We all know hops are the star of the show when it comes to brewing a cold beer, but did you know you can actually eat them too? This versatile plant isn’t just for breweries; it’s a fantastic herb and vegetable that offers some really unique flavors for your kitchen.
How to Use Hops in Your Cooking
If you’re looking to get creative in the kitchen, young hop shoots are surprisingly versatile. You can whip them up into:
- Hearty soups
- Fresh salads
- Savory side dishes
- Infused spirits and liqueurs
Whether you spot some wild hops on a hike or grow them in your own backyard, they are totally edible. The young shoots are considered a real gourmet delicacy with a lovely, slightly nutty flavor that adds a special touch to almost any meal. You can enjoy them raw or cooked. And don’t forget the hop cones! Harvested in the summer, these are perfect for brewing a relaxing herbal tea.
Harvesting “Hop Asparagus”
In the spring, hops send up hundreds of tender, finger-thick shoots. If you catch them early enough, these side shoots can be prepared just like asparagus—which is why gardeners often call them “hop asparagus.” Just a quick tip: make sure to leave four to six main vines alone so the plant can keep climbing and growing. You can harvest the rest for your dinner table!
Harvesting is a bit of a labor of love since it has to be done by hand. Gently pinch off the shoots with your thumb and forefinger. You’ll want to use them pretty quickly after picking to keep that fresh flavor.
How to Cook Hop Asparagus
Cooking hop asparagus is a breeze—just treat it like regular asparagus. Trim off the woody ends and give the shoots a good rinse. Boil them for just a few minutes in water with a pinch of salt and a dash of sugar. They taste amazing tossed in melted butter and topped with Parmesan cheese. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can also roast them in the oven and melt some cheese over the top.
Eating Hops Raw
You don’t necessarily have to turn on the stove to enjoy these sprouts; they’re perfectly fine to eat raw. Interestingly, old folklore suggests that eating them raw can actually lower your libido. On the flip side, cooking them brings out a richer aroma, and some say cooked hop asparagus might even give your sex drive a little boost. Who knew gardening could be so interesting?
