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Showing posts from February, 2024

Hibiscus — ดอกชบา (dok cha-ba)

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  🌺 Embrace the vibrant beauty of Hibiscus! In Thailand, it's known as "ดอกชบา" (dok cha-ba). Discover the rich cultural significance and stunning blooms of this tropical flower.  more about Hibiscus More Flowers and Vines in our Garden

Gardenia or Cape Jasmine - แหลมจัสมิน (Laem Chasmin) - Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis

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  Gardenia, known as Cape Jasmine , holds a cherished place in Thailand's floral landscape. With its delicate white petals and intoxicating fragrance, the Gardenia exudes elegance and beauty. In Thai culture, it symbolizes purity, sincerity, and the tranquility of nature. Often found adorning gardens, temples, and special occasions, the Cape Jasmine's presence adds a touch of serenity to Thailand's vibrant tapestry of flora.

Blood Lily - ดอกว่านแสงอาทิตย์ (dok wan saeng atit) - Scadoxus multiflorus

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In Thailand, the Blood Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus) is a popular ornamental plant valued for its striking appearance and vibrant blooms.   Cultural Significance:   Blood Lilies are commonly grown in gardens, parks, and public spaces across Thailand for their decorative value. They are often planted in borders or as standalone specimens to add color and interest to outdoor landscapes. Appearance:   Blood Lilies are known for their large, spherical clusters of bright red flowers, which are borne on tall, sturdy stems. Each flower cluster contains numerous individual blooms, creating a dramatic display when in full bloom. The flowers are surrounded by long, strap-like leaves that emerge from the base of the plant. Growing Conditions:   Blood Lilies thrive in warm, tropical climates, making them well-suited to the climate of Thailand. They prefer partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. In Thailand's tropical climate, they may bloom throughout the year, although they typically

Pawsitively the Best Pet Care in Town!

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Peace of Mind While You're Away: Dedicated Pet Care with a Proven Track Record

Recipe for Roselle jam that incorporates Thai Kumquat (Som Jeed) and ginger

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Ingredients: - 2 cups fresh Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) calyxes, cleaned and chopped - 1 cup Thai Kumquats (Som Jeed) , seeds removed and chopped - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 2 cups granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon Thai lime juice (optional, for added acidity) Instructions: 1. Prepare the Rosella calyxes by removing any green parts and calyx bases. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and chop them into small pieces. 2. Remove the seeds from the Thai Kumquats (Som Jeed) and chop them finely. You can leave the peel on for added texture and flavor. 3. Grate the fresh ginger using a fine grater or microplane. 4. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped Rosella calyxes, chopped Thai Kumquats (Som Jeed), grated ginger, and granulated sugar. Stir well to combine. 5. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. 6. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a

HuaHinServices

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HuaHinServices Experience Hua Hin Serenity: Organic Delights & Wellness Services Await

Make your own sangria

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  Ingredients 750 ml strong red wine 100 ml liqueur 50 ml brandy The juice of 20 Thai Kumquats At least 20 ice cubes (more, of course) 3 unsqueezed limes 2 mangoes 1 fresh Pineapple 4 small cinnamon sticks Sweetener or honey until the sweetness is right Sangria preparation Pour the red wine, liqueur and brandy into a carafe. Squeeze the three oranges, pour the freshly squeezed juice through a sieve and then pour into the carafe. Wash the fruit, slice the lime, cut the peach into eighths, halve the orange and cut into thin slices, cut the mangoes and pineapple into small pieces. Add everything to the alcohol along with the cinnamon sticks. To make it a little sweeter - but it doesn't have to be - stir in two tablespoons of sugar. Finally, add the ice cubes. Leave to cool for around 30 minutes, serve and you're done. To ensure that the sangria tastes really refreshing on a hot day, you can add lots of ice cubes. And even if you don't believe us about the original: you probabl

Mulberry-Banana-Kumquat Jam

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  Mulberry-Banana-Kumquat Jam Sunlight-kissed mulberries , plump and stained, plucked straight from the vine, Mingle with sunshine-ripened bananas , their sweetness like a golden line. Kumquats , citrus jewels bursting with tang, two sun-soaked varieties entwined, Whispering stories of distant lands, their flavors on summer winds defined. In my daughter's hands, a symphony ignites, a dance of tastes on simmering heat. The berries bleed their blush, the bananas soften, their creaminess bittersweet. Kumquats release their sharp embrace, a vibrant counterpoint complete. Spoonfuls of sunshine, captured in glass, a harmony both tart and sweet. A taste of summer's bounty held, a love story nature cannot keep. More than just jam, it's a whispered song, a memory preserved, so deep. So spread it on fresh-baked bread, let the flavors bloom upon your tongue. A testament to earth's bounty, the love a daughter has spun. More Fruits in our Garden See posts with the label FRUITS in Hu

