Produce Briefs...
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.
Spring Onions
Spring onions are most often utilized raw. The whole onion can be flash blanched and grilled, which brings out more the robust and sweet elements of the onions, and makes them a bolder pair for fish and meats
Seasons/Availability
Loquats come from different parts of the world and can be available year round.
Current Facts
The loquat's scientific name is Eriobotrya japonica. It is also known as Japanese plum. It is a member of Rosaceae, the rose family, along with the apple, strawberry and pear. One name for the loquat in Chinese is pipa, which means lute, the musical instrument that resembles the shape of the loquat cluster.
Description/Taste
Loquats grow on trees in clusters of 4-30. They can be smooth or fuzzy, yellow to yellow-orange, and round, oval, or pear-shaped. Their taste has been described as sweetly tart, similar to apricot or mango.
Nutritional Value
Loquats are a source of calcium, potassium, fiber and vitamin A. They are used in Chinese medicine for digestive and respiratory issues. The seeds contain amygdalin, which is used as the cancer drug laetrile. The seeds also contain toxic cyanide compounds.
Applications
Loquats can be used in any recipe that calls for stone fruits like peaches, apricots, or plums. Loquats are high in pectin and make delicious jellies, jams and compotes. They can be pickled and make good salsas and chutneys. The loquat can be used in sauces for either savory or sweet items, such as meats or ice cream.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Loquat fruit is used in making plum wine. Loquat tree wood has been used in place of pear tree wood in the making of rulers. The fragrant loquat blossom was considered for use in perfume oils in France, but the small yield did not warrant commercial production. Loquat leaf is dried for use as an herbal tea known as biwa-cha in Japan. Loquats are used in Mexico to celebrate Day of the Dead as offerings and ornaments on the altars.
Geography/History
The loquat is native to China and is featured in Chinese folklore. It is said that only royalty were permitted to eat the loquat, as it was believed that the fruit falling into the rivers strengthened the koi to swim up waterfalls and become dragons. Loquats have been in Japan for over a thousand years, and law books from the early 900s described how to properly offer the loquat to Shinto gods. The loquat was brought to the west in 1690 and soon made its way to warm climates around the world, including the Middle East, India, Spain, South America, South Africa, and Mexico. In the United States, loquat trees grow in Southern states, but generally produce fruit only in Hawaii, California and Florida. Currently, Japan is among the largest producers of loquats. It is an ingredient in many dishes in Japan and is often the featured topic on Japanese tv cooking shows.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Loquats. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Kahakai Kitchen |
|
Loquat Butter |
| Cafe Liz |
|
Toasts with Loquats, Cheese and Basil |
Recently Spotted
People have spotted Loquats using the Specialty Produce app for iPhone and Android.
Produce Spotting allows you to share your produce discoveries with your neighbors and the world! Is your market carrying green dragon apples? Is a chef doing things with shaved fennel that are out of this world? Pinpoint your location annonymously through the Specialty Produce App and let others know about unique flavors that are around them.
|
Olivewood Gardens Near National City, California, United States About 15 days ago Spotter's comments : I just picked myself a fresh Loquat off the tree that's growing in their garden! Delish! Jian small fruit stand near Xintiandi Near Shanghai, Shanghai, China About 25 days ago Spotter's comments : Loquats are in season. Large fruit... Fresh Mart on West Nanjing Road Near Shanghai, Shanghai, China About 33 days ago Spotter's comments : Fresh Loquats from Yunnan International BoutiQue Market Near Shanghai, Shanghai, China About 37 days ago Spotter's comments : Fresh Loquats are here large size at the International Boutique Market. Rancho San Diego Farmer's Market Near Rancho San Diego, California, United States About 53 days ago Spotter's comments : Rose Cottage Fruits is selling a handful of loquats today. Mildly sweet flavor and perfect ripeness. Santa Monica Farmers Market Near Santa Monica, California, United States About 77 days ago Spotter's comments : Loquats are available at Coleman farms at the market today. |
