Foraging Dandelions

Foraging for dandelions is fairly simple given that they grow pretty much everywhere in open grassy spaces. 

Dandelion leaves and roots can be foraged between February-November although the roots are best dug up in the autumn as that is when they are fattest and their flavour is most mellow. The flowers can be foraged in late spring between April-May. 

They grow in fields, parks and even gardens so it shouldn't be too hard to find some. Try to avoid the ones growing by roadsides though, if you ask nicely enough that neighbour with loads growing in their garden might even let you pick some if that's your only option! Never hurts to ask!

The flowers are large and yellow and made up of lots of fine petals. The leaves, growing from the base of the plant, are long and pointed with jagged teeth.

The leaves can be sautéed or used in salads, the flowers can be used to make drinks and in baking and the roots can be roasted and ground to make dandelion coffee.

Make sure you check out this guide to foraging sustainably before you go!