November is the peak season for chrysanthemum harvest in Taiwan. Renowned for its unique flavor and versatility, chrysanthemums are highly favored by the public. Chrysanthemums are harvested only once a year and are primarily categorized by flower color into "Snow White" and "Golden Chrysanthemum."
"Snow White" is predominantly grown in Tongluo, Miaoli, accounting for about 70% of the national production, creating spectacular fields of flowers. Meanwhile, "Golden Chrysanthemum" is mainly cultivated in Taitung's Zhiben, Beinan, and Taimali regions, attracting numerous tourists with its vibrant golden blooms. The Agriculture and Food Agency has also shared recipes for chrysanthemum milk tea and chrysanthemum tea rice, inviting visitors to enjoy the flowers and savor their unique flavors.
Miaoli Tongluo Chrysanthemum Festival (Photo credit: 2024 Tongluo Chrysanthemum Festival – Funong Agricultural Marketing Cooperative FB)
Versatile Applications of Chrysanthemums: Perfect for Drinks and Dishes
When brewed, chrysanthemum tea appears pale yellow with an elegant flavor. Beyond being a tea, it can be blended with green tea, pouchong tea, or even black tea and milk to make chrysanthemum milk tea. Additionally, chrysanthemums can be incorporated into culinary dishes, creating a variety of flavorful delicacies.
Chrysanthemum Milk Tea
- Pour 300cc of water into a pot and bring to a boil. Add 10 chrysanthemum flowers and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add 1 bag (3g) of black tea and continue simmering for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in 200cc of milk, simmer for about 1 minute, then remove the flowers and tea bag.
Chrysanthemum Tea Rice
- Soak 10 chrysanthemum flowers in hot water for 10 minutes, then season with salt.
- Pour the prepared chrysanthemum tea over rice until it’s 80% full.
- Sprinkle with nori seasoning powder.
Every chrysanthemum season not only draws large crowds to the flower fields but also offers a great opportunity to experience local culture and explore creative cuisine. Whether leisurely enjoying the flower fields or trying specialty drinks and dishes, the seasonal charm of chrysanthemums is a unique delight.
