foraging Archives * The Hunter Gatherer Society

Lush green watercress (Nasturtium officinale) growing in a shallow stream, with delicate leaves and stems visible.

Discover the Delight of Watercress: A Forager’s Treasure

November 14, 2024 rpolipnick Foraging, Wild Edible Plants

As the cooler months approach, one of the most enjoyable wild edibles to forage is watercress (Nasturtium officinale). This flavorful green is often found in slow-moving streams and freshwater springs, making it a refreshing addition to your foraging adventures in November. In this blog, I’ll share where to find it, how to identify its edible parts, and some delicious ways to use it in your kitchen. What is Watercress? Watercress is a semi-aquatic plant with small, round, dark green leaves and delicate white flowers. Its slightly peppery flavor adds a unique zing to dishes, setting it apart from other leafy greens. I appreciate watercress not only for its taste but also for its impressive nutritional profile. It’s rich in vitamins[…]

Foraging Essentials: How to Find and Harvest Chickweed.

November 9, 2024 rpolipnick Wild Edible Plants

As a avid forager, one of my favorite plants to seek out in the spring is chickweed (Stellaria media). Often regarded as a common weed, it is a great wild edible plant. I also see it as a culinary treasure full of flavor and nutrition just waiting to be discovered. In this guide, I’ll share how to find and harvest chickweed, along with some creative ways to enjoy it in your kitchen. What is Chickweed? Chickweed is a fast-growing annual herb that thrives in cool, moist environments. Whenever I’m out foraging in the spring, I’m always delighted to spot its small, star-like white flowers, which bloom from early spring through summer. The leaves are bright green, oval-shaped, and often have[…]

Discover the Versatility of Chickweed: A Forager’s Delight

November 7, 2024 rpolipnick Foraging, Wild Edible Plants

As the cool weather arrives, one of the easiest and most rewarding wild edibles to forage is chickweed (Stellaria media), making it a perfect plant to seek out during fall foraging. This nutritious plant is often overlooked but offers much for foragers, from salads to cooked dishes. Found across much of the U.S., chickweed is accessible to foragers of all levels, and November is an excellent time to harvest it. In this post, I’ll cover where to find chickweed, how to identify its edible parts, and some delicious ways to use it. What is Chickweed? Chickweed is a low-growing plant with small, white, star-shaped flowers. It thrives in cool, moist environments, often found in gardens, fields, and disturbed areas like[…]

Ripe autumn olive berries hanging on a shrub, showcasing their vibrant red and yellow colors against green foliage

Foraging for Autumn Olive Berries: A Personal Guide to Identification, Uses, and Preparation

October 24, 2024 rpolipnick Foraging, Wild Edible Plants

Foraging for autumn olive berries (Elaeagnus umbellata) has become one of my favorite fall activities. These small, tart berries, often overlooked, are a delightful and nutritious find during the autumn months. Here’s a complete guide to help you identify, prepare, and store autumn olive berries safely. Growing Range Autumn olive is native to Asia but has become widely established across the United States, particularly in the eastern and southern regions. It can often be found in disturbed areas, fields, and along roadsides. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, making it adaptable to various climates and soil types. Identifying Autumn Olive Berries When searching for autumn olive berries, keep these characteristics in mind: Culinary Uses for Autumn[…]

Foraging for Rosehips: My Guide to Identification, Uses, and Preparation

October 17, 2024 rpolipnick Foraging, Wild Edible Plants

Foraging for rosehips, the vibrant fruits of wild roses, has become one of my favorite seasonal activities. These small, round fruits are visually appealing with their bright red or orange colors and packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify, prepare, and store rosehips safely. Identifying Rosehips When searching for rosehips, keep these key characteristics in mind: Proper identification of the rose species is essential, as many varieties exist. A reliable foraging guide can assist in confirming the correct species. Culinary Uses for Rosehips Rosehips offer incredible versatility and can serve various culinary and medicinal applications: Preparing Rosehips Storing Rosehips Safety Tips for Foraging Conclusion Foraging for rosehips not only connects you to nature but[…]