Who says adventures are only about scaling mountains or exploring hidden caves? How about embarking on a unique culinary exploration that’s as delicious as it’s close to nature? I have just the thing for you: foraging wild garlic, also affectionately known as ramps or leeks.
I found this hidden gem of a place here in London, UK, and I immediately fell in love! A heartfelt shoutout to my dear friend, @jacks_patch for introducing me to this magical place!
Benefits of Wild Garlic
Wild garlic, a medium-sized bulbous perennial, transforms woodlands into an aromatic paradise every spring with its distinctive garlicky aroma. But if hiking through woodlands isn’t for you, it’s okay! You could also buy organic wild garlic bulbs online to plant in shaded areas of your garden. Ideally, under a tree but I have mine in a few raised beds.
Wild garlic can be consumed both raw or cooked, and all parts of the plant including the flowers, leaves, and stems are edible.
The headline health benefit of garlic is its effectiveness in reducing blood pressure and, hence, heart disease and the risk of stroke. Although all garlic has this property, wild garlic has the greatest effect on lowering blood pressure.
How to Forage Wild Garlic, The Responsible Way:
Step 1: Identification is Key
Wild garlic is easy to spot, thanks to its long, smooth leaves that closely resemble those of lily of the valley. The aromatic clusters of wild garlic are your clue to identifying this plant.
Step 2: Choose the Perfect Spot
You’re likely to find wild garlic growing joyfully in damp, shaded environments like the edges of woodlands, riverbanks, or meadows. Stay clear of areas potentially contaminated by pesticides or pollutants.
Step 3: Be a Sustainable Harvester
Remember, sustainable foraging is the only way to go. Leave ample leaves on each plant to ensure its growth isn’t hindered. Using scissors or a knife to cut the leaves ensures the plant remains unharmed.
Step 4: Savor the Fruits of Your Effort
Once you’ve had a successful day of wild garlic foraging, it’s time to spice up your dishes with it! Use the leaves fresh in salads, soups, or pesto, or dry them for later. Their mild garlic flavor lends a unique depth to your dishes, making wild garlic a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Bonus Recipe – Wild Garlic Gnocchi
Ingredients:
- 4 x medium potatoes (400g)
- 1 x handful wild garlic (50g)
- 1 x cup plain flour (125g + extra for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
Step-by-Step procedure:
- Peel and dice the potatoes- boil until soft
- Chop wild garlic
- In a blender, add the boiled potatoes and the chopped wild garlic
- Place in a bowl and add white flour (depending on the potato you use, you will need more or less flour)
- Mix well and add salt
- Get some flour and spread it on a clean table
- Knead your dough and roll it into tubes
- Cut 1 inch per piece and cook in boiling water
- Prepare some sauce and enjoy!
Please remember: If you find a patch of Wild Garlic, don’t be greedy, and don’t let the excitement get to you! Take what you need and collect just a few leaves from each plant. Be respectful of this great gift provided by Nature! So, are you ready to embark on this deliciously wild adventure?
Happy growing!
