Thursday, December 4, 2008

Produce Lesson- Wood Ear Mushrooms


These fungi are called “wood ear” for their ear shaped caps. They have a crisp, snappy texture and great color, which is what they are most commonly used for (over taste). Recent medicinal studies show that eating wood ear mushrooms may help to improve breathing and circulation, and the Chinese believe it also helps overall well-being. These mushrooms are dried and imported from Asia, leaving us to do the rehydrating. Soaking dried mushrooms in hot water for 15-20 minutes will soften them right up. Great paired with tofu or seafood!

Monday, December 1, 2008

Results

"Some of us will do our jobs well and some will not, but we will and be judged by only one thing: the result."
~Vince Lombardi, football coach

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Produce Lesson- Enoki Mushrooms

These long, skinny mushrooms make an incredible garnish but are also great in stir-frys, soups, sandwiches, and salads. Cooking enoki mushrooms will make them easier to digest, as overcooking will lead to a stringy, tough mushroom. Another idea: saute in oil then drain to use as a pasta substitute. Want to eat it raw? These mushrooms have a lettuce-like crunchiness. Delish!

Produce Lesson- Morel Mushrooms

Funny looking little mushrooms! Be sure to shake out the excess sand and dirt before eating these little guys, the honeycomb surface has a tendency to capture unwanted dirt particles. Morel mushrooms are full of rich, nutty flavors, perfect for a winter soup and even stuffing!

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Dining Recommendations - Ceviche


What a great name for a restaurant! Another gem of a find in St. Petersburg, Florida! Ceviche offers a wonderful, energetic ambiance...I could have sworn I was in Barcelona! The food was so authentic and delicious...I went twice in a row! So many wonderful things to try on their menu, it would take several trips to give it justice. Just to name a few items...you've got to try Ceviche de la Casa, Portobello Relleno, Pan con Tomate ( my favorite!), and Patatas Bravas, fried potatoes with their homemade alioli. Soooo good! And their homemade sangria? Even better! Visit Ceviche at 10 Beach Drive, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 209-2302