Nasturtium flowers are not only pretty to look at but also a delicious ingredient in many dishes. They originate in Latin America and were already used by the indigenous peoples there. Today they are known in many parts of the world and are often grown in gardens and on balconies. Nasturtium belongs to the family of the Tropaeolaceae and is a popular plant in both the kitchen and the garden.
The availability of nasturtium flowers is year-round, especially if you grow them yourself. This plant is very easy to care for and can grow both in the garden and in pots on the balcony or windowsill. If you plant them yourself, you can usually harvest the flowers from May to October, depending on the weather and location.
Nasturtium flowers come in different varieties and colors. Some of the most popular varieties are:
- Yellow nasturtium: These flowers are bright yellow and have a mild, slightly peppery taste.
- Red nasturtium: This variety has striking red flowers and a more intense flavor.
- Orange nasturtium: The orange flowers are especially beautiful and also taste peppery.
- Dwarf varieties: There are also compact varieties that are perfect for pots and require less space.
Each of these varieties has its own special taste and appearance, so you can choose according to your personal preference. So if, for example, you want to prepare a colorful salad platter, you can use different colors of nasturtium to make the dish more lively and inviting.
If you want to buy nasturtium flowers at the supermarket or farmers' market, it's important to pay attention to freshness. Fresh flowers are crisp and have a vibrant color. If they are wilted or brown, you should avoid buying them, as they will no longer be as tasty.
Another important point is that nasturtium, as an edible flower, is very versatile. You can use it for example in salads, on sandwiches or even as decoration on cakes. Their taste is a little like radishes, which makes them an exciting ingredient in many dishes. When preparing a dish, you can simply add the flowers fresh to give color and flavor.
In summary, nasturtium flowers are an exciting and healthy ingredient that offers many possibilities in the kitchen. They are easy to grow, available in different varieties and can enrich your dishes in a creative way. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting to experiment with these pretty flowers, there is always something new to discover. So the next time you go to the garden or go shopping, don't forget to keep an eye out for nasturtium flowers — they could become your next favorite ingredient!
