Through this piece, we’re going to be looking at where to forage wild garlic and some of our favorite recipes for cooking with it.

Wild garlic, also known as ramsons, is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be found in the UK from late April to June. It grows in damp, wooded areas and can be easily recognized by its distinctive garlic-like aroma.

If you’re interested in foraging for wild garlic, the best place to start is in ancient woodlands, along riverbanks, and in damp clearings. Wild garlic can also be found in hedgerows and along the edges of fields. When you’re out foraging, be sure to always follow the Countryside Code and only pick what you need.

When identifying wild garlic, look out for its broad, glossy leaves that are slightly curved and have a distinctive garlic-like aroma. The flowers are also a good indicator – they are small, star-shaped and white.

Be sure to check that the leaves are not poisonous lookalikes such as Lily of the Valley, or Lords and Ladies which can be toxic if consumed.

When picking wild garlic, be sure to use scissors or a sharp knife to cut the leaves, leaving the bulbs in the ground so that the plant can continue to grow.

The leaves and flowers are both edible and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Here are two delicious recipes you can make with wild garlic:

You can cook absolutely loads of things once you’ve figured out where to forage wild garlic, however these are two of my absolute favourites…

Wild Garlic Pesto Ingredients:

• A large bunch of wild garlic leaves
• 50g of pine nuts
• 50g of parmesan cheese
• 150ml of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the wild garlic leaves and pat dry.
2. In a food processor, combine the wild garlic leaves, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while the food processor is running, until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Wild Garlic and Potato Soup Ingredients:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 litre of vegetable stock
• A large bunch of wild garlic leaves, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sour cream or crème fraîche, to serve (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the potatoes and vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the wild garlic leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and blend with a hand blender or in a blender until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, if desired.

Wild garlic is a delicious and versatile ingredient that is perfect for adding a touch of garlicky goodness to your meals. So, get out there and enjoy the taste of spring by foraging for wild garlic and trying out these delicious recipes!