Foraging
Our favorite part of our business is getting to spend time with the land that we're fortunate enough to call home. With vast opportunities for adventure, it's impossible to get bored. It also gives our dog, River, a great chance to get out, stretch her legs, and see what tasty treats she can find.
Help Us Harvest!
During the spring and summer season, we are always looking for edible foraged ingredients. Let us know what you have in mind, and we'll let you know how much we'll pay. As spruce tips are what we need the most, we are always happy pay for $4 per pound. Please harvest responsibly. Have questions about foraging and what we're looking for? Head over to our contact page.
What's Growing?
While we will try our best to list as many edible plants as possible, there are just too many to tell you about. Here are a few of our favorites. If you are new to foraging, please go with someone who is experienced in plant identification. Stay safe and do not eat it if you are not 100% sure you know what it is. There are a lot of look-alikes that are not edible.
Mid-April to Mid-May
The snow is melting and there is a change in the air. In Alaska, you can feel the energy and the excitement that spring is returning to the land. The crocus are blooming and the days are getting longer.
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Fiddleheads
It seems nothing is more eager for sunshine than these little curly stocks. These are the very first growth of ferns, so harvest sparingly to make sure enough can mature into a full plant. These can cause stomach upset if you eat too many or don't clean them well.
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Spruce Tips
We love spruce tips. These are the new growth on the branches of spruce trees, and when they are just beginning to grow, they have a bright, citrusy flavor that tastes a little like raspberries. You can boil them in a tea, make syrup, or dry them to use in spices. Check out our recipe page for more on the delicious little buds.
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Dandelions
For centuries, dandelions have been used in traditional medicine for their various healing properties. But did you know that you can also eat them? From salads to teas, dandelions are a surprisingly versatile ingredient that adds a unique flavor to many dishes. With their bright yellow flowers and unique flavor, dandelions are a must-try for anyone interested in foraging.
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Morel Mushrooms
Our absolute favorite of the mushroom world. You will usually find these little guys in disturbed soil, on sunny, south-facing slopes. Try looking next to road sides when the dandelions are in full bloom. Beware of look-alikes! Go with an experienced forager! Check out the mushroom risotto on our recipe page. Yum!
Mid-May to Mid-June
With spring comes the an array flowers. Some, like elderberry blossoms, are short-lived, while others like beach roses (rosa rugosa) will be around for the rest of the season. The scent of these flowers is intoxicating and adds a special ambiance to any foraging experience.
Wild Violets
Beach Rose (Rosa Rugosa)
These are the most fragrant of the roses we use and a little goes a long way with these large, delectable flowers. Use them in tea, syrups, jellies, salads, pastries, desserts, and cocktails. They are guaranteed to make any dish feel fancier. These hardy roses bloom from mid-May until October and are always a treat.
These delightful little flowers are a joy to see. They can be used in a variety of foods, from teas and syrups to salads and pastries. They have a very delicate floral flavor with a vibrant hue. We don't tend to pick these because they are just so darn pretty, it feels like a shame to ruin someone else's experience by removing them.
What is River Eating Now?
