Butterfly Pea Flower

What Is Butterfly Pea Flower?

Butterfly pea flower is the dark blue flower of a vine native to Southeast Asia. In Thai, Malaysian, and Vietnamese cuisines, it is used dried as a natural coloring for tea and drinks.

When steeped in water, the flower releases an intense blue color; this color is sensitive to pH changes, and turns purple and pink when an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice is added. This property is often used in striking drinks known as “blue tea.”

Nutritional Values of Butterfly Pea Flower

One cup of brewed butterfly pea flower tea contains about 1 kcal of energy; it is caffeine-free and contains anthocyanin compounds (blue-purple pigments). Values vary with the strength of the brew and are approximate.

How Should Butterfly Pea Flower Be Consumed?

Like other herbal teas, butterfly pea flower is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; butterfly pea flower is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Pregnant or breastfeeding people are advised to consult their physician before consuming it.

How to Choose Butterfly Pea Flower

Good dried butterfly pea flowers are dark blue-purple, intact, and free of moisture.

• They should be dark blue-purple, not faded or brownish.
• The flowers should be intact, not excessively crumbled.
• They should not have absorbed moisture or smell moldy.

How to Store Butterfly Pea Flower

Butterfly pea flower can be stored for a few months in its sealed container in a dry, dark cupboard; keeping it away from light helps preserve its color.

Using Butterfly Pea Flower in the Kitchen

Butterfly pea flower is used most often as a natural blue-purple coloring in blue tea and cocktails, as well as in some rice dishes and desserts from Southeast Asian cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does butterfly pea flower change color?

The flower’s anthocyanin pigment is sensitive to pH changes; when an acidic liquid such as lemon juice is added, the molecular structure changes and the color shifts from blue to purple-pink.

Does butterfly pea flower have a flavor?

On its own, it has a very mild, almost neutral, herbal taste; it is used primarily for its color and is usually consumed with flavorings such as lemon or honey.

Is butterfly pea flower available in Türkiye?

It may be available online and in gourmet markets or shops selling Asian products, but it is not common.