Merlin Unwin Books (2022)

 ISBN: 978-1913159375

 Reviewed by Piers Warren
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I have been on a number of foraging workshops over the years and have written a book on the uses of stinging nettles myself, so I was wondering if this book would teach me much that I hadn’t come across already. Well, it certainly did!

It is gorgeously produced with superb photographs throughout all taken by one of the authors: Julie Bruton-Seal. The cover shows a sumptuous-looking nettle cake with a bright green sponge and white frosting. The introduction starts with a discussion on the whole notion of what is a weed, followed by tips on identification and how to get accustomed to tastes you may not have experienced before.

The bulk of the book is made up of an A to Z of 22 common plants (and one fungus: honey fungus)  from Alexanders to Yarrow. Each entry starts with a full description, including any cautions such as similar looking poisonous plants or limitations on use, for example when pregnant. Then there is a section on the history of the particular plant, and its uses, often over many centuries or even millennia. This I found most fascinating and learnt much about our ancient associations with so many plants that we simply overlook or get rid of today.

Then the authors look at herbal and other uses (other than eating that is) for each weed and a guide to how to prepare and eat that plant. Finally we move on to the recipes; for each entry there is between one and ten recipes, each explained in detail and illustrated beautifully with photographs. Don’t imagine endless green soups, salads and stir-fries, the range of ideas is surprising and look delicious. Savoury contributions include tempuras, risottos, moussakas, paellas, frittatas, bhajis and more. There are also numerous drinks, both cold, cordials and hot teas, and for those with a sweet tooth a range of cakes, cookies, scones, buns, jams and puddings. Anyone interested in fermented foods will also find ideas for weed-based kefirs, kimchis and kombuchas.

Many of the ‘weeds’ are extremely common and within reach of any reader, such as blackberries, chickweed, cleavers, daisies, dandelions, ground elder, nettles, plantains and sowthistles.

The authors are highly qualified to produce a book like this. Julie Bruton-Seal is a herbalist and therapist as well as a designer, artist and photographer. Her partner and co-author Matthew Seal is a forager, writer and editor. Together they run courses and workshops in herbal medicine from their base in Norfolk UK.

Overall I found this book much more accessible, interesting and enticing than many others I have seen on similar subjects. I love learning more about the simple plants that grow around us, unnoticed by most, and this book certainly fulfilled that. All you need is a little courage to try something you haven’t before and you will have a whole new appreciation of the idea of foraging and living off the land.