Did you know that people actually eat a fair number of flowers? Broccoli, cauliflower, squash blossoms, capers, and artichokes are all types of edible flowers. Even medieval monks used to consume preserved violets in order to treat their cold and flu symptoms. There are many types of edible flowers and plants available, including microgreens and sugar flowers, and each one offers several benefits.

Microgreens are the seedlings that are produced by edible herbs and vegetables. They are only about one inch in size, but they are both delicious and nutritious. As a result, they are commonly used by fine-dining chefs to accent food. When microgreens are added to a food dish, they not only make the food look better, but they also make the food taste better, as well. By including microgreens in food, the beauty and freshness of the entire dish is enhanced.

Edible flowers can also be crystallized or caramelized in order to produce sugar flowers. Many different types of flowers can be caramelized and eaten, such as pansies, marigolds, chrysanthemums, snapdragons, violas, and dahlias. In order to caramelize or crystallize a flower, it must be coated in sugar solution and then dried. The resulting sugar flowers can then be added to a wide variety of foods, such as cheese plates, desserts, and drinks.

Although it may seem unusual to eat flowers, many people actually consume flowers nearly every day. There are several types of edible flowers available, including microgreens and sugar flowers. By including them in different food dishes, they will enhance the taste and presentation of the foods to which they are added. More on this topic.