7/19/2008 4:11:51 PM CST see larger Agretti Greens SUPC: 6150221 Pack: 3 bunches Availability: late April through June Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!! Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:32:28 PM PST) Description: Long favored in Rome and Umbria, AGRETTI is a mild Italian green. A couple of our local growers have planted seeds imported from Italy, and the resulting harvest is showing up on menus all over Los Angeles. Sauteed Skate Wing with Fingerling Potatoes, Manilla Clams and Agretti. Seared Spot Prawns with Agretti, Ginger and Lobster Butter. This unusual heirloom will only be available for a few weeks, so please call as soon as possible with your orders! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Yellow Romano Bean SUPC: 4545240 (5lb); 10lb in process Pack: 5 lb cartons; 10 lb cartons Availability: Off and on year-round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Allow 1 1/2 pounds of beans for four to six servings Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 40-45F; 95% relative humidity Notice: Tues. for Wed. loading (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:30:19 PM PST) Description: One of the most popular bean varieties, especially in Italy, is the Romano bean. These are YELLOW ROMANO BEANS, and they are members of the snap pole bean family. They are meaty, tender, flat, have stringless pods, and a unique flavor. Combine yellow Romano, French, Dragon Tongue, fresh Cannellini and Cranberry beans for a gourmand's five-bean salad. Good partners for fresh beans include olive oil, walnut oil, butter, crème fraiche, dark sesame and roasted peanut oils, basil, parsley, dill, tarragon, summer savory, ginger, shallots, garlic, tomatoes, olives and capers. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Wild Strawberries (Fraises des Bois) SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12/half pints; 6/half pints Availability: mid-May through January (may gap when weather is extremely hot) Ship: Airfreight only Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:29:30 PM PST) Description: (Please note! Wild Strawberries do not travel well! Chefs outside Southern California should plan on using them as an ingredient only. They will NOT arrive in garnish condition!) Wild Strawberries are beloved for their fragrance and flavor. Fruit expert David Karp explained Wild Strawberries in a New York Times article (April 15, 2005): "A different species from common strawberries, they have been cultivated in Europe since the Middle Ages, but they are delicate and small, an impossible combination for commercial growers." Karp reports that there are several different strains of Wild Strawberries, which explains why the Wild Strawberries we are currently receiving have a larger than usual berry size. Though they're larger than we're used to, these berries have the ethereal fragrance and Jolly Rancher flavor that make Wild Strawberries a rare treat. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Wild Baby Arugula SUPC: In Process Pack: 8oz; 1lb Availability: June through August Ship: Airfreight only Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:28:57 PM PST) Description: Substantially more peppery than its commercially grown cousin, WILD ARUGULA (Wild Rocket, Wild Rucola) is a very assertive green with quite a kick. Its leaves are quite small, but don't be fooled by their size. Their bright, mustardy, peppery flavor will add a zesty note to salads, soups, sauces (such as pestos and aiolis) and vegetable sautes. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger White Currant Berries SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12/half pints; 6/half pints Availability: mid-June through mid-July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:28:36 PM PST) Description: Alice Waters discusses White Currant Berries in her book, Chez Panisse Fruit: "White currants, sweeter and more delicate than red ones, need no service at all: you pull them off their stems and eat them like candy...Preserved red and white currants are a famous specialty of the French city of Bar-le-Duc, in Lorraine, where purists still follow a fourteenth-century recipe, using goose quills to poke the seeds out of each tiny currant before the berries are given a brief cooking in sugar syrup. Currant preserves are traditonally served with scones and cheese...white currants are extraordinarily beautiful, with a translucent skin that almost glows." /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Tree Ripe California Figs SUPC: Yes Pack: 6/pints Availability: June into July; August; mid-Sept into October Ship: Airfreight only Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:27:24 PM PST) Description: Once, Figs were just a fruit you remembered from your childhood but California’s commercial Fig production has put Figs within reach of chefs across the county. But this commercially grown fruit does not taste like the Figs we remember pulling from the tree in our Grandmother’s backyard. If you are looking for that sweet, rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture you fondly recall, we have the Fig for you! Like other soft fruit, Figs must be tree ripe to achieve the sugar levels nature intended. Our Tree Ripe Black Mission Figs are wonderful! They are so ripe that they will show some shrivel and the baskets will cut into some Figs but their flavor will be as good as you remember! