Foraging for fiddleheads
As mentioned in the previous blog post our family loves foraging in the spring. As the weather starts to get warmer there are so many delicious and nutrient dense foods available in the woods. The first siting of fiddleheads in the spring is something we look forward to every year. This delicacy is named for the appearance in the edible stage. All fern plants have a fiddlehead stage but the type that is edible is called an Ostrich fern. The fiddlehead stage is very short so if you find them do not wait long to pick them.
Regardless of what you are foraging it is always important to properly identify the plant. There are some toxic ferns that have similar appearance. Once you learn to properly identify the Ostrich fern it is fairly easy to spot the look-alike species. Fiddleheads typically grow in wet areas and near sandy-bottom streams. They grow in clusters of 3-6 fiddleheads. They are bright green in color and will usually stand out. They typically have a brown papery covering that is easily removed. The third identifying feature is the deep groove on the stem.
Fiddleheads are a nutritious and versatile vegetable. The flavor is similar to asparagus. They can be substituted for most green vegetables in various recipes. We usually boil or steam the fiddleheads for a few minutes before adding to another recipe. They can be used as a pizza topping or in pasta dishes. A fiddlehead frittata is a beautiful option for brunch as well. Last year we made a broccoli cheddar soup recipe but substituted fiddleheads for the broccoli. It is important to cook them well to avoid gastrointestinal distress. They should not be eaten raw. Last year we were fortunate to harvest enough to freeze some for later use. We clean and then vacuum seal them. I recommend steaming or boiling them straight from the freezer because if they thaw in the fridge they will brown.
Fiddleheads can be found at some grocery stores and farm stands. However, they are often expensive to purchase. This is due to the short season and limited availability. They are packed with nutrients. For a low calorie food they have a good portion of protein. Fiddleheads are high in vitamin C and iron. They also contain potassium and antioxidants. Fiddleheads are a beautiful and nutritious addition to your diet.