All parts of the nasturtium plant are edible: flowers, leaves, stems, and young seed pods (mature seed pods have a very hard, unpleasant seed inside). All of these parts have a distinct peppery flavor similar to radishes. That bite is strongest in the seeds and lightest in the flowers. The leaves can sometimes have a…
You may have noticed that some blackberries taste bitter, while other summer berries like raspberries or blueberries don’t. The stem end and core in the blackberries contains the bitter compounds. Adding sugar or fat (like heavy cream / whipped cream) balances out the bitterness, and salt reduces our ability to taste it. The bitter compounds…
It’s hard to beat bakery-style blueberry muffins. You can make them at home, but a few problems might pop up. I’m here to address those problems so you can make the best muffins in your own kitchen. Why do blueberries sink to the bottom & what to do about it Using fresh vs frozen blueberries…
Some cucumbers are more bitter than others, and that has to do with the type as well as weather patterns. The stem end, skin, and layer just beneath it have the highest amount of bitter compounds, which is why peeling and discarding the end helps reduce bitterness. Salt also helps, as it reduces our ability…
I cook up one of Persiana’s most popular recipes to see how it turns out. Spoiler: it’s delicious and incredibly fast & fuss-free. Have dinner on the table in 15 minutes or less.
A sweet potato soup that focuses on that pure sweet potato flavor without watering it down. It turns out, you can intensify the flavor by simmering it with the peels. A special cooking technique for the potatoes allows for less added water.
Sweet potatoes get naturally sweetened with roasted grapes (and a drizzle of honey). One of the least known gems that autumn has to offer: roasted grapes. If you haven’t tried them yet, prepare to be as obsessed with them as the rest of us. While I have an ‘official’ recipe to share, the ‘rules’ are pretty simple:…
Roasted grapes are the best thing to happen to fall! Roasted grapes are one of falls best-kept secrets. Don’t get me wrong, I love that bright, tart, fresh grape flavor. But when they are roasted, it opens up a whole new world… this warm, sweet, complex side of the fruit without that harsh tartness. With this recipe,…
Everyone likes cornbread a little differently. This homemade version is meant to be ‘just right.’ Just sweet enough, but not overly sweet Dense but fluffy Not greasy and the texture isn’t eggy The cheddar and jalapenos add a little extra interest but don’t overpower the flavor. Boxed cornbread from Jiffy to Bob’s Red Mill bake…
Crisp apples + even crispier chickpeas = new favorite fall salad. What’s for dinner tonight? A salad that looks like fall… tastes like fall… and will make your house smell like a fresh autumn breeze just blew through the window? Okay… I may not be a good writer, but hopefully I found a good recipe!…
If you find yourself wanting to buy ‘one of everything’ at the farmers market, this salad is a delightful way to put those peaches and plums to use. It pairs well with grilled meats, especially pork. For some pro tips on picking out the best fruit, check out the farmers’ market guides on peaches, plums,…
