Foraging in Slovenia – Wild Food Through Seasons
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5 septembra, 2025Foraging in Slovenia – Wild Food Through Seasons
With over 60% of Slovenia covered by forests, foraging is a natural part of life here. From spring greens to autumn chestnuts, Slovenes collect a wide variety of edible plants, mushrooms, and fruits, many of which appear in local markets, restaurants, and home kitchens.
Spring
Spring brings tender shoots and blossoms:
- Forest strawberries (gozdne jagode) – small, very sweet, perfect for desserts or snacking
- Wild garlic (čemaž) – used in pestos, butters, soups, pasta, and štruklji fillings
- Spruce tips (smrekovi vršički) – light green shoots for syrups, liqueurs, and as a natural cough remedy
- Elderflower – made into syrup, cordial, or dried for tea
- Dandelion leaves (regrat) – young leaves for fresh salads
Many of these ingredients can also be found at market stalls around Ljubljana.
Wild garlic (čemaž) butter
Blueberry bush
Summer
Summer is the season of wild fruits, mushrooms, and herbs:
- Blueberries – early summer in lowlands, later in higher areas
- Raspberries and blackberries – fresh or made into jams and desserts
- Mushrooms – chanterelles (lisičke), porcini (jurčki), and parasol mushrooms (marele) are especially popular
Wild herbs for tea – often dried for use in winter
Autumn
Autumn continues the bounty, particularly mushrooms and chestnuts:
- Mushrooms – peak season, with foragers heading to secret forest spots, including Pokljuka
- Chestnuts – enjoyed roasted, used in baking, soups, and traditional dishes
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- Blueberries
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- Chanterelles
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- Chestnuts
