Cream of Hedge Bedstraw Soup

Discover the Delicate Flavor of Creamy Hedge Bedstraw Soup

Foraging for wild edibles is a rewarding experience, connecting you with nature and offering unique flavors you won’t find in the supermarket. Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Creamy Hedge Bedstraw Soup, a surprisingly delicious and delicate soup that showcases the subtle sweetness of this often-overlooked wild plant.

Hedge bedstraw ( Galium mollugo) is a common wildflower found in hedgerows, meadows, and waste places. While it’s traditionally been used for making mats and rope, the young shoots and leaves are perfectly edible and packed with flavor. This soup is a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the world of wild food and appreciate the bounty of nature.

What does Hedge Bedstraw taste like? The flavor is often described as slightly sweet, grassy, and reminiscent of cucumber or asparagus. It’s a very delicate flavor, which is why it pairs so well with creamy textures and subtle seasonings.

Making the Soup: This recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to make. The key is to use young, tender hedge bedstraw shoots. Be absolutely certain of your plant identification before consuming any wild plant. If in doubt, consult a foraging guide or expert.

This soup is perfect as a light starter, a comforting lunch, or a unique addition to a wild food feast. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor will leave you wanting more. Enjoy the taste of the wild!

Tips for Foraging Hedge Bedstraw:

• Timing is key: The best time to harvest hedge bedstraw is in spring and early summer when the shoots are young and tender.
• Sustainable harvesting: Only take what you need and leave plenty for the plant to regenerate and for wildlife.
• Location, location, location: Avoid harvesting from areas that may have been treated with pesticides or herbicides, or near roadsides where pollution may be present.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is Hedge Bedstraw safe to eat?
A: Yes, hedge bedstraw is generally considered safe to eat, but it’s crucial to correctly identify the plant before consumption. Always consult a reliable foraging guide or expert if you’re unsure.

Q: Can I substitute other greens in this soup?
A: While you can experiment with other mild greens like spinach or young nettles, the flavor won’t be quite the same. Hedge bedstraw has a unique delicate sweetness.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing.

Q: What if I can’t find Hedge Bedstraw?
A: While the flavor won’t be identical, you could try using a combination of mild spring greens like young dandelion leaves and chickweed as a substitute.