Ramps

This native North American plant, a wild member of the leek and onion family, has long been celebrated as a harbinger of spring in the southern Appalachian region. In more recent years, it has become a big hit at farmers markets in the brief period between winter and the first onslaught of summer crops.

Ramps (Allium tricoccum) have an onion-garlicky flavor, though they are considerably milder than either of those relatives. However, if you eat enough of them, and particularly if you munch them raw, you may have a whiff of ramp on your breath and exuding from your skin for the next several days. Don’t let that keep you away from this addictive seasonal treat.

For ramp recipes: Click Here.

Note: Melungeon descendants and collateral relations in Southwest Virginia have been called Ramps locally, especially in Wise County. Some Melungeon authors have equated the two terms; however, at least some and perhaps many who were called Ramps had no Melungeon connection. The historical and genealogical ties between the two groups is a topic much in need of further research.