Edible flowers are a unique and delicious way to liven up your meals. Eating flowers is not something new, as flowers have been consumed for thousands of years in various cultures around the world, as they add flavor and texture to dishes. Eating flowers can help you increase your intake of plant-based foods and promote health.
Here is a list of the top edible flowers you can eat and some interesting facts about each one.
- Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant purple flower that is a popular choice for seasoning and teas. It is also commonly used in aromatherapy and skin care products. Lavender has a pungent floral flavor, so it’s best to use sparingly when cooking. You can sprinkle dried lavender flowers on salads or add them to baked goods.
- Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are vibrant, red, orange and yellow flowers that have a peppery flavor that is reminiscent of watercress. They can be added to salads, soups, and sandwiches for a subtle spiciness. The leaves are also edible and are high in vitamin C, making them a great way to add a boost of nutrients to your meals.
- Calendula
Calendula flowers, also known as marigolds, are primarily used for their medical benefits. The flowers are used to treat eye and skin infections, but they can also be eaten. Calendula has a sweet, slightly bitter flavor and can be used to garnish salads or added to tea.
- Rose
Roses have a subtle flavor with a slightly sweet and tart edge. You can steep rose petals in hot water to make a fragrant tea or use their petals as a garnish or decoration on desserts or salads. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but roses are also packed with nutrition and are high in vitamin C.
- Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a bright, tart flower that can be used to make a refreshing tea. The flowers have a cranberry-like flavor and make for a delicious addition to both sweet and savory dishes. They are also high in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Jasmine
Jasmine flowers are popularly used to make fragrant tea or as a garnish. They have a delicate and sweet flavor and they can be used to add a subtle sweetness to cakes, cookies and other desserts. Jasmine flowers are high in antioxidants, so they make a great addition to any diet.
- Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are mostly used as a tea for a calming, relaxing effect, but they also make for a great addition to salads. They have a mild flavor and a pleasant aroma, making them perfect to use as a garnish or floral topping.
- Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are a vibrant and colorful flower that can be eaten raw or cooked. They can be added to salads for a sweet and spicy flavor, or used to make a tea for a relaxing and calming effect.
Uses For Edible Flowers
Now that you know the variety of edible flowers available, let’s explore how you can use them in your daily diet.
Salads
Add a burst of flavor and color to salads by using edible flowers. They are an easy way to make any salad look more appealing and tasty.
Breads & Baked Goods
For a unique twist in your baking, try adding edible flowers such as rose petals or hibiscus to your recipes. They are perfect for topping cupcakes or adding to cakes or muffins.
Mocktails
Mocktails can be dressed up with a few edible flower petals. They add a burst of flavor and add a pop of color to any drink.
Smoothies
Edible flowers such as lavender, jasmine and chamomile are great for adding to smoothies for an extra dose of antioxidants and vitamins.
Soups & Sandwiches
Edible flowers can also be used to garnish soups and sandwiches. Nasturtiums and calendula make for an attractive garnish and can also add a spicy kick to any dish.
Safety Considerations
While many flowers can be eaten, it’s important to use caution when eating them. Never eat flowers that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals as they may be toxic. Additionally, it is wise to avoid any flowers that you’re uncertain of and always source edible flowers from a reputable source.
Edible flowers are a lovely and delicious way to liven up any dish. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they also add burst of flavor and can provide health benefits as well. Next time you’re looking to add a special touch to a meal, consider using edible flowers as a tasty and nutritious option.
