Fresh News
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 22 June 2017
- Hits: 69
The Summer of Love was a social phenomenon that occurred during the summer of 1967. As many as 100,000 people, converged in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district.
Tie-dyed clothing, love beads, men with long hair and a mantra of “free love” characterized the counterculture hippie groups that flocked to the city. A swirl of art, politics, music and revolution was in the air in 1967.
Among other notable shifts in traditions, this was the period in time that influenced our culture in the food movement and politics toward natural, organic and vegetarian diets in America.
The politics of food remain central to those conversations happening in California regarding organic farming, sustainability, improving childhood nutrition and the obesity epidemic.
Present day activism rises from the national trend toward local, sustainable and conscious eating. Consumers want to know what they’re eating, where it comes from and how it is produced.
Lucky for us then that locally grown actually means we’re able to enjoy melons, stone fruits, sweet corn, beans, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes that are actually grown and harvested close by.
Tie-dyed clothing, love beads, men with long hair and a mantra of “free love” characterized the counterculture hippie groups that flocked to the city. A swirl of art, politics, music and revolution was in the air in 1967.
Among other notable shifts in traditions, this was the period in time that influenced our culture in the food movement and politics toward natural, organic and vegetarian diets in America.
The politics of food remain central to those conversations happening in California regarding organic farming, sustainability, improving childhood nutrition and the obesity epidemic.
Present day activism rises from the national trend toward local, sustainable and conscious eating. Consumers want to know what they’re eating, where it comes from and how it is produced.
Lucky for us then that locally grown actually means we’re able to enjoy melons, stone fruits, sweet corn, beans, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes that are actually grown and harvested close by.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 16 June 2017
- Hits: 57
A renegade herb that will happily take over any untended garden bed, mint is a staple of summer eats and drinks.
Looking to exact a sense of culinary cool, calm, sweet or freshness? Mint is indispensable and without substitute.
The enticing aromatic gets its scent from the oil in the leaf, menthol.
A wide variety of mint plants exists, ready for use in the kitchen. The two most common are probably peppermint and spearmint and the more rare curly leaf, pineapple and ginger mint.
Get to know the nuanced differences so applications into salads, starters, sides, entrees, drinks, cocktails and desserts are best suited to specific flavor profiles.
A few top mints to get to know: Spearmint. Most commonly used in cooking for many notorious mint recipes, including lamb, spring rolls, vegetables (like peas, carrots, potatoes, beans and cucumbers), tabouli salad and favorite summer cocktails like mojitos and mint juleps.
Looking to exact a sense of culinary cool, calm, sweet or freshness? Mint is indispensable and without substitute.
The enticing aromatic gets its scent from the oil in the leaf, menthol.
A wide variety of mint plants exists, ready for use in the kitchen. The two most common are probably peppermint and spearmint and the more rare curly leaf, pineapple and ginger mint.
Get to know the nuanced differences so applications into salads, starters, sides, entrees, drinks, cocktails and desserts are best suited to specific flavor profiles.
A few top mints to get to know: Spearmint. Most commonly used in cooking for many notorious mint recipes, including lamb, spring rolls, vegetables (like peas, carrots, potatoes, beans and cucumbers), tabouli salad and favorite summer cocktails like mojitos and mint juleps.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 08 June 2017
- Hits: 103
Dads have that reputation for being “super-heroes”. That does not mean they have to eat like Superman, right?
Dads are just regular people looking to stay fit and healthy for their families. They do like to eat, drink and be merry when the opportunity strikes.
Upcoming Father’s Day is a perfect chance to share good food with the fathers in our lives. Like most holiday celebrations, the ways we make merry are diverse and unique.
Everyday dad food does not translate into “cheese, bacon and burgers”. Traditional fare from days long past was largely meat and potatoes basics for Dads. Maybe for most conventional men, that would still be typical.
New dude foods, prepared by using the freshest ingredients, strike a cord with those favorite family traditions and deliver full of flavor on the plate.
By example, Pops might like a nice ravioli with red sauce, skillet chilaquiles or marinated skirt steak on Father’s Day. Cooking at home can be a group effort. “No fuss” should be the mantra of the day, but if a little extra effort is made, we’re good!
Dads are just regular people looking to stay fit and healthy for their families. They do like to eat, drink and be merry when the opportunity strikes.
Upcoming Father’s Day is a perfect chance to share good food with the fathers in our lives. Like most holiday celebrations, the ways we make merry are diverse and unique.
