Spring ramps
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Spring came early to Michigan this year, and with it, the spring ephemerals. This has always been one of my favorite times for being out in the woods (my other favorites include summer, fall, and winter).
Sunday was my youngest daughter's birthday, so we decided to go for a hike and picnic along the river, with the purpose of gathering ramps, or what the girls call "green things".
Hikes with the girls always seem to involve walking sticks
"For the honor of Grayskull"
Ramps (wild leeks) were plentiful
Selectively thinning the patch to promote future growth.Ramps usually go for about $3 per plant in our local markets, not that we'd ever dream of selling them. I figured I was carrying away about $600 worth in my backpack, free for the taking. I do have to chuckle though every time I walk through the market. I have yet to be on any trail in Michigan that didn't have them growing in abundance for those who know where to look.
Stopping for lunch
The harvest
Putting away some ramp butter for use during the year. This makes the ultimate "garlic bread", and is great with seafood or as a topping for veggies, steak, or salmon, anytime an impromptu sauce is needed.
Dinner was leg of lamb (locally raised) with grilled ramps, and birthday cake for Rowan. Days like this make me feel a close connection to the land we live on. Hopefully this is a value that will be instilled in the girls as they grow up.
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