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Baking powder is a home remedy and miracle cure in everyday life. Have you always wanted to know what you can do with the powder apart from baking? Here you will find the answer! From baking to cleaning, baking soda is a jack of all trades.

You can not only use baking powder for baking but can also be used in the household, in the garden, and in the beauty sector. Here are a few ways you can use the miracle powder. We also clarify what baking powder actually is.

1) Clean grout with baking soda

You can also use baking soda to clean your grout. It is particularly difficult to get rid of stubborn dirt between the joints. But with the application of the powder, it is very easy. To do this, take the powder and mix it with water. Then you can clean your dirty joints with an old toothbrush and the resulting.

2) Remove limescale deposits with baking soda

Limescale deposits are annoying. You should remove them regularly, especially in the washing machine or other appliances. If you want to remove limescale from your washing machine, you can also use the miracle powder here. Accordingly, mix water and the powder into a paste. Then put it directly in the washing machine or in the detergent compartment. Then run the washing machine through once at 60 or 90 degrees. Also, note our other tips for descaling washing machines.

3) Clean sink with baking soda

Descaling the sink or general cleaning of the sink can also be done with the miracle powder. To do this, sprinkle the affected areas with the powder and leave it on overnight. The next day, rinse everything off properly. You can also use the powder to effectively clean the toilet.

4) Remove fat deposits

You can also use the miracle powder to remove fat deposits and grease stains. Because it can bind liquids and odors. So mix the powder with water to make a paste. Then apply it to the affected areas and let it dry. You can then brush off the dried powder and the fat deposits are gone. The effective household remedy of washing soda can also be used to remove fat deposits.

5) Eliminate mold stains

Baking soda is a good mildew remover. Consequently, you can use it to clean your awnings if they are affected by mold stains. To do this, mix the baking powder with water to form a paste. Then spread it on the affected areas. After everything has dried, you can brush off the mass. And your awning is clean again.

6) Washing hands with the miracle powder

Due to its antibacterial properties, the powder is just as suitable for effective hand washing as soap. Since it also acts like peeling, it is also recommended for heavy soiling. So just put a portion of the leavening agent on your hands for baking. Then rub it with some water for a few seconds. Finally, rinse your hands with clear water.

health

3 Healthy Oils and Their Uses

Healthy oils for use as natural home remedies. These household oils work like miracle cures. Olive oil, sesame oil, sea buckthorn oil, tea tree oil, and argan oil.

We show you the types of oils you should know about. Because their ingredients and properties are not only useful in the kitchen. Consequently, you can also use healthy oils for skin, hair, or other health ailments.

Are oils healthy?

Vegetable oils provide your body with valuable monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The fats contained benefit our brain cells. And they can make your skin supple. They can also have an overall positive impact on health. All oils have certain advantages and disadvantages. For example, some are not suitable for hot searing. Therefore, you should consume omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids in an equal ratio. So you are doing your health good. Also, make sure that the oils are of sufficient quality. Check out the following for more information. Also, note our article about healthy black cumin oil and its application.

1) The Mediterranean olive oil

Olive oil is often used as a home remedy. Because its ingredients make it extremely valuable for us and our bodies. And the best thing is that olive oil is available to everyone in the household. Consequently, there are no additional costs.

The healthy olive oil for your health

You can use olive oil for internal and external use. Consequently, we have collected some areas of application for you. The healthy oils can be used particularly sensibly for health problems:

As an aid against corns. If you want to remove corn, mix olive oil with lemon juice. Then rub the corn several times a day with it.
Use for constipation. Constipation is very uncomfortable. Therefore, take 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the morning on an empty stomach. Because this acts as a light, natural laxative.
To relieve sunburn. Since olive oil cools and soothes the skin, it is said to reduce the symptoms of sunburn. To do this, apply it together with something on the affected area.
To combat bad breath. To effectively combat bad breath, rinse your mouth regularly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. As a result, bacteria are killed. Also, read our guide to oil pulling.
As a home remedy for rheumatism. If you suffer from rheumatism, the oil can help you relieve the pain. To do this, massage it in until it absorbs. Or make yourself an overnight wrap with olive oil.
To relieve earache. Opinions differ on this. Some voices recommend putting 1-2 drops of warm olive oil in the ear for ear pain and then letting it drain. Others strongly advise against this method.
For treating cuts. For small cuts, you can apply a few drops of healthy oil to the skin. Consequently, wound healing should be promoted.

