Edible flowers are a fantastic way to add color, flavor, and a touch of elegance to dishes. They’re not only visually stunning but also bring unique tastes and aromas to a variety of culinary creations. Whether you’re making salads, desserts, or beverages, edible flowers can elevate your meals in unexpected ways. Here, we’ll explore three popular types of edible flowers and how you can use them in your cooking.
1. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are vibrant flowers that come in shades of orange, red, and yellow, often with bold, eye-catching petals. These flowers are not only beautiful but also have a distinctive, peppery flavor, similar to arugula or watercress. Both the flowers and the leaves of nasturtiums are edible, making them versatile for various uses in the kitchen.
Uses:
- Salads: Nasturtiums are commonly used in salads, where their peppery flavor complements greens and other vegetables. The colorful petals add a burst of color, while the leaves provide a nice contrast in texture and taste.
- Garnishes: These flowers make excellent garnishes for soups, appetizers, or main dishes, offering both a pop of color and a spicy kick.
- Herbal Vinegar: Nasturtium leaves can be infused in vinegar to create a tangy, peppery condiment that can be used in dressings or marinades.
The bold flavor of nasturtiums pairs well with fresh cheeses, fish, and salads, adding a spicy depth that elevates simple dishes.
2. Lavender
Lavender is well-known for its sweet, floral fragrance, and it’s a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike. The flowers have a slightly floral, herbaceous taste with hints of mint and citrus, which makes them perfect for both savory and sweet dishes. Lavender can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from teas to desserts to savory entrées.
Uses:
- Baked Goods: Lavender is often used in baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and shortbread, where its subtle floral notes pair beautifully with lemon, honey, or berries. Lavender lemon scones, for example, combine the herb’s sweet and slightly herbal flavor with the tartness of lemon.
- Cocktails: Lavender syrup is a fantastic addition to cocktails, such as a lavender gin fizz or lavender lemonade, providing a calming floral note that’s refreshing and aromatic.
- Savory Dishes: While lavender is commonly associated with sweet dishes, it also works well in savory cooking. Try incorporating it into roasted meats, particularly lamb or chicken, where its herbal and floral profile enhances the flavor.
Lavender pairs beautifully with ingredients like honey, chocolate, and citrus, and it adds a soothing, aromatic quality to any dish.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are most famous for their soothing properties, often used in teas to promote relaxation and calmness. These small, daisy-like flowers have a gentle, apple-like flavor with a hint of sweetness and a mild herbal undertone. Chamomile is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary creations, adding a delicate floral note that is both comforting and flavorful.
Uses:
- Herbal Teas: Chamomile tea is the most well-known use for these flowers. It’s a simple and soothing drink, often enjoyed before bed due to its calming effects. You can brew chamomile flowers alone or combine them with other herbs like mint or lemon balm for a more complex flavor.
- Baked Goods: Chamomile can be added to cakes, muffins, or scones to infuse a light, floral flavor into your baked treats. Chamomile pairs well with honey and lemon, creating a sweet and fragrant combination.
- Infusions and Syrups: Chamomile can be used to make infusions and syrups, which can then be drizzled over pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream. Chamomile syrup can also be incorporated into beverages like lemonades or cocktails, adding a subtle floral sweetness.
Chamomile works beautifully in both savory and sweet dishes and can be incorporated into salad dressings or used to flavor butter or sauces for meats.