Everyday dad food does not translate into “cheese, bacon and burgers”. Traditional fare from days long past was largely meat and potatoes basics for Dads. Maybe for most conventional men, that would still be typical.
New dude foods, prepared by using the freshest ingredients, strike a cord with those favorite family traditions and deliver full of flavor on the plate.
By example, Pops might like a nice ravioli with red sauce, skillet chilaquiles or marinated skirt steak on Father’s Day. Cooking at home can be a group effort. “No fuss” should be the mantra of the day, but if a little extra effort is made, we’re good!
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 01 June 2017
- Hits: 140
A plant-based diet can boost optimum health, decreasing the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
The main advantages with a plant-based diet seem to be related more to the foods consumed (eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts) rather than those foods avoided (primarily meats).
Staying at a healthy weight is easier on a plant-based diet and menu. A “less meat, more plants” style of eating can improve quality of life.
Associated benefits include the reduction of inflammation and diseases attributed to inflammation. Lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels are others plus ups seen with plant-based food choices.
There are many different types of plant-based diets. The three most common ones are: Vegan: No animal products such as meat, eggs, or dairy products. Lacto-vegetarian: No meat or eggs, but dairy products are acceptable. Lacto-Ovo-vegetarian: No meat is consumed, but dairy products and eggs are allowed.
The main advantages with a plant-based diet seem to be related more to the foods consumed (eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts) rather than those foods avoided (primarily meats).
Staying at a healthy weight is easier on a plant-based diet and menu. A “less meat, more plants” style of eating can improve quality of life.
Associated benefits include the reduction of inflammation and diseases attributed to inflammation. Lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels are others plus ups seen with plant-based food choices.
There are many different types of plant-based diets. The three most common ones are: Vegan: No animal products such as meat, eggs, or dairy products. Lacto-vegetarian: No meat or eggs, but dairy products are acceptable. Lacto-Ovo-vegetarian: No meat is consumed, but dairy products and eggs are allowed.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 26 May 2017
- Hits: 120
Memorial Day and weekend are focused on celebration and remembrance for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. We honor those who’ve died while serving this great nation.
Invariably, the weekend also ends up being the unofficial start of summer. Vacation travel, picnics, camping, barbecues and patio parties bring families and friends together.
Lucky for us all then that with warm weather trending, summer berries are coming into peak play. California growing regions are now harvesting sensational blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, boysenberries and blackberries.
Multi-dimensional, berries add that burst of color and flavor zing, just where expected. Planning for breakfast, smoothies, salads or summer desserts? Berries are a knockout for presentation and get an A+ for taste.
Strawberries always seem to top the list for favorite fruits. Blueberries are inching up with kids and those adults who like to power up with super foods.
The antioxidants in berries just seem to be an added bonus. We eat them because we love them. The fact that they are a healthier alternative to other possible warm weather treats makes them all the more desirable.
Invariably, the weekend also ends up being the unofficial start of summer. Vacation travel, picnics, camping, barbecues and patio parties bring families and friends together.
Lucky for us all then that with warm weather trending, summer berries are coming into peak play. California growing regions are now harvesting sensational blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, boysenberries and blackberries.
Multi-dimensional, berries add that burst of color and flavor zing, just where expected. Planning for breakfast, smoothies, salads or summer desserts? Berries are a knockout for presentation and get an A+ for taste.
Strawberries always seem to top the list for favorite fruits. Blueberries are inching up with kids and those adults who like to power up with super foods.
The antioxidants in berries just seem to be an added bonus. We eat them because we love them. The fact that they are a healthier alternative to other possible warm weather treats makes them all the more desirable.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 18 May 2017
- Hits: 157
Public health officials estimate that nearly 48 million people are sickened each year by food that has been contaminated with harmful bacteria.
Most people are aware that animal products must be handled carefully to prevent illness. Many need a reminder that fresh produce can also be the culprit in outbreaks of foodborne illness.
Outbreaks can be large, widespread or localized. In recent years, lettuce, spinach, green onions and tomatoes have been the source of food illnesses.
As our fresh produce consumption trends up in summer months. Now is a good time for a refresh on practices and protocols on safe food handling.
Fresh produce can become contaminated in many ways. During the growing phase, fruits and veggies may be contaminated by animals, harmful substances in the soil or water, and by poor hygiene among workers. After produce is harvested, it passes through many hands, increasing contamination risks.
