I have actually tried eating jasmine flowers before, and I can tell you that they are safe to eat. However, I must warn you that they have a very strong and bitter flavor. It’s not something that most people would find enjoyable to eat on its own.
That being said, jasmine flowers can still be used in cooking as a food-safe garnish. Their aroma is incredibly intense, so just adding one or two flowers to a dish can really perfume the entire dish and add a unique floral note. I would recommend using them sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
When using jasmine flowers in cooking, it’s important to remember that they are primarily used for their fragrance rather than their taste. So, it’s best to pair them with ingredients that can complement their floral aroma. For example, you could sprinkle a few jasmine flowers on top of a fruit salad or a creamy dessert to add a subtle floral touch.
You could also try infusing the flowers in liquids such as tea or syrup. This can help to extract their fragrance and incorporate it into your beverages or desserts. Just be sure to strain out the flowers before consuming the infused liquid.
It’s worth noting that not all varieties of jasmine flowers are edible, so it’s important to source them from a reputable source or grow them yourself if you plan on using them in your cooking. Also, be cautious of any pesticides or chemicals that may have been used on the flowers if you’re picking them from your garden.
While jasmine flowers are safe to eat, their bitter flavor makes them more suitable as a food-safe garnish rather than a main ingredient. Their intense aroma can add a delightful floral note to dishes when used sparingly. So, go ahead and give them a try, but remember to use them in moderation and pair them with ingredients that can complement their fragrance.