A to Z of French Herbs - Meadowsweet - La Reine des Prés
Meadowsweet - La Reine des Prés
Unlocking the Secrets of Meadowsweet: A Journey Through French Culinary History on Fabulously Delicious The French Food Podcast A to Z of French herbs.
Meadowsweet, or La Reine-des-prés in French, holds a cherished place in the heart of French culinary tradition, weaving its fragrant presence through the annals of gastronomy. Originating in the 16th century, Meadowsweet was revered not only for its delicate white flowers but also for its ability to sweeten mead, earning it the esteemed title of "meadsweet." Today, this botanical gem continues to enchant chefs and home cooks alike, adding a subtle almond flavor to a myriad of French dishes, from savory stews to delectable desserts.
Beyond its culinary allure, Meadowsweet's influence extends into folklore, literature, and even modern pharmacology. In Welsh mythology, it played a role in the creation of women, symbolizing purity and beauty. Throughout history, Meadowsweet has been celebrated for its medicinal properties, cited as a remedy for ailments ranging from dysentery to pain relief, culminating in its pivotal role in the creation of aspirin by scientists at Bayer in 1899.
Thyme Plant
Embrace the essence of French cuisine with Meadowsweet, as it takes center stage in your culinary adventures. Elevate your dishes with their subtle aroma and delicate flavor, reminiscent of the lush meadows of France. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, let Meadowsweet be your guide to unlocking the secrets of French gastronomy.
Join us on Fabulously Delicious, the French Food Podcast by Andrew Prior, as we celebrate the artistry of French cuisine and explore the wonders of Meadowsweet. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French culinary history and discover new ways to incorporate Meadowsweet into your cooking repertoire. Bon appétit!
“Through grass, through amber’d cornfields, our slow Stream
Fringed with its flags and reeds and rushes tall,
And Meadowsweet, the chosen of them all
By wandering children, yellow as the cream
Of those great cows-winds on as in a dream
By mill and footbridge, hamlet old and small (Red roofs, gray tower), and sees the sunset gleam
On mullion’d windows of an ivied hall.
There, once upon a time, the heavy King
Trod out its perfume from the Meadowsweet,
Strown like a woman’s love beneath his feet,
In stately dance or jovial banqueting,
When all was new; and in its way faring
Our Streamlet curved, as now, through grass and wheat. ”