Samphire

Samphire (Crithmum maritimum), also called rock samphire, sea fennel, or crest marine, is a coastal herb native to Mediterranean and Atlantic shores. Its fleshy, salty-tasting shoots are used as a condiment and incorporated into pickles and salads, and its essential oils display antimicrobial activity. Foraged or cultivated, it should be gathered away from polluted shores. Marsh samphire, a different plant, is often confused with it but the true samphire is this aromatic coastal species. Its salty tang brightens seafood dishes, and blanching tames its intensity for gentler palates.