I am a big fan of foraging. Foraging gives purpose to the act of walking and you get a tangible, edible result at the end! And who am I to say no to free food?

 

Have a look around, get some books or ask a knowledgeable friend about edible berries and herbs.

If you are a complete beginner, go on a foraging walk with a guide who can explain about the properties and identification of plants and, most importantly, food safety, as some plants can either be poisonous or lethal.

My favourite picks are rosehip (to make a vitamin C packed tea), blackberries and wild asparagus.

Get an expert to come with you mushroom picking as you don’t want to end up in A&E! I still haven’t been mushroom picking myself but it’s definitely on my to do list.

Wear some gloves and pick up some stinging nettle: not only it makes a healthy herbal tea, but it tastes great in soups and risotto.

So go on, give it a try and let me know what recipes you come up with!

One of my Favourite Foraging Plants: Rosehip

December is the perfect time to go “hunting” for rose hip.

Rose hip contains plenty of immune-boosting vitamin C . To gain the most benefits from this berry, it’s better to use it fresh rather than dried.
Because rose hip has also anti-inflammatory properties, it is used as a herbal remedy for arthritis. Rose hip (rosa canina) contains polyphenols and anthocyanins, which help keep joints healthy.
Learn more about rose hip and other foraging plants in my book Strictly Walk Slimmer.

Picture credits: Paola Bassanese

Recommended book on walking and foraging: Strictly Walk Slimmer

If you are looking for vegetarian and vegan recipes, you can try Veggiebuzz and  The Gastronomical Affair.