During the early spring time, deep in the Appalachian Mountains, a certain, potent smell fills the homes and campsites of the local residents. Found in abundance upon the rolling acres of Hollows and the Cushions, the mighty Wild Leek or Wild Ramp as some call it, has provided an annual traditions for many mountain people.
From the rolling hills of the Virginia's to the most Northern Point of New York, these stinky, onion like vegetables are harvested for their potent taste best described as hot or zesty!
These little guys are made into a variety of dips, soups, spices, and so much more. Dehydrate a bunch and put the on your eggs! The options with these are endless.
Heed this advice though...The ramp has a very long lasting smell! Socialization might need to be avoided for a day after!
In a journal found from the very first settler in our area, he had stated that for several months his family of four had relied on the wild leeks to provide them food due to the struggle this environment made them face. To this day, many families in Appalachia put these on their tables. Many restaurants are now adding this delicacy into their menus!
The life cycle of a wild leek is unique in it's own way. It begins as a small, black seed. Once the seed has made it's way into the ground, it could take up to 5 years years for it to sprout! Once, the leek has sprouted in the early spring, it breaks through the ground with a bright green leaf and a purplish/red stalk. The growing season for them usually lasts for up to two months. As they grow the leaf can be found to up to 20 inches long! The bulbs expand under the soil and grow up to the size of a golf ball! The key to harvesting them is to dig them when they are smaller. The smaller the leek the more potent the flavor! After the leek begins to die off, the leaves will wilt and turn yellow. The bulbs will remain good for quite some time after the leaf has died. A flower can be found in the center of the leek at this time, and during the fall months this flower will emit a seed pod of up to 15 seeds or more!
If you are interested in learning a bit more about the wild ramp send us a message or head on over to our store and get a pound to see how you like them!
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