The larder
vegetable

Samphire

The salt-marsh's crunchy, sea-tangy asparagus.

Bright green, tender, snap-crisp, and free if you know where to look. Marsh samphire loves the coast in July and August. It's naturally salty — never salt it further. Blanch briefly and it becomes the finest partner for any fish you can put on a plate.

In season: summer
Photograph on its way

Where to find it

Salt marshes on the east coast (Norfolk, Fife); good fishmongers in season.

Pairs with

ButterLemonWhite fishScallopsMackerelNew potatoes

How to pick it

  • Bright emerald green, no yellowing
  • Snap when bent — no bendiness
  • Small tender tips are best

How to treat it

  • Rinse well in cold water
  • Blanch 60 seconds, plunge into iced water
  • Toss in butter to finish, never salt
Watch out
  • – Never salt it — you'll regret it
  • – Foraged samphire near sewage outfalls is a no
  • – Older stems have a woody core — pull it out
Cook it: recipes with samphire