Colada de avena is a oat and fruit drink that is popular in Ecuador. You might also hear this beverage called refresco de avena, or quaker (after the popular brand of oats). It can be made with different fruits, but naranjilla, a delicious tart fruit, is one of the most common.
Looking for an adorable cookie to bring to a potluck or serve at a spring or summer party? These herb infused “snail” cookies are just the thing! Made with vibrant blue butterfly pea flower powder, these cute cookies are a spin on the classic pinwheel. Ingredients: Directions: Add the panela, butter, and eggs to a bowl and mix together until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.…
Camarones al ajillo is a popular dish on the Ecuadorian coast. It features shrimp in a creamy garlic sauce garnished with cilantro or parsley and served with rice and patacones (fried green plantains).
Lacto-fermenting garlic further enhances the benefits of this powerful herb. Fermentation helps to make the nutrients in the garlic more bio-available. It’s also probiotic-rich.
Aromatic and flavorful basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a tasty addition to a number of dishes, like pesto, pasta, salad, and more. It is a source of vitamins and minerals, most notably vitamin K, and lends several other health benefits. Basil is rich in flavonoids, particularly quercetin and rutin. These constituents have anti-inflammatory properties. They also have a cytoprotective effect, which means that they help to protect cells from damage, which could lead to…
Chayote (Sicyos edulis) is a type of perennial squash that is cultivated throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is rich in antioxidants and important nutrients. It is also a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
Fortunately, natural food dyes can be substituted to make food colorful, without the harmful effects. Butterfly pea flowers give vibrant color to this cream cheese frosting. They are rich in anthocyanins, which give them a vibrant blue color. These compounds also have numerous health benefits and can help to boost brain function and memory.
One of my favorite ways to work with herbs is to incorporate them into my food, and I especially love adding them to condiments and seasonings. This herb infused salt combines brightly colored, health boosting butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) flower with salt for a seasoning that is both beautiful and beneficial to overall vitality.
Infusing homemade condiments with coffee is a great way to boost their health benefits and add depth of flavor. This simple vinaigrette incorporates coffee for a unique taste that is sure to spruce up any salad. We like to enjoy it on a blend of fresh lettuce and arugula from our gardens.
Roses make a great addition to various desserts & beverages, like these rose infused cookies. These are easy to whip up and make a perfect last minute Valentine’s Day treat!