Alexander seeds

Alexanders is a wild plant historically cultivated by the Romans, now found growing in hedgerows and along coastal paths across much of Britain. The whole plant is edible, but the small black seeds are the prize for cooks. Roasted, they smell and taste remarkably like black pepper with a warm, resinous note, and can be ground into spice blends, scattered on savoury scones, or pressed into cured meats. Seasonal foraging runs late summer into autumn. If you cannot find Alexander seeds locally, black pepper with a pinch of fennel seed makes a serviceable substitute. Always forage responsibly, with proper identification and permission from the landowner.