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Sautéed Fiddlehead Ferns

The first fronds yet unfurled of a young fern, fiddleheads get their name from their shape and are also referred to as crosiers, the curved staff used by shepherds. A seasonal delicacy requiring a good rinse and thorough cooking, fiddleheads are a traditional dish of Canada’s East Coast.

1 1/2 cups (350 mL) fiddlehead ferns
1 Tbsp (15 mL) salt
3 Tbsp (45 mL) extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (125 mL) onions, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
3 Tbsp (45 mL) almonds, toasted and slivered

Wash fiddleheads well to remove grit, cut off ends, remove any brown spots, and pat dry. Blanch in just over 5 quarts (5 L) boiling water with salt. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until soft. Refresh in ice-cold water.

Sauté onions in the olive oil on medium-low heat. Onions should be soft but not too brown. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, and then add the fiddlehead ferns. Lightly season with salt and pepper, toss in toasted slivered almonds, then heat thoroughly.

Serves 6.

Source: alive #306, April 2008