2) The Asian sesame oil

Sesame oil is considered the oldest cooking oil. And it’s hard to imagine Asian cuisine without it. Due to its properties, however, it should not only be used for cooking. Because the ingredients of sesame oil are of particularly high quality.

Application of sesame oil

Sesame oil also belongs to the category of “healthy oils” whose application can be useful in various areas. So we have an overview of the most important ones:

Use as a natural sunscreen. Sunlight causes our skin to age quickly. To protect your skin. You can do this by applying sesame oil to your skin. Because this has a low sun protection factor.
As a remedy for high blood pressure. Take 20 ml of sesame oil daily. Because that helps you to keep your high blood pressure at a lower level permanently.
To remove bags under the eyes. To do this, massage the eye area with some of the healthy oil. Because it cares for the skin and is supposed to promote the flow of lymph.
Effective home remedy for bronchitis. To ease the symptoms of bronchitis, massage your chest area with warm sesame oil. So you use the natural power of the healthy oil.
To relieve joint pain. If you suffer from joint pain, make poultices with sesame oil. Then leave it on overnight.
Fighting herpes and as an aid in shingles. To apply healthy oils, are mostly applied to the diseased areas of the skin. The same applies to herpes and shingles.
Treat chronically dry nasal mucosa. So apply a few drops of the healthy oil to the inside and outside of your nose. It is also a good alternative to saline.
remove scab. You can also easily remove scabs from healed wounds. To do this, put a few drops of sesame oil on the scab and let it work. Then it can be easily removed.

3) The unknown sea buckthorn oil

In Germany, sea buckthorn oil is one of the “newer” oils and convinces with its versatility. The ingredients, components, and properties of sea buckthorn oil at a glance.

Use sea buckthorn oil correctly

So that you can use the advantages of sea buckthorn oil in the future, we have listed the most important applications for you. This allows you to do without the usual medication.

As a home remedy for acne and skin inflammation. If you suffer from acne, you can treat it with the healthy oil of sea buckthorn. Accordingly, apply 1 – 2 drops to the affected areas and let it take effect.
For the relief of neurodermatitis. 2 drops applied three times a day can also relieve the symptoms of neurodermatitis.
To treat psoriasis. Slight psoriasis lesions can also be alleviated. Because the sea buckthorn oil has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect. For this, you have to apply it twice a day.
As a natural home remedy for heartburn, especially during pregnancy. To do this, take a teaspoon spread over the meals before eating.
Remedial measure for burns. If you have burned yourself slightly, you can rub the burn with 1-2 drops of sea buckthorn oil. As a result, the wound should heal faster.
As a remedy for gastrointestinal complaints, stomach ulcers, or inflamed gastric mucosa. Thus, take 1 teaspoon 30 minutes before meals 2 to 3 times a day.
For protection against sun allergies. Sea buckthorn oil is said to protect the skin. Therefore, apply 1-2 drops to your skin.
Before radiation therapy. To do this, apply the healthy oil to the areas to be irradiated weeks before the treatment and massage it in gently. Consequently, you prevent burn scars.

health

7 Tea Tree Oil Uses and Its Effects

The use of tea tree oil as a natural home remedy offers a wide range of possibilities. Because the healing effect of tea tree oil benefits the body and mind. Now alleviate health problems with the miracle oil.

Tea tree oil has become an integral part of everyday life for many people. The natives of Australia used the oil as a remedy. Tea tree oil is available in health food stores and drugstores. Find out here what you can use it for.

What is tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). This bush, up to seven meters high, bears needle-shaped leaves permanently. It can be found in eastern Australia. Even the Aborigines processed the leaves into essential oil and used the healing effect on wounds. A tea can also be made from the leaves. Even today, this oil is used as a remedy for many different ailments. Also, see our article on healthy oils and their uses.

The tea tree oil effect

The effective tea tree oil effect is mainly given to the good quality of the oil. It owes its healing effect to the compounds terpinene and cineole. Consequently, it has an antibacterial and antiseptic effect. Therefore, it promotes wound healing and inhibits inflammation. It also has a fungicidal effect, so it is used as an effective remedy against skin fungus and herpes. And it also has positive effects on colds and on the psyche.

