Oh, the sheer delight of spending a sunny afternoon at a ‘pluktuin’ (pick-your-own garden) in the Netherlands, especially when your target is the magnificent dill!

Imagine this: You’re strolling through fragrant rows, the Dutch sun warming your face, a gentle breeze carrying the earthy-anise scent of fresh dill. It’s not just about getting an ingredient; it’s an experience! Whether you’re solo, enjoying a moment of peaceful connection with nature, or laughing with friends and family, the act of selecting and snipping your own dill is pure joy. Kids especially love the treasure hunt aspect, searching for the bush with the most feathery fronds. There’s something incredibly satisfying about harvesting your own food, knowing exactly where it came from, and feeling the vibrant freshness in your hands. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and create some lovely memories before heading home with a basket brimming with verdant goodness.

Once you’re back in your kitchen, that hand-picked dill is ready to work its magic!

Dill, with its distinctive feathery appearance and slightly anisy, grassy, and citrusy flavour, is an incredibly versatile herb.

How to Use Your Fresh Dill at Home:

  • Fish’s Best Friend: Dill and fish are a match made in culinary heaven. Sprinkle generously over baked salmon, pan-fried cod, or homemade gravlax.
  • Potato Perfection: It brightens up boiled new potatoes, potato salads, or even simple roasted potatoes.
  • Cool as a Cucumber: Add it to cucumber salads, or whip up a refreshing cucumber and dill yogurt dip (like a quick tzatziki).
  • Soup & Salad Enhancer: Stir it into creamy soups (especially potato or mushroom), or toss it into green salads for an aromatic lift.
  • Pickling Power: Fresh dill is essential for homemade pickles, especially pickled cucumbers or green beans.

Recipes for Your Hand-Picked Dill:

1. Calming Dill Tea

After all that picking, why not brew a soothing cup of dill tea? It’s not only delightful but also believed to aid digestion and promote relaxation.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 fresh dill sprigs (about 2 tablespoons chopped)
  • 1 cup hot water (just off the boil)
  • Optional: a slice of lemon or a teaspoon of honey

Instructions:

  1. Rinse your fresh dill sprigs thoroughly.
  2. Place the dill in a mug.
  3. Pour the hot water over the dill.
  4. Steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
  5. Remove the dill sprigs (or strain if you chopped it).
  6. Add a slice of lemon or honey if desired, and enjoy your fragrant, calming tea.

2. The “Dilly Delight” Gin & Tonic

Ready to get a little fancy? Dill adds an unexpected and incredibly refreshing twist to a classic G&T!

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz (60ml) good quality gin
  • 4-5 oz (120-150ml) premium tonic water
  • 2-3 fresh dill sprigs (plus an extra for garnish)
  • Juice of 1/4 lime
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. In a sturdy glass, gently muddle (lightly press with a muddler or the back of a spoon) 2-3 dill sprigs with the lime juice. This releases the dill’s aromatic oils.
  2. Add gin and fill the glass generously with ice.
  3. Top with tonic water.
  4. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with an additional fresh dill sprig and a lime wedge. Sip and savour the garden-fresh explosion!

So, next time you’re in the Netherlands, don’t just admire the windmills and tulips. Head to a pick-your-own farm, get your hands on some glorious dill, and bring home a basketful of freshness and fun!