Why Are Marigold Flowers A Must-Have Edible Plant for Your Culinary Garden?
Who doesn’t love a plant that can serve multiple purposes: a garden beauty and a kitchen ingredient? I have to admit, I have a soft spot for ornamentals that not only provide a stunning display but are also edible. Among all the wonderful edible flowers out there, marigolds take the cake for me.
Not only are they visually appealing, but they are also extremely versatile. From serving as a saffron substitute to adding flavor and color to a variety of dishes, marigolds are a delightful addition to any culinary garden.
Today, we’re going to delve into the world of marigolds to uncover their edible potential and how you can incorporate them into your cooking. Buckle up and get ready to explore:
What You’ll Learn
- Which Marigolds Are Edible?
- What Do They Taste Like?
- Species and Cultivars to Select
- Edible Parts and Harvesting Tips
- Preserving
- Recipes and Cooking Ideas
Are you excited? Let’s dive in and discover the wonders of marigolds!
Which Marigolds Are Edible?
There are six common species of marigolds that are edible:
- Pot or common (Calendula officinalis)
- Mexican, African, or Aztec (Tagetes erecta)
- French (T. patula)
- Lemon or signet (T. tenuifolia)
- Field (C. arvensis)
- Mexican mint (T. lucida)
While all these species are edible, each has its unique characteristics. Calendula types, for example, tend to be a bit more bitter, while lemon marigolds are favored for their flavor and most frequently consumed.
Did you know?
Marigolds are often used commercially as a saffron substitute. They are not only visually appealing but also add a unique flavor to dishes.
What Do They Taste Like?
Marigolds have a distinct peppery, citrusy flavor that sets them apart from other edible flowers. While calendula marigolds tend to be more bitter, signet marigolds are known for their sweeter flavor with strong citrus notes and less bitterness.
The flavors of marigolds can vary, so we recommend sampling a few to find the type you enjoy the most.
Species and Cultivars to Select
When it comes to selecting marigolds for your culinary adventures, the choice is yours! Here are some species and cultivars known for their tasty flowers or leaves:
Dropshot
‘Dropshot’ is an Irish lace marigold (T. filifolia) with leaves that boast a citrus-anise flavor. While it may not have the showy flowers of other marigold species, it shines as an edible herb, especially when used as microgreens.
Lemon and Tangerine Gem
T. tenuifolia ‘Lemon’ and ‘Tangerine’ Gem are popular choices for edible marigolds. Their flavorful petals with a hint of citrus and anise make them perfect additions to various dishes.
Mexican Tarragon
Also known as licorice or Mexican mint, this marigold type offers a pronounced herbal, anise-like flavor. While its flowers may not be as striking, they make a delightful addition to herb and container gardens.
Pink Surprise
‘Pink Surprise’ is a C. officinalis cultivar valued for its mild flavor and beautiful appearance. It is a great option for both visual appeal and taste in the kitchen.
Queen Sophia
This French marigold type features large, stunning petals that not only make harvesting easier but also add beauty to your dishes. Its double orange-red blooms outlined in gold are a sight to behold.
Edible Parts and Harvesting Tips
Marigold leaves and petals are entirely edible, making them versatile ingredients for culinary creations. However, keep in mind that the leaves taste best when young, as they can become bitter with age.
When harvesting marigolds, opt for the petals as they offer the best flavor. For a more palatable taste, snip off the white heels of the petals before using them in your dishes.
Harvesting Tip:
Harvest marigold petals and leaves in the morning when the weather is cooler for the best flavor and freshness.
Preserving
To extend the shelf life of marigolds, you can dry or freeze them. Drying marigold flowers between two pieces of paper pressed with a heavy weight or hanging them to dry are effective methods to preserve their beauty and flavor.
If you’re running low on saffron, you can grind up dried marigold leaves and petals to create a substitute. Additionally, marigolds can be pickled, used to infuse oils and vinegars, or even make marigold-infused wine.
Fun Fact:
Marigold flowers can be used to make a saffron substitute when dried and ground up. They add both color and flavor to dishes.
Recipes and Cooking Ideas
Including marigolds in your dishes opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From cheese sticks to marigold cucumbers, there are endless ways to incorporate these edible flowers into your meals.
Get creative with marigold petals by adding them to cheese dips, quiches, or salads. They pair perfectly with tomato and cucumber salads, avocado toast, roasted asparagus, or roasted chicken.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing marigold petals with rhubarb to create a unique topping for desserts or savory dishes. The possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with marigolds!
Culinary Inspiration:
Explore the unique flavor of marigolds by experimenting with them in different dishes, from salads to desserts. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!
Make Marigolds a Part of Your Culinary Garden
With their vibrant colors and versatile flavors, marigolds are a must-have addition to your culinary garden. Whether you prefer the leaves or petals, there are endless ways to incorporate these edible flowers into your cooking.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy marigolds? Share your culinary creations in the comments below and let us know how you like to use these delightful flowers in your dishes.
For more tips on growing marigolds and expanding your culinary garden, check out our detailed guides on planting and growing the glorious marigold, exploring the best types of marigolds, and learning when and how to plant marigold seeds.
Now that you’re equipped with all the information you need, it’s time to get cooking with marigolds and elevate your meals with their unique flavor and beauty!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, adding marigolds to your cooking repertoire can bring a whole new dimension of flavor and creativity to your dishes. With their distinct taste and vibrant colors, marigolds are sure to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t forget to reach for those beautiful marigold flowers and let your culinary imagination run wild!
