Flowers have been a staple in our life. Whether used as a traditional centerpiece for family dinners, for a sweetheart or as curb appeal, flowers have won our hearts and eyes with their various species and colors.
Flowers can be used beyond the traditional known ways. Many species of flowers are edible and bring spring time to your creative dishes and backyard conversations.
There's much excitement in incorporating edible flowers to your tasty #STELLAR dishes. Common edible flowers like purslane and rose has many beneficial elements that have been used in traditional culture to alleviate pains and burns.
Here's a few common edible flowers that Stella Bistro Foods has grown to love and has become one of our baking favorites.
HONEYSUCKLE
Honeysuckle has over 200 species grown in both hemispheres in the Himalayas, southern Asia and North Africa. Majority of the honeysuckle species are grown in China.
In traditional cultures, honeysuckle to treat inflammatory conditions. This edible flower has been used for upper respiratory infections, common cold, flu, urinary disorders, diabetes, arithritis and pneumonia. Honeysuckle extract can be ingested or applied directly to the skin to soothe burns. According to Dr. Axe, honeysuckle contains NK cells, also known as natural killer cells. Natural killer cells are white blood cells that have the ability to kill off virus and tumors.
The most common honeysuckle flower is Japanese,woodbrine and American Ivy honeysuckle. Their fragrant blossoms are light yellow to white. The sweet nectar can be eaten directly from the flower.
DANDELION
Naturally, this edible flower can beautify our yards and attract bees with their sweet fragrance surrounding their bright yellow petals. They're just as healthy for us too!
The common type of dandelion is also known as Taraxacum Officinale. Dandelions originated in the central Asian region. It's a hardy plant that grows in a number of areas including lawns and meadows.
Dandelions were used in traditional herbal medicine practices like disease preventing and promoting good health. Dandelions are stubborn weeds. However, dandelions are packed with potassium, calcium, and multiple vitamins. Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are important compounds found in dandelions aid in blood sugar control.
Enjoy dandelions fully including the stems and leaves. Steep the dandelion roots to make a hot beverage. Use the remaining of the edible flower to garnish or brighten a salad, use in wine or make jelly.
PURSLANE
This edible flower is the native to the Mediterranean region. Purslane is grown in well sunny climates. Purslane required less water and soil to grow. It is eaten widely in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
These flowers are a great source for many vitamins and riboflavin, niacin and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Research suggest purslane is packed with dietary fiber which aids in weight loss and weight management. Purslane is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the body as it can prevent the development of autism and ADHD. A 2016 study that suggest purslane seed oil has antioxidants that relieve oxidative stress. Purslane also contains copper and iron aiding in stimulating the activity of the red blood cells. Additionally, copper and iron helps with hair management.
Enjoy this edible flower appears to be thick and have a slightly and salty in taste. The stems and leaves are edible.
ROSE
Rose have over 150 existing species.
Roses petals have a fragrant sweet and floral scent. According to Healthline, distilled water from the rose petals, also known as rose water, was used in the Middle Ages.
This edible flower has strong anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritation, sore throats, skin redness, puffiness, treat infections and protect against cell damage. Roses can enhance positive mood balance, relieve headaches and aid in digestion issues
Researchers suggest that certain compounds in roses alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
Not all roses taste the same. Only the petals of the rose are tasty. Use the rose petals in spring time salads or picnic-friendly food dishes.
PANSY
According to Aggie Horticulture, wild pansies are grown originated in Europe. Pansies are perennials and are grown in well lit areas.
Pansies are an edible flower that is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Pansies have a anti-microbial property that helps with skin problems, asthma, blood pressure, and asthma, to name a few.
This edible flower has small blossoms that come in an array of colors.
Pansies are commonly sugared when used in baking pastries, cookies and cakes. Simply dip in egg whites and dust with sugar of your choice. You can add pansies to your martinis for a garnish.
NEED HELP DISTINGUISHING EDIBLE FLOWERS?
Edible flowers are exciting to add to creative food dishes. Use this color and flower chart to learn more about edible flowers.