Salep – The Warming – Monastic Recipes

Description Salep refers to the herbaceous plant Orchis mascula, as well as the flour derived from this particular family of plants. It is known for its medicinal and warming properties. As salep, most of us are familiar with the beverage made by mixing the flour of this orchid with water or milk, which is typically served hot. Salep flour is produced from the tubers of the plant Orchis mascula, which are harvested during the summer months, dried, and ground into powder. Specifically, for the production of salep, the tubers are first soaked in hot water to remove the essential oil they contain. They are then dried and ground. The removal of the essential oil is considered necessary because it has a particularly bitter taste. Nutritional Value: The main characteristic of salep is the starch, which, when dissolved in water or milk, creates a thick liquid due to the mucilaginous substance called bassarin it contains. There are four main components that characterize salep: The carbohydrates: arabin and tragacanthin The minerals: calcium and phosphorus Arabin contains a monosaccharide that is used as a sweetener in the composition of foods specifically designed for diabetic patients, as it can help smooth the rise in blood glucose levels. At the same time, this substance could act as a prebiotic, as it is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and may potentially serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. Calcium and phosphorus are the two minerals found in the highest concentrations in the human body, highlighting their importance for the organism. The primary role of both minerals in the body is as structural components of bones. Calcium helps regulate blood clotting, while phosphorus participates in metabolic processes within the body, as well as in the growth and repair of tissues and cells. It is worth noting that a cup of salep beverage covers 23% of an adult’s daily calcium needs. Since it is a relatively calorie-dense beverage, primarily due to its high sugar content to achieve the sweet taste, alternatively, we can prepare the drink by mixing salep powder with water and spices, reducing its caloric density to a minimum (1 teaspoon of plain, sugar-free salep powder provides about 15 calories). Health Benefits The therapeutic properties of this particular plant for the gastrointestinal system are said to have been praised in written works by ancient medical figures such as Hippocrates, Asclepius, and Galen, as well as by the ancient philosopher Theophrastus in his work “On Plants.” Properties: It is a demulcent, effective against cough, bronchitis, and asthma. Warming, effective against colds, nasal congestion, and the flu. Effective against sinusitis, nausea, vomiting, bloating, heartburn, and gastroesophageal reflux (ginger). Effective against indigestion, stomach disorders, and dysentery. Effective against stomach and duodenal ulcers (salep, cinnamon). It facilitates blood circulation, stimulating the function of the kidneys and heart, and alleviates headaches, menstrual pain, and menopause symptoms (cinnamon). Relieves prostate gland issues as well as hemorrhoids. Relieves muscle and rheumatic pains (cinnamon, clove). It has a detoxifying effect (cinnamon), as well as antioxidant and immune-regulating properties (cinnamon, ginger). Helps regulate diabetes (sugar-free), cholesterol, and triglycerides (cinnamon, ginger). Rich in minerals, phosphorus and calcium (salep), magnesium and iron (cinnamon), potassium and vitamin C (ginger, clove), it revitalizes the entire body (“from the tips of the nails to the top”). It helps in the quick recovery of weakened bodies, children, and the elderly. It helps to combat fatigue, both physical and mental. It soothes the nerves, relieving anxiety and tension. It facilitates brain function, improves memory, and provides vitality and alertness (cinnamon). An excellent substitute for coffee. Additionally, salep as a beverage is ideal for warming us up, both due to the spices it contains and its high carbohydrate content, which provides energy. In general, its high caloric content combined with its rich mineral content of phosphorus and calcium makes it an excellent source of energy for individuals in need of a boost and support, such as athletes, children, and the elderly. Salep Beverage Ingredients 1 cup water or milk 2 cloves 1 cinnamon stick A pinch of nutmeg 1 tsp brown sugar 1 pinch of salep (on the tip of the spoon) Instructions In a small pot, boil the water with the cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Remove from the heat, add the salep, and stir well to avoid lumps. Serve immediately, as salep is best enjoyed hot. Net weight 10g