Ways to use tea tree oil

The tea tree oil application is useful in a variety of areas. Because its healing effect can benefit the body and the mind at the same time. It is therefore worth having this wonderful oil in the household. Consequently, we have collected the most important application tips:

1) Tea tree oil for wounds

For minor wounds, such as small burns or cuts, tea tree oil can support the healing process. Simply apply a few drops of oil to the wound. Then put a plaster over it to speed up the healing of the wound. The antibacterial and antiseptic effect is said to prevent inflammation. Consequently, you can use it to effectively treat blisters on your feet.

2) As a home remedy for pimples

Due to its antibacterial effect, the miracle oil is very suitable for treating skin impurities such as blackheads and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Consequently, it is an effective home remedy for pimples. Therefore, apply some oil to the affected areas. Then leave it on overnight. Since the oil can dry out the skin, you should not apply it to a large area all over your face. Therefore, it is best to use a cotton swab or a cotton pad. Also, read our tips against large pores.

3) Tea tree oil for herpes

Likewise, tea tree oil is an effective remedy for herpes. In order to be able to fight herpes, you have to dab it with the oil several times a day. The antibacterial effect should also fight viruses. It also promotes wound healing. Thus, the annoying cold sores should disappear quickly.

4) Treatment of insect bites

A tea tree oil application is also advisable for itchy, annoying insect bites. Because the itching is reduced by the oil. The oil also reduces the risk of inflammation because it has an antibacterial effect. Therefore put 2 – 3 pure drops of the remedy directly on the sting and let the tea tree oil effect surprise you.

5) Tea tree oil for sore throat

The healing effect of tea tree oil helps you to effectively fight a sore throat or hoarseness. In addition, it works as a home remedy for cough. So use the oil and get quick relief. To do this, mix 5-10 drops of tea tree oil in a glass of warm water and gargle with it morning and night.

6) Fight mold with tea tree oil

If you have mold in your home, you should take urgent action to prevent it. And tea tree oil is very good for fighting mold. Thus, dilute 10ml of the oil with 500ml of water. Then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. You can then spray the affected areas generously with it. This will kill the fungus. Since tea tree oil smells very intense, you should ventilate the room well afterward.

7) Miracle oil as a defense against head lice

When your child goes to school or daycare, they can easily get head lice. If you want to prevent the infestation of these annoying parasites, you can treat your child’s scalp with a few drops of tea tree oil when washing their hair. Experience has shown that children treated in this way are less susceptible to head lice. If it is already too late, also note our natural home remedies for head lice.

Lifestyle

7 Uses of Coconut Oil for Hair and Skin

Coconut oil is supposed to be healthy. And not only as an alternative fat in the kitchen but also as a care product. Learn how to use coconut oil for hair, skin, and even coconut oil for your dog.

How is coconut oil obtained?

Coconut oil is another vegetable oil that joins the ranks of good fats. Because it is easy to digest and has fewer calories. It is used in particular in Asian cuisine, but it is also becoming increasingly popular with us due to the many possible uses. The native coconut oil is extracted from the fresh flesh of the coconut. For this, it has to be pressed. The fat is also obtained from coconut milk. After it is won, it will not be dealt with any further. And depending on the room temperature, it can assume a different physical state. Consequently, it is liquid or creamy at very warm temperatures. And stuck in cold temperatures.

The healthy coconut oil effect

More than 50 percent of coconut oil consists of medium-chain fatty acids, i.e. saturated fatty acids. And these give the oil special properties. It is easy to digest and is more likely to be used in the body for energy production. It also contains fewer calories, which is why this oil is preferably used when losing weight. In addition, it has an antibacterial and antiviral effect. And last but not least, the oil moisturizes.

What can I use coconut oil for?

The special properties make coconut oil so popular. Of course, other vegetable oils are good too. But in the following, we want to show you how you can use coconut oil for your hair, skin, and teeth. Because of the healthy effect of the oil, it is worth having in the household.

1) For cooking and baking

Coconut oil has been used in Asian cuisine for a long time. And you can also use it in your own kitchen. It is best to use it for dishes for which it tastes good. If you want to use it for other dishes, it’s better to use a little less. We like to use it for homemade pancakes. In addition, you can use it in baking.

2) Coconut oil for hair

Coconut oil for hair has long since ceased to be an insider tip. Because coconut oil penetrates deeper into the hair than other oils such as mineral or sunflower oil. Thus, it is particularly useful as a home remedy for brittle and dry hair. To do this, massage the oil (2 – 3 tablespoons) into your hair and the ends of your hair. Then let it take effect (also possible overnight as a hair treatment). The oil moisturizes your dry hair. Then wash everything well.

