The problem is that it competes too well with grass and poses a tough

challenge to lawn monoculture. Have you ever noticed how dandelions are often the only green thing in a scorched summer lawn? That's because their taproots (the Chinese name for dandelion means" earth nail") bring up water and other nutrients from deeper down than grass roots. Because of this the dandelion is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including beta carotene, calcium, potassium, and biologically available iron. The greens are a Spring delicacy in many cultures. It also is a veritable medicine chest with traditional uses, in both the East and West, in many conditions affecting skin, liver, gall bladder, kidneys, pancreas, bowels, and heart.

So, what can you do to enjoy all of those dandy yellow blooms that bedeck the lawn this time of year? Before they fall prey to spring mowing or become transformed into "fairy puffs" gather up a little basket of them to add sunshine, protein, potassium, beta carotene and B vitamins to baked goods.

The fairies won't mind, in fact they'll be delighted by your appreciation. Always remember to give thanks and to breathe deeply--this is one way we blend our vibrations with those of the natural world around us.

People with severe spring allergies might want to pass on these for they contain pollen.

Golden Dandelion Blossom Waffles

( A Mother's Day Treat)

• Combine the following in a large bowl and soak overnight:
• 2 c. whole millet
• 1/2 c. sunflower seeds (hulled) or walnuts
• 5 c. water

In the morning, drain mixture through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the soak water. Rinse under running water.

In a blender combine the following ingredients, half at a time. unless you have a Vita Mix or a large capacity blender:

• drained and rinsed grain mixture
• 2 c. water
• 1 c. dandelion blossoms, with green sepals attached*
• 2 tsp. vanilla or butterscotch extract
• 1 to 2 tsp. coriander or spice of choice
• 2 tsp. baking powder

Blend to a smooth batter. Pour or ladle onto a preheated, greased waffle iron. Makes 2 plus large (4-section) waffles.

Chia/Fruit Sauce

Stir together equal amounts of your favorite jam or jelly and chia gel.  Serve over waffles or pancakes, etc.  It's that easy! 

Variations:

For pancakes or muffins, reduce liquid. Bake muffins at 350 degrees

F. for approximately 20 minutes. Makes several batches of pancakes or about 1 dozen muffins. For a sweeter batter, replace water with fruit juice (pear, apple, white grape or pineapple work well). If more than half of the total liquid is fruit juice, omit baking powder and replace with half as much-1 tsp.- baking soda.

*Pick blossoms in full sun when they are fully opened. Look for the little "hog nose" in the center of the flower to get the freshest blooms. Shake or blow on them to "de-bug"--washing will remove nutrients (like protein from the pollen) and leave them soggy adding more moisture to the batter. Freeze some for use in other recipes, you can replace 1/4 to 1/3 of the flour in your recipe with dandy blooms. Puree them along with your liquid ingredients before adding.

If you'd like to learn more about local wild edible and medicinal plants, Organic Annie takes individuals and small groups foraging in spring and summer. Occasionally she even teaches them how to prepare "Wild Dinners".