12 Amish Dandelion Recipes to Celebrate Spring

The Amish are known for making good use of a plant many of us consider just another weed: the humble dandelion.  

Did you know that the entire dandelion plant is edible? Well, the Amish do. That includes flower, leaves, stem, and even roots.

You’ll see that reflected in this diverse list of recipes, ranging from dandelion salads to beverages (dandelion root coffee) to alternative takes on breakfast favorites (dandelion pancakes). Check out this list and find a fun dandelion recipe to try today. ~Erik

Looking to bring a taste of the Amish countryside into your kitchen? These 12 delicious dandelion-based recipes offer a host of delightful ways to use this humble wildflower. From salads and teas to sweet syrups, dive into a collection that’s as wholesome as it is simple. It’s time to explore the culinary potential of dandelions and make the most of nature’s bounty!

1. Amish Dandelion Greens Salad

This Amish Dandelion Greens Salad is a simple dish that highlights the unique flavor of dandelion greens. With a slightly bitter taste complemented by fresh vegetables, it brings a happy crunch to your meal. Making this salad is easy, and it serves as a perfect side or a light main course.

By combining fresh dandelion greens with various colorful veggies, you create a vibrant plate that’s both nutritious and visually appealing. The salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, offering a healthy option that’s also satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 small beet, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the dandelion greens, grated carrot, sliced beet, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the greens and vegetables evenly.
4. Sprinkle the sunflower seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your fresh and nutritious salad!

2. Amish Dandelion Greens Soup

Amish Dandelion Greens Soup is both nutritious and easy to make, making it a great option for a simple lunch or dinner. With a creamy texture and a hint of herbs, it’s a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out.

Using fresh dandelion greens adds a unique twist to traditional soups. Paired with a few basic ingredients, this recipe allows the natural taste of the greens to shine through. You’ll be amazed at how quick and easy it is to whip up this delicious soup!

Ingredients

• 4 cups dandelion greens, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the diced potato and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped dandelion greens and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until they are wilted.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

3. Amish Dandelion Jelly

The sweet floral taste and vibrant golden hue of Amish Dandelion Jelly makes it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun way to utilize the often-overlooked dandelion. It’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned canners and kitchen novices alike.

This jelly has a light sweetness with floral undertones, making it a charming addition to toast, biscuits, or even your morning yogurt. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce natural ingredients into your pantry. If you’re looking to experiment with flavors and try something a bit different, this recipe is definitely worth a shot!

Ingredients

• 2 cups dandelion petals (washed and cleaned)
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
• 5 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dandelion Petals: Gather fresh dandelion flowers, making sure to only use the yellow petals. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects.
2. Make the Infusion: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the dandelion petals and let them steep for about 20 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the petals, and keeping the liquid.
3. Create the Jelly Mixture: Return the strained liquid to the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and fruit pectin, bringing the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
4. Add Sugar: Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once. Stir constantly and bring the mixture back to a rolling boil for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves.
5. Jar the Jelly: Remove from heat and pour the jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars and process in a water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.
6. Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your homemade dandelion jelly!

4. Amish Dandelion Root Coffee

Amish Dandelion Root Coffee is a unique and comforting beverage that captures the earthy essence of roasted dandelion roots. This caffeine-free alternative boasts a slightly nutty and bitter taste, making it a perfect warm drink for those looking to avoid traditional coffee. It’s not only simple to prepare but also a great way to explore the culinary uses of dandelions, a plant often underestimated in the kitchen.

Making dandelion root coffee at home is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. The process involves roasting the roots until they’re golden brown, then brewing them just like regular coffee. This method infuses your drink with a rich, robust flavor that’s surprisingly satisfying. Give it a try for a cozy morning treat or a comforting afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dandelion roots (cleaned and chopped)
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
• Milk or cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Roast the Dandelion Roots: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cleaned and chopped dandelion roots on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
2. Prepare the Coffee: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the roasted dandelion roots and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain and Serve: Strain the brewed coffee into cups. Add honey or sweetener if desired, and a splash of milk or cream for richness.
4. Enjoy: Sip on your homemade dandelion root coffee and savor its unique flavor!

5. Amish Dandelion And Bacon Salad

This Amish Dandelion and Bacon Salad combines the earthy flavor of dandelion greens with crispy bacon for a deliciously unique dish. This balance of bitter and savory flavors that can liven up any meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it the perfect addition to your lunch or dinner table.

The freshness of the dandelion greens pairs wonderfully with the smoky, salty bite of the bacon. Toss in some creamy dressing, and you’ve got a salad that is both hearty and refreshing. This recipe is a great way to utilize foraged greens while enjoying a taste that feels right at home in traditional Amish cuisine.