3) Application for hair loss

The product is particularly effective as a remedy for light hair loss. After all, coconut oil not only cares for the hair, but also for the scalp, which is usually very stressed in everyday life. The antibacterial effect of the oil can directly alleviate fungal diseases on the scalp. The pH of the oil is optimal for our scalp, which is why there is no further irritation. Therefore, use coconut oil for hair and scalp more often.

4) As a home remedy for dandruff

One of the main causes of dandruff is a dry scalp. Coconut oil can help here. Because of the high-fat content, the scalp becomes supple, so that dandruff can be reduced. The moisturizing effect also affects the hair. The hair shines and becomes particularly supple. This film serves not only to shine but also to protect the individual hair. Thus, coconut oil is good for the scalp and hair.

5) Soft lips thanks to coconut oil

You can also treat your dry lips with coconut oil. Because the moisturizing effect of coconut oil cares for your lips. You should smear it on your lips regularly throughout the day. You can also use the miracle oil overnight.

6) The home remedy for herpes

The coconut oil not only makes lips soft, but it also helps as a home remedy for herpes. Because the contained lauric acid, more precisely monolaurin, has an antiviral effect. Consequently, it can lead to the inactivation of the herpes virus. Therefore, if you have herpes, you can smear some coconut oil on the affected area several times until it disappears.

7) Coconut oil for facial care

Coconut oil is also a real all-rounder when it comes to facial care. It moisturizes your facial skin and makes it supple. And its antibacterial properties make it perfect for cleaning the face. Many women swear by it in their evening care. Simply take some oil and rub it in circular motions on your face and neck. After you’re done with this, wash off the residue with a cleaning product.

Lifestyle

Essential Oils and Their Uses

September 28, 2025

People have been using essential oils for thousands of years because of their healing effects on the body and soul, which is very multifaceted. They can have an inhibiting effect on bacteria and inflammation, as well as help with infestation with fungi and viruses.

What are essential oils?

There are many different types of plants to choose from, from which the essences can be made. They are characterized by a strong scent. In most cases, essential oils are applied directly to the skin or inhaled. Oral administration is also possible. The correct dosage is crucial for the effect. However, pure essences can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, they are best diluted with mild oil such as almond or jojoba oil as a carrier.

Effects of essential oils

When inhaled, the scent of the essential oils has a positive effect on the central nervous system and the brain and is used in a targeted manner in aromatherapy. This can achieve the following effects, among others:

Calming down when stressed
stimulation of the blood flow
Create local appeal
promote circulation
relieve spasms

Use essential oils in a targeted manner

Essential rosemary oil is particularly versatile. Because it is said to have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a blood circulation-enhancing and antispasmodic effect on the body. That is why rosemary oil is used for colds and rheumatism as well as for muscle tension and circulatory problems.

However, it has also proven to be helpful for blemished skin and headaches, as well as for digestive problems such as flatulence. As part of aromatherapy, it can be used in a diffuser or an aroma lamp. It can also be used as a bath additive and massage oil. Lavender and chamomile oil also have a calming effect. This can also alleviate inner restlessness and sleep disorders, which are caused by stress.

Stimulate the mind with essential oils

Grapefruit, mint, and orange essential oils invigorate the senses and lend themselves to a morning shower. Lemon oil revitalizes and awakens tired spirits. It also promotes sustained concentration. The bergamot, which is obtained from the peel of the Mediterranean citrus fruit, also smells fresh and lemony. This sparkling scent also has an invigorating effect and brightens the mood. Consequently, it can be used as a remedy for annoying winter blues.

Use the power of essential oils for the body

The scent of peppermint is also stimulating, and the menthol it contains has a refreshing and clarifying effect. In addition, it can reduce headaches. It also has an activating and stimulating effect and promotes concentration. In this way, more energy can be gained during a strenuous phase of life. Eucalyptus oil is very aromatic and has a cooling, cleansing, and antiseptic effect. The essential oil loosens tough mucus in the respiratory tract that occurs with colds. So the user can use this as a remedy for colds and breathe freely again.