Most people are aware that animal products must be handled carefully to prevent illness. Many need a reminder that fresh produce can also be the culprit in outbreaks of foodborne illness.
Outbreaks can be large, widespread or localized. In recent years, lettuce, spinach, green onions and tomatoes have been the source of food illnesses.
As our fresh produce consumption trends up in summer months. Now is a good time for a refresh on practices and protocols on safe food handling.
Fresh produce can become contaminated in many ways. During the growing phase, fruits and veggies may be contaminated by animals, harmful substances in the soil or water, and by poor hygiene among workers. After produce is harvested, it passes through many hands, increasing contamination risks.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 11 May 2017
- Hits: 218
How does it taste? What can we make? How do we treat it? How much should we buy?
It’s amazing how the sight of a fragrantly ripe melon or aromatic peach will be perceived among any group of individuals. So many choices, all different, and none of them wrong.
Slice for the plate or a salad, blend for smoothie, sorbet or ices, grill for a summer side or bake into a breakfast or dessert treat. Preferences depend on the mind and heart of the cook.
Inspiration is generated from cookbooks, family traditions, culture, food magazine articles, and now, the abundance of irresistible social media posts.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 05 May 2017
- Hits: 238
Damasco is the Portuguese name for apricot. The Wesley/Patterson area of California is considered one of the prime apricot growing regions in the entire country.
Once named the “Apricot Capitol of the World”, the Mediterranean climate and well-drained soils make this location an apricot paradise.
This arid landscape is also still home to many Portuguese farmers and families who settled there to make farming a way of life.
Every summer, the Patterson Apricot Fiesta celebrates the stone fruit that has a rich California history. This year, the festival will run June 2nd — 4th.
Apricots debuted in California in the orchards and gardens of the Spanish missions. California farmers grow more than 95 percent of the nation’s apricots. In a typical weather year, harvest begins in Kern County and moves northward through the San Joaquin Valley to the Westley/Patterson area.
Once named the “Apricot Capitol of the World”, the Mediterranean climate and well-drained soils make this location an apricot paradise.
This arid landscape is also still home to many Portuguese farmers and families who settled there to make farming a way of life.
Every summer, the Patterson Apricot Fiesta celebrates the stone fruit that has a rich California history. This year, the festival will run June 2nd — 4th.
Apricots debuted in California in the orchards and gardens of the Spanish missions. California farmers grow more than 95 percent of the nation’s apricots. In a typical weather year, harvest begins in Kern County and moves northward through the San Joaquin Valley to the Westley/Patterson area.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 28 April 2017
- Hits: 222
Essential to any good cook’s essential ingredient list is the globe onion. A well stocked pantry will have on hand at the very least, one or two varieties.
The two main types of globe onions are pungent and mild. Both are classified into either long-day or short day bulbs, the length of daylight time required for the actual bulb to form.
Mild variety onions are typically large and juicy with thick rings and thin, papery skins that peel easily. They can be cooked, but are the likely candidates to be used raw on sandwiches, in salads and the like. These are the ones that make great onion rings.
Unfortunately, mild onions are very poor “keepers”. Even in ideal storage conditions, they will only maintain their eating quality for a couple months. Ideally, a windfall of mild onions can be preserved in pickles, salsas and chutneys.
The two main types of globe onions are pungent and mild. Both are classified into either long-day or short day bulbs, the length of daylight time required for the actual bulb to form.
Mild variety onions are typically large and juicy with thick rings and thin, papery skins that peel easily. They can be cooked, but are the likely candidates to be used raw on sandwiches, in salads and the like. These are the ones that make great onion rings.
Unfortunately, mild onions are very poor “keepers”. Even in ideal storage conditions, they will only maintain their eating quality for a couple months. Ideally, a windfall of mild onions can be preserved in pickles, salsas and chutneys.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 20 April 2017
- Hits: 228
Just when that reservoir of supper ideas runs dry, it’s time to circle back to the cue line on past great performances.
Quiche is one of those forgotten dishes that deserve a chance to rejoin the menu lineup.
Spring ingredients seem to lean in to the concept of quiche done right. A luscious pie filled with savory, cooked to perfect, ingredients.
Asparagus, peas, spinach, mushrooms, alliums, scallions and fresh herbs make for a bright start to a sensational dinner. Let’s face it, brunch or lunch are fair territory for a good tasting quiche, too.
Any excuse for homemade pie crust gets star status. The shell should be par-baked first to get a solid, firm texture going prior to filling with dairy and supporting cast members.
