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Vegan wine – that often causes heads to shake. Because most drinks are inherently vegan, aren’t they? Unfortunately that’s not true. We explain what makes vegan wine and which animal substances are contained in many wines.

Vegan wine: free from animal additives

When growing the grapes in the vineyard, there is still no difference between vegan and non-vegan wine. There are usually no animal substances to be found in the finished product either. In the production of wine, however, turbidity is often found or undesirable flavors, colors or smells appear. Then the wine is “clarified” or “fined”. Various animal proteins have been used in the production process for centuries:

Casein: Casein is made from fresh milk. It combines with the cloudy substances and settles on the bottom of the barrel. The clear wine is then skimmed off so that there is almost no protein or turbidity left in the wine.
Albumin: Albumin is found in egg yolk. It reduces the tannin content and makes the wine milder. After the addition, fine grains form in the wine, which are filtered out. This so-called “egg white fining” is mainly used for red wine.
Gelatin: Gelatin is usually made from pork bones. The background: Gelatine also combines with the cloudy substances and settles on the bottom of the barrel. The wine is then drawn off.
Isinglass: An isinglass is the dried swim bladder of fish. Just like gelatine, it binds small particles such as turbidity in the wine. The isinglass sinks to the bottom with the particles and the clear wine is skimmed off.
Lysozyme: Lysozyme is an enzyme derived from protein. In addition to the dairy industry, it is also used in the wine industry. It prevents faulty, spontaneous acid degradation from occurring

There are numerous vegan solutions for wine

In vegan wine production, wine is clarified with vegetable proteins or mineral substances instead of animal proteins.

Vegetable protein (from peas, beans, potato starch): Just like animal proteins, they bind the turbidity in the wine and make it clearer.
Bentonite: Bentonite is obtained from volcanic ash or the weathering of similar deposits. It can be used in the same way as proteins and is considered the safest remedy for clouding.
Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal also helps against bad taste, odor irritation or discoloration.
Sedimentation: If wine or must is left to stand, particles will settle out on their own. You are then left with careful skimming. This natural process is considered to be quality-enhancing and particularly gentle – but also very time-consuming.

Unlike most types of honey, linden honey is not blossom honey. It is also special in terms of taste. Here you can find out what other properties make linden honey stand out.

Linden honey is not to be confused with linden blossom honey: although both types of honey come from the linden tree, they differ significantly in taste. The special thing about linden honey is its menthol-like note, which is not penetrating but clearly noticeable. This isn’t everyone’s preference, so if you’ve never tried linden honey, you might want to taste it before you buy it.

What makes linden honey special?

The linden tree is one of the most important forage plants for bees because it provides large quantities of nectar and pollen. Especially in northern Germany, lime trees characterize the landscape. Both linden honey and linden blossom honey therefore often come from the northern regions of the country.

The main difference between the two types of honey is their composition. As the name suggests, the bees extract lime blossom honey from the blossoms of the tree. Linden honey, on the other hand, is not blossom honey, which makes it something special: instead, honeydew is used as the basis for its extraction. These are the sugary excrements of insects that feed on the linden leaves. Linden honey therefore falls into the category of honeydew honey, as does forest honey, for example.

In terms of taste, linden honey is heavier and stronger. In addition to the already mentioned menthol note, it can also have fruity, citrus-like aromas. Both types differ not only in taste: Linden honey is also a special type of honey in other respects. Its dark yellow color, which can go into orange or amber, is characteristic. Lime blossom honey, on the other hand, is rather light yellow to whitish and often has a slight green tinge. The consistency of both types can vary from liquid to creamy to firm.

Is linden honey healthy?

Linden honey and linden blossom honey are said to have both a diaphoretic and antipyretic effect. That is why both types are used as home remedies for colds and flu-like infections, for example. In addition, the two types of honey are said to have a calming and sleep-inducing effect.

These properties have not been specifically proven for linden honey. However, there is better evidence that honey generally has health-promoting effects. Recent studies suggest, among other things, that honey

can have an anti-inflammatory effect
has probiotic and antibacterial properties,
contains antioxidant agents that protect the body from free radicals,
can inhibit the development of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Due to its high sugar content, you should consume linden honey just like other types of honey in moderation – this is how you best benefit from its positive properties. You can find out more about honey as a sugar substitute here: Maple syrup, honey, agave syrup & Co.: the truth about sugar substitutes.

