What are fiddleheads? They are another amazing, fleeting flavor of spring – a furled baby fern.
They taste fresh and green – like a mix between green beans and young asparagus – and have a wonderful crunch.
The texture is completely addictive. These are great on their own or added to seasonal dishes like pastas and salads. In fact, right now I am thinking how great this would be with some polenta..!
Note: Clean fiddleheads very thoroughly. Soak in cold water, then shake dry. Trim the stems and any brown bits/furries.
Fiddlehead ferns
You’ll need:
- 1/2 lbs fiddlehead ferns (about 2 cups)
- 1 1/2 T walnut oil
- 1 T balsamic glaze
- juice of half a lemon
- salt (preferably, a mild fleur de sel)
1. Trim and clean the fiddleheads thoroughly. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the fiddleheads for approximately two minutes in boiling water. Drain and immediately immerse in ice cold water.
3. Drain once cooled and dress with oil, vinegar, and plenty of lemon juice. Add a sprinkle of flaky salt before serving.
This is something I have never had! I must try them!
I have never had fiddlehead ferns. I have to try these.
Fiddleheads always seem so exotic when served.. I love the idea of using walnut oil, the nutty flavor would really set off the fiddlehead’s flavor!
Thank you! I like the slight nuttiness too.
I am pinning this! So cool!
Thanks!
Fiddleheads look so cool – I have to try them soon 😀
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Yay!
Those are so fun looking. If I ever see them, I’ll try them.
Fun, right? They are delicious too.
This is something we don’t get here 🙂
I’ve heard of them but have never had the opportunity to taste them. I will though!
Look around for them!
I was introduced to these last season. Now, I’ll actually try them!
Great, let me know how you like them!
I have never tried or seen fiddleheads before. Thanks for sharing…
They are not too common, but a delicious find!
Fiddleheads are just now appearing in our markets for delicious spring eating. Like your recipe.
Thank you, Karen! I really love fiddleheads.
Very nice recipe … I’ve never tried walnut oil. Does it add it’s own flavour or is it neutral?
It does impart some nutty flavor, but it’s fairly subtle. It finishes very clean. Glad you enjoyed the recipe!