Essential oils with a purifying effect

The tea tree oil helps against impure skin thanks to its disinfecting and clarifying effect. However, it also has antiseptic, bactericidal, and fungicidal effects on the skin. This essential oil has an intensely bitter scent. On the other hand, jasmine oil has a soothing soothing effect, which is suitable for relieving pain. Before using essential oils, users should obtain sufficient information about the effects in order to select the right oil for the intended purpose.

Food

Sesame Oil: Effects and Uses in The Kitchen and For Body Care

September 28, 2025

Sesame oil has been used for thousands of years in Asian countries as a food and for body care. We explain to you what makes the oil so healthy and how it affects skin and hair.

What makes sesame oil so healthy?

Sesame oil is considered the oldest cooking oil in the world. For thousands of years it has been a popular food, especially in China, India and Japan, and it is hard to imagine Asian cuisine without it. When sesame oil also became popular in India, it quickly became an essential part of Ayurveda. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has also established itself for external use.

Sesame oil is considered a very healthy source of fat, as it consists of around 87% unsaturated fatty acids. It has a particularly high proportion of unsaturated linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. This has a positive effect on cholesterol levels, strengthens heart activity and blood clotting and can prevent osteoporosis and hardening of the arteries.

Other health benefits of the oil result from the content of antioxidants, which are said to have a cancer-preventing effect, as well as the proportion of lecithin and vitamin E.

sesame oil in the kitchen

Depending on how the oil is produced, it is available in different variants:
Cold-pressed and virgin sesame oil has not been heated. As a result, it has a particularly high proportion of valuable and health-promoting ingredients.
With the refined oil, the seeds were previously heated, which means that many of the ingredients are lost. However, heating it also makes it last longer. It is also tasteless and can be used for many dishes.
Sesame oil is also available as light and dark oil. The color of the oil depends on how the seeds were treated before it was made:
The light sesame oil was pressed from the untreated sesame seeds. It has a neutral and mild taste and is particularly suitable for cooking, baking and roasting. For example, if you want to make tahini yourself, you can also use sesame oil.
The dark oil is obtained from roasted sesame. It has a very intense and nutty taste and should therefore be used sparingly. In its raw state, it is often drizzled over a dish at the end to give it an Asian character. This oil is also recommended for the preparation of salad dressings.
Due to the antioxidant content, sesame oil has a very long shelf life and is relatively resistant to light and heat. Nevertheless, you should preferably store it in a cool and dark place. Then it can be stored for up to a year.

Sesame oil as body care

Sesame oil is particularly important in Ayurveda and is used both in the kitchen and for skin care. In massages, it is used as a natural massage oil and is considered a particularly suitable agent for morning oil pulling.

For body care you should use the light and cold-pressed sesame oil. The content of linoleic acid, antioxidants and vitamins makes it a proven remedy for dry and stressed skin. The oil penetrates deep and quickly into the skin and provides it with optimal moisture. It also helps in skin regeneration and strengthens skin cells.

The healthy oil also has the same effect on your hair. You can use it as a nourishing hair treatment especially for very dry and stressed hair or a sensitive scalp:
Simply put the oil in your hair before washing and massage it well into the scalp and hair ends.
Leave it on for at least two hours or overnight.
Rinse gently with lukewarm water and wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
If you struggle with brittle ends in particular or if your hair is difficult to comb through after washing, you can simply massage a few drops of the oil into the hair lengths after washing. This will also give your hair a natural shine.

Food

Cardamom: Effects and Uses of The Spice

Cardamom is one of the most expensive and exclusive spices in the world. Not only the unique taste makes cardamom so special: The capsules have been valued for their medicinal properties for centuries.

The spice cardamom is obtained from the capsules of the cardamom bushes, which can grow up to five meters high. A distinction is usually made between two types:

Green cardamom: The variety is native to southern India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Iraq. Green cardamom is now also cultivated and exported in Guatemala, Madagascar and Vietnam.
Black cardamom: The spice comes from China and is now primarily cultivated in Nepal.
The capsules of the cardamom plants are harvested when they are still unripe, otherwise they would open and lose the seeds. The yellowish-green capsules are then dried. In the growing areas, the leaves of the perennials are also used. Their taste is strongly reminiscent of cinnamon, which is why they are mainly used for tea or desserts.

By the way: Cardamom belongs to the ginger family, which is why, like ginger, it forms underground rhizomes. However, only the above-ground capsules with the seeds they contain are used.

Cardamom: spice with medicinal properties?

