Allium Ursinum
Wild Garlic Leaf / Allium Ursinum / Bear's Garlic Leaves / Wild Garlic / Ramsons / Herbal Tea / Dried Bulk Herb
Origin: Bulgaria
Botanical Name: Allium Ursinum
Other Names: Wild garlic, Ramsons, Cowleekes, Cows's leek, Cowleek, Buckrams, Broad-leaved garlic, Bear leek, Eurasian wild garlic, Bear's garlic
Allium ursinum is a bulbous perennial flowering plant in the amaryllis family Amaryllidaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in moist woodland. It is a wild relative of onion and garlic, all belonging to the same genus, Allium. The leaves of the Allium ursinum are the most popular part to be used in food. The leaf is often used to replace garlic and other herbs in many recipes. Leaves can be used in raw salads and carry a very subtle garlicky flavour similar to that of garlic chives.
Usage: Heat 1 cup water to near boiling. Place the 1-2 teaspoons wild garlic leaves in a teapot or a heatproof mug. Pour the hot water over the leaves. Cover the teapot or mug with a lid or a small plate to trap the heat and let the tea steep for about 5 -10 minutes. Strain.
Traditional Use
Wild garlic (ramsons, bear's garlic) carpets European forests every spring and is a favourite seasonal green of Balkan cooking. The leaves are traditionally used:
- In the kitchen as a gentle substitute for garlic and onion: soups and cream soups, omelettes, quiches, pies and banitsa, courgettes, potatoes, stuffed peppers, dressings, sauces and homemade wild garlic pesto
- To support a healthy heart and circulation
- To support digestion
- To support the body's natural defenses
- As a spring tonic and cleanser, naturally rich in sulphur compounds and vitamins C and A
Harvest & Character
Cut dried leaves with a soft, characteristic garlic aroma. Mixes beautifully with parsley, dill, basil, oregano and savory.
Also known as: Ramsons, bear's garlic
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition, consult you doctor. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet or using any new product.
