Samphire

​​​​​Crithum maritimum

This plant, associated with rocky coastlines, is reminiscent of “land” fennel thanks to its aroma and its umbrella-shaped inflorescence. It is a halophile plant (adapted to live in saline environments), with a high content of iodine, bromine and other mineral salts, but its vitamin C content stands out especially, and this is why the old transoceanic sailors used to take it with them on their voyages.

It is served in salads and is also used for preparing marinated olives and when salting anchovies. In the Balearic Islands it is eaten pickled in vinegar, as an accompaniment for salads or simply with pa amb oli, the traditional bread and oil. Since 2005 it has been a protected species in the Balearic Islands.