with fruit or vegetables, infused in alcohol. | Brewed into tea, chewed fresh, topical application (rare for stems). |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, floral, and musky; complex and aromatic. | Aromatic, bitter, and warming; stimulates digestive senses. |
| Benefit | Adds unique flavor and texture to confections and dishes; used for garnishing. | Acts as a digestive tonic, carminative, and mild expectorant. |
| Primary Goal | Flavor and decoration. | Therapeutic effect, digestive relief. |
| Quantities | Moderate amounts for flavoring. | Specific, typically small, doses as part of a remedy. |
The Rich History and Future of Angelica Stems
Angelica's storied past, from being hailed as a cure for the plague to a staple in Scandinavian folk medicine, highlights its historical significance. The use of its stems, specifically for candying, was prized in confectionery as a luxurious and unique ingredient. Today, artisan chefs and herbalists are rediscovering this versatile herb, incorporating it into modern cuisine and natural wellness practices. Its ability to pair with both sweet and savory flavors and its time-tested medicinal properties ensure its place as a valuable and unique botanical.
Conclusion
From decorating confections with its distinctive green hue to flavoring high-end spirits, the uses of angelica stems are both diverse and historically rich. Whether cooked into a rhubarb pie or brewed into a soothing tea, the stems offer a unique, aromatic, and complex flavor profile. As modern culinary arts and herbalism continue to explore forgotten ingredients, the versatile angelica stem is experiencing a well-deserved revival, reminding us of the enduring value of traditional plant uses.
For more in-depth recipes and foraging tips, visit Forager | Chef.