The best way to use lime honey as a home remedy is to stir it into a cup of hot lime blossom tea. The health effects of linden blossoms have been better researched: They also have a sweat-inducing effect, relieve the urge to cough and promote expectoration. Linden blossom tea is also recommended as a sleep aid. In addition, it harmonises well with the lime honey in terms of taste.

Linden honey: Best from regional beekeeping

You can also get linden honey in the supermarket – but it is better to buy it from regional beekeepers. This not only has the advantage of shorter and therefore climate-friendly transport routes: by supporting regional beekeepers and their bee colonies, you also help to preserve biodiversity. You can recognize high-quality honey from Germany by the protected designation “Real German Honey”.

It is also worth making sure that the linden honey you choose is organic. Organic honey is produced under the most environmentally friendly and natural conditions possible.

Coffee and Germany simply belong together. No other drink is drunk as much as coffee. The causes for this are manifold.

Coffee at any time of the day

For most Germans, the start of the working week is not really positive. You are tired, stressed and know that a hard day is ahead. What can improve your mood in the morning as quickly as a freshly prepared and good coffee? No wonder most people love to start the day with a delicious cup of coffee. At weekends, the coffee is part of a relaxed breakfast ceremony. In the afternoon it is literally part of “drinking coffee” with cake and other delicacies. So it’s no wonder that the Germans’ love of coffee isn’t waning.

Germans love coffee so much that for several years there has always been a day of action on the first Saturday in September: Coffee Day. This was initiated by the German Coffee Association. The Germans love their coffee because it goes with every occasion. Whether in the morning for breakfast, in between at work, as a nightcap in the form of an espresso after dinner, whether at weddings, birthdays or any other celebration – a coffee is never out of place!

A love full of coffee enjoyment

Coffee is the epitome of enjoyment for all the senses. It starts with opening the coffee bag. The subtle rustling of the individual brown roasted beans exudes a spicy roasted aroma that stimulates all the senses. Even the sound of grinding the coffee bean makes your mouth water in anticipation of the enjoyment ahead. Coffee not only smells extremely good and tastes great, it also feels phenomenal. Soft and full-bodied, it melts on the tongue until it glides comfortably warm down the throat.

Coffee is the epitome of enjoyment for all the senses.

However, coffee has many more benefits than just an aromatic smell and taste. The Germans benefit from their love of coffee, after all it makes you awake and healthy. It stimulates the cardiovascular system, improves physical performance and has a positive effect on the ability to concentrate. Enjoyed in moderation, coffee is good for the body and soul.

The many facets of coffee

Another enormously positive property of coffee is the many areas of application. In ground form it is considered an effective peeling. Caffeine is even said to make tired eyes perk up again and have an anti-aging effect. Many gardeners use it to combat ants or as a fertilizer for flowers. It is also said to provide excellent service as a grill cleaner. It also eliminates bad smells from cars and refrigerators. In addition, coffee can be used to prepare many delicious meals and dishes, such as delicious desserts. Hardly any other love is as diverse as our love of coffee.

Tigernuts are also becoming increasingly popular as a nut alternative in Germany. Here you can find out exactly what the small tubers are all about and what you should consider when using and buying them.

What are tigernuts?

The term tiger nut is used to refer to the entire plant or just its small edible bulbs, depending on the context. The expressions tiger or chufa nut are also often found. The herbaceous plant belongs to the sedge or sedge family and grows to a height of around 60 centimetres.

The plant thrives best in loamy-sandy soil and in a relatively mild climate. Today it is cultivated in Europe, especially in Spain on the Mediterranean coast. There the plant grows in spring and summer. Farmers then let them dry out completely from September. Then the tubers can be harvested by hand from October to December. In many regions, however, the tiger nut is an aggressive neophyte that displaces native plant species.

The tubers are brownish, round, the size of a hazelnut and have a white core. This tastes slightly sweet and is reminiscent of the taste of almonds. After harvesting, the tubers are dried for about three more months. You can then buy them either whole, peeled or ground.

