Alien, Vegetable, Must Have

Ever visit a local Farmer’s Market and meet a herb or vegetable so beautiful, so colorful, so alien? I have and I love it and I must have it! I find wonderful excitement in discovering an unknown mostly undiscovered little secret of a veggie or herb. Oh how my heart sings every time I stump the grocery market cashier (bless their hearts) with fresh cilantro or chicory. So one can only imagine how the adrenaline rushes in me when I find myself being stumped (far more pleasant than being humped, which I believe my sweet friend Mo will appreciate). It’s a challenge of culinary delights and I race for top prize.

And do I ever love to have this mostly unknown little ingredient in my dish that solicits such delightful remarks as, “Wow, I’ve never heard of this before! Ohh it is so delicious!” from my friends and loved ones.

So, what I’ve decided to do is share with you a list of my most-favorite-mostly-undiscovered-discoveries with pictures (thanks to photobucket.com). And maybe the next time you find yourself caught by surprise by some seemingly alien vegetable or herb it will only take you a moment to realize, “Wait, I’ve seen this before. I can totally whip this into something utterly fabulous!” and subsequently avoid being stumped (if only avoiding being humped were so easy!)

I will continuously update as I have new discoveries to share.

 

Garlic Scape – I’ve used it to flavor soups, stir-fry, & sauces. And it’s also amazing as a pesto 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purple Asparagus – BEAUTIFUL! I roasted ’em and yum!

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Purple Potatoes – I use them in soups, for smashed potatoes, and just about anywhere I’d use regular potatoes. According to Amy, they are “creamier” than Red or Yukon potatoes. They definitely will add a beautiful color to any dish

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Callaloo - is a leafy green used mostly in Jamaican cuisine. I discovered it last summer at the Northampton Farmer’s Market. You can use it just like collard greens, spinach, or kale

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Rainbow Carrots – You’ve probably heard of Rainbow Chard right? I use these carrots just like regular carrots. The only difference in these carrots, that I notice, is the bright, beautiful range of colors.

 

 

 

Purple Basil purchased at the East Forest Park Farmer’s Market