The Rose Tinted mum

Dandelions

Dandelions are a common sight in early spring.

Their vibrant colour is a nice surprise against the dull lingering winter tones.

But more satisfying is when the vibrant colour fades and a natural beauty appears, a fluffy seed head which you can’t resist to blow.

Which in lights the inner child within you.

To most, this insignificant weed is a pain in the ass and a hard one to get rid of, due to its very long roots.

But to pollinators like bees, they are a vital early source of food after a winter of hibernation or migration.

Without this vital food source these pollinators may see a brutal end.

Which would be devastating to any gardener, farmer and ultimately to all living creatures.

Apart from being a vital food for pollinators they are also a hidden food source for humans and surprisingly they have many hidden health benefits.

They are rich in Vit A, C and K, Folate, Calcium and Potassium.

Which help humans to

  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Regulating blood sugar
  • Managing weight
  • Fighting inflammation
  • Reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Promoting liver health
  • Aiding weight loss

Dandelions can be found in many different forms, like natural teas, infused oils and vinegar and can be found in some coffee brands.

Also, you could just pick them and add them to a salad.

After finding limited reasons not to try, I decided to make Dandelion honey and I’ve got to say I will be making more of this amber goodness next year.  

It’s lovely in hot water in the mornings or put over a natural yogurt and muesli.  

If you fancy a go the recipe is below or there are hundreds on the internet to choose from.

Happy cooking xx

Recipe

  • 100g Dandelion
  • 350ml water
  • 2x slices of lemon
  • Sugar

Method

  • Make sure you pick your dandelions from a clean source as washing them will hinder the honey.
  • The dandelion flowers must be open to use.
  • Leave dandelions out on a flat tray for a least 20 minutes so bugs can scurry away.
  • Put dandelions, water, and the lemon in a pan to simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Then leave in the pan to infuse overnight.
  • Drain the infused dandelions through a muslin cloth and dispose of flowers heads.
  • Weigh the liquid and then add the same amount of sugar.
  • Simmer until the liquid has thickened to honey consistence.
  • You can us the same plate test like jamming to check consistence.
  • Then put in sterilised jars and store in a cool dark place.   

Remember you may not feel strong but you are

Love

The Rose-Tinted Mum

lauratwitchen