Uncover the hidden world of edible flowers! From adding flavor, texture, and color to recipes, there are many exciting possibilities waiting for you in the kitchen. Discover what kind of delectable blooms can be used as an ingredient, from marigolds to carnations – it’s time to get creative with your cooking!
When it comes to enjoying edible flowers, caution is necessary! While a bounty of delicious blooms can be added to dishes for extra flavor and texture, not all varieties are safe. Remember: doing your research beforehand or sticking with the list below is key to ensuring you don’t inadvertently serve up something poisonous. Similarly, steering clear of sprayed petals should also top your priority list – unless they come from certified organic sources such as roses or homegrown dandelions!
Types of Edible Flowers
For edible blooms that make a statement, consider adding some of these delightfully delectable flowers to your garden:
Marigolds
Marigolds are a great way to add flavor and color to dishes. Their petals have a citrus-like flavor with hints of tarragon and offer a bright yellow/orange hue that makes them stand out in salads or as a garnish on desserts.
Pansies and Johnny jump-ups
These flowers have a mild, sweet flavor. They make great additions to salads and can top cakes or cupcakes for added texture and sweetness.
Calendula
Calendula is a type of edible flower with a spicy, peppery flavor. Its petals work well in salads or as a garnish on dishes to provide an extra kick.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle has a sweet, fragrant flavor that adds an elegant touch to desserts. Its delicate petals are also great for making syrups or infusing them in honey for a delicious treat.
Anise hyssop
Anise hyssop has a licorice-like flavor and can be used in soups, salads, or as a garnish to add an extra burst of flavor.
Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the most popular edible flowers around. Its petals have a soothing, herbal flavor that makes it perfect for infusing teas or making syrups.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums have a slightly peppery flavor, and their bright orange, yellow, and red petals make them great for adding an eye-catching splash of color to salads or desserts.
Daylily
Daylily petals have a sweet, slightly grassy flavor with hints of honey. They can be used in salads and make for a stunning garnish on desserts.
These are just a few of the edible flowers you should know about. Plenty of other delicious blooms can be added to dishes for extra flavor and texture. Just remember, when selecting edible flowers for consumption, make sure they have not been sprayed with pesticides or other chemicals.
It is also important to make sure the flower is completely clean before adding it to your food or drink. You’ll also want to make sure it hasn’t been sitting in direct sunlight or near any strong odors, such as onions or garlic, that could affect its flavor.
How to Use Edible Flowers
The most popular way to use edible flowers is in salads and desserts. They can be sprinkled over salads for a colorful touch or added to cakes for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Candied violets are also popular in French desserts such as macarons and financiers. For savory dishes such as pizza and pasta, squash blossoms are often used as toppings, while chamomile daisies are brewed into a tea for their calming effects.
Why Not Spice Up Your Dishes?
If you’re looking to spice up your next meal, why not try a floral flavor? Edible flowers can be an exciting way to make dishes both sweet and savory shine with unique taste. You just have to watch out for any harmful chemicals or strong odors that could affect the flower’s flavoring potential as you select them. Why stop at stuffed squash blossoms on pizza when there are tons more creative ways – like showcasing candied violets in French desserts such as macarons and financiers? Step outside the norm today by bringing some petal power into your kitchen!
Source:
Flowers You Can Eat, Gardeners.com
