What are Fiddlehead Greens?
The name Fiddlehead Greens is derived from their resemblance to the top of a fiddle (violin). They are the early, tender growth of the Ostrich Fern, found in abundance growing wild alongside many of North America’s fresh waterways. The shoots are in their coiled form for only about 2 weeks before they unfurl into graceful ferns. Fiddlehead Greens are a rich, deep green color and should be about 2 inches long and 1 1/2 inches in diameter when harvested. Fiddlehead Greens have a flavor that is uniquely their own, however their flavor has been described as being akin to an asparagus/green bean/broccoli cross. Fiddleheads (the Ostrich Fern) should not be confused with the less palatable Wood Fern found and consumed on the West Coast of the USA. ***Please note that Fiddleheads must be thoroughly cooked before consuming.
