The Clitoria ternatea flower, commonly known as the butterfly pea flower, boasts a remarkable concentration of anthocyanins, with levels up to ten times higher than other flowers and vegetables. Traditionally, people would boil or steep these flowers in hot water to obtain a vibrant green liquid.
What sets Clitoria ternatea apart is the ability to manipulate the pH levels of the ingredients to create a spectrum of colors, from pink to purple. This natural coloring method not only enhances the visual appeal of dishes but also ensures safety in terms of health.
Beyond its culinary use as a natural food coloring, the butterfly pea flower has been touted for its health benefits. It is believed to support liver function, enhance vision, and prevent hair loss. Additionally, the rich content of vitamins A, C, and E in these flowers contributes to anti-aging, improved immune function, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, efficient digestion, detoxification, and cooling effects.
Once considered a wildflower, the Clitoria ternatea flower now commands a premium price. Dried butterfly pea flowers are currently priced at a staggering 800,000 to 1,000,000 VND per kilogram.
Despite its myriad benefits, it’s important to exercise caution when consuming Clitoria ternatea. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
2. When preparing tea with these flowers, avoid using water that is too hot. An ideal temperature of around 75°C is recommended. This is because excessively hot water can diminish the flavor and have adverse effects on digestion and oral health.
3. It is advised not to consume large quantities of Clitoria ternatea in a single day.
Clitoria ternatea flowers can be used in a variety of ways, including baking, tea brewing, and beverage preparation. Eva’s Kitchen will share a delightful and simple recipe for a refreshing drink infused with the essence of these flowers.
Ingredients
– Clitoria ternatea flowers: 5-10 flowers
– Boiling water
– Ice cubes
– Milk: 300ml
– Sugar
Preparation
1. Place the flowers in a clean cup and pour boiling water over them. Let them steep for about 10 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the dried flowers.
2. In a separate clean glass, combine sugar and fresh milk. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
3. Add ice cubes to the milk and any desired toppings such as tapioca pearls or jelly. Adjust the amount of ice to your preference.
4. Slowly pour the butterfly pea flower infusion into the milk. Stir with a spoon to create a beautiful green color or leave it unmixed if you prefer.
5. With just a few simple steps, you’ve crafted a delicious and refreshing glass of butterfly pea flower milk.
The combination of creamy milk, sweet sugar, cooling ice, and the captivating green hue from the butterfly pea flower results in a beverage that is not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing, making it ideal for scorching summer days.
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