Green wild garlic leaves have been known for centuries and were used already in the Middle Ages. Nowadays, more and more people use them in the kitchen not only because of their taste, but also because of their health benefits. Why is it worth eating wild garlic and how to make spring pesto from it? We give you a hint.
Wild garlic belongs to the amaryllis family. It commonly grows wild in moist deciduous forests in Europe and Asia. It is also grown in home gardens and allotments. It is used as an ornamental and medicinal plant. Lovers of forest trips may have come across extensive fields of wild garlic in a clearing among the trees. It is easily recognized by its intensely green leaves, which are entirely edible. It blooms with white flowers. You can feel him after a breakup intense, garlic scent. It is perfect for use in the kitchen, you can make pesto from it, add it to salads, sandwiches or soups. The tastiest are young wild garlic leaves, they are usually harvested from mid-March to the end of April.
It’s worth mentioning though that Bear’s garlic is a partially protected plant. This means that it cannot be collected in forests without a special permit from the Regional Director of Environmental Protection. This offense is punishable by a fine of up to PLN 5,000. Of course, you can pick it on your own property or buy it at a local market or grocery store.
Wild garlic leaves have strong antibacterial, antiviral and fungicidal propertiesso they will be helpful during the spring equinox. They support immunity and help deal with infections, especially of the respiratory system. It is also found in them allicin, a substance called a natural antibiotic, which is also found in garlic bulbs and onions. This plant will be helpful in combating cough and removing residual secretions.
It is worth adding that there is wild garlic source of antioxidantswhich neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals, protect against oxidative stress, and also have anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, dDue to the presence of adenosine, it supports the metabolic processes taking place in the body and also contributes to maintaining the proper level of
triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. It has a positive effect on the circulatory system and helps stabilize blood pressure. Bear’s garlic also supports the liver.
You can also find vitamins and minerals in wild garlic:
- vitamin Asupporting eye health and having antioxidant properties,
- vitamin Cwhich has a beneficial effect on immunity, is a natural antioxidant, supports collagen synthesis and iron absorption,
- vitamin E has antioxidant properties, supports the hormonal system, improves the condition of the skin,
- potassiumsupports maintaining proper blood pressure and regulates water and electrolyte balance,
- magnesium has a supporting effect on the functioning of the heart, brain and muscles,
- phosphorus strengthens bones and teeth,
- iron decreases the risk of anemia.
One of the simplest and tastiest ways to use wild garlic is to prepare pesto from it. It has a slightly more expressive flavor than that of basil or parsley, but it also tastes great. It will perfectly match spring sandwiches or Easter dishes.
Ingredients:
- approx. 150 g wild garlic,
- 100 g pine nuts,
- 60 g of parmesan,
- 100 ml olive oil,
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice,
- salt and pepper.
Preparation:
- Start by thoroughly washing and drying the wild garlic leaves, then put them in a blender.
- Add pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until smooth.
- You can serve the wild garlic pesto immediately or transfer it to a clean and sterilized jar. They should be stored in the refrigerator.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, apteline.pl
