FAT hen

Scientific Name: Chenopodium album

Flavour: Fat Hen has a mild and slightly nutty flavor, similar to spinach or Swiss chard. It offers a versatile taste that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.

Growing Season: Fat Hen is an annual plant that typically grows during the spring and summer months. It thrives in warm weather and can be harvested throughout the growing season.

Native Region: Fat Hen is native to Europe, including the British Isles, and has naturalized in many other regions around the world. It is commonly found in cultivated fields, gardens, and disturbed areas.

Traditional Recipe: Fat Hen Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fat hen leaves and young shoots

  • Garlic, minced

  • Ginger, grated

  • Sesame oil or vegetable oil

  • Soy sauce or tamari

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Wash the fat hen leaves and shoots thoroughly and pat them dry.

  2. Heat a small amount of sesame oil or vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium heat.

  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.

  4. Add the fat hen leaves and shoots to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until they wilt and become tender.

  5. Drizzle soy sauce or tamari over the stir-fry and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Continue stir-frying for another minute or two, ensuring the flavors are well combined.

  7. Remove from heat and serve the fat hen stir-fry as a nutritious side dish or main course.

Health Properties: Fat Hen leaves and shoots are edible and are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron. They also contain antioxidants and dietary fiber. Fat Hen is known for its potential diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. As with any wild edible plant, it is important to ensure proper identification and gather from clean and safe locations.

Growing Technique:

Fat Hen is a hardy plant that can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. Here are some general tips for growing Fat Hen:

  • Plant the seeds in well-drained soil that has been amended with organic matter.

  • Sow the seeds directly in the garden or in containers, spacing them about 6-12 inches apart.

  • Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.

  • Provide full sunlight for optimal growth.

  • Fat Hen can tolerate some shade but grows best in sunny locations.

  • Regularly harvest the leaves to encourage bushier growth.

  • Be mindful that Fat Hen can be invasive, so keep an eye on its spread and manage accordingly.