Although cardamom was already valued by the Romans for its digestive properties and was considered an aphrodisiac by the Arabs, the spice has not yet been extensively scientifically researched.

In addition to starch and protein, the aromatic capsule contains the following ingredients, among others:
essential oils
antioxidants
manganese
iron
Cardamom is said to have many different effects:
According to the report by nutritionist Dr. Uwe Siedentopp, the spice has a gall-stimulating and deflating effect. In Ayurvedic health science, cardamom is therefore considered an important remedy for various digestive problems.
The intense smell of the spice is said to counteract bad breath and help against the smell of garlic or alcohol.
In animal experiments on mice and rats, an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect could also be demonstrated. The extent to which this can be transferred to humans is questionable. Nevertheless, cardamom is often used for menstrual cramps.
In India, cardamom is also traditionally used to treat colds and respiratory diseases. Cardamom is said to have an expectorant effect and thus relieve symptoms. However, there is no scientific evidence for this.
The effects of cardamom are mainly attributed to its high content of essential oils. In order to preserve these, it is important that you do not overheat cardamom. It’s best to add the seasoning just before serving.

Cardamom in the kitchen: A special aroma for sweet and savory dishes

Cardamom has a slight tart note and is sweet at the same time. This extraordinary combination makes the spice an indispensable ingredient in chai tea, for example. But cardamom is also well suited for refining coffee.

In India, cardamom is considered the “queen of spices”. There, the capsule is used for both savory dishes and desserts. So it is not surprising that cardamom is an important component for spice mixtures such as curry powder or garam masala.

We know the spice mainly from the Christmas season as an ingredient for biscuits such as speculoos or mulled wine. Cardamom is far more diverse:
It is ideal for dishes with fruit, such as compote. Cardamom goes particularly well with apples, pears or oranges.
Similar to cloves, you can also cook cardamom in rice to give it a special touch. Of course, this also works with rice pudding.
Cardamom is also suitable for savory dishes. Meat and fish can be refined with it just as well as vegetable pans.

Food

Pecan Nuts: Origin, Uses and Nutritional Values

Pecans are part of many traditional dishes in the United States. They are also becoming better known in Europe. Here you can find out all the important facts about the popular nut.

Origin of the pecan nut

The pecan nut belongs to the walnut family and grows on the pecan nut tree, which is originally native to North America. The harvest time of the nut extends from October to December. Today, pecan trees are also grown in other countries, such as Australia, Brazil, China and South Africa.

Pecans: what’s in them?

With around 700 kilocalories per 100 grams, pecans are among the most calorie-dense nuts and should therefore be consumed in moderation. But they convince with a high content of various minerals, such as zinc, potassium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium. Like all nuts, they are also rich in B vitamins and consist of almost ten percent fiber.

Pecan nuts contain about 70 to 75 grams of fat per 100 grams. However, this is not a cause for concern since the nuts are mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids

Pecans: tips for use

Pecans taste like walnuts, but are much milder. You can simply enjoy them as a snack or sprinkle them over your muesli or yoghurt. In the US, they are also used in many different typical baked goods, such as cinnamon rolls

The nuts are also well suited as a topping for desserts and ice cream. You can also use them for hearty dishes, such as salads, casseroles or to prepare a vegan burger patty.

Recipe: Classic Pecan Pie

You need:
240g flour
220g cold butter
55g sugar
1 pinch of salt
120ml sugar beet syrup
3 tbsp honey
10 tbsp whole cane sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g pecan halves
That’s how it’s done:
Cut 170 grams of the cold butter into small cubes and place them in a bowl with the flour, sugar and salt and mix with the hand mixer to form a crumbly dough.
Gradually add some water until the dough becomes a little sticky. However, be careful with the water, otherwise the dough will be too runny. 40 to 80 milliliters are usually sufficient.
Form the dough into a ball and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Then roll it out on a work surface into a circle about 28 centimeters in diameter.
Then carefully place it in a 9-inch baking dish or tart pan and let it rest in the fridge for another 30 minutes.
Put the remaining butter in a saucepan with the syrup, honey and whole cane sugar and heat the mixture while stirring. When the sugar is completely dissolved, take the pot off the stove and let the mixture cool.
Beat the eggs with the vanilla extract and carefully fold the mixture into the cooled sugar mixture.
Arrange the pecans decoratively on the tart pan and then pour the egg and sugar mixture over it.
The tart goes into the oven at 165°C for 45 to 60 minutes.

