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Buttermilk-Fried Ramps

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This seasonal vegetarian dish celebrates the punchy flavour of wild garlic bulbs, known in some regions as ramps. By double-coating the bulbs in a seasoned flour and tangy buttermilk batter, you create a wonderfully crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, earthy centre. They make a sophisticated spring starter or a unique snack to serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine as the evenings grow lighter.

Quick to prepare and even faster to cook, these buttermilk-fried treats are best enjoyed immediately while the coating is at its crunchiest. The addition of cayenne pepper provides a gentle heat that cuts through the richness of the fried batter, while a final spritz of lemon juice adds a necessary brightness. It is an elegant way to make the most of a short-lived forest bounty.

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Ingredients for Buttermilk-Fried Ramps

  • 230g ramp greens (2 handfuls)

  • 2 cups buttermilk

  • 240ml plain flour

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • salt

  • Lemon wedges for garnish

How to make Buttermilk-Fried Ramps

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Trim greens from 230g ramps (2 handfuls); reserve for another use. Place 475ml buttermilk in a shallow dish. Combine 130g plain flour, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper in another shallow dish. Coat ramps in flour mixture, then buttermilk, then flour mixture again.

Pour vegetable oil into a large pot to a depth of 2"; heat over medium-high until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350°. Fry ramps until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels; season with salt. Serve with lemon wedges.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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