In summer, we like to create colorful cocktails to enjoy on the terrace. And for that extra touch of sunshine, there’s nothing better than lovely (and delicious!) edible flowers! Find out which ones to choose for a successful creation.
A bouquet of flavours
The most famous, in our gardens, kitchens and drinks, is undoubtedly the rose. It’s particularly attractive and, here’s a little tip, the darker the color, the stronger the flavor. There’s also violet, with its shimmering hue and slight hint of bitterness, or tangy hibiscus, which brings a touch of originality and exoticism to your recipe. The daisy, which we often come across, is a little sweet. Begonia, with its fat plant-like texture, is lemony and fruity. Available in white, pink and red. Lemon balm has a minty flavor, and angelica is akin to licorice. As for woodruff, it brings a vanilla taste perfect for cocktails.
And that’s not all. Some of them also have many other qualities and may even be beneficial to health. This will be the case with pansy, discreetly sweet with a recognizable mint taste. In both blue and violet, we’re mesmerized by its yellow center. Nasturtium, crunchy and tangy, is rich in vitamin C. Finally, borage, a small, pale-blue flower, is also crunchy, iodized and full of omega 6.
To suit your taste
They’ve become very trendy in recent years, and can easily be found in supermarkets, directly from growers, or in garden centers. But be sure to check that they have not been chemically treated (i.e. that they come from sustainable agriculture), and to rinse them well with water before enjoying them.
Want to surprise your guests? Make flowery ice cubes! Take a conventional ice cube tray, remove the stem to use just the flower, place them in the compartments and fill with water gently to avoid breaking the petals. Use demineralized water to ensure clear ice cubes. Garnish your cocktails with these little floral cubes that will gently diffuse their flavours as they melt… your guests will be speechless!
And if you want to add even more complexity to your creations, visit the garnish Ginsiders selection.
