edible flowers, part 2

-- Quote of the Day -- 

"A good question is never answered. It is not a bolt to be tightened into place but a seed to be planted and to bear more seed toward the hope of greening the landscape of idea."

 ~John Ciardi

 -- Flowers - as Food, Part 2 -- 

* Today's article was a bit large, so I split it in 2 parts, the 1st half was  published on the 23rd of this month... and was written by: Crazyflorist is an online florist in Delhi which provide fresh flowers with wide range of variety. They also offer a an online flower portal to send flowers online anywhere in Delhi, India.


Many fine dining restaurants make the use of flowers to enhance the flavors and textures of the food they offer. Flowers can be added to main dishes, desserts or salads for an exciting twist or can be used as a garnish. There are many beverages which infused with flowers. Flowers can also be used for making spreads and preserves, marinades and dressings, to cakes and puddings, appetizers and starters- the options are endless. All you need is some imagination and creativity.

However, it is also important to keep in mind that not all flowers are edible. So make sure that you depend on some reliable source when choosing flowers to consume. If possible, try to grow your own edible flowers. To ensure best flavor, choose fresh flowers and avoid the wilted ones. Also, flower buds can be bitter, so are better left alone. Some flowers can be eaten whole, except for bitter parts like stems and stamens.

If you suffer from any allergies, add flowers to your diet gradually as too much of them can aggravate your condition. Avoid eating flowers plucked from public parks or even from the florist as they could carry traces of pesticides or herbicides.

Keeping flowers wrapped in moist paper towels and refrigerating them will help them stay fresh longer. Read further to know some more about some flowers which can be eaten safely.

Hibiscus
You probably already know about hibiscus tea. They have a tart flavor and should be made use of in small portions.

Fuchsia
Pretty fuchsia flowers have a tangy taste and make for a beautiful garnish.

Fennel
Fennel blossoms taste like the herb itself and the tiny yellow flowers look good, too.

Clover
Clover flowers have a sweet flavor, with undertones of licorice.

Citrus flowers
Citrus flowers like kumquat, lime, orange, lemon and grapefruit are sweet and have a strong aroma. They should be used sparingly, or may overpower your dish.

Chrysanthemum
They come in many colors and have a slightly bitter, peppery and pungent flavor. Make use only of petals when adding to dishes.

Chicory
Chicory petals and buds can be pickled to enjoy the bitter earthy flavor.

Chamomile
A very popular addition to teas, chamomile flowers are small and have a sweet flavor.

Carnations
Trim the petals from the base and you have sweet petals which are edible and have a sweet aroma, too.

Marigold and calendula
The bright color of these flowers can liven up any dish, and add a tangy, peppery flavor as well.

Borage
Borage flowers have a cucumber-like taste and the blue hue is very eye-catching, too.

Basil
Basil flowers come in many colors and have the same flavor and aroma as the herb.

Arugula
These small flowers with dark center may come in many colors and have a peppery taste.

Allium
Garlic, chives, leeks all belong to the allium family. All parts of these are edible and so are the flowers, which are bursting with flavor.
 

Flowers are a natural resources to feed soul. 

Find Dave and Lillian Brummet, excerpts from their books, their radio program, blog, and more at: http://brummet.ca * Support the Brummets by telling your friends, clicking those social networking buttons, or visiting the Brummet's Store - and help raise funds for charity as well!

 

Find Dave and Lillian Brummet, excerpts from their books, their radio program, blog, and more at: http://brummet.ca * Support the Brummets by telling your friends, clicking those social networking buttons, or visiting the Brummet's Store - and help raise funds for charity as well!