Introducing edible flowers to your food repertoire is a great way to add a pop of color to hors d’oeuvres and dessert plates for spring and summer parties or other events. In recent years, recipes using edible flowers have gone viral online. However, the use of flowers in food is not a recent trend. For centuries, people have been using edible flowers for appearances, ceremonies, and medicinal purposes.
Ways to Eat Flowers
From floral ice cubes to decadent cakes topped with rose petals, edible flowers are sure to take food to the next level. Incorporating edible blooms into the kitchen can be done even by novice cooks, as long as a few important aspects are taken into consideration.
The ways to eat flowers are limitless. From sweet to savory, there are edible flowers that fit into nearly every flavor profile. While some home gardeners may choose to grow plants specifically for their flowers, many garden vegetables serve a dual purpose. Squash, for example, produces delectable veggies as well as delicate, edible blooms. The same is also true for many types of garden herbs.
When it comes to preparing edible flower recipes, ensuring the safety of your guests is of the greatest importance. Not all flowers are edible. In fact, many flowers are toxic and can cause serious harm to those who consume them. Before adding any flower to food, always make certain that the bloom is safe for use.
Beyond ensuring that it’s safe to use flowers as food, knowing the origin of the plant will also be important. Since the flowers will be eaten, it is imperative that the bloom is free of any chemical residue. When purchasing floral produce, always make sure that the package is explicitly labeled as being “edible.” Flowers obtained from roadsides or florists should never be used, as they are likely contaminated by ornamental pesticides, herbicides, or animal manures.
Before preparing flowers-based recipes, the blooms should always be thoroughly rinsed with water. Be sure to discard any flowers that have been damaged or show signs of disease. Edible flowers in food can add both taste and appeal. When used safely, edible flower recipes are sure to produce an experience that your dining guests will never forget.
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