Gardens offer us a kaleidoscope of color, and among the countless blooming plants, some stand out for more than just their beauty. Edible flowers are a delightful addition to any garden, providing both aesthetic appeal and a unique, sometimes healthy, culinary experience. In this article, we will explore 10 different kinds of flowers that you can eat, ranging from delicate small flowers to more substantial flowering plants. So, let's dig in and discover the world of flower vegetables.
• Flowering Plants That You Can Grow and Eat
1. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are more than just pretty garden flowers; their flower seeds are a delightful snack packed with nutrients. You can harvest sunflower seeds once the flowers have matured. Roast them with a little salt for a crunchy and delicious treat.
Some cultures even eat the head of a sunflower whole. Many butter the head of flower and roast it on their grill face-down. Others even suggest lathering it with mayonnaise and lime juice to create the best taste.
2. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are known for their vibrant colors and peppery flavor. The entire plant is edible, from the leaves to the small flowers. They make a zesty addition to salads and can be used to garnish dishes, giving them a pop of color and taste. Other, less conventional ways to eat them, are by creating a pickle out of them which forms a very unique and unfamiliar taste.
Buy Nasturtium flower seeds
3. Marigolds
Marigolds, with their vivid orange and yellow petals, add a cheerful touch to as garden flowers to any space. These edible flowers have a citrusy, slightly spicy flavor. You can use them to enhance the taste and appearance of soups, stews, and even desserts. These are some of the most versatile flowers and can be made sweet or spicy, and can be used raw or blanched.
Buy Marigold seeds
4. Roses
Roses are a symbol of love and beauty, but did you know that they are edible too? Rose petals can be used to make rose water and are also suitable for culinary purposes. They offer a delicate floral flavor and are often used in salads, teas, and desserts. Some even incorporate them in granola bars to add a different flavor and texture.
5. Violets
Violets are small flowers that come in various colors, and they have a subtle, sweet flavor. This flower vegetable can be candied, used in jellies, or simply scattered over salads to add a touch of elegance. They are also used to flavor vinegar and/or syrup.
6. Lavender
Lavender, known for its calming aroma, can also be a delightful addition to your culinary endeavors. The fragrant, small flowers are often used to infuse flavor into sweets, beverages, and even savory dishes like lavender-infused honey. It is often added to meats upon cooking. Additionally, the calcium in lavender is also said to boost bone-health.
7. Gladiolus Flowers
Gladiolus flowers, with their tall spikes of colorful blooms, can also be added to the list of edible flowers. The petals have a mild, almost lettuce-like flavor and can be used in salads or as an elegant garnish. Oftentimes, these flowers can be relatively bland but they are cooked and consumed in multiple ways. They can eaten whole after stuffing or just their petals can be used as garnish as well.
Buy Gladiolus Flower Bulbs
8. Pansies
Pansies are not only a visual delight but are also edible flowers with a slightly grassy, sweet flavor. These flowers are perfect for adorning cakes and pastries, as well as salads and drinks. The whole of this flower is completely edible and can simply be washed to be consumed, too.
Buy Pansy seeds
9. Dandelions
Dandelions are often seen as garden nuisances, but they are surprisingly versatile and nutritious. The entire dandelion plant is edible, from the roots to the leaves and the yellow petals. The flowers have a mildly sweet taste and can be used in salads, jams, or even to make dandelion wine.
10. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums offer a range of vibrant colors and a unique, slightly bitter flavor. In Asian cuisine, chrysanthemum petals are commonly used in soups, teas, and stir-fries, adding both flavor and aesthetic appeal.
Buy Chrysanthemum flower seeds
Apart from these traditional ways of incorporating flowers into cuisine, there are also other - more creative ways - to make use of them. Often, they are rolled into pasta dough to give it a more visually appealing twist. Some are also used in ice creams to add a subtle hint of flowery goodness. However you choose to incorporate them, you should also be cautious but also creative in usage. Let your imagination run free with these various types of flowers that you can eat!
