Did you know that edible flowers might seem to be the next culinary craze? What’s Cooking America details how adding flowers (and microgreens) to various dishes is becoming a popular way to add intriguing taste and delicate color to meal arrangements.
In the book A Feast of Flowers, F. Tillona Strowridge details how the practice of eating flowers stems from multiple cultures over the past several centuries. Today, it’s a trend among chefs and novice cooks alike. Interested in adding Edible Flowers to your next dinner? Here are a couple of things to keep in mind.
1. What do Flowers Taste Like?
You might not realize it, but in all likelihood, you’ve consumed flowers before. Broccoli, cauliflower, artichoke, and capers are all types of flowers. Most people, of course, want to decorate with more colorful and traditional flowers. Nasturtium is a popular edible flower choice, and Home Cooking says that it has a peppery yet sweet taste. Flowers can be served fresh, or crystallized, in which case they will be more sweet than not. Crystallized edible flowers are coated in sugar then dried. The sugar act as a preservative so that the flowers can be used over a longer range of time.
2. What Can I Use Edible Blossoms For?
Flowers are used as a flavorful, beautiful addition for everything from salads to cupcakes. Sugar flowers or Crystallized Flowers in particular are a popular choice for wedding cakes. The majority of wedding cakes already rely on floral designs, and crystallized, real flowers allow couples to take their cake one step further.
How would you use edible flowers? Let us know in the comments!
