April is Dandelion month and every year when spring rolls around I make one of my favorite spring snacks: fried dandelions.

I learned this recipe when I lived in Virginia as a kid. My family was at a potluck and a Quaker woman had brought fried dandelions. At first I was skeptical but once I tried them I couldn’t stop eating! I make them every year and love introducing them to people. Most are hesitant to try, but they always agree that fried dandelions are pretty tasty.

Cooking fried dandelions is really easy and you probably already have all of the ingredients, including this ubiquitous weed. Another bonus? Dandelions are high in nutrients including lecithin, vitamin a & c, b vitamins, zinc, potassium, iron, and beta-carotene. Historically these flowers have been used to promote liver function and aid digestion. Here are five steps to making your own fried dandelions:

Step 1: Find some dandelions

Step 2: Pick them

Rinse and dry the flowers to get off dirt and bugs. Watch out for spiders!

Step 3: Get the ingredients for the batter

You can make this dairy-free by using almond milk and vegan by using egg substitute. If you know a better batter recipe, use it. I just recommend this one because it’s simple and most people already have these ingredients in their fridge.

To make the batter mix 1 cup milk, 1 cup flour, and 1 egg. Easy right?

Step 4: Fry ‘Em

Coat the bottom of a frying pan with olive oil and put it over medium heat. Dip the flowers in the batter and toss them in. Flip them once.

Step 5: Cool and add your topping of choice

Salt and pepper are my favorite but sugar and cinnamon is a great way to make it a sweet snack. Fried dandelions are versatile  and take to many different flavors. Try out some toppings.

Enjoy it on its own or accompanied with dandelion greens and dandelion wine!

Bon appétit!