Weeds We Eat - Transcript
You may have heard the saying, “a weed is just a flower growing in the wrong place”. It’s true. Weeds are plants, just like any other. But because they weren’t planted on purpose, most people don’t like them. Maybe they would feel differently if they knew that the plants they call “weeds” have a value.
Many common weeds that grow in people’s yards or gardens can actually be eaten. In fact, some of the most popular restaurants in the world have weeds on their menus. You have probably seen dandelions growing near your home or school. Did you know that every part of these plants is healthy and delicious? The yellow flowers can be eaten in a salad or boiled to make tea. The roots can be dried and used to make a drink similar to coffee. The leaves can be eaten raw or boiled.
Another weed we can eat is honeysuckle. The flowers of this plant can be added to a salad. They can also be boiled in water to make tea. When combined with lemon juice, honeysuckle flowers make a very nice jelly. The taste is sweet and a little sour.
Pigweed grows in gardens and in farmer’s fields. It is a tough plant, but it is also quite tasty. Young leaves can be eaten raw, but older leaves should be boiled or steamed. They taste like spinach and are just as healthy. Pigweed seeds can be eaten raw, roasted or popped like popcorn. What a treat!
