Last month, my friend invited me over for dinner. While helping her prep in the kitchen, I reached into her fridge to grab some garlic and found something odd. There was a whole tub of palm oil sitting on the shelf, right next to some onions. I paused and asked, “Why is your palm oil in the fridge?” She laughed and said, “I thought it would stay fresh longer this way!” That moment stuck with me. Many of us don’t think twice about what we toss into the fridge. But here’s the truth: not everything belongs there. In fact, storing certain foods in the fridge can ruin their flavor, texture, or shelf life. If you’ve been wondering why your food...
I was seven when I first tasted a pickle. It wasn’t just the crunch that hooked me; it was the sour, tangy flavor that seemed to light up every taste bud. From that moment on, pickles had a place in my heart and, more importantly, in my kitchen. But as I grew older, I realized that pickles are so much more than a zesty snack. They’re packed with health benefits and have a place in almost every cuisine. Today, on National Pickle Day, let’s consider why pickles deserve a place in your diet, plus some creative ways to use them in cooking. And, if you’re feeling inspired, Flourish Spices and African Food is here to help you stock up on...
Growing up in Nigeria, the flavors and foods of West Africa were an integral part of Ola Elkanah's life. However, when she first moved to Salem, she found it nearly impossible to access the ingredients she needed to cook authentic African meals.Things like palm oil, fufu flour and other staples were largely absent from grocery stores in the area. Any time Ola wanted to make classics from her childhood like jollof rice or egusi soup, she would need to make a trek down to Portland to hunt for what she needed.It was out of frustration with these long food finds that Ola had the idea to start sourcing African ingredients herself. In 2010, she launched Flourish Spices with the goal...
Jollof rice, a popular West African dish, is known for its vibrant colors and delicious taste. But even the most experienced cooks can encounter challenges when preparing this culinary masterpiece. To help you create the perfect Jollof rice, we've compiled some handy hacks that will take your cooking to the next level. The Secret to Perfect Jollof Rice The Tomato Base The foundation of jollof rice lies in the tomato paste. For a rich, deep flavor, opt for high-quality tomato paste and cook it down with onions and peppers until it thickens and caramelizes. Ensure you don't use too much tomato paste as this can lead to a bitter and overpowering flavor. The Parboiling Power Parboiling your rice before adding it...
Who would have thought that a spice blend born in the heart of American barbecue could find a home in the kitchens of Africa? Well, that’s the magic of food! Buffalo seasoning, with its red-hot kick and delicious flavor, is more versatile than you might think. Yes, it's time to break free from the wings and explore other recipes. Let's start with something unexpected: Buffalo Popcorn. Picture this: a bowl of fluffy popcorn, tossed in melted butter and coated in our spicy buffalo seasoning. The crunch, the heat, the addictive flavor - it's a match made in snack heaven. Or perhaps you're in the mood for something a little more substantial. How about Buffalo Roasted Vegetables? Sweet potatoes, carrots, and Brussels...
