Market Report
- Category: July 2018
- Thursday, 19 July 2018
- Hits: 1981
What’s a sip of mojito or slice of key lime pie without the brightness of fresh lime juice? Lacking for starters.
Lucky then that limes are available year round to impart their aromatic, tangy goodness.
Understanding the varietal differences in limes might be useful for the best choices in culinary applications.
Although there are other citrus species that are referred to as “limes”, the Persian lime is the most widely cultivated lime species commercially grown. It accounts for the largest share of the fruits sold as limes.
Extremely flavorful, Persian limes are a key ingredient in regional cuisines worldwide. Also known as Tahitian or Bearss, Persian limes deliver an intensely tart flavor to your dishes and cocktails. Typically sold while still dark green, they become light green to a mild yellow as they ripen.
- Category: July 2018
- Thursday, 12 July 2018
- Hits: 1883
California pear farming areas are arguably in some of the most desirable and beautiful places in the state.
The beauty of historic pear orchards contributes significantly to the appeal of communities such as Courtland and Clarksburg, located in the Sacramento River Delta growing region.
Lakeport and Kelseyville represent the Lake County pear growing district. Ukiah, in the Mendocino growing district, rounds out the real estate.
Together these growing areas produce approximately 150,000 tons of pears each year. The volume of pears produced in California has declined in recent years, as has the number of pear farmers.
Even so, the California pear industry remains a leading supplier of pears to the world.
- Category: July 2018
- Thursday, 05 July 2018
- Hits: 1730
Any kind of summer surplus should be met with complete culinary abandonment.
Fresh herbs in particular have a way of elevating most creations. Don’t let their sheer abundance go to waste.
Transform those “tried and true” old dishes into something extraordinary. Herbs have an unforgettable brightness that catapults ho-hum up to OMG!
Classic salads are rejuvenated with an addition of chopped green herbs. Cilantro, mint and Italian parsley perk up any green, pasta or potato salad. Combine a couple to deliver a new take on favored Caesar, Cobb and Chopped versions.
Herbed butters and herb-infused oils are largely irresistible with grilled meats and vegetables. Finely minced tarragon, parsley, oregano or basil beg for a chance with softened butter and garlic for breads, pasta, seafood and fish.
- Category: July 2018
- Thursday, 28 June 2018
- Hits: 1812
Steamy summer days make it tough to stay cool. Staying hydrated is another matter altogether.
Drinking enough water or other fluids is a tall order for some. It can require a deliberate action plan. This is particularly true when it comes to seniors, children and athletes.
Adequate hydration can prevent cramps, heat exhaustion, dizziness, low blood pressure and heat stroke.
The average person can lose as many as ten cups of fluid from daily activities and exercise. This may be staggering on extremely hot days with severe consequences. Frequent hydration is essential.
There are plenty of tricks to boost smart hydration. Visual cues are helpful reminders to stay replenished throughout the day. Set up a hydration station in plain sight.