Herbs de Majorca facts for kids
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Herbs de Majorca (in Catalan: Herbes de Mallorca; in Spanish: Hierbas Mallorquinas) is a special herbal drink from Mallorca. It's a type of traditional "Hierbas" (which means "herbs"). This drink has a special "protected designation of origin." This means it can only be made in Mallorca, following specific rules.
One well-known brand of Herbs de Majorca is 'Tunel'. It was first made way back in 1898.
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History of Herbs de Majorca
Herbs de Majorca started as a traditional remedy. In the 16th century, people in monasteries and pharmacists used herbal drinks like this. They believed it helped fight illnesses. This herbal drink was made by mixing different herbs, seeds, roots, and flowers.
People found it helpful for digestion, especially for stomach problems. By the 18th century, Mallorca was making a lot of it. Records show they produced about 780,000 litres each year!
What's in Herbs de Majorca?
This special drink is made from anise and other fragrant plants. Some of these plants include camomile, fennel, lemon, lemon verbena, marjoram, mint, orange, and rosemary. These plants give the drink its unique taste and smell.
Because it has a "protected geographic denomination of origin," Herbs de Majorca can only be made and bottled on the island of Mallorca.
Different Kinds of Herbs de Majorca
There are three main types of Herbs de Majorca. They differ based on how much sugar and alcohol they contain:
- Sweet: This type has more sugared anise, making it sweeter.
- Mixed: This is a blend, somewhere between sweet and dry.
- Dry: This version has less sugar and a stronger herbal taste.
Making Herbs de Majorca at Home
While you can buy Herbs de Majorca in stores, many families in Mallorca also make it at home. They often have their own secret recipes!
Traditionally, people gather the herbs in spring or early autumn. They mix the herbs with alcohol in a large glass bottle. Then, they let it sit for at least three months. This allows all the flavours to blend together.
How to Enjoy Herbs de Majorca
Herbs de Majorca can be green or amber in colour. People usually drink it after a meal. It's often served over ice, which makes it refreshing. Sometimes, it's served in a small glass called a ‘chupito’. You might even see a dried piece of a plant inside some bottles!
This traditional drink is still very popular today in the Balearic Islands. Both local people and visitors enjoy it.