How healthy are tigernuts?

The small tigernuts consist of around a quarter of fat and contain a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids. These are an essential part of cells and as such are involved in numerous metabolic processes. In addition, regular consumption of unsaturated fatty acids can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Tigernuts also have a high fiber content of around 24 grams per 100 grams. They keep you full for longer and get your digestion going. They also provide the body with many minerals, especially potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus.

With around 370 kilocalories per 100 grams, tigernuts contain significantly fewer calories than many types of nuts. So if you want to make your diet a little lower in fat and calories, tigernuts are a good alternative. The small tubers are also interesting for allergy sufferers because they are generally well tolerated. They are an option that comes very close to the taste and consistency of nuts, especially if you have a nut allergy.

How to use the tubers in the kitchen

You can use tigernuts like nuts. For example, they are a nutritious and delicious ingredient in muesli, quark or yoghurt dishes or a varied topping for smoothie bowls.

In the ground state, you can also use tigernuts to bake bread, cakes, biscuits, etc., thereby reducing the flour content. Since the small tubers already have a certain sweetness, you can save on sugar.

Tigernuts: sustainability and eco-balance

Since tigernuts require relatively warm temperatures, they are traditionally grown in subtropical and tropical areas. For example, they are imported from African countries or parts of the USA. However, tigernuts are also popular in Spain and are grown in relatively large quantities by farmers there.

In order to buy tigernuts with the best possible ecological balance, it is best to buy European goods, as the transport routes are significantly shorter here.

When buying, you should look for organic tigernuts if possible. In this way you support agriculture that does not use chemical-synthetic pesticides that have a negative impact on your health and the environment.

What is the exact definition of veganism? We present a common definition of the term and show you why people live vegan.

Vegan diet, vegan fashion, vegan cosmetics, vegan cleaning products… You must have come across the term “vegan” quite often in recent years. But do you also know what exactly is behind it?

Veganism is being consistently practiced by more and more people out of conviction. But how exactly is the term actually defined? Below you will learn two definitions of veganism.

Veganism: A definition of the Vegan Society

The Vegan Society was founded in the UK in November 1944 and was the first association of its kind. A registered charity, it supports, promotes, informs and provides advice on veganism on various aspects of vegan living.

The founding of the Vegan Society was an important event for veganism. World Vegan Day is celebrated today on the anniversary of the event, November 1st. One of the founding fathers was Donald Watson, who also invented the term “vegan”.

The Vegan Society definition of veganism used today dates back to 1979 and reads as follows:

“Veganism is a way of life which seeks to avoid, as far as practicable, all forms of exploitation and cruelty to suffering animals for food, clothing and other purposes; and subsequently promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals and the environment. In terms of nutrition, this means eliminating all products that are wholly or partly derived from animals.”

Various definitions of veganism in use

Of course, the Vegan Society’s definition of veganism is not the only one. There are many variations on this definition; sometimes broader, sometimes more specific. Another easy-to-understand example is PETA’s definition of veganism, which you can read on their website:

“Vegans are people who do not consume animal products such as meat, fish, milk and eggs. They also do not wear clothing or shoes made of animal materials such as leather, fur, down or wool. They only use cosmetic products and cleaning products that do not contain any animal ingredients and have not been tested on animals. In addition, vegans do not go to zoos, do not attend circuses with animals, and do not ride horses in their free time. In short: Vegan people avoid using animals or animal products in all areas of life.”

This definition of veganism goes one step further than that of the Vegan Society and also addresses animal husbandry for recreational purposes.

Living Vegan: Why?

The reasons why people decide to adopt a vegan lifestyle are as diverse as the existing definitions of veganism. The majority do it for ethical and moral reasons, but there are also more pragmatic triggers.

These are possible reasons for a vegan life:

Many people live vegan for the sake of the animals – because they reject factory farming, the shredding of male chicks or the forced pregnancy of female cows, for example.
Another important factor is the environment. Keeping animals requires vast amounts of resources such as water and feed. In addition, large areas are used for the cultivation of fodder and enormous amounts of methane are emitted, for example by cows.
Some people are vegan for their own health. Eating a lot of meat leads to increased cholesterol levels. In addition, people with high meat consumption are said to have an increased risk of diabetes, for example.
Last but not least, starving people also play a role. According to Welthungerhilfe, 822 million people worldwide suffer from hunger and two billion from malnutrition. Farming land that could be used to grow food for them is used for animal feed instead.

