Description
Fiddlehead ferns are small, tightly coiled frond tips, averaging 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter and 4 to 5 centimeters in length, and have a round, spiraled top connected to a short stem. The young fern’s surface is smooth, taut, and bright green, sometimes covered in a protective layer of tawny, brown scales. Depending on the variety, some ferns also bear an indented groove on the inside of the stem. Fiddlehead ferns contain a tender, crisp, and succulent texture with a snap-like finish when lightly cooked. The ferns also emit a delicate, grassy, and woodsy flavor with artichoke, mushroom, asparagus, and pine nut nuances.