Floral Flavors: Cooking and Baking With Edible Flowers
Edible flowers have been used in cooking and baking for centuries, adding a touch of beauty and flavor to various dishes. From salads to desserts, edible flowers have become a popular ingredient in the culinary world. Not only do they bring vibrant colors and delicate textures to dishes, but they also offer a wide range of flavors, from mild to intense. In this article, we will explore the world of floral flavors and discover how to incorporate edible flowers into your cooking and baking.
What are Edible Flowers?
Edible flowers are simply flowers that are safe to consume, and can be used in cooking and baking. These flowers are not just beautiful to look at, but they also add a unique taste to dishes. While there are hundreds of edible flowers available, some of the most popular ones include roses, lavender, violets, hibiscus, and chamomile.
The Benefits of Cooking and Baking with Edible Flowers
In addition to adding a burst of color and flavor to dishes, edible flowers also offer numerous health benefits. Most flowers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them great additions to any meal. They can also provide medicinal benefits, such as calming effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and aiding digestion.
How to Use Edible Flowers in Cooking
Before using edible flowers, it is important to ensure that they are safe to consume. Make sure to use fresh, organic flowers that have not been treated with any chemicals. It is also recommended to start with small quantities and gradually increase as needed.
Savory Dishes
Edible flowers can be used in savory dishes, such as salads, soups, and even main courses. Some popular choices include nasturtiums, which have a peppery taste, and borage flowers, which have a cucumber-like flavor. These flowers can be added to salads for an extra crunch and flavor, or sprinkled on top of soups for a visually stunning presentation.
Baked Goods
Edible flowers can also be incorporated into baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and bread. Lavender, rose, and chamomile are popular choices for adding a floral twist to desserts. Lavender can be used in baking by infusing it with milk or sugar, while rose petals can be candied and used as decoration. Chamomile can be infused in tea or incorporated into dough for a unique flavor.
Drinks
Edible flowers can also add a touch of elegance to drinks. Hibiscus, for example, can be used to make a refreshing iced tea or a floral cocktail. It can also be added to lemonade for a vibrant color and a tart twist. Elderflowers are also a popular choice for making cordials, syrups, and even wine.
How to Use Edible Flowers in Baking
Baking with edible flowers requires some basic knowledge and techniques. One important thing to keep in mind is to avoid using flowers with strong scents or flavors, as they can overpower the dish. It is also recommended to remove the pistils and stamens of the flowers, as they can be bitter-tasting.
Drying Flowers
Before using flowers in baking, they need to be dried to remove excess moisture. This can be done by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and leaving them in a warm, dark place for a few days. Once dried, they can be stored in an airtight container for several months.
Decorating Cakes and Cupcakes
Edible flowers can be used to decorate cakes and cupcakes, making them a stunning addition to any celebration. They can be placed on the frosting or incorporated into the batter for a beautiful surprise when cut into. Some popular choices for cake decoration include pansies, cornflowers, and calendulas.
Add Flavor to Baked Goods
Edible flowers can also be used to add flavor to baked goods. Lavender, for example, can be used to flavor shortbread cookies, while rose petals can be added to scones or macarons for a delicate taste. Edible flowers are also great for infusing sugar and can be used in various recipes, such as fruit tarts and pies.
In Conclusion
Cooking and baking with edible flowers is not only a fun and creative way to add flavor and beauty to dishes but also offers numerous health benefits. With the wide variety of edible flowers available, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead and experiment with different flowers in your favorite recipes, and surprise your taste buds with the delightful world of floral flavors.
