Dandelion is not only beautiful to look at, but also edible. It’s healthy and even tasty. We explain what the plant has to offer and how you can eat it.
In order to find dandelions, it is often enough to go into your own garden. It is known for its yellow flowers and sticky, white sap that often turns fingers brown when touched. But have you ever thought about eating the plant?
How does dandelion affect the body?
Dandelion grows in many places: Whether in gardens, at the edge of the forest or on the street – you can find the plant almost everywhere. At the end of April/beginning of May the lion’s number blooms, but you can see it until autumn.
The plant not only looks beautiful, you can also eat the dandelion. It is even particularly healthy and can be a tasty addition to many dishes. There are many different uses for the plant.
The bitter substances it contains also stimulate the metabolism and promote digestion as well as kidney and bladder activity. The dandelion is also used because of its digestive properties, as the plant reaches the large intestine undigested.
How healthy are dandelions?
The dandelion is not poisonous, you can eat leaves, flowers and roots
The milky sap contained in the flower stalk is also non-toxic. However, the juice can leave unsightly stains on clothing that are difficult to remove.
The root of the plant in particular contains many healthy ingredients such as inulin, vitamins B, C and E and many carotenoids. The flowers and leaves are very rich in minerals such as potassium, zinc and copper. This makes dandelion a valuable dietary supplement.
How to cook dandelion
The bitter substances contained in dandelion ensure that the leaves have a slightly bitter taste. The flowers, on the other hand, are even slightly sweet.
The leaves can be cooked or used raw. They are particularly suitable as an addition to a green salad, but they also enrich a pesto. If the leaves are to be cooked, they must first be washed. Then you can put them in boiling water for ten minutes.
If you roast the roots in a pan, they can be ground up well. Then you can even make a kind of coffee out of it.
Conclusion
Dandelion is healthy and can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. The next time you see the plant, pluck it off and try one of the preparation methods.
