Sourgrass, also known as Oxalis, is a versatile wild plant recognized for its tangy, lemon-like flavor, which comes from the oxalic acid in its leaves. This zesty flavor makes sourgrass a fantastic addition to various dishes, providing a refreshing twist. Moreover, sourgrass is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a nutritious ingredient in your culinary creations.

Identifying Sourgrass

To identify sourgrass, look for these key features:

• Leaves: The plant has trifoliate leaves, each stem carrying three heart-shaped leaflets similar to clover.

• Flowers: Sourgrass blooms small, yellow flowers with five petals, typically clustered together.

• Stems: Its stems are often reddish and juicy, contributing to its unique appearance.

• Taste: The most distinctive feature is its bright, tangy, lemon-like flavor when you taste a leaf.

About the Recipe

Sourgrass Guacamole is a refreshing take on the classic Mexican dip, blending creamy avocados with tangy sourgrass leaves, diced tomatoes, onions, and lime juice. This flavorful guacamole serves as a versatile dip, spread, or topping for various dishes. The key to a delicious guacamole is using ripe avocados and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup diced onions

• 1/4 cup chopped sourgrass leaves

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped cilantro, minced garlic, diced jalapeño for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.

2. Mash the Avocados: Using a fork or potato masher, mash the avocados to your desired consistency.

3. Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mashed avocado to prevent browning and add a refreshing citrus flavor.

4. Mix Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, diced onions, and chopped sourgrass leaves to the mashed avocado. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, include chopped cilantro, minced garlic, or diced jalapeño for extra flavor and heat.

5. Combine: Gently stir all the ingredients together, being careful not to overmix to maintain some texture.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.

7. Serve: Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl and garnish with additional chopped sourgrass leaves or a lime slice if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, vegetable sticks, or as a topping for tacos, nachos, or sandwiches.

Join Our Foraging Classes & Explore More

If you’re curious about incorporating wild plants like sourgrass into your cooking, you might enjoy joining one of our foraging classes at forageSF. We offer various classes on foraging mushrooms, wild plants, and more. Also, if you want to delve deeper into sourgrass, check out The Ultimate Sourgrass Cookbook: 100 Innovative Recipes for Nature’s Tangiest Herb. It’s a great way to explore more recipes and make the most of this unique herb.

Join our foraging class and consider buying the book for further inspiration!