NEW PRODUCE QUIZ - - WHO AM I ?

Although many think we look like maggots, we think we’re bomb!  As a member of the Labiatae family I am related to mint, thyme, sage and oregano, but the similarity stops there.  Although there is a town named after me in France (where I was once grown on a large scale), my origins are Chinese and Japanese.  My good friend, Dr. E. Bretschneider, was so enthralled when he discovered us in a Peking garden, he rushed us off to M. Pailleux, his friend who was vice-president of the Société d’ Acclimatisation.  Not very popular in North America, I am still quite common throughout Asia.  My plant grows as high as 16 inches and my oval dull-green leaves a puffy rough and useless.  You will have to dig to enjoy me, and enjoy me you will.  With my thin edible skin, a quick boil and butter, or cooled with a vinaigrette will reveal my slightly sweet flavor, which is reminiscent of salsify or artichoke.  I can be steamed, baked, or sautéed in a wok but not for too long.  Slight overcooking renders me mushy.  Keep me away from aluminum surfaces to avoid oxidation.  I am rich in carbohydrates and a small source of protein.

Last Week's Answer...SPINACH....Congrats to all Winners!!

 

 

908-789-4700 --- Richard and Lisa --- fax 908-789-4702