Member-only story
Food Magic
Dandelion Fritters Recipe
And other uses for the humble dandelion “weed”
Nature and food are magical. Take for example, the humble dandelion. It’s a simple flowering plant deemed by Americans to be a weed blemishing their otherwise pristine lawns. The expansive greenspace lawns favored in our community parks and suburbs are water-greedy, as well as both time consuming and expensive to maintain.
The dandelion is tenacious, fast growing and easily spreading plant. It seems equally drought and wet climate resistant. But, from American lawns it must be eradicated. Like its fellow “weed,” clover, it is to be poisoned with extreme prejudice.
Also like its fellow weed, clover, the humble dandelion needs a cultural makeover in America. Except for the seeding puffball, every part of the dandelion is edible and healthful. From tea or coffee substitutes made with the root, to the greens or flowers used in food, its uses have been myriad.
- When coffee was scarce or expensive, roasted dandelion root was once popular as an alternative because it tastes similar to coffee.
- To help with digestion, liver function, or as a mild diuretic, drink caffeine-free dandelion root tea.
- Turn the greens into a staple side dish or as an ingredient in a meal.