File talk:Fiddlehead.jpg
I'm not sure that this is a picture of the edible fiddlehead of the ostrich fern. I'm not an expert, but after reading various descriptions of what the edible fiddle head looks like on the following web sites, I am under the impression that the ostrich fern's fiddleheads have a flaky, papery covering and not a fuzzy covering. This seems like it may be an inaccurately identified photo.
Sources: http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com/Plants.Folder/OstrichFern.html http://www.umext.maine.edu/onlinepubs/htmpubs/4060.htm http://www.wild-harvest.com/pages/fiddlehead.htm
A Fiddlehead is a fern so young and new that it hasn't yet "unfurled" and opened its leaves. The end is still curled in a tight spiral, ready to unroll as the sun warms it and it gathers strength and size. This spiral shape reminds many people of the end of a violin, hence the name "Fiddlehead."
Early Spring signals the arrival of "Fiddlehead season," when aficionados begin combing the riverbanks and forest floor.
Why?
Because Fiddlehead ferns are delicious, with a remarkable wild flavor . They can be easily prepared in a variety of ways - resulting in a delicious side dish or as the "main event."
The flavor? It has been described as similar to green beans with a hint of artichoke. But descriptions do not begin to capture the flavor. You must try them to know the wonderful flavor and delightful crunch of Fiddleheads.
The coiled end of the fern is called a "crosier." Ferns should be picked early in the morning when they are still very young and fresh. The "crosier" should be tightly curled, and should snap off crisply. They must be washed carefully and rubbed to remove the paper-y brown skin on the outside. Avoid yellow or "floppy" ferns. Trim the base leaving a tiny tail.
The basic preparation for Fiddleheads is very simple - but they may also be used in a variety of gourmet recipes.
Whether you go the simple route, or choose something more elaborate, be certain to exercise caution if you decide to harvest Fiddleheads yourself. There are many varieties of ferns, and only the Ostrich Fern is recommended for consumption.
If you aren't experienced and you don't know a fern expert, you may be better off sticking with a reliable commercial dealer. —Preceding unsigned comment added by Greenmoon56 (talk • contribs) 23:28, 18 May 2009 (UTC)