Vegan diet: This is what it looks like according to the veganism definitions

Basically, according to the veganism definitions presented above, vegan nutrition means that all animal products are avoided. These include meat, eggs, dairy products and honey. If you are looking for guidance on suitable vegan foods, the food pyramid for vegan nutrition will help.

According to the definition, a vegan diet is based on:

vegetables and fruit
grain and potatoes
protein products
nuts and seeds
oils, fats and salt
as well as of course drinks and luxury products such as vegan sweets, alcohol and snacks.

The vegan food pyramid roughly indicates how much a person should eat from each category per day. For example, she suggests about 400 grams of vegetables and 300 grams of fruit for a day. You should only consume a small, conscious portion of sweets and snacks per day.

What exactly is a specialty coffee? The term is protected by strict guidelines of the “Specialty Coffee Association of America” ​​(short: SCAA). The world’s largest specialty coffee organization tests the quality of a coffee bean based on very specific criteria. So-called Q-graders, professional coffee experts, evaluate and award the coffee. For this purpose, the SCAA has developed an evaluation system for the quality of green coffee, in which the coffee is evaluated physically and sensorially. The physical check is carried out, among other things, by identifying defects. From a sensory point of view, the coffee is evaluated in so-called cuppings (tastings) on a scale of up to a maximum of 100 points.

A specialty coffee must achieve 80 points or more on the SCA scale before it can bear this title. High quality is the most important factor, this is achieved through ecologically sustainable cultivation. However, complete transparency of the entire delivery process is also important, as well as direct communication channels from the roasters to the coffee farmers. In addition, fair wages and the promotion of social projects in the country of origin also play a major role in creating a specialty coffee.

High-quality standards for specialty coffee

The different quality differences of the coffee beans are classified in so-called grades from 1 to 5. Where 1 is the highest and 5 is the worst quality level. The types of coffee with the highest grade may then bear the title of specialty coffee. The classification is related to the number of defective beans.

With specialty coffee, only three broken, no unripe and no discolored coffee beans may be contained in 300 grams. The coffee is assessed using various criteria in order to find the best possible quality. For this purpose, five samples of one coffee are prepared in parallel in order to then evaluate the uniformity, the purity of taste and the sweetness. The coffee receives the best rating when all cups taste uniform, pure and sweet – then it is classified as a specialty coffee.

Evaluation of the coffee bean

The coffee is judged by the Specialty Coffee Organization in professional cuppings, also known as coffee tastings. This is based on the following classification:

Below 80 points: Conventional merchandise. This is ordinary coffee from the supermarket with no special taste and sometimes irregular roasting due to existing defects.
More than 80 points: This coffee is a specialty coffee. The coffee can only bear this title if it achieves more than 80 points.
80 – 84.99 points: Particularly good coffee with special taste characteristics. The aromas are finer and the coffee has no serious defects.
85 – 89.99 points: Excellent coffee with a refined taste, exceptional complexity and a special sweetness.
90 – 100 points: Absolute rarities, not even 1% of all coffees are rated that well. In this category there are only coffees with extraordinary aromas that clearly stand out from the other varieties.

The origin of a specialty coffee

The indication single origin refers to the origin of the coffee. The beans differ depending on the season and harvest time, so that they can definitely show differences in taste. For this reason, many manufacturers mix the coffee beans from different growing areas (blend) in order to retain the usual taste. However, this process loses some of the quality as many blends have a similar taste. Accordingly, a single origin, i.e. a single-variety coffee, is an indicator of the high quality of the beans and is therefore important for the production of specialty coffee.

The perfect cup of coffee: roasting and brewing

Did you know that coffee contains more than 800 aromas? During roasting, as many of these aromas as possible should unfold in order to get the best possible taste. It is important that when roasting specialty coffee, none of the special sensory properties are covered, because it is precisely these properties that make specialty coffee so special. Traditionally, the coffee is roasted gently and slowly (15-20 minutes) at a temperature of 200 to 230 degrees. Each coffee has its own roasting profile, which is precisely documented in order to bring out the special quality of the coffee bean.

