Tiny but powerful, barberries (Berberis vulgaris) are tart, ruby-red berries that have been a cornerstone of Persian cuisine for centuries. Known locally as zereshk, these berries are valued not for their sweetness, but for their bright acidity, which brings balance and depth to savory dishes. Though still relatively unknown in Western kitchens, barberries are gaining…
In an age where convenience often trumps tradition, the timeless practice of pickling offers a flavorful journey back to our culinary roots. Homemade pickles not only capture the essence of seasonal produce but also allow for creative expression in the kitchen. From the tangy crunch of cucumber dill spears to the spicy zest of pickled…
In early 2025, Australian pizza chain Bubba Pizza ignited a culinary debate by introducing a ham-and-orange pizza, featuring smoked ham, mozzarella, and fresh orange chunks. Dubbed the “orange pizza,” this unconventional combination sparked both curiosity and controversy, particularly among pizza purists who already debate the inclusion of pineapple on pizza. The chain’s managing director described…
Chicory coffee, made from the roasted, ground root of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus), has seen a resurgence among health-conscious drinkers and culinary traditionalists. Often blended with or used as a caffeine-free alternative to regular coffee, chicory’s earthy, slightly nutty flavor has made it a staple in parts of Europe and the American South—especially New…
Hailing from the sun-soaked Provence and Ligurian coasts, panisse is a crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside appetizer made from chickpea flour. While less globally known than hummus or falafel, this golden delight has long been a street food staple in cities like Marseille and Nice. Served hot and often with a sprinkle of sea salt or herbs, panisse…
Miso, a traditional Japanese paste made from fermented soybeans, rice, or barley, has quietly become a superstar ingredient in kitchens around the world. With its deep umami flavor and rich, savory complexity, miso is no longer reserved just for soup—it’s now being used in everything from salad dressings to marinades, and even desserts. Its balance…
A wave of pistachio frenzy—sparked by the viral “Dubai chocolate” bar—is reshaping how desserts are created and consumed worldwide. The original Dubai chocolate bar, produced by Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai since 2021, combines pistachio paste with crunchy knafeh filling, all encased in a rich chocolate shell. Though it began as a niche Middle Eastern…
Often referred to as the “gold of the Arctic,” cloudberries are rare, amber-colored fruits that grow wild in the cold, boggy regions of Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska. With a tangy-sweet flavor and creamy texture, they are a prized delicacy in Nordic cuisine—often made into jams, liqueurs, or served with whipped cream on festive occasions. Due…
Long before the Neapolitan classic margherita took over the world, there was pizza fritta—a deep-fried pizza born on the streets of Naples. Unlike its oven-baked cousin, pizza fritta starts as a disc of dough that’s fried golden before ingredients are added, or it’s stuffed with ricotta, salami, and tomato sauce before being sealed and fried…
Traditionally known as delicate shell-shaped sponge cakes served with tea, madeleines have recently undergone a savory transformation in modern kitchens. By incorporating ingredients like aged cheese, herbs, or even smoked salmon, chefs are turning this classic French treat into elegant, bite-sized appetizers perfect for entertaining. Savory madeleines offer the richness of pastry with the versatility…
