OVERVIEW:
Hops are the female flowers of the hop plant and are a distant relative of stinging nettles and hemp. Sharp and bitter yet pleasant tasting, the artichoke-like flowers flavor is a cross between broccoli rabe and asparagus. The most common use for hops is in the brewing of beer but its uses go well beyond the making of alcoholic beverages.
 
Cooking with hops is still a fresh idea that professional and home cooks are experimenting with all over the world. The hops flower can be ground into a powder and used as a baking powder substitute. They are also infused in recipes that include mustard, honey, oils, and vinegar.  
 
For centuries hops have been reputed to relieve stress by promoting healthy relaxation and sleep. It is commonly tucked into dream and sleep pillows along with other fragrant relaxing herbs to help induce restful sleep. This herb is high in anti-oxidants and natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents plus it has been used as a digestive aid. So not only can you drink it as tea, you can infuse it into a relaxing bath. 
 
LATIN: 
Humulus lupulus
ORIGIN:
USA
CULTIVATION:
Organic
PARTS USED:
Cone & Grains / Cut & Sifted
CATEGORY:
Culinary and Medicinal Herb
TISANE "HERBAL" TEA BREW TIMES:
Ground tisane teas and tea bags - Steep 2 to 5 minutes
Loose leaf tisane teas - Steep 3-5 minutes
Root and seed-based tisane teas - Steep 6-8 minutes
*Steep in newly boiling water (212ºF) to best release the health benefits.
WHAT'S COOKING:
Buttered Hop Tops with Cheese
Buttered Hop Tops with Lemon
Cauliflower & Hop Top Sauce
Hoppy Hot Chocolate
Hop Top Scramble
Hop Top Tart