Question: What are ramps?
Answer: Ramps and Wild Leeks are the same plant, a type of wild-growing onion generally presented fresh with the green leaves attached to the small white bulb.
Ramps and Wild Leeks are distinguished primarily by growing in different regions. Where they are found growing in the Appalachian range they are known as Ramps. Harvest in this region typically begins around the middle of April. A few weeks later they are harvested in the Great Lakes region where they are called Wild Leeks.
Broad, smooth, light green leaves, often with deep purple or burgundy tints on the lower stems begin to appear early in the spring shortly after the snow melts. Scallion-like bulbs are rooted just beneath the surface of the soil.
Both possess a powerfully pungent, spicy aroma and flavor very similar to that of garlic or shallots. Wild Leeks generally have a larger bulb and a slightly milder flavor, especially in the leaf portion.
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