Dandelions as Food

Several years ago in my food research I discovered the value of dandelions as food. My friends even told me they’d buy me some kale, not to eat the dandelions! Yet with our organic yard, I enjoy them. Dandelions are good in various ways and a very healthy choice, smoothies are my favorite way to eat them. Crazy? No, it’s good for me.

I’ve discovered one half cup of dandelions contain more calcium than a glass of milk, and more iron than spinach. One cup of dandelion greens contains 19 mg of Vitamin C, and the leaves contain more Vitamin A than carrots. And if you need some Vitamin K in your life, there’s no better source than dandelion leaves; 55 mg of leaves contain a whopping 535% of your daily value. The leaves are also a great source of fiber and can help stabilize blood sugar.

Dandelions are also loaded other essential minerals such as potassium, folic acid, and magnesium. They are also an incredibly high source of antioxidants and because of their diuretic effect, can help cleanse your system of toxins.

Dandelions are one of the safest, but not the only weed you can eat. Nearly everyone can recognize a dandelion with their yellow flower and jagged leaves.

Harvesting Dandelions

Before you eat them, please take care to harvest only dandelion flowers, greens or roots that are from untreated lawns or areas. Vegetation near roadways isn’t a good choice either because of the toxins from exhaust. And as the granddaughters remind me, get the ones outside of the dog fencing:)

When I select my greens, I prefer the flavor of the young leaves. The bigger or older leaves are tougher and more bitter. It’s personal preference. If you’re going to use the flowers for jelly or salads, select young flowers as well. To use the flowers, cut off the green part at the base of the flower and do not use the hollow stems. The stems are way too bitter.

Dandelion Smoothie

I use a Vitamix blender because I love it for all my kitchen needs and I get superb results. Seriously, this baby is worth the money.

About a cup of dandelion greens

A green apple, quartered and cored

A handful of green grapes (depending upon your sweetness preference)

8-12 oz of water

(I often include a protein powder too. Strictly your preference.)

Blend until smooth and enjoy!

Dandelion Jelly

I have not made this because I don’t use much sugar and I can’t convince my husband to give it a try when he prefers my Aronia jelly, but I have a friend who makes it every year. The color is beautiful and so different. It makes an excellent gift!

I’ve linked to a site with a wonderful tutorial and directions to make the jelly. https://www.simplycanning.com/dandelion-jelly.html

Food as Medicine

Because of my health concerns, I’ve looked into alternative medicine, using food as medicine and other ways to improve my health and that of those I love. Dandelions are one of the many plants that are a great source of nutrients. As we look back to what our ancestors ate and steer away from the more processed foods, our health will benefit. The question I always ask, but is it good for me? Dandelions, definitely are! With spring around the corner, give them a try. Google more recipes on making dandelion tea, dandelion fritters, and using the roots. You’ll be amazed.