The organic vanilla pod is highly appreciated for its intense and natural aroma; mainly used to flavor desserts and to make excellent pastry creams. The pods of the Bourbon vanilla variety have a high concentration of the aromatic principle vanillin, and complex flavor notes. It is versatile on desserts, savory dishes and refined culinary creations. In addition, the pod provides antioxidant properties and a calming scent that combats stress and promotes rest.
Sumac is a spice with a fresh and slightly acidic flavor, excellent for seasoning first and second courses or for adding more flavor to drinks. Historically used in the Middle East and known in Sicily as Sommacco, this spice also has beneficial draining and digestive properties and is a powerful antioxidant.
Thyme is a spice that makes many preparations pleasant. With an aromatic, slightly spicy taste, it can be easily used to flavor pasta dishes, roasted meat, grilled meat, fish and fillings. Liqueurs and vinegars are also produced. Combined with wine, garlic, onion, brandy, it is used to prepare excellent sauces for meat dishes.
Vanilla is mainly for flavoring desserts and for making excellent creams. The aroma is given by the presence of vanillin with antioxidant properties which helps maintain a young organism by counteracting the action of free radicals. It is also useful for fighting stress and defeating insomnia.
Laurel is also called "Laurel" or "Poets' Tree", it has been known for centuries in cooking and herbal medicine. Its dried leaves are used both to flavor dishes and as an infusion. An infusion based on bay leaves helps digestion: it avoids annoying fermentations, fights stomach discomfort and loss of appetite. Very useful in the kitchen for flavoring potatoes, stews and second courses such as white meat stew.
For extreme heat, try the Carolina Reaper, a fiery delight from South Carolina. It is a new hybrid of the Capsicum Chinense family, obtained by crossing two species of strongly spicy chili peppers, the Pakistani Naga Morich and a Red Habanero. One of the strongest chili peppers in terms of heat, to be carefully sipped for an intense and rather strong flavor in your dishes.
