Clover, both red and white varieties, is indeed edible for humans. In fact, it has been consumed by people for centuries and is still enjoyed in various forms today. From using the leaves in salads to making jellies and teas from the flowers, clover offers a range of culinary possibilities.
One popular way to incorporate clover into meals is by using the leaves in salads. Similar to spinach, the leaves of both red and white clover can be harvested and added raw to salads for a fresh and nutritious addition. They have a slightly sweet and earthy taste that pairs well with other greens and vegetables. I have personally enjoyed the addition of clover leaves to my salads, as they provide a unique flavor and texture.
Another creative use of clover is making clover jelly. The flowers of both red and white clover can be harvested and used to make a sweet and fragrant jelly. The process involves steeping the flowers in water, extracting their essence, and combining it with sugar and pectin. The result is a vibrant jelly that can be enjoyed on toast, crackers, or even as a topping for desserts. I have had the pleasure of tasting clover jelly on several occasions, and its subtle floral notes are truly delightful.
Additionally, clover flowers can be steeped in hot water to make a soothing and aromatic tea. This tea can be enjoyed on its own or combined with other herbs for added flavor and health benefits. The process is simple: just pour hot water over the flowers, let them steep for a few minutes, and then strain the liquid. The resulting tea has a pleasant and calming taste that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. I have found clover tea to be a comforting and relaxing drink, particularly during cold winter evenings.
Apart from the culinary uses, there are other ways to incorporate clover into our daily lives. The leaves of red clover can be dried and used as a substitute for vanilla extract. This can be achieved by grinding the dried leaves into a powder and adding it to recipes that call for vanilla flavor. While it may not provide an exact match to the taste of vanilla, it adds a unique twist and enhances the overall flavor profile. I have experimented with using dried red clover leaves as a substitute for vanilla extract in baking, and the results were surprisingly pleasant.
Both red and white clover are edible for humans and offer a range of culinary possibilities. From using the leaves in salads to making jelly and tea from the flowers, there are various ways to incorporate clover into our meals and beverages. Additionally, the dried leaves of red clover can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract, providing a unique flavor twist. So, next time you come across some clover, consider giving it a try in your kitchen and explore the many delightful flavors it has to offer.