Autumn Larder….

Andy Robinson posted this on 10th Oct 2011

Foraging to fill the Bivouac Larder!!

The bivouac larder is filling after reaping the rewards of the abundance that autumn foraging has brought. The trees and bushes just keep on giving long into the autumn and as the warmth of summer begins to leave us as the first cold snaps are an ever so prevalent reminder of last winter’s chill. But I know we are on the way to filling the larder store for those long cosy nights relaxing in the warm light of the fire. I am looking ever more now to spicing those evenings up with our wind fallen apple chutney as is jarred up and slowly maturing. There seemed to be a record number of apples this autumn with bags full being exchanged between friends and family of the bivouac.
Another of the autumn favourites of mine, known mainly for its flower petals being used in many different products, is the elderberry. The elderberries make a simple but wonderful cordial packed full of vitamins to help fend off those sniffs and snivels. You can add it as a mixer to any of your drinks be it alcoholic, hot or cold. If it manages to survive lasting the winter through to summer it can be most appreciated simply mixed with water and ice for a real refreshing juice.
I was extra excited this year as my forage for sloe berries not only yielded mass amounts of a bumper sized crop but also some hidden wild plum trees with branches fully laden. Once upon a time I imagine they were part of a managed orchard but now sadly the land has mostly given way to pasture for cattle but these remaining beauties still survive and seem to be thriving. Both the sloes and plums have been added to the bivouac stores as Sloe gin and ‘wild’ plum jam.
I can not wait to sample these free delectable delights that this autumn has thrown up.

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