Cooking

Companions to some of the plants at Escario BOTANICAL Garden, seek out this beautiful and tasty plant. Ginger is a spice that has traveled through centuries and continents, becoming a staple in kitchens and medicine cabinets worldwide. Its unique flavor and aroma make it a favorite ingredient, while its health benefits have been valued for thousands of years. But what exactly is ginger? How does it grow, where did it come from, and how do people use it today? This article exp

Turmeric has earned a reputation as a powerful spice with a rich history and a wide range of uses. From its ancient roots to its role in modern kitchens and natural remedies, turmeric offers much more than just a vibrant yellow color. Explore where turmeric originated, how to grow it successfully, and the many ways it can be used to enhance health and flavor in everyday cooking. Look for them at Escario BOTANICAL Garden. Fresh turmeric roots and powder on a wooden surface The

The jackfruit tree or Langka is a remarkable plant known for its large, spiky fruits and its wide range of uses. It has gained popularity worldwide, especially among vegans and plant-based eaters, due to its unique texture and nutritional benefits. At Escario BOTANICAL Garden and throughout the Cebu, the jackfruit tree holds cultural and economic importance, with locals utilizing almost every part of the tree in various ways. Let’s explore what a jackfruit tree is, how you ca

Kabocha squash is a unique vegetable that has gained popularity for its sweet flavor, rich texture, and versatility in cooking. Let’s explores everything you need to know about kabocha squash—from its origins and how to grow it to its health benefits and culinary uses. Whether you are a gardener, a home cook, or simply curious about this vibrant squash, you will love this vegetable as much as we do at Escario BOTANICAL Garden. Origins of Kabocha Squash Kabocha squash, often c

Dill is a fragrant herb that has found its way into kitchens and gardens around the world. Its unique flavor and aroma make it a favorite for many dishes, but few know about its rich history and how it thrives in specific regions in Cebu like Escario BOTANICAL Garden. Let’s explore the origins of dill, how it grows in Cebu’s climate, and the many ways locals and chefs use this herb. Fresh dill plants thriving in Cebu garden The Origins of Dill Dill (Anethum graveolens) is bel

Long before it became a staple in Filipino kitchens, the mung bean began its journey in ancient India, where it was first cultivated thousands of years ago. From there, it traveled—quietly but persistently—across Asia: into China, Southeast Asia, and eventually the Philippines. Its scientific name, Vigna radiata, hints at its agricultural importance: a resilient legume, adaptable and efficient. Even its name tells a story—derived from the Sanskrit mudga, evolving into “mung”

Few plants in the tropical world are as comprehensively useful as the breadfruit tree. From root to fruit, from bark to leaf, nearly every part of the plant has a documented traditional use. It is not merely a food source — it is an entire ecosystem of utility compressed into a single tree. Staple Food. Unripe breadfruit has a starchy, potato-like texture — it can be boiled, roasted, fried, baked, or fermented. When ripe, it becomes sweet and custard-soft, eaten fresh or cook

When you visit Escario BOTANICAL Garden, visit our poultry area and meet our turkeys. Not native to Cebu, we are writing about them to provide education. Turkeys are a staple on many dining tables, especially during festive seasons, yet few people know the full story behind these birds. From their origins in the wild to the art of cooking them just right, turkeys have a rich history and culinary potential worth exploring. Let’s uncovers where turkeys come from, how they evolv