Description
Bergamot herb, also known as bee balm or Monarda, is a beautifully aromatic herb with fragrant leaves and striking flowers.
Despite its name, it isn’t the bergamot citrus fruit used to flavour traditional Earl Grey tea. The name comes from the plant’s wonderfully aromatic fragrance.
Both the leaves and flowers can be used in the kitchen. Bergamot herb makes a fragrant herbal tea and its spicy, aromatic flavour also works surprisingly well with poultry, bacon, rice and pasta.
The flowers are also wonderful in a garden and help turn the plant into a little pollinator pub.
A little tip: The flavour can be quite strong. Start with a small amount and add more once you’ve tasted it.
Bergamot & Lemon Tea
Ingredients
1 to 2 teaspoons dried bergamot leaves and flowers
250 ml hot water
Slice of lemon
Honey, optional
Method
Place the dried bergamot into a cup or tea infuser.
Pour over hot water and cover the cup.
Leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.
Strain and add lemon and a little honey if desired. A covered infusion helps retain the herb’s aromatic oils.
Tammy’s tip: Try it without honey first. Bergamot has quite an interesting flavour of its own before you start tinkering with it. 🌿
