|
|
Edible Flowers
There are many things in nature that one would never think are edible, such as many different types of flowers. Flowers have been used as a beautiful and simple decorative item, however, most people do not realize that flowers can have other purposes, such as a healthy and natural addition to one’s diet. Flowers contain many vitamins and minerals that are of necessity to a healthy body. There are various diverse flower types that can be eaten and some are seen in floral arrangements, in gardens, or in the wild. Most people are unaware of the edible quality that flowers such as carnations or even dandelions have. Flowers such as gardenias can be dried and used in teas. There are many edible foods that people eat constantly and would not think of as flowers either, such as broccoli, garlic blossoms, or oregano. Even though most people consider flowers as a natural and beautiful object found in nature that it only meant to be looked at, they can also be wonderful additions to one’s diet.
There are certain guidelines that must be followed when eating flowers, just as with many other natural foods (Stradley, Linda). First, only eat flowers if you are positive they are edible; if you are not certain, you can consult reference books before consumption. Another rule is that you should not eat a flower just because it is served with food; many people believe that everything served on their plate can be eaten. Often culinary artists will use flowers as garnish or decoration because it is very attractive. However, most often chefs will avoid using non-edible flowers in this manner and if unsure do not feel uncomfortable to ask.
Sometimes pesticides are necessary in the growing of flowers; make sure that the pesticides used are non-toxic and safe for eating. Do not eat flowers from florists, gardeners, or nurseries because these are often treated with pesticides unsafe for food crops. Never eat flowers from the side of the road because of possible contamination. Remove pistils and stamens from flower before eating and only eat the petals. It is also a good idea to only begin introducing flowers into your diet in small quantities because eating too much of a good thing (this goes for any food) may cause problems for your digestive system. Also, be aware of allergies when introducing flowers gradually because some people may be allergic to certain flower types. There are many guidelines to be followed in eating flowers, however, one really just needs to be aware of what they are allowing to enter their body and make smart decisions about it.
There are many flowers commonly found in the floral industry and in numerous floral designs that may be surprising to most find that they are edible. Some of them include the rose, carnation, dandelion, pansy, and tulip. These beautiful flowers are also very versatile. Rose petals are often used in making jelly, butter, vinegar, syrup, teacakes, and desserts and are also used as a garnish for fresh salads.
The sunflower is the perfect representation of summer and can also be a tasty treat. Many people do not find the idea of eating sunflower seeds strange, however they may have a different feeling toward eating the petals of the flower. This flower is best eaten in the bud stage when it looks and tastes similar to an artichoke; the unopened bud can also be steamed just like an artichoke. The carnation can also be a wonderful treat because this flower is surprisingly sweet and often used in desserts. It can also be used to add great color to different salads.
Tulips are also a tasty treat; the flavor varies from flower to flower, but they generally taste similar to sweet lettuce, fresh baby peas, or a cucumber-like flavor.
There are also many uncommon flowers that are edible. Similar to the tulip, the flavors of lilacs vary from flower to flower. They have a strong fragrance and are slightly bitter to the taste. They have a distinct lemon taste with a floral tinge. They are often used in salads. One fairly well-known edible flower is the pansy. These flowers are mildly sweet and tend to have a grassy flavor. The petals are rather mild, but the rest of the plant tends to taste like winter green. Theses can be used in all sorts of salads (especially fruit salads), desserts, and some soups. The dandelion is a flower that is known to most as a noxious weed that overtakes the beautiful green lawns during the summer months. This flower is often used for medicinal purposes, but can also add many vitamins to ones diet. The dandelion is very nutritious and has more vitamins and minerals than most vegetables. They are also often used in salads and as flavoring in main dishes. There are numerous flowers that can be added into ones diet to add excitement and beauty.
Flowers have many different uses, maybe even some that were never imagined before. There most common use is for decoration and is how most people know them, but they are often used in the culinary arts as well. There are guidelines to be followed when consuming flowers and there are many different types of flowers with different tastes. Flowers can add flavor, beauty, nutrition, and beauty to a well balanced diet.
Some other Edible flowers include: violet, pineapple guava, and hibiscus.
Works Cited
Hunter, Norah T. The Art of Floral Design. New York: Delmar Thomson Learning, 2000.
Rogers, Maureen. The Herb Growing and Marketing Network: Hebalpedia. 2000. http://www.herbnet.com/roses.htm.
StarChefs. Edible Flowers. 2004. http://starchefs.com/edible_flowers/html/index.shtml.
Stradley, Linda. What’s Cooking America: Edible Flowers, 1997. http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowersMain.htm.
Infobrink Flowers Links
Add your link here!!!!
|
Error: no links to display
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
