Are you looking to add some unique flavours to your dishes and take your culinary skills to the next level? Look no further than your backyard! Edible flowers are a great way to add a pop of colour, flavour and nutrition to any meal. Here are the top 10 edible flowers that you can grow in your garden:
1. Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a popular edible flower that has a slightly spicy and bitter taste. Its bright yellow and orange petals can be used to add flavour and colour to soups, salads, and even pasta dishes. Calendula is also known for its medicinal properties and is often used to treat skin irritations and inflammations.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile is a well-known herb that is often used to make tea. But did you know that its flowers are also edible? Chamomile flowers have a sweet and apple-like flavour that can be used to add a unique twist to desserts and salads. Chamomile is also known for its calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Dandelion
While many people view dandelions as pesky weeds, they are delicious and nutritious edible flowers. Dandelion flowers have a sweet honey-like flavour that can be used to make tea, wine, and even jelly. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals and can help detoxify the liver.
4. Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant and beautiful flower that is often used in perfumes and soaps. But it also has a delicate and sweet flavour that can be used to add a unique touch to desserts, drinks, and even savoury dishes. Lavender is also known for its calming properties and can help promote relaxation and sleep.
5. Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are easy to grow and come in a variety of colours, from bright oranges to deep reds. Their flowers have a slightly peppery flavour that can be used to add a zesty kick to salads and sandwiches. Nasturtiums are also high in vitamin C and can help boost your immune system.
6. Pansy
Pansies are delicate and beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colours, from deep purples to soft pinks. Their flowers have a mild and slightly sweet flavour that can be used to add a pop of colour and flavour to salads, desserts, and even cocktails. Pansies are also high in antioxidants and can help improve skin health.
7. Rose
Roses are not only beautiful, but their flowers are also edible and have a sweet and floral flavour that can be used to add a romantic touch to desserts and drinks. Rose petals can also be used to make jam and syrup. Roses are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
8. Sage
Sage is a popular herb that is often used in savoury dishes, but its flowers are also edible and have a delicate and slightly sweet flavour. Sage flowers can be used to add a unique twist to salads, pasta dishes, and even cocktails. Sage is also known for its medicinal properties and can help improve digestion and memory.
9. Sunflower
Sunflowers are not only beautiful to look at, but their flowers are also edible and have a nutty and slightly sweet flavour. Sunflower petals can be used to add a crunchy texture to salads, and their seeds can be roasted and used as a snack or added to baked goods. Sunflowers are also rich in vitamin E and can help promote healthy skin.
10. Violet
Violets are delicate and sweet flowers that come in shades of purple, pink and white. Their flowers have a sweet and floral flavour that can be used to add a pop of colour and flavour to desserts, drinks, and even salads. Violets are also high in antioxidants and can help improve respiratory health.
Conclusion
Adding edible flowers to your garden not only adds beauty and colour but also opens up a world of new culinary possibilities. From sweet and floral to spicy and bitter, edible flowers can add a unique flavour and twist to any dish. So why not try growing some of these top 10 edible flowers in your garden and see what delicious creations you can come up with?