Produce Briefs...
Mache
Mache has been cultivated in France since the 17th century, and in France it is known as doucette. It is also known as "lamb's lettuce" because its leaves resemble the size and shape of a lamb's tongue.
White Corn
White corn is a sweet corn variety. Its ears are wrapped in tightly layered pale lime green to white husks. One ear of corn can contain up to 400 kernels growing in rows lengthwise.
Seasons/Availability
Look for borage flowers in the spring and summer months.
Description/Taste
Borage flowers grow on hollow stems that are covered in fine white hairs. The tiny flowers are star like in shape and can be blue, lavender or purple in color. From the center of the flower protrudes five stamens and black anthers. When fresh both the flower and leaves offer a mild herbal cucumber flavor and aroma.
Applications
Borage flowers can be added to fruit and green salads or used as an edible garnish on cakes, cold soups, ice cream and delicate pastries. Try adding to the brine when making pickles. Their refreshing flavor complements light summer beverages. Add whole flowers to lemonade, white wine sangria and spritzers or freeze flowers in ice cubes to add a colorful pop to lightly hued cocktails.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
In 1597 the herbalist John Gerard wrote, “I, borage, always bring courage.” In ancient times, consumption of borage was believed to instill bravery and happiness. In effort to increase courage Celtic warriors indulged in borage wine before going into battle, knights of the medieval times were often given a drink made of borage flowers before the crusades and it is said that borage flowers were at times secretly added to the beverages of men by women hoping to encourage their male suitors to propose.
Geography/History
A native to northern Africa and Eurasia, the borage flower prefers full sun or partial shade conditions and can thrive even in areas with poor soil quality. Borage flowers have been used for centuries for both their medicinal and culinary properties.
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| Burlap | San Diego CA | 858 369 5700 |