Food

Pink Pepper: Uses, Origins and Specifics

Pink pepper isn’t actually pepper at all, but it’s still very popular because of its fruity-peppery taste and beautiful colour.

Pink pepper, also called “pink berry” or “Schinus berry”, is actually not a pepper: the Schinus tree on which it grows belongs to the sumac family. In fact, there is also real red pepper. However, this is very rare and difficult to obtain because, unlike other types of pepper, it is perishable.

There are two types of trees on which pink pepper grows: the Brazilian and the Peruvian Schinus tree. The names already indicate that the pink pepper originally comes from Central and South America. Today, however, the main producer is Reunion Island.

Pink pepper: how to use it in the kitchen

Unlike real pepper, pink pepper has a piquant taste but is not hot. You should still dose it sparingly, as it contains toxic substances that are difficult to digest. Therefore, children should better avoid it. Pink pepper tastes fruity and a bit like juniper. Thus, the spice can give many dishes a special aroma.

Basically, it’s too good for the pepper mixtures in which it often occurs. Pink pepper comes into its own much better if you crush it fresh and pour it over the finished meal before serving.

Pink pepper goes well with these dishes, among others:
Fish
asparagus
steamed kohlrabi
goat cheese
light sauces such as hollandaise sauce
It gets particularly exciting when you refine desserts with pink pepper: it goes very well with chocolate, for example, but also with many crèmes, strawberries, peaches and apricots.

Food

Star Anise: Effects and Uses

Star anise is mainly used in desserts, but the spice is also very popular in Asian cuisine. Star anise convinces with its unique aroma and is also said to help with respiratory and digestive problems.

Star anise: A Christmas spice from Asia

Hardly any other spice is as reminiscent of Christmas as star anise. The spice should not be missing in gingerbread and mulled wine. Otherwise, star anise is rather unknown in Germany. So it is not surprising that star anise is often confused with anise. The spices are both used during the Christmas season, but otherwise have nothing in common. They are also not related botanically.

Star anise is the fruit of the evergreen magnolia tree. The tree reaches a height of up to 20 meters and comes from Asia. After its large yellow flowers have faded, it produces fruit. It consists of eight chambers arranged in a star shape, each containing a seed. Both the hard but aromatic shell and the seeds inside are used as a star anise spice.

The decorative spice comes from China, where it has been considered and revered as a spice and medicinal plant for over 3000 years. Because star anise is so prized, the tree often grows near temples and sacred sites. In addition to China, star anise is now increasingly being cultivated in Southeast Asia, for example in Vietnam.

Star anise as a medicinal plant?

Although star anise and anise are botanically unrelated, they share similar ingredients. These include, among others:
essential oils, mainly anethole
Flavonoids, mainly rutin
saponins
tannins
Star anise has a long tradition as a medicinal plant, especially in Asia. The spice is said to have many positive effects on the body:
A scientific paper from 2013 found that the ingredients have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Star anise is traditionally used in Asia to treat digestive problems such as flatulence and infant colic.
In addition, the ingredients are said to have an expectorant effect, which is why star anise is also used for chronic coughs and bronchitis.
A 2014 study found that star anise is also effective as a natural pesticide against certain pests.
For its medicinal effects, you can use star anise as an essential oil or make a tea from the spice:
Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over 3 teaspoons of crushed star anise.
Let the tea steep for about 15 minutes. Then you remove the spice parts.
If you have respiratory problems or digestive problems, you can drink three cups of star anise tea a day.

How to use star anise in the kitchen

Star anise has a particularly intense aroma that is characterized by its natural sweetness and subtle spiciness. It is best to buy whole stars and grind them into a fine powder yourself with a mortar and pestle just before use.

You can use the whole stars in a dark and dry place for up to three years without any problems. Ready-ground star anise quickly loses its taste and cannot be stored for so long.

Star anise can be used in many ways in the kitchen:
The sweet taste is reminiscent of Christmas and is therefore ideal for desserts. Especially in biscuits or cakes, the aroma gives a special touch.
Star anise is also suitable for refining drinks such as cocoa or coffee. The spice should not be missing in chai tea.
Star anise also rounds off fruity creations such as compote. The spice goes particularly well with plums, apples or pears.
In Asian cuisine, star anise is mostly used for savory dishes. The aromatic spice refines meat and fish dishes and is an integral part of curry powder and five-spice powder.