Season: Spring - Fall
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Orange Balm (Melissa officinalis 'Orange') is a perennial herb cultivar known for its distinct citrusy fragrance and flavor. This aromatic plant is a member of the mint family and features bright green, serrated leaves that emit a pleasant, sweet orange scent when crushed. It typically grows 12-24 inches tall and prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Orange Balm is popular for its culinary and medicinal applications, as it adds a refreshing citrus twist to teas, cocktails, desserts, and savory dishes. It is also valued for its calming properties and can be used to soothe anxiety and promote relaxation.
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Mature Height
1 Foot |
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Mature Width
2 Feet |
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Light
Half Sun |
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High
Moderate |
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Uses
Orange Balm's distinctive citrus aroma and flavor make it a versatile addition to various culinary applications. Use it in herbal teas or cocktails for a refreshing, citrus-infused beverage. Incorporate it into desserts like fruit salads, sorbets, or baked goods for a subtle, zesty twist. The leaves can also be used in savory dishes, such as salads, dressings, or sauces, where the orange essence complements other flavors. Orange Balm works well as a garnish for both sweet and savory dishes, adding visual appeal and a delightful scent. In addition to its culinary uses, Orange Balm is valued for its soothing properties, often used in aromatherapy, teas, or as a topical treatment to promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety.
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RECIPES
Orange Balm Honey Butter
Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup fresh Orange Balm leaves, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, finely chopped Orange Balm leaves, honey, and orange zest.
Use a fork or an electric mixer to mix all the ingredients until well combined and smooth.
Transfer the Orange Balm Honey Butter to a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log or cylinder, then wrap it tightly.
Refrigerate the wrapped Orange Balm Honey Butter for at least 2 hours or until firm.
To serve, unwrap the Orange Balm Honey Butter and slice it into rounds. Place the rounds on warm bread, toast, pancakes, or waffles, allowing the butter to melt and infuse the dish with its unique flavor.
This Orange Balm Honey Butter is a delightful way to showcase the herb's distinct citrus aroma and taste. Feel free to experiment with other recipes, such as incorporating Orange Balm into teas, cocktails, or savory dishes.
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