Quiche is one of those forgotten dishes that deserve a chance to rejoin the menu lineup.
Spring ingredients seem to lean in to the concept of quiche done right. A luscious pie filled with savory, cooked to perfect, ingredients.
Asparagus, peas, spinach, mushrooms, alliums, scallions and fresh herbs make for a bright start to a sensational dinner. Let’s face it, brunch or lunch are fair territory for a good tasting quiche, too.
Any excuse for homemade pie crust gets star status. The shell should be par-baked first to get a solid, firm texture going prior to filling with dairy and supporting cast members.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 13 April 2017
- Hits: 267
Once a harbinger of spring, asparagus is now available nearly year round with imported product from Peru and Mexico.
Even so, when fields in California begin to sprout up tender tips, by early April, it’s indicative of a seasonal shift in local eating habits.
An elegant vegetable with long, tender shoots that are generally categorized as white, purple and green varieties, all belonging to a plant in the lily family.
The shoots of the green and white varieties are usually hand-harvested when the stalks reach a height of around eight inches and are one quarter to half inch thick. The compact, tightly packed leaves (resembling scales) at the top of the stalk are prized for their soft, to crunchy texture and mild, provocative flavor.
Green asparagus is traditionally the most common variety grown in the United States. Purple or white asparagus is usually available on a limited basis in specialty and farmers markets.
Even so, when fields in California begin to sprout up tender tips, by early April, it’s indicative of a seasonal shift in local eating habits.
An elegant vegetable with long, tender shoots that are generally categorized as white, purple and green varieties, all belonging to a plant in the lily family.
The shoots of the green and white varieties are usually hand-harvested when the stalks reach a height of around eight inches and are one quarter to half inch thick. The compact, tightly packed leaves (resembling scales) at the top of the stalk are prized for their soft, to crunchy texture and mild, provocative flavor.
Green asparagus is traditionally the most common variety grown in the United States. Purple or white asparagus is usually available on a limited basis in specialty and farmers markets.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 06 April 2017
- Hits: 295
It won’t come as a surprise that color has a profound effect on mood. With Spring in gear, plan to lift more than a mood by surrounding work and home spaces with bright flowers, flowering plants and potted herbs.
Placing pots of color in work environments and around the house can seriously boost productivity and contribute to our mental clarity throughout the day.
While there are many high-tech ways to improve air quality, one refreshingly easy method is to bring living plants into our living spaces. Better indoor air quality helps to keep the immune system strong. Breathing fresher air is invigorating and brightens up the day.
Placing pots of color in work environments and around the house can seriously boost productivity and contribute to our mental clarity throughout the day.
While there are many high-tech ways to improve air quality, one refreshingly easy method is to bring living plants into our living spaces. Better indoor air quality helps to keep the immune system strong. Breathing fresher air is invigorating and brightens up the day.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 30 March 2017
- Hits: 692
Brussels sprouts and cauliflower have enjoyed the recent limelight with chefs and home cooks.
The humble carrot is worthy of some kitchen love and attention.
Carrots are at their sweetest in spring, when their bright colors and delicate flavors shine.
They are tender enough to enjoy raw in salads and yet hearty enough for roasting, pickling, mashing and purees. Soups and stews are made better when carrots take the stage.
Juicing carrots, alone or with other fruits and vegetables, is a game changing spring ritual for those looking for a seasonal cleanse or detox. Their inherent, earthy sweetness balances other flavors.
The humble carrot is worthy of some kitchen love and attention.
Carrots are at their sweetest in spring, when their bright colors and delicate flavors shine.
They are tender enough to enjoy raw in salads and yet hearty enough for roasting, pickling, mashing and purees. Soups and stews are made better when carrots take the stage.
Juicing carrots, alone or with other fruits and vegetables, is a game changing spring ritual for those looking for a seasonal cleanse or detox. Their inherent, earthy sweetness balances other flavors.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 23 March 2017
- Hits: 411
Dragon fruit is a beautiful, exotic fruit grown in Southeast Asia, Mexico, Central and South America, and Israel.
While not commonplace, they seem to be showing up a lot lately in grocery stores across the nation.
This tropical cactus fruit is delicately sweet with a mildly acidic flavor, reminiscent of watermelon, cactus pear, and kiwi.
The fruit comes in three colors; two have a pink outer skin, but with two different colored flesh (one white and the other has a red interior. The third one has an exterior yellow skin with white flesh.
