Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Ingredients:
- 3 grams dried butterfly pea flowers
- 1 cup hot water
Add pea flowers to hot water and steep 5-7 minutes until very dark blue.
Butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) is a striking, tropical plant known for its vibrant, deep blue or purple flowers. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, this plant has been cultivated for centuries for various purposes, including its use in traditional medicine, culinary applications, and even as a natural dye. Here are some key characteristics and uses of butterfly pea flower:
1. Appearance: The butterfly pea plant is a woody vine or creeper that can grow up to 5 meters in length. Its most notable feature is its flowers, which are typically bright blue or purple, although there are also white and pink varieties. These flowers are typically pea-shaped and about 4-5 centimeters in diameter.
2. Natural Pigment: One of the most distinctive features of the butterfly pea flower is its natural pigments, known as anthocyanins. These pigments are responsible for the vibrant blue and purple colors of the petals. Interestingly, the color of the tea or infusion made from butterfly pea flowers can change depending on the pH level of the liquid. When mixed with acidic substances like lemon juice, it can turn from blue to purple.
3. Culinary Uses: Butterfly pea flowers are used in various culinary applications, especially in Southeast Asian cuisine. They are often used to color and flavor desserts, rice dishes, and beverages. Common preparations include butterfly pea flower tea, blue rice (nasi kerabu), and various colorful sweets.
4. Herbal and Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, butterfly pea flowers have been used for their potential health benefits. They are believed to have antioxidant properties and have been used in herbal remedies to promote overall well-being.
5. Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: Butterfly pea flower tea is a popular herbal infusion made by steeping dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water. The resulting tea is a vibrant blue color and is often enjoyed for its mild, earthy flavor and potential health benefits.
6. Natural Dye: The deep blue and purple pigments from butterfly pea flowers have been used as a natural dye for fabrics, food, and cosmetics. The color is known to be stable and resistant to fading.
7. Decorative and Ornamental: In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, butterfly pea plants are cultivated for their ornamental value. The vibrant flowers make them a popular choice for landscaping and gardens.
8. Potential Health Benefits: Butterfly pea flowers are believed to contain antioxidants, which may have health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. They are also used in traditional medicine for their potential to support hair and skin health and improve memory and cognitive function.
Butterfly pea flower has gained popularity beyond its native regions due to its unique color-changing properties and potential health benefits. It continues to be used in various cultural and culinary traditions and has piqued the interest of researchers exploring its bioactive compounds and medicinal properties.