There was a brook close to where we used to live and every spring ramsons (wild garlic) sprouted up along the banks. We enjoyed many a tasty meal from those ramsons. I hadn't come across any growing anywhere near us this growing season and was contemplating taking a trip to the old neighbourhood just to go ramson foraging, then, lo and behold, I discovered a patch right here in the woods. I recognised that distinctive garlicky scent and long leaves and was so full of delight. We harvested and ate some leaves there and then and when we reached home we added some chopped leaves in our sandwiches for lunch. Best sandwich ever - homemade barleycorn bread, houmous, cheese, sprouts, avocado, ramsons!
It amazes me how the children will enthusiastically munch away on foods from the wild simply because it is wild, and wild = tasty it seems. There really is something special about eating foods from the wild.
Healthwise, ramsons contain most of the benefits of the cultivated garlic. It has a much milder taste. All parts of the plant can be eaten. The flowers have a stronger taste than the leaves. We eat it raw, in soups, added to pasta sauces, or stir fries, or anything else it might taste good with.
Wild edibles are the best. My girls also go crazy for them. It's so nice to meet similar mamas that teach their kids these things. I don't know a single mom "in person" that does this. Boy, are they missing out!
ReplyDeleteI've never even heard of ramsons before, but we sure do love garlic in our family.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both you and Lisa - wild edibles are the best!
Lisa, you are so right. I think it is really important for both children and adults to learn wildcraft type skills. Very fulfilling and useful. I love the feeling of respect and gratitude to nature one experiences through harvesting and eating wild edibles.
ReplyDeleteTammy, ramsons certainly are delicious! If you like garlic you would love them!