Au Natural

Something I've noticed while living (and visiting) in Germany is that there are many natural products available for use...and that many people use them.

In the stores, I've seen teas or infusions for various everyday usage. There is a kraut (herb) mixture for breastfeeding mothers, stinging nettle tea to act as an anti-histamine, infusions for improving circulation, for nausea, upset stomach,... you name it, I'm sure that you can find it on the shelf.

I've also found that it is fairly commonplace among the women in the neighbourhood to use various weeds for edible purposes. Last month, Maria made a salad using dandelion greens. Dandelion leaves themselves are a bit bitter and taste a little like pepper, but mixed with head lettuce and dressing, they were pretty good. Maria has also made dandelion jam, using the flowers. I've yet to try it.

For their upcoming nuptuals, my sister- and brother-in-law have decided to "spike" the champagne with Holunderblutesirop. They have taken elderflowers from the pasture, steeped them in sugar water, and boiled the liquid down into a slightly concentrated syrup. This will be added to the champagne for an additional zing. I find it to be an acquired taste, being that it is slightly flowery tasting, but nonetheless, it is pleasant.

Elderflower can also be eaten. The flowers are dipped into batter, fried, and rolled in cinnamon and sugar. I'll admit I was a bit hesitant to try them, (eating a flower?!) but once I did, I ate more than one.

Dipping the elderflowers in batter.

Frying the flowers.

Mmmm....cinnamon and sugar!