Unveiling Edible Flowers in New York: What to Know

Edible flowers are a true culinary delight, bursting with possibilities and adding an instant touch of 'gourmet' to any dish. These colorful blossoms bring a fun and effortless way to enhance your creations with vibrant color and fresh flavor.

They all add a unique splash of color, flavor, and a touch of sophistication to the plate. And in the diverse food culture of New York City, Edible Flowers are not just gaining popularity among the chefs and restaurants. Home cooks and foodies are now sprinkling the dazzling effect of these colorful blossoms into their dishes.

From the tangy flavor of Incan Begonias to the citrusy zing of Marigold Petals, the world of edible flowers is nothing short but amazing. Almost too pretty to eat but what's gonna stop them? 

Here we’ll explore all the best varieties of edible flowers that you can use, their flavor profile, culinary uses, and where you can buy them. We are also taking the popular varieties to create show-stopping recipes that everybody will love. So get ready to unlock the colorful world of edible flowers!

What Flowers Are Edible?

Edible Flowers are those pretty blossoms that are safe to eat and add color, flavor, and aroma to your dishes. Each flower brings its own unique charm. Not just the visual appeal, but can also transform your culinary creations with their unique flavor profile.

There are a wide variety of edible flowers in our collection that you can try. Each comes with its unique color and culinary uses. Nasturtium Flowers are known for their vibrant range of colors and peppery flavor. Pansy Flowers with their buttery petals and spearmint flavor, bring a delightful twist to many dishes.

Marigold Flowers add citrusy notes to your drinks and desserts and are also used in savory bites. Incan Begonias and Apple Blossoms with their vibrant petals and Granny Smith Apple taste, make sure your salad, dessert, and cocktails look and taste great.

The Viola "Cornabria" Flower Mix features a sweet, mild flavor and is often paired beautifully to many dishes. BlinQ Blossoms with their unique briny, juicy taste add a sour touch to seafood and fresh salads. 

Sechuan Buttons bring a tingling sensation to the tongue and add a refreshing kick to cocktails and desserts. While dulce buttons with their natural sweetness enhance cakes and fruit salads 500 times better than processed sugar.

Lastly, Snapdragon Blossoms combine floral sweetness with their colorful petals adding both beauty and flavor to salads and desserts.

 

Introducing Popular Varieties of Edible Flowers in New York

No	Flower Variety	Flavor Profile
1	Nasturtium Flowers	Peppery, Spicy, Sweet
2	Pansy Flowers Regular Mix	Buttery Petals with a Hint of Spearmint
3	Marigold Flowers	Fragrant, slightly spicy, and bitter with hints of mint and tarragon
4	Incan Begonias	Tart and sour, with notes of green apple, sour grape, raspberry, and currant
5	Apple Blossom	Very Sour, Crisp, Tart, Granny Smith Apple
6	Viola "Cornabria" Flower Mix	Buttery Petals, Subtle Spearmint
7	BlinQ Blossom	Briny, Juicy, Slightly Sour
8	Sechuan Buttons	Slight lemon flavor, Electrifying, Sparkling, Tingling sensation
9	Dulce Buttons	Incredibly Sweet with hints of Mint, Thyme, and Rosemary
10	Snapdragon Blossoms	Floral, notes of Cucumber and Cantaloupe

Top 10 Edible Flowers to Explore in New York

New York is like a culinary melting pot, known for its diverse food scene and innovative chefs. From using the most innovative techniques to the most bizarre ingredients, the New York Culinary scene is well-known for its uniqueness.

Once occasional usages now become everyday scenes, Edible Flowers has come in a long way. Their aesthetic appeal and unique aroma can transform your dining experience to the next level. These Chef-approved Edible Flowers in New York brings a sprinkle of elegance to any plate. Here are the top 10 Popular Edible Flowers in New York you can try.

1. Nasturtium Flowers

Nasturtium flowers showcase a vibrant array of colors including red, orange, yellow, and pink. They bring unique sweetness with a hint of peppery, spicy kick. That is what makes this flower versatile in the kitchen.

