Brèdes Mafane: Electric Flavors and Culinary Traditions

Plant available from April to the end of October

The Brèdes Mafane, originally from South America and adopted across
Southeast Asia, are renowned for their ability to transform
the taste experience. Their unique flavor literally “electrifies” the
palate, opening the taste buds to new dimensions of taste.
Traditionally valued for their anesthetic properties,
diuretic and digestive, they are a key component of cooking
traditional Malagasy and popular medicine.

• Soil : Prefers well-drained and fertilized soil, ideal for growing in pots with a water base.
• Location : Sunny, while avoiding direct exposure to the scorching rays of the afternoon sun.
• Climate : Sensitive to cold, requires protection or wintering indoors in temperate regions.
• Sowing : Preferably in a terrine or pot, under 1 cm of soil, in an environment at 18°C ​​for optimal germination.

1. Can Brèdes Mafane be consumed in Europe?
   Although commonly used in Malagasy cuisine, their
   consumption in Europe remains subject to caution in the absence of studies
   confirming their safety.
2. How to harvest Brèdes Mafane?
   Leaves and flower buds can be harvested from June to
   October, preferably just before consumption to preserve their
   freshness and their spicy effect.
3. Do Brèdes Mafane attract insects?
   Yes, their summer flowering attracts various pollinators, enriching the biodiversity of your garden.
4. How to protect Brèdes Mafane from the cold?
   In regions where temperatures drop below 0°C, it
   It is advisable to cultivate Brèdes Mafane in pots to bring them indoors.
   indoors during the winter.
5. Who are the main enemies of the Brèdes Mafane?
   Although resistant to disease, they can be affected by
   red spiders in dry conditions and aphids attracted by
   ants.

1. What is the origin of the cocoa tree?
   Native to the tropical forests of America, the cocoa tree was central to Mayan and Aztec cultures.
2. Can you grow the cocoa tree indoors?
   Yes, with enough light and humidity, but it must be protected from the cold.
3. Is the cocoa tree difficult to maintain?
   It requires attention to simulate its tropical environment
   natural, especially with regard to humidity and temperature.
4. How long does it take for a cocoa tree to produce beans?
   It begins to produce flowers and potentially fruit 3 to 5 years after planting.
5. Does the cocoa tree have medicinal properties?
   Yes, cocoa beans are rich in antioxidants and have several
   health benefits, particularly cardiovascular and psychological.