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SPRING AWAKEN NG by Mindy S. Kolof
PLANTAINS
Rising Stars of Farm and Field In the newest crop of up and comers this spring, which fruits and vegetables will take away the crown from kale? We’ve identified several contenders springing up from all corners of the world, including veggies in hues of hot purple and deep black, spicy hot ghost peppers, green garlic. And you may want to keep replenishing your supply of kale, because it seems we’re not yet over this perennially popular green.
They look like bananas, but cook like potatoes, and are used in Cuban- and Puerto Rican-inspired dishes such as twice-fried plantain chips (tostones), as a side dish for sandwiches, or a dipping option for guacamole a la Bahama Breeze.
SUNCHOKES Also known as Jerusalem artichokes, they’re actually sunflowers resembling pieces of ginger, and can be served raw, in salads or to add crunch to an entrée. Use like potatoes, smashed, mashed or fried into chips, or pickle for use year-round.
With vegetable-forward entrees dominating the dining scene, there’s more room than ever on the plate for garden fresh, vibrantly colored produce. Mike Kostyo of market research company Datassential and Miriam Wolk of the United Fresh Produce Association provide their top picks for spring ’18:
GREEN GARLIC Harvested before mature bulbs or cloves form, green garlic is available for only a short time in early spring. Subtler than regular garlic, it adds a fresh flavor to salads, seafood and sandwiches, and with its local, regional and sustainable attributes, green garlic is expected to shine this spring. Also consider adding black garlic to the menu, simply a super-slow-roasted garlic that turns deep, dark black.
CRUDITÉ PLATTERS Not just small, modest ones for pre-meal munching, but huge, over-the-top platters that cover the entire table. While you may not go the route of the $38 platter at Chicago’s Clever Rabbit – decked out with white asparagus and truffle shavings, smoked maitake mousse and pickled mushrooms – try your own, slightly less extravagant version as a way to feature the season’s best.
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