Tag: Culinary Ingredient
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Common Name: Sesame The name “sesame” is derived from two words in the ancient Akkadian language that meant “oil” and “plant.” This is possibly in reference to its earliest use as an oilseed. Scientific Name: Sesamum indicum Editorial Note: This entry is part of The Culinary Compendium’s ongoing ingredient archive and will be expanded as…
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Common Name: Gum Arabic Alternate names are Acacia Gum and E414. Scientific Name: Acacia senegal Editorial Note: This entry is part of The Culinary Compendium’s ongoing ingredient archive and will be expanded as new sources are examined. History: Gum Arabic is a natural resin harvested from the sap of the Acacia tree. The acacia trees that…
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Asafoetida is known for its strong and pungent smell, which, like its flavor, mellows out once it is cooked in oil or ghee.
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Common Name: Annatto Alternate names include Achiote, Achuete, Bija, Latkhan, Lipstick Tree, Natural Color E1606, and Roucou. Scientific Name: Bixa orellana The tree is named after Francisco de Orellana, a Spanish explorer who first encountered the indigenous Amazon people adorned in annatto paint. Editorial Note: This entry is part of The Culinary Compendium’s ongoing ingredient…
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Anise has been valued since antiquity for its sweet, licorice-flavored seeds.
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Angelica was once prized in medieval Europe as both food and medicine. It is a shame that much of the world has forgotten this interesting herb.
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The ground powder of an unripe mango, prized for its bright and fruity acidity.
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Common Name: Allspice Its name comes from its unique flavor resembling a blend of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. Alternate names include Clove Pepper, Jamaica Pepper, Pimenta, Newspice, and Bay Rum Berry (erroneously). Scientific Name: Pimenta dioica Editorial Note: This entry is part of The Culinary Compendium’s ongoing ingredient archive and will be expanded as new sources are…
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Alexander, which was once popular in Roman and Medieval kitchens, has since faded into obscurity.
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Common Name: Agave The word agave comes from the Greek “αγαυή”, meaning “noble” or “illustrious.” Alternate names include Century Plant, Maguey, and American Aloe. Scientific Name: Agave americana (most common cultivated species); Agave tequilana (species used to make tequila), Agave angustifolia, etc. Some botanists argue that Agave tequilana should not be classified as a separate species, as it…