Borage: ideas for using it in the kitchen

Borage, also called starflower, is an herb with bright blue flowers that is known for its medicinal and culinary properties. It is a popular herb used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, and it has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. Borage leaves and flowers have a slightly salty and cucumber-like taste, making it an excellent addition to salads, sauces, soups, and teas. It is also commonly used to flavor gin and other alcoholic beverages. Here are some delicious ways to use borage in your kitchen. 1. Add borage to your salads Borage leaves and flowers are a great addition to any salad, adding a refreshing and mild cucumber flavor. Simply combine borage leaves with lettuce, greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite salad dressing for a healthy and delicious salad. 2. Make a borage soup Borage leaves and flowers can be used to make a delicious and comforting soup. Combine borage leaves, onion, garlic, and chicken or vegetable broth in a pot and bring it to a boil. Simmer for about 20 minutes, then blend the mixture until smooth. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and some fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or cilantro, for added flavor. 3. Use borage in your sauces Borage leaves and flowers can be used to add a subtle, yet distinctive flavor to your sauces. Add it to tomato-based sauces, pesto, or cream sauces to give them a refreshing and unique taste. 4. Infuse your oil Borage leaves can be used to make a delicious infused oil that can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or as a marinade for meats or fish. Simply add freshly picked borage leaves to a jar of olive oil and let it sit for a few weeks. Strain the oil and use it as desired. 5. Brew some borage tea Borage tea is a refreshing and soothing beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Steep borage leaves and flowers in hot water for a few minutes, then strain and sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired. In addition to its culinary uses, borage is also packed with health benefits. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from free radical damage and inflammation. Borage has also been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances. It is particularly effective at reducing inflammation and swelling in the body, making it a popular choice for people with arthritis, rheumatism, or other inflammatory conditions. In conclusion, borage is a versatile and unique herb that can add flavor and nutrition to your meals. It is also a potent medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to promote health and healing. Whether you use it in your salads, sauces, soups, or teas, borage is a must-have herb for any healthy kitchen.