Culinary uses of Nasturtium Flowers

• Use this flower to garnish chilled soups like gazpacho. The individual nasturtium petals add a fresh, floral touch.
• Add nasturtium flowers as an eye-catching garnish for cocktails. 
• Pluck individual nasturtium petals into seafood dishes, such as lobster rolls or fish tacos.

2. Pansy Flowers Regular Mix

Pansy Flowers Regular Mix offers a delightful burst of color and flavor for your culinary creations. With an excellent shelf life and is available in various stunning hues, including red, orange, yellow, purple, white, black, and blue. These striking flowers are as versatile as they are beautiful. 

Culinary uses of Pansy Flowers Regular Mix

• Use pansy flowers to decorate cakes for a stunning visual effect and a subtle flavor enhancement.
• Add pansy flowers either as a garnish or mixed into the dough to make pastries. 
• On fruit tarts and custard tarts, pansy flowers provide both beauty and a refreshing taste.

3. Marigold Flowers

Marigold Flowers in stunning bright yellow, orange, and red hues add a vibrant addition to any dish. They bring fragrant, slightly spicy, and bitter notes with hints of mint and tarragon. 

Not just in whole flower form, the Marigold Petals also bring a lively splash of colors to your recipes. Their zest kick can enhance any dish into a true masterpiece. 

There is another variation in our Edible Flowers Collection - Micro Marigolds. Measuring just 0.5 inches, each tiny blossom offers citrusy and lemony notes, bringing a more flavorful kick than its mature counterpart.

Culinary uses of Marigold Flowers

• Incorporate marigold petals into shrimp ceviche for a colorful presentation and a zesty flavor boost.
• Use marigold flowers as a garnish for margaritas, adding a vibrant touch and a hint of citrus to your cocktail.
• Toss micro marigolds into kale salads for a fresh, colorful garnish that enhances both flavor and nutrition.

4. Incan Begonias

Incan Begonias with stunning bright red-orange petals are visually striking edible flowers. These blossoms boast tart and sour notes reminiscent of Granny Smith apples. Their delicate texture and unique flavor profile make them a favorite among the chefs.

Culinary uses of Incan Begonias

• Garnish your Moscow Mule with Incan begonia petals for a colorful presentation and a tangy twist to this classic cocktail.
• Use Incan begonias to decorate fruit tarts. The burst of tart flavor complements beautifully the sweet fillings.
• Pair Incan begonia petals with roasted duck breast, where the tartness enhances the rich flavors of the meat.

5. Apple Blossom

Similar to Incan Begonias, Apple Blossoms add a vibrant, tangy twist to both sweet and savory dishes. Their soft, delicate petals range in color from light to bright pink. Each petals release a burst of very sour, crisp, and tart juice reminiscent of a Granny Smith apple.

Culinary uses of Apple Blossom

• Enhance the freshness of your fruit salad by adding apple blossoms for a pop of color and a tangy kick.
•  Use apple blossoms to decorate cakes, pastries, and tarts, adding both visual appeal and a zesty flavor.
• Incorporate apple blossoms into cocktails for a refreshing garnish that complements fruity and sour drinks.

6. Viola "Cornabria" Flower Mix

These exquisite flowers feature delicate, velvety petals. Their visual appeal not only enhances the dish's presentation but also introduces a subtle spearmint flavor. Available in a stunning array of colors, including bright yellow, orange, purple, and white, Viola Cornabria Flower Mix is perfect for adding a refreshing twist to both sweet and savory bites.

Culinary uses of Viola "Cornabria" Flower Mix

• Garnish your gin fizz with Viola "Cornabria" flowers to add a beautiful pop of color. The hint of spearmint complements the cocktail’s refreshing notes.
• Sprinkle Viola "Cornabria" petals over creamy vanilla ice cream for a visually stunning dessert that combines beautiful colors with a delicate flavor.

7. BlinQ Blossom

BlinQ Blossoms are a remarkable addition to the world of edible flowers. They are renowned for their unique burst of briny, juicy, and slightly sour bite. With tiny, glistening bubbles and crystal-like appearance, they are perfect for seafood lovers. 

