Using flowers is an essential tool mixologists should know how to use. Whether it’s adding a touch of elegance or enhancing floral flavors, garnishing with flowers can transform a nice cocktail into an amazing one. With Spring in full swing, now’s a better time than any to familiarize yourself with some common flowers you can use to garnish your cocktails.
1. Orchids
What better way to garnish a tropical cocktail than with a show-stopping orchid? The dramatic but elegant beauty of these flowers guarantees to impress your guests. Although all flowers of the Orchidaceae family are considered safe to eat, some may cause a stomach upset. Find edible orchids here.
2. Rose Buds
Roses are the classic symbol of romance. Impress a loved one with your mixology skills by finishing off your cocktail with some rose buds. Although they have a strong floral scent, the flavor of roses is actually quite subtle. They work well with sweet flavors and float nicely on top of egg based cocktails. Find rose buds here.
3. Pansies
Pansies are one of the most commonly used flower garnishes due to them being widely available most of the year. Some are sweet but most have a minty, grassy flavor making them a great pairing with herby cocktails. If you see a cocktail recipe involving violas, pansies are in the same family so you can use either one for garnishing. Fun fact: all pansies are violas but not all violas are pansies.
4. Hibiscus
Mixologists often use hibiscus flowers for the tart sweetness they bring to cocktails similar to cranberries. You can find dried hibiscus flowers here but if you fancy adding extra drama to your garnish game, try using fresh buds in a glass of fizz to make them bloom before your guests eyes.
5. Lavender
Lavender is the perfect garnish to enhance the taste and smell of a cocktail. The sweet and floral perfume is renowned for creating a relaxing atmosphere – great for a lazy, summer evening. You can find fresh lavender in most gardens but if it’s out of season you can order dried lavender buds here.
6. Cornflower
Also known as Bachelor’s Button, cornflowers are a pretty touch to a vibrant cocktail. If you’re planning to use them to flavor your drink, they add a spice similar to cloves. This pairs well with whiskey based cocktails.
7. Carnations
Carnations can be easily found in most bouquets. They’re popularly used because of the wide variety of colors they come in including bicoloured petals. Although some people would consider them slightly bitter to eat, if you remove the base petals they can actually taste spicy sweet.
Now that the flowers are starting to bloom, why not preserve your favorite floral flavors? Similar to a cocktail shrub, you can make an oxymel with equal parts honey and vinegar to infuse the flower petals with. Shake all the ingredients together and leave for a few weeks then strain. What you’re left with is a sweet, Floral oxymel to add to your cocktails all year round – winner!
