The Great Mallow Caper

This plant is just amazing! So many uses! And it’s been a glorious journey discovering, collecting, and trying out all the beneficial parts of these plants.

The Malva neglecta or common mallow plant grows itself everywhere in the Pacific Northwest. I’ve done several posts mentioning this plant and it’s uses, which include making salad, collecting flowers for tea, as a thickening agent, and as chicken snacks. BUT! I found one more use. Apparently, this little gem of a plant grows these tiny fruits reminiscent of capers.

So, i went out back and started picking dozens of those little pods. Online, I found a pickling recipe, and we’re giving it a whirl!

After cleaning the mallow fruits, I placed them in a little jar, put equal parts vinegar and water, added some salt and gave it a good shake. The recipe recommended leaving them to soak for about a week. We’re on day two now, so I’ll provide an update early next week.

Now what to try them on?

Please comment if you have a recommended dish that goes well with capers!