Acorn Pancakes, Dandelion Salad And 38 Other Wild Recipes - A Book Review
Acorn Pancakes, Dandelion Salad And 38 Other Wild Recipes
Written by Jean Craighead George
First published in 1995
Recommended ages 7+
A book review by Anna Kay Thomas
This cookbook is not only full of delicious and exciting wild recipes, but it is also a guide for identifying and foraging vegetation, as well as an education on the health benefits and history of most plants mentioned. Paired with Paul Mirocha’s delightful illustrations that make identification and cooking instructions easy to follow, these recipes are simple. They contain ingredients that are inexpensive, readily accessible, and fun for both children and adults to acquire.
The book includes the best times of the year to harvest, where in the country the plants grow, which habitats to search, foraging tools that will be needed, how to prepare your food, which plants to avoid, and how well the plants produce to sustain those who eat them. For example, Ms. George wrote, “An acre of cattails produces ten times as much food as an acre of potatoes”.
The surprising nutritional facts of different plants were written by Ms. George in a way that is intriguing and memorable. We learn about the protein content of cattail pollen, how dandelions have sustained our ancestors, and how the wild yellow violet provides more vitamins A and C than spinach.
The scrumptious recipes range from prickly pear jelly rolls and sassafras tea to baked jerusalem artichokes and weedy lawn salad. There are plenty of options to choose from that can please even the pickiest of eaters, especially with the added fun of harvesting your own meal.
This cookbook is for nature lovers, adventurous eaters, and those who know the value of sourcing fresh and healthy ingredients. Wishing you the best literary on your trek!
“There is nothing more satisfying than bringing home a wild food for the table. You feel free and independent.” - Jean Craighead George
Reflective Question:
What places can you think of in your area that might be good foraging spots?
(Always be mindful of foraging in an area where biocides may come in contact with your wild crop. Ask permission to forage on private property, nature preserves, and certain parks.)