All three types have tiny, edible black seeds (very similar to those found inside Kiwi). The seeds should be chewed in order to be fully digested.
Less well known as other powerhouse fruits, dragon fruit qualifies as a Superfood. Sometimes known as pitaya, this tropical delight is giving acai a run for its money. Companies like Pitaya Plus sell juices, smoothie packs, and even pitaya bowls.
While not commonplace, they seem to be showing up a lot lately in grocery stores across the nation.
This tropical cactus fruit is delicately sweet with a mildly acidic flavor, reminiscent of watermelon, cactus pear, and kiwi.
The fruit comes in three colors; two have a pink outer skin, but with two different colored flesh (one white and the other has a red interior. The third one has an exterior yellow skin with white flesh.
All three types have tiny, edible black seeds (very similar to those found inside Kiwi). The seeds should be chewed in order to be fully digested.
Less well known as other powerhouse fruits, dragon fruit qualifies as a Superfood. Sometimes known as pitaya, this tropical delight is giving acai a run for its money. Companies like Pitaya Plus sell juices, smoothie packs, and even pitaya bowls.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 16 March 2017
- Hits: 409
Before we know it, California grown citrus fruits will have to make room for cherries, berries and stone fruits. For now, the pleasure is in citrus.
Good news then that Cara Cara and blood oranges are not the only hand fruits we can indulge in for the next few weeks.
The Golden Nugget mandarin is an exceptional, late season variety that is worth the recent attention and new found popularity.
Characteristically, it is roughly rounded in shape and rather bumpy in exterior texture. Its skin is golden orange, aromatic and easy to peel. Its easily segmented flesh is deep orange, tender, juicy, extremely sweet and always seedless.
Good news then that Cara Cara and blood oranges are not the only hand fruits we can indulge in for the next few weeks.
The Golden Nugget mandarin is an exceptional, late season variety that is worth the recent attention and new found popularity.
Characteristically, it is roughly rounded in shape and rather bumpy in exterior texture. Its skin is golden orange, aromatic and easy to peel. Its easily segmented flesh is deep orange, tender, juicy, extremely sweet and always seedless.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 09 March 2017
- Hits: 432
The National Mango Board has launched a new marketing campaign, renaming the Ataulfo mango variety to Honey mango.
Over the years, the Ataulfo name has been repeatedly reported as hard to pronounce for United States consumers, retailers and foodservice users.
They’ve had a bit of an “identity crisis” with other names attached to them as well. Champagne, yellow, young, baby and Adolfo are all name tags placed on this beloved sweet piece of fruit.
Difficulty with the name has created some missed educational opportunities for this popular Mexican cultivar.
A main difficulty in the name has been a barrier to purchasing for those U.S. mango lovers confused about the mango. Using Honey mango is a consumer-friendly way to improve the honey mango awareness and purchases.
Over the years, the Ataulfo name has been repeatedly reported as hard to pronounce for United States consumers, retailers and foodservice users.
They’ve had a bit of an “identity crisis” with other names attached to them as well. Champagne, yellow, young, baby and Adolfo are all name tags placed on this beloved sweet piece of fruit.
Difficulty with the name has created some missed educational opportunities for this popular Mexican cultivar.
A main difficulty in the name has been a barrier to purchasing for those U.S. mango lovers confused about the mango. Using Honey mango is a consumer-friendly way to improve the honey mango awareness and purchases.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 02 March 2017
- Hits: 447
With Spring just a couple of weeks away, the taste for spring vegetables gets amplified. Working those veggies on to the plate is easy when we put them on pizza.
Asparagus, arugula, leeks, artichoke hearts and mushrooms are very strong topping contenders for spring pizzas pies.
Other choices may take some finessing and more careful handling. Fennel comes to mind. This spring bulb with fronds has the power to intimidate.
Even so, with just the right cheese partner and some grilling with onions, this one becomes a winner for any Friday night.
Roasted eggplant is another fantastic spring pizza topper. Layering the eggplant slices with loads of roasted garlic, feta cheese and pine nuts keeps it true to its Mediterranean roots.
Asparagus, arugula, leeks, artichoke hearts and mushrooms are very strong topping contenders for spring pizzas pies.
Other choices may take some finessing and more careful handling. Fennel comes to mind. This spring bulb with fronds has the power to intimidate.
Even so, with just the right cheese partner and some grilling with onions, this one becomes a winner for any Friday night.
