Once upon a time, before black pepper became the undisputed king of spices, there was another—more complex, more aromatic, and far more coveted. Long pepper (Piper longum), with its warm, layered heat and hints of cardamom and nutmeg, was the true jewel of the ancient spice trade. Revered in India, sought after in Rome, and […]
Long Pepper: The Forgotten Spice of Kings Read More »
As winter loosens its grip and the world awakens with the warmth of spring, ancient cultures wove stories to make sense of this grand transformation. These myths, rich in symbolism, reflect a universal theme—rebirth, fertility, and the triumph of light over darkness. From goddesses of dawn to underworld journeys, spring’s return has always been told
Folklore & Myths of Spring: The Eternal Dance of Light and Life Read More »
As winter loosens its icy grip, the world stirs with new life. Buds push through the softened earth, rivers swell with melted snow, and the air hums with the promise of renewal. Across ancient civilizations, this great awakening of nature was not merely observed—it was celebrated with fire, feasts, and fervent devotion. From the flickering
Seasonal Festivals of Spring: Welcoming the Return of Light Read More »
 There comes a moment in the wheel of the year when the earth stands in perfect balance—day and night equal, light and dark in harmony. This is the Spring Equinox, a celestial event that has been honoured for millenia across civilisations, marking the rebirth of the land, the renewal of life, and the return of
Spring Equinox: The Time of Balance and Renewal Read More »
Uttarakhand’s rugged terrain and varied climate have long nurtured a unique array of natural ingredients. Many of these ingredients, once staples in local kitchens, continue to play an important role in traditional recipes and health practices. Below is a closer look at some of these foraged treasures: Lingda (Fiddlehead Ferns) What It Is: Lingda
Forgotten Ingredients of Uttarakhand Read More »
When most people hear the word bhang, their minds instantly leap to Holi celebrations, intoxicating thandai, and loud, colourful revelry. But in the hills of Uttarakhand, bhang — the seeds of the cannabis plant — holds a surprisingly dignified place in traditional cuisine. Yes, you heard that right — bhang isn’t just for festive
Bhang on Your Plate: Uttarakhand’s Unusual Culinary Ingredient Read More »
Long ago, when the hills were younger and rivers still sang, there lived a spirit of the earth known only as Bhumiyai. She was neither goddess nor demon- only the ancient one, older than stone, older than flame. Her hair was the roots of trees, her bones were the mountains, and her skin was the
Folktale: The Pumpkin that Fed the Spirits Read More »
A Hearthkeeper’s Tale from Azerbaijan In a remote village nestled among the rugged highlands of Azerbaijan, a gentle shepherder named Farid cared for his flock with quiet diligence. One bitter winter, as icy winds howled across the mountains and a relentless blizzard blanketed the land, Farid found himself isolated from his village. With the storm
Piti: The Soul of the Clay Pot (lore) Read More »
Here’s an enchanting folklore narrative that embodies the spirit of “Ladles & Lore” – a tale where a humble kitchen tool becomes the keeper of ancient culinary secrets: Long ago, in a time when kitchens were sacred sanctuaries and every meal was an offering to the gods, there lived an old cook in a remote
The Silver Ladle of Lore Read More »
Bread is one of humanity’s oldest prepared foods—a humble staple that has nourished civilizations for millennia. Its history is as rich and varied as the cultures that have made it, evolving from simple flatbreads to the leavened loaves we know today. In this post, we’ll explore how bread came to be, tracing its journey
Story of Bread: A Journey Through Time Read More »