The Thrill of Harvesting Percebes
Harvested from the rugged tidal cracked rocks, the collection of percebes is a challenging and daring task. The availability of these barnacles is directly influenced by weather conditions, making each harvest unique. Some can be easily collected by hand during low tide, while others require skilled divers armed with pry bars to retrieve them.
Gooseneck barnacles are easily distinguished by their elongated stalks, ranging from 1" to 3" in length, and their leathery appearance, resembling geoducks. When harvested, portions of the shells tend to come together, forming beautiful percebe bouquets.To prepare these barnacles, we recommend steaming or blanching to reduce their natural saltiness. Afterward, remove the rough skin from the shell to reveal the tender and succulent meat inside. Enjoy them as they are, or enhance their flavor by dipping them in garlic butter or adding them to soups and chowders, just like you would with littlenecks.