Roasted eggplant is another fantastic spring pizza topper. Layering the eggplant slices with loads of roasted garlic, feta cheese and pine nuts keeps it true to its Mediterranean roots.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 24 February 2017
- Hits: 505
Encouraging an appetite is hardly the worry for most healthy individuals. Too many of us are trying to squash our food cravings.
For others, it can be quite a challenge to coax eating for sustenance and nourishment.
Nearly everyone knows a friend, neighbor or family member who suffers from lack of interest or desire to eat or drink.
Typically, this is due to a temporary setback, like having the flu or recovering from dental work. The condition is short term and normal eating patterns will resume.
Diminished appetites from chronic conditions (aging and disease) jeopardize optimum health and often indicate something more serious can be at work. Depression, sadness, grief and health disorders are all on the table when the will to eat goes south.
For others, it can be quite a challenge to coax eating for sustenance and nourishment.
Nearly everyone knows a friend, neighbor or family member who suffers from lack of interest or desire to eat or drink.
Typically, this is due to a temporary setback, like having the flu or recovering from dental work. The condition is short term and normal eating patterns will resume.
Diminished appetites from chronic conditions (aging and disease) jeopardize optimum health and often indicate something more serious can be at work. Depression, sadness, grief and health disorders are all on the table when the will to eat goes south.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 16 February 2017
- Hits: 411
A mid-winter slump begs for more choices in the week night meal rotation. Soup and sandwich riffs take some pressure off anyone responsible for putting food on the table.
Affordable and satisfying, a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup combo are pretty hard to beat.
Their warmth and comfort goes past those Campbell’s Soup commercials. Think of other natural pairings and get into the spirit of a lunch or dinner that don’t require much homework.
Explore cream of celery, French onion, Thai asparagus, vegetable, potato — leek and minestrone soup profiles. A vast catalog of recipes are available to assist.
Spicy versions of tortilla, Mulligatawny and pho take us to great exotic tastes from around the world. Chile peppers, curry, lentils, ginger root, mushrooms and garlic make for exceptional soup starters.
Affordable and satisfying, a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup combo are pretty hard to beat.
Their warmth and comfort goes past those Campbell’s Soup commercials. Think of other natural pairings and get into the spirit of a lunch or dinner that don’t require much homework.
Explore cream of celery, French onion, Thai asparagus, vegetable, potato — leek and minestrone soup profiles. A vast catalog of recipes are available to assist.
Spicy versions of tortilla, Mulligatawny and pho take us to great exotic tastes from around the world. Chile peppers, curry, lentils, ginger root, mushrooms and garlic make for exceptional soup starters.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 09 February 2017
- Hits: 491
Nearly anything stuffed will convince us that there is a celebration in the making.
That could mean an easy weeknight dinner party if the vehicle used for stuffing is a portobello mushroom.
In Northern Italy, this oversized mushroom is called “cappellone” which means “big hat”. It makes sense as the shape resembles a large cap or topper (just right for stuffing).
To be clear, once a crimini mushroom reaches between four to six inches in diameter, it is officially called a portobello or portabella. Yes, they are one in the same variety, with a different maturity level dictating its name.
A portabello is recognized by it’s open, flat surface (cap). Because it’s left to grow larger, the gills are fully exposed. This means that some of the mushroom’s moisture has evaporated. The reduced moisture concentrates and enriches the flavor and creates a dense, meaty texture.
That could mean an easy weeknight dinner party if the vehicle used for stuffing is a portobello mushroom.
In Northern Italy, this oversized mushroom is called “cappellone” which means “big hat”. It makes sense as the shape resembles a large cap or topper (just right for stuffing).
To be clear, once a crimini mushroom reaches between four to six inches in diameter, it is officially called a portobello or portabella. Yes, they are one in the same variety, with a different maturity level dictating its name.
A portabello is recognized by it’s open, flat surface (cap). Because it’s left to grow larger, the gills are fully exposed. This means that some of the mushroom’s moisture has evaporated. The reduced moisture concentrates and enriches the flavor and creates a dense, meaty texture.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 02 February 2017
- Hits: 533
Tulips carry a very storied past. They have the ability to capture hearts (and break them), make fortunes (and lose them), inspire poetry and art and influence culture.
The tulip originated centuries ago in Persia and Turkey, where 80 or so wild varieties were grown in very arid regions.
