Samphire

This plant (Crithum maritimum), associated with rocky coastlines, is reminiscent of normal fennel thanks to its aroma and its umbrella-shaped inflorescence. It is a halophyte plant (one adapted to living 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, which are such an important tradition in the town of l’Escala.