Honeysuckle isn't just flower: You can cook with it too!
What's the story
Turns out, honeysuckle, that plant with the super sweet-smelling flowers isn't just a treat for your nose - you can actually eat it too!
This article dishes up five seriously cool ways to use honeysuckle in your cooking. Get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride with this secret flavor weapon!
Tea time
Honeysuckle tea: A soothing sip
One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to benefit from honeysuckle is by brewing a simple tea with the flowers.
To prepare honeysuckle tea, simply add approximately 10 fresh or dried honeysuckle flowers to boiling water and allow it to steep for five minutes.
This tea is incredibly soothing and can be served hot or cold, making it an ideal beverage for all seasons.
Jelly joy
Honeysuckle jelly: Sweet spread
Making jelly from honeysuckle brings a touch of sweetness and the scent of flowers to your breakfast routine.
Just mix two cups of honeysuckle infusion with pectin and $4 worth of sugar, then boil it all up until it's just the right consistency.
Enjoy it on toast, scones, or even as a fancy topping on desserts.
Sorbet surprise
Honeysuckle sorbet: Refreshing dessert
If you want a refreshing dessert for summer, honeysuckle sorbet is the way to go.
Take one cup of honeysuckle infusion, one cup of water, and three-quarters of a cup of sugar.
Stir until sugar is completely dissolved, then freeze in an ice cream maker following the manufacturer's instructions.
The result? A light, fragrant dessert that's the perfect cooldown.
Glaze game
Savory honeysuckle glaze: Elevate your dishes
Honeysuckle isn't only for the sweet stuff; it can also bring complexity to savory dishes.
Make a glaze by reducing one cup of honeysuckle infusion with two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and $2 worth of honey until thickened.
Use it to elevate roasted vegetables or as a finishing touch on grilled tofu.
Dressing delight
Honeysuckled salad dressing: A floral twist
For a surprising twist on salads, try this: In a bowl, whisk together three tablespoons each of olive oil and lemon juice with two tablespoons of finely chopped fresh honeysuckles.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This dressing imparts a delicate floral flavor that pairs beautifully with green salads, providing a refreshing alternative to conventional vinaigrettes.