There are some recipes that are born out of my two homes – Seattle and Japan, and some that are inspired by the need to blend tradition with innovative culinary art. The Yarrow and Honey Cough Syrup recipe is a classic example of the latter. A soothing balm for the throat, it leverages the healing properties of yarrow leaves and honey, staples in both Japanese and Pacific Northwestern cuisine.
The Healthful Blend
The Yarrow and Honey Cough Syrup recipe combines ingredients known for their health benefits. Yarrow, for instance, is a herb widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and honey, a natural sweetener, is renowned for its antimicrobial benefits and soothing effect on sore throats.
This concoction also incorporates the zesty tang of fresh lemon juice, high in Vitamin C and beneficial antioxidants, and the spicy warmth of chopped fresh ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory effects and potential to ease symptoms of cold and cough.
A Match to Many Delights
While the Yarrow and Honey Cough Syrup recipe may stand tall in its individuality, it synergizes well with many other dishes. I often recommend it as a soothing after-dinner potion, following a hearty seafood dish, perhaps one of my signature sushi rolls filled with Pacific Northwest ingredients. A sip of this herbal blend, then, wraps up a satisfying meal, leaving you comforted with its sweet-spicy warmth and nourishing goodness.
Similar to the Japanese ‘Yakumi,’ or condiments used in traditional cuisine, which vary from wasabi to Yuzukoshō, this syrup adds that medicinal, flavorful touch to your home meals. I love this particular recipe for its simplicity and the harmony it creates between diverse flavors and healthful benefits.
So, whether you’re battling a cough, wanting to empower your immune system, or simply craving a unique gastronomic experience, the Yarrow and Honey Cough Syrup recipe, is a must-try in my book. Trust me, this recipe is more than a cough syrup, it’s a comforting culinary experience.
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup of fresh yarrow leaves and flowers
- 3 cups of water
- 1 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh ginger
Method
Step One
Begin by picking fresh yarrow leaves and flowers. You will need half a cup. If you do not have fresh yarrow, you can use dried yarrow leaves and flowers.
Step Two
Put 3 cups of water in a pot and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the yarrow into the water.
Step Three
Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh ginger to the pot. Let the yarrow and ginger simmer in the boiling water for about 20 minutes.
Step Four
After 20 minutes, strain the mixture into a separate bowl, removing the yarrow and ginger to keep only the infused water.
Step Five
In that infused water, add 1 cup of honey and half a cup of lemon juice. Stir the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved. Your yarrow and honey cough syrup is ready.
Step Six
Store the syrup in a clean glass bottle or jar and keep it in a cool, dry place. Take 1-2 tablespoons of the syrup whenever you feel a cough coming on.
