Stone Flower or Kalpasi is a species of lichen used as spice in india. The spice is mostly used in dishes like nahari, bombay biryani, or stew
Stone flower is dark green or black and whiter inside, kalpasi has a strong earthy aroma and dry texture. it also has medicinal properties.
Stone flower taste is bitter. It taste can be compared to being pungent however, when added to a recipe and cooked it imparts a wonderful smoky flavour.
Stone flower used to make goda masala in maharashtrian cuisine, east indian bottle masala, as well as north indian garam masala.
Stone flower is also widely used to make soup thickener It adds flavor and aroma to food