Samphire

About Samphire

Also called sea asparagus or sea bean. It grows in coastal salt marshes and tidal flats. It has a natural salty, slightly sour flavor that pairs perfectly with fish. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals. There are two types: marsh samphire (Salicornia) and rock samphire (Crithmum). Shakespeare mentioned it in King Lear. It is best steamed or blanched briefly. It is foraged wild in Britain and France. It has become a trendy restaurant ingredient. It contains DMSP, a compound that helps plants tolerate salt. It is crunchy and refreshing. It must be used fresh and does not store well.