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
Lemon balm is available during the summer months.
Current Facts
Lemon balm is an aromatic herb belonging to the mint family.
Description/Taste
Lemon balm is grown for its aromatic heart-shaped and toothed leaves. When simply touched, pressed or bruised they releases an intense lemon fragrance. Fresh leaves reveal a sweet lemon zest taste with a hint of mint. During summer months the plant matures and small white flowers full of nectar appear. This nectar is harvested by bees for honey making. Lemon balm honey produces citrus flavors with mint undertones, much like the leaves it is derived from.
Nutritional Value
The extract of lemon balm has high antioxidant levels. Lemon balm has calming properties; thus it is used in herbal tea remedies and lemon balm oil is often used in aromatherapy.
Applications
Lemon balm is a strong, aromatic herb used commonly to infused oils, teas, syrups and sauces. It may be prepared fresh, or dried and crushed for rubs and dry seasoning. Pair the strong flavor of lemon balm with more mild tastes such as seafood, honey, citrus, summer squash and cucumber. Keep cool and dry until ready to use.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Lemon balm's scientific name is Melissa officinalis, "Melissa" being a Latin derivation of the Greek word for honey bee; "officinalis" indicates that the plant is medicinal in nature.
Geography/History
Native of South Europe, especially in mountainous situations, but is naturalized in moderate regions throughout the world, lemon balm is a common garden herb. It is an easily cultivated, non-discriminating plant that can be grown from seed, self-seeding or cuttings in virtually any soil.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Lemon Balm. One
is easiest, three is harder.| A Little Zaftig |
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Nectarine Lemon Balm Tipple |
