Date: 03/02/2024 03/03/2024
Location: Star Lake Meditation Center
Teacher: Otto Huang
Buddhist Diet and Regimen
Daylily
Daylily: A Nutritious and Delicious Edible Flower
1. What is Daylily?
Daylily (Hemerocallis citrina), also known as golden needle flower, is a popular edible flower widely used in Asian cuisine. It has a tender texture and a naturally fresh taste, making it a great addition to soups, stir-fries, and dried food storage. Not only does it offer a unique flavor, but it is also packed with essential nutrients.
2. Nutritional Value of Daylily
Daylily is a fiber-rich, vitamin-packed food with key nutrients, including:
1.Protein: Provides essential amino acids for tissue repair and growth.
2.Dietary Fiber: Promotes gut health and aids digestion.
3.Iron: Supports red blood cell production and prevents anemia.
4.Vitamin A: Helps maintain healthy vision and skin.
5.Calcium: Supports bone health and nervous system function.
3. Health Benefits of Daylily
1.Aids Digestive Health: High fiber content supports gut motility and prevents constipation.
2.Supports Blood Health: Rich in iron, which helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
3.Protects Vision: Abundant in vitamin A, which maintains eye health.
4.Boosts Immunity: Loaded with vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system.
5.Supports Bone Health: Calcium and magnesium help maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
4. Best Ways to Eat Daylily
1.Added to Soups:
Enhances the texture and nutritional value of broths.
2.Stir-Fried:
Lightly cooked for a tender and flavorful dish.
3.Eaten as a Cold Salad:
Blanched and mixed with seasonings for a refreshing appetizer.
4.Cooked in Porridge:
Combined with grains for added nutrition.
5.Rehydrated Dried Daylily:
Dried daylily should be soaked before cooking for the best texture.
5. Interesting Facts About Daylily
How to choose the best daylily?
Look for golden, dry, and mold-free daylily flowers.
Should daylily be soaked before use?
Dried daylily should be soaked, while fresh daylily should be blanched to remove potential toxins.
Is daylily suitable for everyone?
Pregnant women and children can consume it in moderation, but it should be fully cooked for better digestion.
Conclusion
Daylily is a nutrient-dense edible flower rich in protein, fiber, iron, vitamin A, and calcium. It supports digestion, improves blood health, protects vision, and enhances immunity. Whether added to soups, stir-fried, or cooked in porridge, daylily is a versatile and nutritious choice for a balanced diet.