Culinary uses of BlinQ Blossoms

• Garnish fresh oysters with BlinQ Blossoms to enhance their briny flavor.
• Top steamed or raw clams with these blossoms for a refreshing twist and an eye-catching appearance.
• Use BlinQ Blossoms as a unique garnish in a martini. They offer a flavorful surprise that complements the cocktail’s classic profile.

8. Sechuan Buttons

Sechuan Buttons provides a one-of-a-kind culinary experience that transcends traditional flavors. They offer a delightful sensation that is more about texture than taste. With a slight lemon flavor, these vibrant yellow blossoms create an electrifying, sparkling, and tingling buzz on the tongue. Most likely similar to pop rocks or fizzy drinks. 

Culinary uses of Sechuan Buttons

• Incorporate Sechuan Buttons into a beef stir fry for a surprising pop and a playful tingle.
• Garnish lemon sorbet with these flowers to add an exciting texture and a hint of lemon flavor.
• Use Sechuan Buttons as a creative garnish in a Negroni. The electrifying twist to this classic cocktail will thrill your taste buds.

9. Dulce Buttons

 

Dulce Buttons are celebrated for their extraordinary sweetness. That is 500 times more sweet and healthier than regular sugar! This remarkable sweetness comes from a natural compound called hernandulcin, which is not metabolized by the body, making these flowers a fantastic non-caloric sweetener.

Culinary uses of Dulce Buttons

• Use Dulce Buttons to sweeten and garnish cocktails. These blooms infuse cocktails with a delightful sweetness and a hint of mint, thyme, and rosemary.
• Incorporate these blossoms into pastries for a surprising twist that enhances the sweetness.
• Add Dulce Buttons to homemade lemonade for a naturally sweet flavor boost, creating a refreshing beverage perfect for warm days.

10. Snapdragon Blossoms

Snapdragon Blossoms are a classic choice in the world of edible flowers, celebrated for their instantly recognizable shape and vibrant colors. The color ranges from deep fuchsia to bright yellow. Beyond their stunning appearance, these blossoms offer a delightful floral flavor with refreshing notes of cucumber and cantaloupe.

Culinary uses of Snapdragon Blossoms

• Use Snapdragon Blossoms to garnish appetizers. They add a vibrant burst of color and a subtle floral flavor that enhances the presentation and taste.
• Garnish cocktails with these blossoms to create an eye-catching drink.
• Incorporate Snapdragon Blossoms into pastries for a beautiful decoration and a hint of sweetness.

 

Delicious and Creative 6 Recipes Featuring 6 Popular Edible Flowers

Edible flowers bring a burst of color, flavor, and creativity to your culinary creations. It can take any ordinary dishes and transform them into extraordinary experiences. From the vibrant hues to the delicate sweetness, these blossoms not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your meals but also introduce unique taste profiles that can elevate any recipe. Here are 6 recipes featuring our 6 popular edible flowers. 

1. Chicken and Nasturtium Flower Salad

To prepare this you need, 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed, 1 cup mixed greens, ½ cup sliced cucumber, ¼ cup sliced radishes, ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
6-8 Nasturtium Flowers, separated into petals (reserve a few for garnish). Also 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Lastly, salt and pepper to taste.

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, cucumber, radishes, green onions, and half of the nasturtium petals. In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise (or yogurt), mustard, and lemon juice or vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until well-coated. Top with the reserved nasturtium flowers for a burst of color and peppery flavor. Enjoy it on its own, or serve it on a bed of greens or a slice of crusty bread for a light meal.

 

2. Pansy Flower Ice Cream Sundae

You need 2 scoops of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry work well). Also, 1-2 tablespoons chocolate or caramel sauce, whipped cream, 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (like almonds, pecans, or peanuts), fresh berries (like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries), and 3-4 edible Pansy Flowers.

In a bowl or sundae glass, add 2 scoops of ice cream. Pour chocolate or caramel sauce over the ice cream. Top the ice cream with a generous swirl of whipped cream.

Scatter chopped nuts and a few fresh berries over the whipped cream for extra texture and flavor. Gently place the pansy flowers on top of the sundae for a lovely and edible garnish. Enjoy your sundae right away! The pansy flowers add a pop of color and a hint of subtle floral flavor.

