Hop Into Spring: Cooking with Hops Shoots!
Spring is here, and so are the hops shoots! These tender little gems are emerging from the soil, ready to make their debut on your plate. With only a three-week window to harvest and enjoy them, it’s time to seize the moment and get cooking. But first, let’s talk about these magical plants that bring joy to beer lovers and now, foodies alike.
Hops have long been celebrated for their role in brewing, adding bitterness and aroma to your favorite IPAs. But did you know they’re also a culinary treasure? The young sprouts of the plant, can be treated like asparagus in recipes. They’re earthy, slightly bitter, and packed with flavor. Think of them as asparagus’s quirky cousin—ready to shake things up in your kitchen.
Enter Blue Lake Hops
A charming hop farm and much more in Twin Lake, Michigan, run by Jim Schlichting. His business is all about growing high-quality hops for brewers, but now he’s branching out (pun intended) into selling hops shoots. And trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this unique ingredient.
To celebrate the arrival of the shoots this Spring, I’ve created three mouthwatering recipes that showcase their versatility:
- Fettuccini with Hops, Gruyere, and Ham Sauce: A creamy, cheesy delight with a touch of hops magic.
- Prosciutto Stir-Fry with Hops Shoots and Toasted Hazelnuts: A quick and elegant dish that’s perfect for spring.
- Salmon over Asparagus and Hops with Truffled Hollandaise, Capers, and Parsley: A show-stopping meal that’s as delicious as it sounds.
You can find these recipes on my website, Art of Cookery, where I share my passion for culinary arts and teach cooking classes. And while you’re there, check out our Facebook page, Art of Cookery, for more updates and inspiration.
Of course, none of this would be possible without Blue Lake Hops. Their dedication to sustainable farming and fresh ingredients is truly inspiring. Visit their website, Blue Lake Hops, to learn more. You can also visit the farm directly at:
10400 Blue Lake Road
Twin Lake, MI
Give Jim a call at 231.855.3416, and don’t forget to follow their Facebook page, Hot Pot at Blue Lake Hops, for the latest news and events.
So, what are you waiting for? Hop on over to Blue Lake Hops, grab some shoots, and try out my recipes. Let’s make this spring a season to savor!