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Cooking with Edible Flowers

List of Edible Flowers

By , About.com Guide

Marigolds

Here is a list of edible flowers traditionally used in cooking and their suggested uses.

Herb flowers – Virtually all herbs have flowers that are edible. Usually the flower tastes very similar to the herb. Common herb flowers used are basil, thyme, sage (a wonderful bright blue), cilantro, and chives.

Violas, Pansies, and Johnny-Jump-Ups – This class of flowers has a floral, wintergreen flavor. Try grinding flowers in a food processor with sugar. Add the mixture to water for a delightful violet syrup.

Citrus Marigold Varieties

Roses – The old-fashioned varieties have much more flavor than the hybrids grown today. Judge the flavor by the smell. Try the antique varieties of Rugosas and other bush types. Grind up rose petals with sugar in a food processor and add water for a sweet, rose-flavored syrup.

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