Fiddlehead Season is Coming

April’s here, and that means something important: Maine’s Fiddlehead season is coming!

Fiddleheads in the wild | BDN File Photo

Fiddleheads are ostrich ferns, which typically grow near streams and rivers, are tightly coiled with a smooth stem and a brown, papery covering. The growing season is short — only about two weeks — so if you want some, you have to keep an eye out. (Note: You should always seek permission before picking fiddleheads found on private property.)

 

If you’re a fan of this foraged delicacy, you’ll want to check out this video from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension on how to properly identify and harvest fiddleheads. It’s filled with great tips.

And once you have your fiddleheads, why not whip up something tasty …

Fiddlehead Risotto

… like my Garlicky Fiddlehead Risotto Recipe? Creamy, flavorful and filled with herbs and fiddleheads, it’s perfect for chilly spring nights.

Are you a fan of fiddleheads? Have you spotted any this year yet?

Sarah Walker Caron

About Sarah Walker Caron

Sarah Walker Caron is editor of Bangor Metro magazine and senior features editor for the Bangor Daily News. She is the author of "The Super Easy 5-Ingredient Cookbook," (Sept. 2018, Rockridge Press) and the co-author of "Grains as Mains: Modern Recipes Using Ancient Grains" (March 2015, DK). Her recipes have appeared in the BDN, Betty Crocker publications, Glamour.com and more. She also writes about food at www.sarahscucinabella.com.