 

3. Bourbon Bloom Cocktail with Incan Begonias

Here’s a quick and easy bourbon cocktail that’s beautifully complemented by a garnish of Incan begonia flowers. You need 2 oz. bourbon, ½ oz. fresh lemon juice, ½ oz. simple syrup, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, Ice, and 1-2 Incan Begonias.

In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters. Fill with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds. Strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice.

Gently place the Incan Begonia flowers on top or on the rim of the glass for a vibrant and floral finish. Sip and savor the balance of bourbon’s warmth with the freshness of lemon and the unique garnish.

 

4. Tequila Tingler Cocktail with Sechuan Button

To make this cocktail you need 2 oz. tequila (blanco or reposado), 1 oz. lime juice, ½ oz. agave syrup or simple syrup, 1 Sechuan button, lightly crushed (for infusion), Ice, and 1 whole Sechuan button (for garnish).

In a cocktail shaker, add the tequila and the lightly crushed Sechuan button. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the tequila to absorb some of the tingly sensation. Add the lime juice and agave syrup to the shaker. Fill the shaker with ice, then shake well for about 15 seconds.

Strain the cocktail into a rock glass filled with fresh ice. Place a whole Sechuan button on the rim or side of the glass for a tingly garnish. Sip the cocktail and, if you like, nibble on the Sechuan button to enhance the tingling sensation with each sip.

 

5. Oysters on the Half Shell with BlinQ Blossom

To prepare this, you need fresh oysters on the half shell (about 12-18), 1 lemon, cut into wedges, and 2 tablespoons of mignonette sauce. For garnish, fresh BlinQ Blossoms, and for serving crushed ice.

To prepare the simple mignonette sauce, you need 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped shallots, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper (or to taste).

Prepare the Mignonette Sauce: In a small bowl, combine red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallots, and black pepper. Stir and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Carefully shuck the oysters using an oyster knife. Place each oyster on its half shell, ensuring it remains filled with its natural juices. On a platter, place a layer of crushed ice to keep the oysters cold. Arrange the shucked oysters on top of the ice.

Top each oyster with a few BlinQ blossoms for a beautiful presentation and a hint of flavor. If using, add a small spoonful of mignonette sauce on top or serve it on the side. Add lemon wedges around the platter to squeeze over the oysters.

Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh taste of oysters enhanced by the delicate flavor of BlinQ blossoms!

 

6. Butternut Squash Soup with Marigold Flowers

To make this soup, you need 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed, 1 medium onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ cup coconut milk or cream for creaminess and 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter. For garnish, our fresh marigold flowers and salt & pepper to taste.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, ground ginger, and cinnamon, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Once the squash is tender, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. (If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the coconut milk or cream at this stage and blend until well combined.)

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh marigold flowers for a beautiful and colorful presentation.

Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of butternut squash soup with the delightful touch of Marigold Flowers!

Where to Buy Edible Flowers in New York

If you're looking to add the colorful flavor of edible flowers to your dishes in New York, you’re in luck! Sourcing these delightful ingredients has never been easier, thanks to WeQook and Flavour Fields. Here’s what you need to know about each option:

WeQook

• Premium Quality: 

WeQook provides fresh edible flowers, ensuring you receive the highest quality products. Harvested at peak freshness, our edible blooms are as vibrant as they are tasty, making sure your dishes pop with color and punch. Fresh, fun, and full of flavor, that’s how we roll!

• Convenient Delivery:

• Need your blooms ASAP? No worries! With next-day overnight shipping, you don’t have to wait to enjoy our edible blooms.
• They’ll arrive fresh and ready to brighten up your dishes, so you can start cooking without missing a beat. 
• Pick-Up Options: You can also collect your orders directly from our greenhouse for added convenience.

Flavour Fields

• Wholesale Options: 

All the edible flowers mentioned above are proudly grown by Flavour Fields, renowned for their exceptional quality and vibrant blooms. If you are a professional chef looking to place bulk orders, Flavour Fields offers wholesale options to meet your needs. 