The tulip in Iran (Persia) represents paradise on earth and of having divine status. Europeans gave tulips their name, mistakenly, derived from the Persian word for “turban”.
As Europeans began taking to tulips, the flower’s popularity spread quickly, particularly in the Netherlands where a phenomenon dubbed tulip mania set in at one point during the 17th century. The Dutch use a tulip to represent a human’s brief time on earth.
Tulips became so highly-prized in the 1600’s that prices were sent soaring and markets crashing. Tulips are now grown throughout the world, but people still identify cultivated varieties as “Dutch tulips.”
The tulip originated centuries ago in Persia and Turkey, where 80 or so wild varieties were grown in very arid regions.
The tulip in Iran (Persia) represents paradise on earth and of having divine status. Europeans gave tulips their name, mistakenly, derived from the Persian word for “turban”.
As Europeans began taking to tulips, the flower’s popularity spread quickly, particularly in the Netherlands where a phenomenon dubbed tulip mania set in at one point during the 17th century. The Dutch use a tulip to represent a human’s brief time on earth.
Tulips became so highly-prized in the 1600’s that prices were sent soaring and markets crashing. Tulips are now grown throughout the world, but people still identify cultivated varieties as “Dutch tulips.”
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 26 January 2017
- Hits: 505
Few humble ingredients provide such comfort and sustenance as greens and beans.
By beans, we naturally mean legumes– that class of vegetables that include lentils, peas and beans of all types.
Cannellini, Italian, chick peas (garbanzo), black, white, navy, northern, lima, fava, Adzuki and butter top the list of powerhouse beans.
Legumes are typically low in fat, containing no cholesterol, and are high in folate, potassium, iron and magnesium. A good source of protein, legumes can be a healthy alternative to meat.
Due to their blend of fiber, protein and nutrients, legumes aid in blood sugar regulation more than almost any other food group, a key quality for diabetics and those concerned with maintaining stable insulin response.
By beans, we naturally mean legumes– that class of vegetables that include lentils, peas and beans of all types.
Cannellini, Italian, chick peas (garbanzo), black, white, navy, northern, lima, fava, Adzuki and butter top the list of powerhouse beans.
Legumes are typically low in fat, containing no cholesterol, and are high in folate, potassium, iron and magnesium. A good source of protein, legumes can be a healthy alternative to meat.
Due to their blend of fiber, protein and nutrients, legumes aid in blood sugar regulation more than almost any other food group, a key quality for diabetics and those concerned with maintaining stable insulin response.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 20 January 2017
- Hits: 503
Goodbye monkey, hello rooster”. The Lunar New Year begins on January 28, with fifteen days of celebration and feasting ahead.
Shrug off the shenanigans of 2016 (those mischievousness monkey traits) and usher in the confidence of the rooster.
Always well dressed, other rooster traits include loyalty, talkativeness, punctuality, honesty and hard-working discipline.
As the two week Spring Festival celebrations take place, families and friends travel great distances to be together over shared meals and special events.
Shrug off the shenanigans of 2016 (those mischievousness monkey traits) and usher in the confidence of the rooster.
Always well dressed, other rooster traits include loyalty, talkativeness, punctuality, honesty and hard-working discipline.
As the two week Spring Festival celebrations take place, families and friends travel great distances to be together over shared meals and special events.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 13 January 2017
- Hits: 460
No surprise that the Fitbit App was one of the top ten free apps downloaded after the Christmas holiday.
No doubt, there are many other cool ways to track fitness on various devices these days. Anyone with a smartphone is capable.
Getting motivated and setting goals are what is required for a road to wellness.
Realistic, approachable targets will be the ones that stick. A thirty minute a day minimum approach to exercise is a good start for those more sedentary folks. Walking is an activity that is accessible to most everyone. No memberships required.
The general recommendation is to walk 10,000 steps per day. This is a good goal for someone just getting started. Fit individuals can and should strive for more.
No doubt, there are many other cool ways to track fitness on various devices these days. Anyone with a smartphone is capable.
Getting motivated and setting goals are what is required for a road to wellness.
Realistic, approachable targets will be the ones that stick. A thirty minute a day minimum approach to exercise is a good start for those more sedentary folks. Walking is an activity that is accessible to most everyone. No memberships required.
The general recommendation is to walk 10,000 steps per day. This is a good goal for someone just getting started. Fit individuals can and should strive for more.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 05 January 2017
- Hits: 627
Tart and tangy, with an underlying sweetness, winter grapefruit offer brightness to the cold days of January.