The typical Turkish coffee has always been ground in a coffee grinder and, in contrast to the Arabic tradition, brewed quickly. In Turkey, coffee is very popular very early in the morning or late in the afternoon, in order to always stimulate the body and awaken spirits at the right time.

In the Turkish coffee houses, called Kahvehaneler or Pastane, the dark and almost creamy coffee is often drunk with typical Turkish delicacies and sweets. Candied fruit and jelly confectionery go particularly well with the concentrated taste of the coffee, as they round off the coffee with their aromas. The coffee houses are often the linchpin of social life in Turkey: Over a typical coffee and gossip with friends, people talk about the latest happenings here.

These raclette ideas are ideal for a spontaneous, convivial evening. We show you a few inspirations that you can easily implement.

Cheese classic with new ingredients – also vegan

The name “raclette” originally referred to a specific Swiss cheese that is eaten grilled and smoked. Cheese is therefore traditionally an important part of raclette. All types of cheese that melt easily are suitable. You can get tips on this at the cheese counter and at the cheese stand at the weekly market. In addition to the typical yellow cheese, feta, camembert or gorgonzola also taste very good in raclette.

Tip: To ensure that the cheese comes from more species-appropriate husbandry and organic production, it is best to buy cheese with a Demeter, Naturland or Bioland seal.

Remember that cheese is a food with a bad carbon footprint, so enjoy it in moderation.

Fruit as a fruity raclette idea or as a dip

Fruit goes very well with cheese. Sliced pears are a great accompaniment to flavorful, tangy cheeses like Gorgonzola. Preserved cranberries go perfectly with Camembert and are a delicious dip.

You can not only prepare fruit in the raclette oven: Chutneys go very well with raclette as sweet and sour dips.

For dessert you can heat apple slices with chocolate, cinnamon, sugar and other toppings in the pan. With your choice of fruit, you can protect the climate by choosing seasonal fruit varieties. In winter, these are primarily apples from storage and preserved fruit from the region.

Vegetables are great for gratinating with cheese: tomatoes are extremely popular, as are peppers and various mushrooms. Make sure that the products come from the region and are of organic quality if possible. In winter you can use dried mushrooms and tomatoes. Or you dare to experiment with Brussels sprouts, leeks and pre-steamed salsify.

Raclette with potatoes – the classic ingredient

The traditional raclette in Switzerland consists only of cheese and potatoes. As with cheese, you can also try different types of potatoes. Potato varieties come in all colors, from blue-purple to red to yellow. They differ not only in color, each variety has its own taste nuances.

If you use such old local potato varieties, not only does your table look more colourful, you also encourage the demand for variety. The variety of varieties continues to decrease, since it is easier for large agricultural companies to grow a few highly bred varieties. If you, as a customer, actively ask about old varieties, the producers have an incentive to focus more on these varieties again.

Eat raclette – have fun

Raclette is not just about the food, but above all about being together and having fun preparing food.

For even more raclette ideas, you can encourage your guests to bring surprise ingredients: each guest brings an unusual ingredient. So that you don’t always put the same ingredients on the table, you can think of a motto for the surprise ingredient: Homemade products such as home-pickled vegetables or home-made vegetable chips as side dishes, ingredients typical of a specific region such as beans and corn for Mexican cuisine.

The special thing about dandelion honey is that it is actually not real honey. Instead, it’s a mixture of sugar and dandelion flavor in syrup form. We reveal how you make the vegan “honey” yourself.

General information about dandelion honey

In contrast to bee honey, dandelion honey does not contain any animal components and is therefore vegan. However, it tastes similar to real honey and has a similar consistency – hence the name.

Collecting dandelion flowers requires some effort. But it’s worth it. When collecting, make sure that:

  • you collect the dandelions in places with little or preferably no traffic.
  • you take the young, juicy blossoms.
  • you don’t remove the whole plant. Unless you want to remove the dandelions from your vegetable beds.

The flowering period of the dandelion is in April and May.

Dandelion honey recipe

First, you need enough dandelion flowers – depending on how much “honey” you want to make. For starters, 200 grams should be a good guideline.