Our edible flowers collection is perfect for adding unique flavors and eye-catching colors to your culinary creations, whether you're designing a seasonal menu or looking to elevate your everyday dishes. Contact Flavour Fields today to explore our wholesale offerings and bring the beauty of nature’s finest blooms to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions About Edible Flowers

Are all flowers edible?

Ans: Not all flowers are safe to eat; some are meant to be only for decorative purposes. WeQook brings the finest quality edible flowers, carefully selected for their flavor and culinary versatility. Our selection of premium edible flowers is safe and delicious, ensuring you have access to high-quality options for your culinary creations. Visit our Edible Flowers Collection to order your favorite edible flowers and bring vibrant flavors and colors to your culinary creations.

How can I tell if a flower is safe to eat?

Ans: To ensure a flower is safe to eat, it’s important to rely on trusted sources. At WeQook, we provide only the highest quality edible flowers. Whether you're garnishing a dish or adding a floral twist to your recipes, we’ve got the perfect flowers for every occasion!

How do you prepare edible flowers?

Ans: Preparing edible flowers for culinary use is simple. At WeQook, all our edible flowers are ready to use straight from the clamshell! We make sure every flower meets the highest standards of food safety, so you don't need to worry about removing stems or any bitter green parts.

What edible flowers taste like?

Ans: The flavor profiles of edible flowers can vary widely, depending on the type of flower you choose. For instance:

• Nasturtium Flowers: Peppery and slightly spicy.
• Pansy Flowers Regular Mix: Mild, buttery with hints of spearmint.
• Marigold Flowers: Citrus-like, fragrant, with slightly bitter notes.
• Incan Begonias: Tart and sour, reminiscent of green apples.

As we’ve already mentioned, each of these flowers brings its unique flavor to your dishes.

How can I use edible flowers in my cooking?

Ans: Here are some creative ideas to incorporate edible flowers:

• Garnishes: Use them to enhance the visual appeal of salads, soups, and entrees.
• Mixology: Add a floral touch to cocktails by using edible flowers as a garnish or infusing them into your favorite drinks for a burst of flavor.
• Baking: Add petals into batters for cakes and muffins or use them to decorate desserts.

What are some edible flowers for cocktails?

Ans: Consider these edible flowers to enhance cocktails:

• Pansy Flowers Regular Mix: Add color and a mild, buttery flavor with hints of spearmint.
• Nasturtium Flowers: Provide a peppery kick, perfect for adding a bold twist.
• Marigold Flowers: Offer a citrusy note with a fragrant, slightly bitter taste.
• Incan Begonias: Add a tart and sour flavor, reminiscent of green apples.
• Sechuan Buttons: Provide a zesty, tingling sensation, adding an unexpected twist to your drink.

What edible flowers are best for cakes and desserts?

Ans: These flowers pair well with sweet dishes:

• Viola "Cornabria" Flower Mix: Their subtle spearmint flavor complements desserts.
• Apple Blossoms: Their tangy notes add a unique twist to pastries.
• Dulce Buttons: Their incredible sweetness enhances the overall taste of cakes.

Where can I buy edible flowers near me?

You can find edible flowers at local markets, specialty grocery stores, or through online suppliers like WeQook. We offer a wide variety of premium edible flowers, delivered straight to your door. Whether you're a chef or a home cook, WeQook provides the convenience of fresh, vibrant flowers that are safe, flavorful, and perfect for any dish or drink.

Are edible flowers healthy?

Ans: Yes, many edible flowers are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds. They can add flavor, nutrition, and vibrant color to your dishes without the extra calories.

What is the most popular edible flower?

Ans: One of the most commonly used edible flowers is the Nasturtium Flowers, prized for its peppery flavor and vibrant colors. Other popular choices include Pansy and Marigold Flowers, known for their versatility in both savory and sweet dishes.

Final Thoughts on Edible Flowers in New York

Edible flowers are not just a culinary trend; they are a delightful way to enhance your dishes with vibrant colors. In New York, the accessibility of fresh, high-quality edible flowers allows both home cooks and professional chefs to elevate their culinary creations with ease.

Exploring the diverse range of edible flowers available can open up a world of creativity in the kitchen. So go ahead, get blooming with your cooking. Your taste buds and Instagram feed will thank you!