This juicy piece of citrus shines by promoting good nutrition while delivering a zippy taste.
Originally known as “the forbidden fruit”, grapefruit made its way to the United States in the early 1800’s via the Spanish and French settlers who brought seeds to Florida.
From there, Spanish missionaries are credited for bringing grapefruit west to Texas, Arizona and California.
Although available year-round, they are in season and at their best from winter through early spring.
This juicy piece of citrus shines by promoting good nutrition while delivering a zippy taste.
Originally known as “the forbidden fruit”, grapefruit made its way to the United States in the early 1800’s via the Spanish and French settlers who brought seeds to Florida.
From there, Spanish missionaries are credited for bringing grapefruit west to Texas, Arizona and California.
Although available year-round, they are in season and at their best from winter through early spring.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 29 December 2016
- Hits: 612
Gathering twelve round fruits on the eve of a new year is said to usher in prosperity and good fortune. Let it roll.
Eating round fruits for each month represents a healthy approach to the new year. It may be daunting if all done at one sitting, unless berries or grapes are available.
Lucky for us that so many globe-shaped fruits are readily available nearly year-round.
These days, apples and oranges are almost taken for granted. They get packed in school lunches every day with hardly a thought. Okay, so maybe they do get sliced into smiles or smaller portions. They start out as a round piece of fruit.
Grapes, pears, quince, cranberries, kiwi, persimmons, mango and pomegranates are seasonal choices that fit a resolve to improve monthly intake. Some of these, while sourced from around the world, will take some planning month-by-month to work into the meal rotation.
Eating round fruits for each month represents a healthy approach to the new year. It may be daunting if all done at one sitting, unless berries or grapes are available.
Lucky for us that so many globe-shaped fruits are readily available nearly year-round.
These days, apples and oranges are almost taken for granted. They get packed in school lunches every day with hardly a thought. Okay, so maybe they do get sliced into smiles or smaller portions. They start out as a round piece of fruit.
Grapes, pears, quince, cranberries, kiwi, persimmons, mango and pomegranates are seasonal choices that fit a resolve to improve monthly intake. Some of these, while sourced from around the world, will take some planning month-by-month to work into the meal rotation.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 22 December 2016
- Hits: 601
Where there is clutter, even valuable things lose their importance. Where there is too much, nothing really stands out.
The essence of the Japanese aesthetic “MA” (pronounced “maah”) — is a concept of the pure, and indeed essential, void or space between all things.
MA is the absence or emptiness that is full of possibilities. It brings a promise yet to be fulfilled.
As we close this year and look to the one ahead, clearing space for more meaningful things to exist goes beyond any one culture.
Taking a page from aspects in Japanese culture gives everyone a chance to pause in the hectic pace of daily life.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 15 December 2016
- Hits: 567
Available in a wide range of options– fresh, frozen and dehydrated forms, spuds are a go to ingredient when it’s time to innovate.
From side dishes to center-of-the-plate, they hold their own no matter how they are featured.
Potatoes remain one of America’s most popular and beloved vegetables.
The case for most valuable player is backed up by solid nutrition and ample versatility. Potatoes play an important role in a balanced, healthy diet.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 09 December 2016
- Hits: 638
Aromatic fresh herbs wear a lot of hats during the holiday season. Purposed for culinary, ornamental and even some medicinal assignments, they add an earthy delight to any party.
Classic holiday recipes call for parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. Mint, sage and oregano are customary for roasted meats, poultry and game.
In the spirit of creating new traditions, sprigs of mint and stems of rosemary are found at mimosa bars and on holiday cocktail stations.
Shortbread cookies and starter appetizers surprise guests by decorating morsels using finely chopped green herb leaves and flowers. This lends visual appeal and interesting flavors.
Cheese plates and party nibbles benefit from rosemary skewers as a way to master finger foods. The evergreen pine-like, pungent herb is a fine addition to rustic holiday breads and rolls.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 01 December 2016
- Hits: 633
Holiday gatherings require some imagination when it comes to contributing to potlucks, office parties or more festive social events.
Traditional fare is making room for the crowded space of decadent indulgences.
Fresh produce is central to luxury bites of hand-dipped chocolate figs, pears, kiwi and citrus.
The time-honored custom of making candied fruits is regaining popularity. Fruits retain their vivid color once steeped in a simple syrup. Booze it up with spirits (rum, vodka or bourbon) in the liquid mixture.
