Wild herbs
Water Mint
Along lake shores, in bogs and by streams you can find water mint. It is intensely aromatic and appears in summer with its purple flower tops. Earlier in the season it is harder to find, but it spreads its scent by the water's edge when you step on it, so find it with your nose. Its fresh notes are used in modern Nordic desserts, beverages, fish marinades and as a fresh finishing touch in salads and cold sauces. In stewed dishes it can add a layer of umami without tasting of mint, which I appreciate.
Similar ingredients
Wild Garlic
The forest floor's garlic – a cornerstone of New Nordic cuisine, from leaves to capers from seeds.
Ground Elder
Lush plant that covers the forest floor – herb when young, vegetable when mature.
Dandelion
Sun-loving with toothed leaves and yellow flowers – bitter, but good with heat and fat.