Thai sour mango - มะม่วงเบา (mamuang bao) - Mangifera caloneura

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  Thai sour mango are typically eaten raw, with salt, chili, and sugar. They can also be used in salads, curries, and chutneys. Here are some of the health benefits of Thai sour mango:  They are a good source of vitamins A and C.  They are a good source of fiber.  They have antioxidant properties.  They may help to boost the immune system.  They may help to improve digestion.  They may help to lower blood pressure. Here are some of the side effects of Thai sour mango:  They may cause stomach upset in some people.  They may interact with certain medications.  They may not be safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you are considering eating Thai sour mango, it is important to talk to your doctor first to make sure they are safe for you. Here are some additional information about Thai sour mango:  They are a seasonal fruit, and are typically available from March to May.  They are a popular ingredient in Thai cuisine. More Fruits in our Garden See posts with the label FRUITS in Hua H

Clove basil - ยี่หร่า (yi ra) - Ocimum gratissimum

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  Clove basil, also known as tree basil, African basil, or Yi Ra (ยี่หร่า) in Thai, is a unique herb with a distinct flavor profile that's widely used in Thai cuisine. Flavor:   It has a strong, slightly sweet flavor with notes of clove, licorice, and peppery spice. This unique flavor makes it a popular ingredient in Thai curries, stir-fries, and soups. Appearance:   Clove basil is a tall, bushy plant with large, serrated leaves that are a deep green color. The leaves have a strong, clove-like aroma. Availability:   Clove basil is readily available in most Thai markets and grocery stores. You can also find it growing in some home gardens. Uses in Thai cuisine:   Clove basil is a key ingredient in many Thai dishes, including: Kaeng kari : A green curry made with coconut milk, vegetables, and shrimp or chicken. Pad krapao : A stir-fry made with ground meat, vegetables, and clove basil. Tom yam : A sour and spicy soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and clove basil. Health benefits:  Cl

Fruits in our garden

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Our organic garden in Hua Hin yields various fruits. We consume them fresh, preserve as jams, or dry them.  Examples include Banana , Bilimbi , Kumquat , Custard apple , Carambola and Mangos . More Fruits in our Garden See posts with the label FRUITS in Hua Hin Services' Blog   

Nagami kumquat - ส้มจี๊ด nagami (som jeed nagami) - Citrus japonica

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The Nagami Kumquat is one of the most common varieties of kumquats. Here's some information about Nagami Kumquats: Appearance : Nagami Kumquats are small, oval-shaped citrus fruits with smooth, bright orange skins. They are typically about the size of a large olive or small grape. Taste : The Nagami Kumquat has a sweet, edible skin, and a tart, tangy flesh. Unlike other citrus fruits, the peel of the kumquat is sweet, while the flesh inside is sour. Usage : Nagami Kumquats are often eaten whole, either raw or used in culinary applications. They can be sliced and added to salads, used as a garnish, candied for desserts, or made into preserves, jams, and marmalades. The sweet skin and tart flesh make them versatile in both sweet and savory dishes. Cultivation : Nagami Kumquats are cultivated in subtropical regions around the world. They require warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight to thrive. They are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in pots or containers, making them popu

Golden Trumpet - บานบุรี (baan buri) - Allamanda cathartica

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  Appearance : Allamanda cathartica is a shrubby vine that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height. It has glossy, deep green leaves and large, showy trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically yellow in color, although there are cultivars with orange or purple flowers as well. Cultivation : In Thailand, Allamanda cathartica is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. It thrives in tropical climates and prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to grow and is valued for its attractive flowers. Uses : While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, some parts of the Allamanda cathartica plant have been used in traditional medicine in certain cultures. However, it's important to note that the plant contains toxic compounds and should not be ingested without proper preparation and guidance from a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional. Toxicity : All parts of the Allamanda cathartica plant, especially the sap, contain toxic c

Turmeric Sunshine Smoothie

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 Ingredients: - 1 cup plain yogurt - 1 small piece of fresh turmeric (about 1 teaspoon, grated) - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground) - 1 frozen banana - 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen) - 1/2 teaspoon ginger (freshly grated or powder) - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness) - Ice cubes (optional) Instructions: 1. In a blender, combine plain yogurt, fresh turmeric, black pepper, frozen banana, pineapple chunks, and ginger. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more yogurt if needed. 3. Taste the smoothie and add honey or maple syrup if you desire a sweeter taste. 4. Blend again to incorporate the sweetener. 5. If you prefer a colder smoothie, you can add ice cubes and blend once more. 6. Pour into a glass and savor your Turmeric Sunshine Smoothie! Feel free to experiment with additional fruits or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious smoothie! More Popular Drinks Wit

Recipe for Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

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  Ingredients: 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, coconut, or soy) 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric , peeled and grated 1-inch piece of fresh ginger , peeled and grated 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon A pinch of black pepper (freshly ground, if possible) 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (optional) A dash of vanilla extract (optional) Instructions: Prepare Fresh Turmeric and Ginger: Peel and grate the fresh turmeric and ginger. You can use a fine grater or a small food processor. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the milk, grated fresh turmeric, grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture. Stir continuously to ensure the fresh turmeric and ginger are well incorporated. Simmer (Optional): Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors. Add Sweetener: Stir in the honey or maple syrup to sweeten the