Foraging in the UK is a wonderful, sustainable way to source fresh and unique ingredients for your meals. July and August are some of the best months for foraging, as many edible plants and fungi are in season. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best things to forage in the UK during these months.
Blackberries
One of the easiest and tastiest things to forage in the UK during the summer months is blackberries. These sweet, juicy fruits grow wild in hedgerows, parks, and gardens across the country. They’re easy to identify, and the ripe berries are usually a deep, dark purple colour. Blackberries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in jams, pies, crumbles, or eaten fresh as a snack.
Elderflowers
Elderflowers are delicate, fragrant flowers that bloom in early summer, usually around late May to early June. They’re found on elder trees, which are common throughout the UK. Elderflowers can be used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes, including cordials, syrups, and cakes. They have a unique flavour that is sweet and floral with a hint of honey.
Wild Garlic
Another foraged ingredient that's in season during the summer months is wild garlic. Wild garlic grows in woodlands and along riverbanks, usually from late winter to early summer. The leaves have a pungent garlic flavour and can be used in a variety of dishes like salads, pesto, or soups. They’re also great for cooking with fish or meat.
Chanterelle Mushrooms
If you're looking for a slightly more challenging ingredient to forage, chanterelle mushrooms are in season during the summer months. These golden mushrooms grow in woodland areas and are prized for their fragrant, slightly fruity flavour. They’re best used in simple dishes that allow their flavour to shine, such as risottos, omelettes, or sautéed with butter.
Nettles
Nettles may seem like an unlikely ingredient to use in cooking, but they’re actually incredibly versatile and nutritious. They grow throughout the UK and are usually found in hedgerows or along footpaths. Their leaves are rich in iron and other nutrients and can be used in everything from soups to teas. Just make sure to wear gloves when harvesting them, as they can sting!
Sloes
Sloes are a type of wild plum that grows on sloe bushes. They’re usually found in hedgerows and along country lanes, and their fruit is usually ripe from late September to early November. Sloes have a distinctive flavour that is both bitter and sweet, making them a popular ingredient for flavouring gin. They can also be used in jams, pies, or cordials.
We use locally foraged and dried rosehips in our Rosehip & Vitamin C Herbal Face Mask ❤