From Garden to Table: Here Are Some Edible Flowers

articlemostwanted - If we hear the word "flower," the first thing that comes to our mind is "beautiful." Flowers are natural icons that can make the atmosphere more lively and fresh because they have various shapes, beautiful and colorful appearances, and a fragrant smell. Flowers are not only used for plant reproduction, but they also play an important role in the ecosystem to maintain nature’s balance. Besides that, humans often use flowers in many aspects of life, from decoration, perfumes, and medicine to cultural and artistic symbols. However, what is more interesting is that the function of flowers does not stop there. They also have great benefits in daily life because they can be consumed by humans.

Here are types of flowers that are safe to eat:

1. Flowers Used in Cooking

Many people may not expect that beautiful flowers can also be processed as cooking ingredients to make food look more attractive, and their unique taste is beneficial for health. For example, butterfly pea flower, which has a bright blue or purple color, is usually used as a natural coloring for tea or Nasi Kerabu. Then there is the papaya flower, which has a bitter taste, but when processed correctly, it can become a delicious dish and stimulate the appetite. Next, the sesbania flower has a soft texture and is easy to chew, making it suitable to be mixed with other vegetables. Lastly, the pumpkin flower is usually cooked into soup. Its light and slightly sweet taste make it perfect for various dishes. With their unique characteristics, these flowers are not only beautiful but also make food more attractive and delicious!

2. Flowers for Tea and Drinks

Many types of flowers are not only beautiful but can also be made into delicious and refreshing drinks. One of them is the chrysanthemum flower, which is often used in herbal tea. It has a light taste with a slight natural sweetness, making it perfect to drink when needing something refreshing. Then there is the rose flower, which can be made into syrup, tea, or used to add a distinctive aroma and taste to a drink. In addition, jasmine flowers are also quite popular, especially as a mixture in tea. Its fragrance is soothing, making the tea more enjoyable. If you like something more unique, there is the lavender flower, which is also often used in herbal tea to give a distinct calming aroma. Lastly, there is the chamomile flower, which is famous as a relaxation tea. It has a mild and slightly sweet taste, making it suitable to drink before bed because it helps the body relax. With these various choices, flowers are not just decorations but can also be enjoyed as soothing and beneficial drinks!

3. Flowers for Salads and Food Decoration

Some beautiful flowers are often used to decorate food and as additional ingredients in salads or garnishes. Nasturtium flowers have bright colors and a slightly spicy taste like radish, making them suitable for salads. Pansy flowers are known for their beautiful colors and are often used as food decorations. Marigold or calendula flowers can be sprinkled on salads with a slightly spicy taste. Dandelion flowers, including their leaves, can also be eaten and are often processed into tea. Besides beautifying dishes, these flowers also add unique flavors!

4. Flowers for Desserts

Some flowers have a naturally sweet taste, making them suitable for desserts and drinks. Elderflowers are often used in syrups, drinks, or cakes with a mild aroma. Honeysuckle flowers have a fresh and sweet taste, perfect for tea or syrup. Hibiscus or rosella flowers have a more sour and fresh taste, making them great for tea or jam. These flowers can add a unique taste to sweet dishes!

Flowers are not just decorations but can also be used in various dishes, from cooking, tea, and salads to desserts. Besides adding beauty, some flowers also provide unique aromas, distinct flavors, and even health benefits. By learning more about edible flowers, we can be more creative in preparing food and drinks. So, don’t hesitate to try adding flowers to your dishes so they look more beautiful and taste more attractive and delicious!