FROM THE WOODLAND PANTRY

In autumn, a countryside walk can yield numerous rewards, with branches bursting with tempting fruits ready to be plucked and gleaming nuts littering the woodland floor. Pine nuts are particularly nutritional, containing high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, and can be eaten raw or roasted over a fire to accompany a variety of dishes. Pine trees start to develop nuts at the age of 15; their yield increasing each year. They are found within pine cones and can be removed using a hammer to gently crack the shell. Care needs to be taken to avoid false identification, and a regular walk can help familiarise with local foraging spots.