How to Roast Dandelion Root
Dandelion, often regarded as an unwanted weed in many people's lawns, can have health benefits when consumed. While many recipes feature dishes made from dandelion greens, the roots of the plant are also delicious and healthy when roasted. Luckily, roasting dandelion root is not much more difficult than roasting other root vegetables. Roasted dandelion root is also unique in that it can also be brewed into coffee. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- 3 lbs. fresh dandelion roots
- Cookie sheets
- Oven
- Oven mitts
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Food dehydrator (optional)
- Coffee grinder (optional)
- Boiling water (optional)
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
- Saucepan (optional)
Instructions
-
-
1
Wash the dandelion roots.
-
2
Slice the dandelion roots into thin, 2 inch-long pieces. If you are using a food dehydrator, proceed to Step 3. If not, proceed to Step 4.
-
-
3
Arrange the slices of dandelion root on the rack of the food dehydrator. Turn the dehydrator on and leave the dandelion root slices in the dehydrator for approximately one hour. Proceed to Step 5.
-
4
Arrange the slices of dandelion root on a cookie sheet and place in a 200 degree F oven that has been preheated. Bake for approximately two to three hours, or until mostly dry and brittle to the touch. Flip the dandelion root slices occasionally.
-
5
Remove the dandelion root slices from the dehydrator or the oven. Chop the roots roughly into small, thumbnail-sized pieces and arrange them on a cookie sheet. There is no need to use a nonstick spray or oil. Roast at 400 degrees F for approximately 30 minutes, or until the root pieces are completely dry and brown on every side.
-
6
Allow the dandelion roots to cool to room temperature before using them for coffee, herbal medicinal applications, or any other edible purpose.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Once you've roasted the dandelion root chunks, you can easily turn them into coffee by finely grinding them in your coffee grinder. Steep the grounds in boiling water for approximately 30 minutes. Pour the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer and reheat in a small saucepan. If you prefer, you can mix dandelion coffee with regular coffee, as well.
Dandelion contains several vitamins and minerals, including zinc, iron, potassium, and vitamins A, B-Complex, C and D. It has been used for medicinal purposes by many cultures around the world, including the Chinese and Native Americans. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dandelion root may help gall bladder and liver functions, in addition to encouraging healthy gastrointestinal tract bacteria, although more research is needed to confirm these health benefits.
