Calendula, Carrot and Ginger Broth

The Broth Kitchen • Recipe 29 • IndigoKoi Wellness, LLC

Edible calendula petals bring a gentle floral accent to carrot and ginger broth, with the ginger doing most of the aromatic work.

Vegan strained broth | Yield: About 5 cups | Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 cups unsalted vegetable broth

• 3 carrots, thinly sliced

• 2-inch piece ginger, sliced

• 1 leek, thoroughly washed and sliced

• 1 teaspoon dried culinary calendula petals (Calendula officinalis)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional

Method

1. Simmer broth, carrots, ginger and leek for 25 minutes.

2. Add culinary calendula petals and steep off the heat for 5 minutes.

3. Strain thoroughly, discard solids and add optional lemon juice.

Coach Winona’s kitchen note

Use Calendula officinalis specifically, sold for food use. Do not substitute unidentified flowers labeled only as marigolds.

Make it your own

Taste after simmering before adding salt. Use unsalted broth for the greatest control over seasoning; a homemade base or a store-bought option both work. Broth yields vary with pot size and evaporation. A strained broth is a meal foundation; add the suggested beans, tofu, meat or grains when you want a fuller bowl.

Cooling, storage and reheating

Cool promptly in small, shallow containers; refrigerate within 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F), at 40°F or below. Use within 3–4 days or freeze in suitable containers with expansion space. Reheat soup and broth to a rolling boil; solid leftovers should reach 165°F. Reheat only the portion needed.

Choosing edible flowers

Choose only correctly identified edible flowers grown for food without unsuitable pesticide treatments. Avoid florist flowers and unidentified garden cuttings. Wash gently and start with a small amount; omit flowers if you have a known allergy to the plant.

Food-safety guidance

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety

University of Minnesota Extension, Edible flowers: https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-minnesota/edible-flowers