Flowers in your dishes
Classic ingredients in the kitchen they have tastes that we already know. Why not dare to something different and alternative?
They are the main element in our gardens and more often than not it is becoming more popular in the kitchen. Indian, Greek and Chinese cultures have tasted them since ancient times, while Europeans have used them as an element of design and decoration.
However, not all flowers are edible so we need to take precautions. Flower shops and gardens cultivate them with a considerable amount of pesticide to make them last longer and to keep its color and appearance but they are toxic if we consume them. Do not consume them if they have added chemicals such fertilizers or pesticides. Only organically grown flowers are edible. If you are not sure, whether they are edible or not better to consult a specialist. Flowers, like mushrooms, can cause intoxication, so they should be cleaned scrupulously before eating, discarding stamens, pistils and the end of the petal.
They can be used in diverse dishes such as an accompaniment to salads or deserts, coated, or to prepare jam or sauces.
Regarding the conservation, most flowers can be stored in the refrigerator, where they remain in perfect condition for a week. However, if you would like to enjoy the aroma and flavor better it is recommendable to buy them just before cooking.
Among the most appreciated and used apart from cauliflower and broccoli are flower mints, begonias or carnations. Other edible flowers that are used are also pink and yellow flowers of pumpkin but you can also prepare dishes with roses, lavender, poppies, chrysanthemum blossoms, daisies, pansies, jasmine, gladiolus, sage or purple, among many others.
Here, some suggestions:
- Rose: it is often used in salads and fruits. And good to make jams, stews and even omelets.
- Lavender: goes well with chicken and rice.
- Jasmine: can be mixed with lime flower to add taste to dishes of fish and poultry.
- Lemon blossom: the touch of molasses make them a perfect combination with sweet dishes
