Despite the toxicity in high intake, some parts of the Begonia plant are amazingly edible with lots of medicinal qualities.
Also, Edible Begonia can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergies if you and your pets take them in large amounts.
So, go through this entire article if you think of adding a twist to your salads and vegetables using different parts of Begonia.
Table of Contents Show
Are All Begonias Edible?
Many Begonia varieties, like Tuberous, Wax, Strawberry, Tuberose Begonia, etc., are edible and have a crispy, citrusy taste.
The leaves, stems, and flowers are some edible parts of Begonia, which can be a good addition to your salads and vegetables.
However, avoiding high consumption is better as the plant is mildly toxic. Also, you must not eat its underground parts that contains Calcium Oxalate.
Moreover, underground parts of some dotted Begonia, like Polka Dot Begonia, Angel Wing Begonia(Bigonia maculata), etc., are highly toxic to humans along with pets.
Although Begonia has a sweet-sour taste, it gives an unusual aftertaste preventing you and your pets from eating the plant in high quantities.
Therefore, you must keep this plant out of reach of children and pets to avoid health issues. In case of accidental ingestion, contact at the following details:
How To Eat Begonia?
Begonia leaves, stems, and flowers will enhance the flavor of recipes like vegetables, tea, salads, and cocktails.
Moreover, the flower petals work very well as garnish in summer drinks, cakes, and other bakery items.
Before preparing your Begonia recipes, make sure you have chosen edible varieties free from harmful chemicals.
1. Begonia Flower Tea
You can also eat raw Begonia flowers, but the lemony and sweet taste will be enhanced even better if you make tea out of it.
- Place 2 or 3 dried Begonia flowers in a saucepan filled with 2 cups of water.
- Boil the mixture for 3-10 minutes until the color changes to yellow.
- Add sugar or honey for the sweet taste and serve or enjoy hot tea.
2. Begonia Salad
You can also use Begonia leaves and flowers on your favorite salads mixed with lettuce, spinach, cucumbers, etc. But never make salad only with Begonia to avoid its toxic effects.
- Chop some Begonia leaves combined with salad greens, onions, cheese, etc.
- Add the salad dressing like oil, chili flakes, salt, pepper, etc.
- Serve or enjoy the new twist on the taste of your regular salad.
3. Begonia Fritters
Fritters out of Begonia flowers can be excellent if you want to make some starters.
- Dip 20-30 Begonia flowers in the batter mixed with eggs, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and deep-fry them in the hot oil until the color is golden brown.
- Now you can serve these deep-fried Begonia fritters with cocktails or other drinks.
From Editorial Team
Know Some Health Benefits of Begonia!
Begonia can be highly beneficial for patients with bronchitis, liver problems, digestive disorders, and menstrual disorders.
Also, the right amount of aerial parts of Begonia serves the benefits of anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
