Nasturtium flowers, with their vibrant hues and peppery flavor, are not only a delight to behold in the garden but also serve as a versatile ingredient in culinary creations. Whether you’re harvesting nasturtium blooms for their aesthetic appeal or their culinary value, preserving them ensures their beauty and flavor can be enjoyed long after their fleeting bloom. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods for preserving nasturtium flowers to retain their color, flavor, and texture.
Understanding Nasturtium Flowers
Before delving into preservation techniques, it’s crucial to understand the unique characteristics of nasturtium flowers. These cheerful blooms belong to the Tropaeolum genus and are native to South and Central America. They come in a range of colors, including vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds, adding a pop of color to any garden or dish.
Aside from their visual appeal, nasturtium flowers boast a distinct peppery flavor reminiscent of watercress, making them a popular addition to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Additionally, nasturtium flowers are rich in nutrients, containing vitamins C and D, as well as beneficial compounds like lutein and beta-carotene.
Harvesting Nasturtium Flowers
To ensure optimal preservation, it’s essential to harvest nasturtium flowers at the right time. Choose flowers that are fully open but haven’t yet started to wilt or fade. Early morning is typically the best time to harvest nasturtium blooms when they’re at their freshest.
When harvesting, use clean, sharp scissors to snip the flowers from the plant, leaving a short stem attached. Avoid picking flowers that show signs of damage or disease, as these won’t preserve well.
Methods of Preservation
There are several methods for preserving nasturtium flowers, each offering unique benefits in terms of flavor retention, color vibrancy, and shelf life. From drying and freezing to pickling and candying, let’s explore the various preservation techniques in detail.
Drying Nasturtium Flowers
Drying is one of the simplest methods for preserving nasturtium flowers, allowing you to enjoy their flavor and beauty year-round. To dry nasturtium flowers, follow these steps:
1. Gather freshly harvested flowers with intact petals and stems.
2. Remove any insects or debris by gently shaking the flowers or using a soft brush.
3. Tie small bundles of flowers together at the stems using kitchen twine or rubber bands.
4. Hang the bundles upside down in a warm, dry location with good air circulation.
5. Allow the flowers to dry completely, which may take 1-2 weeks depending on humidity levels.
6. Once dry, store the flowers in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.
Dried nasturtium flowers can be used in teas, infused oils, or as a colorful garnish for various dishes.
Freezing Nasturtium Flowers
Freezing is another effective method for preserving nasturtium flowers while retaining their vibrant color and flavor. Follow these steps to freeze nasturtium flowers:
1. Wash the flowers gently under cold running water to remove any dirt or insects.
2. Pat the flowers dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Place the flowers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and allow the flowers to freeze solid.
5. Once frozen, transfer the flowers to airtight freezer bags or containers.
6. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Frozen nasturtium flowers can be added directly to salads, soups, or stir-fries without thawing, preserving their fresh flavor and texture.
Pickling Nasturtium Flowers
Pickling is a popular preservation method that adds a tangy twist to nasturtium flowers, making them a flavorful addition to salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards. To pickle nasturtium flowers, follow these steps:
1. Prepare a pickling brine using equal parts water and vinegar (such as white wine or apple cider vinegar).
2. Add sugar, salt, and your choice of aromatics (such as garlic, peppercorns, or herbs) to the brine, adjusting to taste.
3. Wash the nasturtium flowers and remove any insects or debris.
4. Pack the flowers tightly into sterilized glass jars, leaving a small amount of space at the top.
5. Pour the pickling brine over the flowers, ensuring they are completely submerged.
6. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator for at least one week to allow the flavors to develop.
Pickled nasturtium flowers can be enjoyed on their own as a tangy snack or used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
Candying Nasturtium Flowers
Candying is a delightful way to preserve nasturtium flowers while adding a touch of sweetness. Candied nasturtium flowers make stunning decorations for cakes, desserts, and cocktails. Here’s how to candy nasturtium flowers:
1. Prepare a simple syrup by combining equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly.
4. Gently wash the nasturtium flowers and remove any insects or debris.
5. Using a small paintbrush, carefully coat each flower with the cooled syrup, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Place the coated flowers on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess syrup to drip off.
7. Allow the flowers to dry completely at room temperature, which may take 24-48 hours.
8. Once dry, store the candied flowers in an airtight container layered between sheets of parchment paper.
Candied nasturtium flowers add a whimsical touch to desserts and cocktails, providing both visual appeal and a hint of sweetness.
Tips for Preserving Nasturtium Flowers
Regardless of the preservation method you choose, keep the following tips in mind to ensure the best results:
1. Use freshly harvested flowers free from damage or disease for optimal flavor and appearance.
2. Clean the flowers gently to remove any dirt, insects, or debris before preserving them.
3. Store preserved nasturtium flowers in airtight containers away from light, heat, and moisture to maintain their quality.
4. Label containers with the date of preservation to track freshness and shelf life.
5. Experiment with different preservation methods and flavor combinations to discover your favorite ways to enjoy nasturtium flowers.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you can preserve the beauty and flavor of nasturtium flowers to enjoy throughout the year, adding a burst of color and flavor to your culinary creations. Whether dried, frozen, pickled, or candied, nasturtium flowers offer endless possibilities for culinary exploration and creative expression.