Have you ever felt the perfume of orange blossoms? The distillate obtained from them is used in gastronomy and also has some properties. Used by the Arabs and spread in the Mediterranean culture, the orange blossom water and its aroma have been in the kitchens of the world for centuries. Find out what it is and what it is for.
Orange blossom water, what is it?
The orange blossom water is a distillate It is obtained from the aromatic flowers of the bitter orange tree.which bear that name. Its incredible perfume has given it multiple uses both in hygiene and cosmetics as well as in gastronomy.
Although it depends on the amount of flowers that have been used in the distillation and their concentration, it is a transparent but very fragrant and intense water. Therefore, it is used in small quantities.
Its origin, It comes from the Arabs, although it has been used in different cultures for centuries. Above all, in the Mediterranean area, where the cultivation of orange trees and other citrus fruits such as lemon, have been widely spread.
There are records of very old recipe books of both sweet and savory dishes, drinks and even remedies in which orange blossom water is used.
Its distillation process was invented by the Arabs many centuries ago, who, in addition to giving it a hygienic use, have incorporated it into delicious meals and desserts. If you like special sweets, this is a note for you.
Orange blossom water, what is it for?
The orange blossom water has multiple medicinal properties. It is a good pain reliever for menstrual discomfort and colic in general. Also as a relaxant for nervous states and to fall asleep.
Among other medicinal properties it is also a good soothing for skin eruptions, it helps cleanse the liver and eliminate gases and even if it is prepared in infusion with other herbs such as lemon verbena, it will make digestion easier.
Instead, adding it to rue tea can help relieve premenstrual symptoms and alleviate the bitter taste of this other plant. But be careful with this option if you are pregnant, as rue has properties that stimulate menstruation and can be harmful in this case.
On the other hand, due to its delicious aroma, It is widely used in perfumery. It is also common in Muslim homes to give it a protocol and welcome use, throwing a few drops of orange blossom water over the visitor’s shoulder as a sign of hospitality. In many regions, the tradition of refreshing the hands by pouring a few drops into the water is even maintained, as part of the traditional washing routine before eating.
The orange blossom water It is popular in the kitchens of France and Andalusia, as well as in the exquisite but little-known Moroccan cuisine. Also throughout the Mediterranean region and some places in North Africa. In Turkish coffee, a few drops are added before the first sip.
Drops of orange blossom water are added to Turkish coffee.
Orange blossom water: price
Its price is not very high, especially considering that due to its concentration, little quantity is needed for preparations. Rather, the problem is to get orange blossom water of quality, since It can end up tasting like a perfume, if the distillate is not good or has artificial essences and preservatives added.
There are also those decide to make it at homewhich is quite simple, but requires some implements.
Orange blossom water: recipe
As for the recipes orange blossom water, sweet bread It is the most widespread, for example, in Argentina and it is also used in Spain in the traditional thread of kings. In addition to that, there are countless recipes and edible uses, especially in confectionery, we recommend that you investigate since they are countless.
To give a few examples, it is used in muffins and biscuits, sweet breads, the Mexican bread of the dead, to flavor syrups and for cocktails. In crepe or pancake-type doughs and any other pastry dough that you want to give a soft and floral touch.
Although it is a distillate, and to be able to do it we need some elements such as an alembic, its preparation is quite simple.
It consists of submerging about 100 g. of dried flowers in water and let stand at room temperature. Then it is passed through the alembic to evaporate it and once it becomes a liquid again, the orange blossom water is ready. You have to keep it in a cool place, like the refrigerator and use a smooth bottle, it is said that preferably blue.
If we don’t have a still, but we get the orange blossoms, we can prepare it as an infusion. Like any tea, we boil the water, put the flowers in it (eighteen for every three cups of water) and let it steep for ten minutes.
Combined with other aromatic and medicinal herbs you can create very rich teas, which will help digestion and sleep better. You can also combine it with spices such as cinnamon sticks, or star anise and it will be a spectacular infusion.
Have you tried orange blossom water? Tell us in the comments!
Sources: Direct to the palate and balansiya.com