Ingredients

• 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble into pieces.
3. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine dandelion greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled bacon. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or let it chill for a bit in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

6. Amish Dandelion Fritters

Amish dandelion fritters are a unique dish that showcases the unexpected flavors of dandelion greens. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a pleasing contrast in texture. The subtle bitterness of the dandelions is beautifully balanced by a light batter, making them an interesting addition to any meal.

Making these fritters is quite simple, making it a fun cooking project for anyone. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a snack. Serve them warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just blended.
2. Add Dandelions: Fold in the chopped dandelion greens to the batter until evenly distributed.
3. Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s good to go.
4. Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, cooking in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Enjoy warm, with honey or powdered sugar if desired.

7. Amish Dandelion And Potato Salad

Amish Dandelion and Potato Salad is a delightful twist on classic potato salad, combining the earthiness of dandelions with creamy potatoes. This side dish is not only vibrant and full of flavor but also packed with nutrients from the dandelion greens, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Simple to prepare, this salad features tender potatoes tossed with fresh dandelion greens, a creamy dressing, and a hint of seasoning. It’s a refreshing addition to picnics or barbecues, and you might find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooled potatoes with dandelion greens, red onion, and dressing until well coated.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for added flavor and color.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Amish Dandelion Tea

Amish dandelion tea is a simple herbal beverage with a subtly earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness, making it a unique choice for tea lovers. This tea is not only refreshing but also packed with potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and detoxifying the liver.

Making dandelion tea is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a warm drink to enjoy in the morning or a soothing tea to help you unwind, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, using foraged dandelions from your yard adds a sense of connection to nature!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh dandelion leaves and flowers
• 4 cups water
• Honey or sweetener, to taste (optional)
• 1 lemon slice (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dandelions: Rinse the fresh dandelion leaves and flowers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or insects.
2. Boil Water: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
3. Steep the Dandelions: Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and add the dandelion leaves and flowers. Cover and let steep for about 10 minutes.
4. Strain and Serve: Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the tea into cups. If desired, sweeten with honey and add a slice of lemon for flavor.
5. Enjoy: Sip your dandelion tea warm, and enjoy the natural flavors!

9. Amish Dandelion And Ham Salad

This Amish Dandelion and Ham Salad is both fresh and satisfying, combining the earthy flavor of dandelion greens with the savory bite of ham. It’s an easy recipe that showcases a mix of textures and tastes, making it an ideal dish for springtime lunches or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the dandelion greens and diced ham.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the dandelion greens and ham, and toss to evenly coat.
4. Add the chopped red onion and shredded carrots, stirring gently to incorporate.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

10. Amish Dandelion Pancakes

Amish Dandelion Pancakes are a fun twist on a classic breakfast favorite. These pancakes incorporate dandelion greens, giving them a slightly earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with maple syrup. Not only do they taste great, but they also offer a unique way to enjoy foraged ingredients right from your backyard!

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch. You’ll be impressed by how easy it is to whip up a batch, and your family will love the unexpected touch of nature in their meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 cup dandelion greens, chopped
• Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Fold in the chopped dandelion greens gently.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.

11. Amish Dandelion Greens With Vinegar And Butter

This dish is a straightforward and easy way to enjoy the unique flavors of dandelion greens. Lightly sautéed in butter and dressed with vinegar, it offers a slightly bitter yet refreshing taste that can awaken your palate. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a great choice for quick weeknight dinners or a side dish for special occasions.

Cooking dandelion greens is an age-old tradition, especially among the Amish. These greens are not only nutritious but also add a rustic charm to your meals. With just a few ingredients, you can transform these humble greens into a satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of entrees.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: minced garlic or onion for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
2. If using, add minced garlic or onion and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the chopped dandelion greens to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with apple cider vinegar. Toss to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve warm as a side dish or mix into your favorite grain bowl.

12. Amish Dandelion Blossom Syrup

Amish Dandelion Blossom Syrup is a delightful treat that captures the essence of spring in each jar. The syrup has a light, floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with pancakes, waffles, or even as a sweetener for tea. Making this syrup is quite straightforward, making it a fun and accessible project for all ages.

Using freshly picked dandelion blossoms, this syrup not only tastes great but also allows you to utilize an often-overlooked flower. The vibrant yellow blossoms are transformed into a golden syrup that can bring a touch of nature to your breakfast table. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal foraging!

Ingredients

• 2 cups dandelion blossoms (about 200 flowers)
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Pick fresh dandelion blossoms and remove the green stems, as they can add bitterness.
2. In a large pot, combine the dandelion blossoms and water. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers, leaving a dandelion-infused liquid.
4. Add sugar and lemon juice to the strained liquid. Stir and heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely.
5. Continue to simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Pour the syrup into clean, sterilized jars and seal. Allow to cool before storing in the refrigerator.

~Article created with AI assistance~