Produce Briefs...
Wasabi
Wasabi is a perennial and a member of the Cruciferae family. It is grown mainly for its underground rhizome (tuber) which produces branch-less, edible leaves above ground. A mature wasabi root is firm, cylindrical, brown and green-skinned and tapered.
Green Shishito Chile Peppers
Japanese peppers are mildly spicy and most often prepared cooked. Saute peppers in olive oil, over high heat, until they just begin to blister- serve hot, sprinkled with sea salt.
Seasons/Availability
Lavender is available during the summer months.
Current Facts
Lavender is one of the quintessential ingredients in Herbs de Provence, a now classic French herb blend invented in the early 1970's. It is grown for both culinary and ornamental purposes, used primarily for its flowering buds, both fresh and dried.
Description/Taste
Lavender plants vary as there are over forty different varieties within the genus Lavandula. Their one common denominator is their floral spikes. Bushy shrubs produce gray green stems and foliage with narrow slightly furred leaves. Tight floral buds arise in colors of blue, violet and lilac. The entire plant emits floral, sweet and distinct aromatics, though it is the flowers and leaves that are used for their culinary properties.
Nutritional Value
Lavender buds contain the essential oil of lavender, which is where the scent and flavor of lavender are best derived.
Applications
Lavender buds and leaves may be used to flavor syrups and sauces, and can be prepared both fresh and dried. Lavender pairs well with fresh sheep and goat's milk cheeses, sweetened cream, berries, citrus, olive oil, pork, lamb and seafood. Store cool and dry until ready to use.
Geography/History
Lavender is native to several different regions worldwide. Its native ranges extend across the Canary Islands, North and East Africa, Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, Arabia and India. Lavender is known as a garden escapee, growing in regions well beyond their original planting zone. Because it cross pollinates easily, there are countless unknown hybrid varieties.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Great Maple | San Diego CA | 619-255-2282 |
| Bacci | San Diego CA | 619-275-2094 |
| Urbn Pizza Bar | San Diego CA | 619-255-7300 |
| Searsucker Bar | San Diego CA | 619-233-7327 |
| Tom Hams Light House | San Diego CA | 619-291-9110 |
| Maderas Golf Club | Poway CA | 858-451-8100 |
| Bo Beau Kitchen & Bar | San Diego CA | 619-224-2884 |
| Alchemy Restaurant | San Diego CA | 619-255-0616 |
| Kensington Cafe | San Diego CA | 619-640-0494 |
| Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering | San Diego CA | 760-822-3593 sal |
| Paradise Point Resort Main Kitchen | San Diego CA | 858-490-6363 |
| The Shores | La Jolla CA | 858-459-8271 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Lavender. One
is easiest, three is harder.| The Balanced Platter |
|
Blueberry Lavender Granita |
| My Recipes |
|
Chamomile Lavendar Mint Iced Tea |
| Helium |
|
Blueberry Lavender Rhubarb Jam |
