Produce recently spotted at The Market
Produce Briefs...
Roselle Flowers
Roselle may be used raw, dried or juiced. The fruit's tart flavor requires a sweetener of some kind, and it is successfully used like a cranberry in recipes for jam, jelly, chutney and even wine.
Barrel Cactus Fruit
The fruit of the Barrel cactus is best prepared in sweet applications, since its natural tartness lends itself well to a hint of sugar. Cook the fruit down with agave syrup to make a jam, jelly or a sweet and sour chutney.
Description/Taste
Dried Maitake mushrooms are easy to distinguish versus other dried mushrooms because their fruiting body is made up of clustered leaf-like fronds. Their color varies from pure white to tan to brown depending on how much sunlight they received prior to harvest. Maitake's texture after being reconstituted is succulent and semi-firm. They are fruity, earthy and spicy in flavor and absorb companion flavors readily when cooked.
Seasons/Availability
Dried Maitake mushrooms are typically available year-round.
Current Facts
The Maitake, meaning dancing mushroom in Japanese, is also known as hen of the woods, kumotake mushroom and sheep's head.
Nutritional Value
Maitakes have a hypoglycemic effect, essentially making them a natural food source to lower blood sugar. They are also mineral and vitamin rich.
Applications
Dried Maitake mushrooms may be used in place of fresh Maitake mushrooms. Reconstitute in water or stock and pair with tofu, steamed vegetables, rice or noodles. Combine with other dried, wild mushrooms in sauces or sides. Store dried Maitake mushrooms in an airtight container until ready to use.
Geography/History
Maitake mushrooms are native to the mountain forests of Northeastern Japan, where they received the name, phantom mushroom because of their rare presence. Today, Maitake mushrooms are cultivated to increase production and availability.
