Fiddleheads are the new formed, uncurling leaves of bracken, a genus of ferns. When the young leaves are forming the tips are furled and bear quite a resemblance to the end of a violin, leading to their popular name of fiddleheads. These can be eaten at this stage and have a smoky flavour.
Field or lablab beans are similar to broad beans (US: fava beans), but coarser and flourier. This covers a number of beans that are eaten fresh or dried. Either the bean or the entire pod can be used, depending on the variety. Good cooked and served with oil and lemon.
The field mushroom is recognisable from its pink gills and is most readily found in autumn (US: fall). This is a good edible wild mushroom which may be eaten either raw or cooked. (If gathering mushrooms you must be absolutely certain what you have before you eat them as many are very poisonous.)
Parasol mushroom. Good baked with butter and garlic, or fried.