You also need:

  • 1 liter of water
  • 1 kg of sugar
  • 1 half organic lemon

Proceed as follows:

Put the flowers in a pot and pour the water over them.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture steep for about two hours.
Bring the mixture to a boil and then let it cool down again.
Let the water and dandelion blossoms sit overnight and drain the blossoms with a colander.
Add the sugar and some grated zest of the lemon.
Bring the mixture to a simmer.
To test whether the mixture has the right consistency, you can put a small amount on a plate and let it cool. If the consistency is similar to that of “normal” honey, then the dandelion honey has simmered long enough.
If it is not firm enough, let the mixture simmer a little more and test the consistency at regular intervals.

Store dandelion honey properly

There are a few things to note:

  • Use sterilized jars to bottle the “honey.”
  • Be careful not to pour the dandelion honey into jars that are wet or too cold. Otherwise, the spread will crystallize. Therefore, use well-dried glasses.
  • Protect the “honey” from too much light and heat as well as cold. Store it in the closet or pantry. It can be kept there for about a year.

Introduction: Dominican Culinary Traditions

Dominican cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, African, Spanish, and other European influences. It is known for its bold flavors, rich spices, and vibrant colors. Dominican dishes are often served with rice, beans, and plantains, which are staples in the Dominican diet. The country’s diverse culinary traditions have made it a popular destination for foodies from around the world.

Dominican cuisine is an essential part of the country’s culture, and it is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. Weddings, in particular, are an excellent opportunity for families to gather and showcase their culinary skills. Dominican weddings are known for their lively atmosphere, beautiful decorations, and delicious food.

Wedding Celebrations in the Dominican

Weddings in the Dominican Republic are typically large, festive affairs that last for several hours. They are often held at a church or a beachfront resort, and the reception is usually held in a ballroom or outdoor pavilion. The bride and groom’s families are responsible for planning the wedding, and they often work together to make it a memorable event.

Dominican weddings are a time for families to come together, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company. The food is a central part of the celebration, and it is often prepared by family members and close friends. Traditional Dominican dishes are served, along with a variety of appetizers, finger foods, and desserts.

Typical Dominican Wedding Dishes

Dominican cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and there are many dishes that are typically served at weddings and special occasions. Some of the most popular dishes include:

Appetizers and Finger Foods

  • Empanadas – savory turnovers filled with beef, chicken, or cheese
  • Pastelitos – mini pastries filled with meat or cheese
  • Tostones – fried plantain slices served with garlic sauce
  • Yuca frita – fried cassava served with a variety of dipping sauces

Main Dishes and Accompaniments

  • Arroz con pollo – chicken and rice cooked with a variety of herbs and spices
  • Chicharrón de cerdo – fried pork belly served with yucca and pickled onions
  • Asopao – a rice and chicken stew with vegetables
  • Mondongo – tripe stew with vegetables

Traditional Dominican Desserts

  • Tres leches – a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream
  • Flan – a creamy custard dessert topped with caramel sauce
  • Dulce de leche – a sweet caramel-like sauce made from condensed milk
  • Bizcocho dominicano – a traditional Dominican cake made with rum, vanilla, and fruits

Beverages and Cocktails for Special Occasions

Dominicans love to celebrate with a wide range of beverages and cocktails. Some popular drinks for weddings and special occasions include:

  • Rum – a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane
  • Presidente beer – a local beer brand that is popular throughout the country
  • Morir soñando – a refreshing drink made from orange juice, milk, and sugar
  • Mama Juana – a traditional Dominican alcoholic beverage made from rum, red wine, and a blend of herbs and spices

Conclusion: A Rich Culinary Heritage

Dominican cuisine is a celebration of the country’s diverse cultural heritage. It is a fusion of indigenous, African, Spanish, and other European influences, which have resulted in a unique and flavorful cuisine. Weddings and special occasions are an excellent opportunity for Dominicans to celebrate their rich culinary heritage and showcase their culinary skills. From appetizers to desserts, there is a wide range of traditional dishes that are served at weddings and special occasions. Dominican cuisine is truly a feast for the senses and a testament to the country’s vibrant culture.