GOODNESS
Bay Leaf: That green headband around Ceasar's head was bay, and it has a long and glorious culinary history in Mediterranean countries.
Bay can be bitter when fresh, so let it dry for a few days if you pluck it green from the tree. After drying, it keeps nicely in an airtight jar. It gives up its flavor slowly, which is why you add it to the beginning of slow-cooked soups and stews. It has a slightly musty aroma with shades of nutmeg that can overpower a dish, so only use half a leaf for each serving. Don't forget to pull them out before serving!

Cinnamon: Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tropical evergreen, just like its cousin cassia. It has an ancient pedigree, even being used to embalm a few pharaohs. That may not sound appetizing, but it has been found to be good for the heart, the stomach and the joints. Not impressed yet? Well consider that it also seems to mimic insulin and therefore helps diabetics moderate their sugar levels. So don't be shy with this tasty and healthy spice.

Cloves: The dried buds of a tropical evergreen, cloves are a wonderful blast of fragrance and flavor. They were the first known breath fresheners, but have a long, rich history in the spice trades. These sweet but pungent buds can overwhelm a recipe, so beware!

Coriander: Coriander is used in both sweet and savory cooking, adding a mix of lemon and sage-like flavors to any dish. In addition to its culinary flair, coriander has been considered to be an aphrodisiac by the ancients. Whether or not you will find love, coriander seeds add a sweet, fruity note a recipe and are thought to be good for both your mental powers and your digestion.
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Recipe

Pickled Pearl onions

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 2

ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 2 teaspoons fennel seeds
  • 2 teaspoons dill seeds
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fenugreek (optional)
  • 2 2/3 cups white wine vinegar
  • 1 1/3 cups sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups red pearl onions, blanched 1 minute, peeled

directions

Stir first 7 ingredients and fenugreek, if desired, in large saucepan over medium heat until lightly toasted, about 2 minutes. Add vinegar and sugar, bring to boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add onions, remove from heat and cool completely. Cover, chill overnight or up to 2 weeks.