What Is Çiriş Otu (Asphodel)?

Asphodel is a many-leaved, yellow-flowered plant from the lily family that grows especially in Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia. It has long been known in regional cooking and traditional practices. This overview covers its regional role, harvesting, preparation, and storage. Known properties: Asphodel may be rich in vitamin C. After cleaning and washing, it can be prepared with eggs as a savory sauté or used as a savory pastry filling. Its juice is also traditionally used for skin care. After cleaning and washing, it can also be prepared as an egg dish or used as a savory pastry filling. Which parts of asphodel are used? The roots and leaves are used in traditional practices. The root is usually dried, ground, and mixed with water to make a paste; the leaves are boiled or mashed. Thoroughly wash the harvested plant to remove soil. Slice the root thinly before drying to shorten the drying time and make it easier to grind later. The flowers are also used in some regional practices: dry them in the shade and steep them with the leaves and root. How is it prepared? After drying, grind the root and mix it with a small amount of water to make a paste for external use. To drink the leaves as tea, add them to boiling water, steep for about 10 minutes, and strain. Spread the slices in a shaded, well-ventilated place to dry for a few days. Make only as much paste or tea as needed rather than preparing a large amount in advance and storing it for a long time. Pieces that remain damp when drying is complete may clump when ground. How should it be stored? Fresh asphodel can be kept in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth for a few days. Dried roots and leaves last longer in a sealed, airtight container in a cool place away from direct sunlight. Keep dried plant material dry, since moisture can cause mold. Adding a date label to jars helps use older stock first. How is asphodel juice made? Juice from the roots or leaves is obtained by crushing the plant and squeezing it in a cloth. It can be applied directly or added to other mixtures. The squeezed pulp should not be reused after brief use; use freshly made juice soon, as it may lose its effect over time. The juice can be kept in a small, dark bottle in the refrigerator for only a few days. What should you keep in mind when harvesting and using it? As with any wild plant, make sure asphodel is not confused with another species; do not consume plants that you cannot identify or are unsure about. Avoid areas with contamination risks, such as roadsides, and choose a clean source. When possible, identify the plant with someone who knows the local flora.