Common Hops

Hops is a climbing vine that grows in many different places in Denmark, both in towns and in the countryside. In hedgerows, climbing over rugosa roses, along sports field fences, car parks and in forest openings. In May and June its shoots can be collected and used as a delicate spring vegetable. If you pick about once a week, you can continue harvesting over a longer period. In August, hops form small hanging cones with a delicate but dominant fragrance. The aroma is distinctive and should be used with care, the taste itself is intensely bitter. The plant can grow 6–7 metres long and is recognised by its rough surface and slightly vine-like appearance. Some things should simply be simple, and hop shoots should just be sautéed in butter for one minute.