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Sea Beans SUPC: 2526770 Pack: 5 lb. cartons Availability: Practically year-round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:24:29 PM PST) Description: The SEA BEAN is a marsh plant native to the coastal areas of Northwest Europe. This attractive leafless plant is also known as salicornia, samphire, marsh samphire, glasswort, and sea asparagus. The SEA BEAN, with its dark-green or reddish branching stalks, both looks and tastes like seaweed, but is actually a plant that grows in shallow marshes and salty mudflats throughout Europe and North America. Cultivated using fresh seawater in Baja Mexico, the sea bean is quite salty with a crisp texture and a flavor reminiscent of the sea. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Red Currant Berry SUPC: 2370575 Pack: 12/.5 pint trays Availability: June and July from the U.S., December and January from the southern hemisphere Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 95% Count: Storage/Handling: 34F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:22:30 PM PST) Description: Closely related to the gooseberry, RED CURRANTS are widely popular in northern Europe, but have two very short seasons here in the United States. Transluscent, bright red and literally bursting with juice, RED CURRANTS are extraordinarily beautiful. These tiny jewels are quite tart and have a flavor reminiscent of pomegranates. Often paired with raspberries, RED CURRANTS are wonderful in desserts and jams, and they offer a refreshing burst of tart flavor to fruit salads. Like pomegranates, RED CURRANTS are also added to savory dishes. Take Cumberland Sauce. A favorite with the English, this full-flavored sauce is a combination of red currants (or red currant jelly), port, orange and lemon zest, mustard and seasonings. RED CURRANTS are a beautiful treat...take advantage of their fleeting presence. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Rambutan SUPC: 3919479 Pack: 7 lbs per carton Availability: July through Feb; late April through June; August and September; November through January Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:21:20 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: RAMBUTANS are related to lychees and are sometimes known as "hairy lychees". Originally from Malaysia but now grown in tropical Central America and Southeast Asia, they are larger than lychees (about 2 inches in diameter) and look quite different, but have a similar texture. The taste is similar too, but slightly sharper. To prepare, cut around the equator of the fruit with a sharp knife, penetrating the skin only. Lift off the top half of the skin, leaving the fruit on the half shell, like an egg in an (rather hairy) egg cup. They can be added to fruit salads, served with ice cream (coffee ice cream is particularly compatible) or made into jams or jellies, but are best eaten on their own. (This fruit is irradiated in Hawaii for export to the mainland) /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Premium Tree Ripe Peaches (Yellow or White) SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 layer tray Availability: June through August Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:19:58 PM PST) Description: Peaches that are allowed to ripen on the tree are worlds apart from the USDA's definition of "tree ripe". Sweet and rich with juice that runs down your chin as you revel in their flavor...that's what true Tree Ripe Peaches offer. We purchase Tree Ripe Peaches from three different growers from California's Central Valley. The varieties change from week to week but the flavor and fragrance are always excellent! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Premium Tree Ripe Nectarines (Yellow or White) SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 layer tray Availability: June through August Ship: Airfreight only Yield: Count: 20 to 36 per tray Storage/Handling: 40F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:19:44 PM PST) Description: The USDA's standard for "tree ripe" is very similar to their standard for "vine ripe" (i.e. the fruit is just starting to ripen when it is harvested). Our definition, driven by our chefs, is very, very different. We are talking fragrant, juice-running-down-your-chin, very sweet, lots of flavor ripe. Because our Tree Ripe Yellow and White Nectarines are so ripe, they will show occasional bruising. Send the bruised fruit to Pastry and your diners will enjoy the very best Nectarine Sorbet or Nectarine Galettes in town! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Purple Ruffles Basil SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: June through October Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: PLEASE NOTE: Please order Monday for Wednesday shipment! (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:18:04 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Coleman Family Farm is growing this most gorgeous Basil variety...PURPLE RUFFLED BASIL. The color is rich and deep, and this variety is very fragrant. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Pineapple Mint SUPC: In Process Pack: 1 lb bag Availability: Year-Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:16:47 PM PST) Description: /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Morel Mushrooms SUPC: 1324789 (1lb); 2552487 (3lb); 1473248 (5lb) Pack: 1lb; 3lb; 5lb Availability: March or April through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:12:10 PM PST) Description: Eat more Morels! Although they are not mushrooms in the strict scientific sense (mushrooms are generally from a class of fungi known as Basidiomycetes, and morels and truffles are Ascomycetes) MORELS are a fungi considered to be mushrooms and have always been highly prized, especially in ancient times by Egyptian pharaohs who believed mushrooms were food of the gods. A discerning bunch, the pharaohs forbade mere mortals to consume MORELS. Today's chefs revere MOREL MUSHROOMS for their rich earthy quality. They may be tan, yellow or black in color, have short, thick, hollow stems and sponge-like, webbed pointed caps. Their honeycombed tops are hollow and perfect for stuffing... Try sausage or crabmeat for a tempting appetizer. These unique beauties are extremely tasty and adapt well to most types of cooking. In her book Chez Panisse Vegetables, Alice Waters offers a recipe in which "MORELS are stewed briefly with shallot, garlic, and a little water to encourage the release of their juices, then are mixed with herbs and bread crumbs and put into a baking dish. Baking concentrates the MORELS flavor". When prepared, the MORELS release a rich, nut-like flavor and woodsy fragrance. Those pharaohs knew a thing or two about food! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Mixed Marble Potatoes SUPC: In Process Pack: 10 lb carton Availability: Almost Year-Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!! Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:11:51 PM PST) Description: Hats off to the family farmer! Across the country family farms are being purchased by huge agricultural conglomerates...but that's mainly in the Mid-West, and those farms are growing wheat, corn, etc. Here in California the family farmer is king; thanks to their innovation and responsiveness. One of our most talented family farmers is digging his Santina Gold, Cranberry, and purple potatoes, and his Russian Banana and Rose Finn Apple fingerlings at a very early stage. He calls them MARBLE POTATOES. We call them wonderful. Young and sweet and quite small, these diminutive spuds are beautiful when roasted, steamed or sauteed and served whole. Think MIXED MARBLE POTATO Salad, Roasted MARBLE POTATOES with Thyme, Rosemary, and Fennel Seeds. MARBLE POTATOES Sauteed in Clarified Butter with Italian Parsley. No chopping, no dicing, no slicing. These beautiful little potatoes are ready to go! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Mulberries SUPC: In Process Pack: 4 oz clamshells Availability: July and August Ship: Airfreight Only! Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: Order Monday for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:11:17 PM PST) Description: (Please note: Mulberries will be wet and mushy when you receive them. They are purely an ingredient berry. Do not expect them to look like nice, dry Blackberries. Be ready for lots of juice in the bottom of the clamshell!) Native to western Asia, Black MULBERRIES are precious, both in availability and price. While they look like large blackberries, MULBERRIES have a wonderful, unique flavor. We know when to bow to an expert...We will let Alice Waters speak for us (from Chez Panisse Fruit): "Mulberries are wonderful...capture their essence...(by using) their juice in a dessert soup, with sliced fresh summer fruit. The sweet tartness of mulberries is good with peaches and nectarines, and we put them together in tarts and cobblers...The strong flavor of mulberries is beautifully tempered when they are served simply with sabayon or cream, and they make our best ice cream." Our grower has planted MULBERRIES in Southern California, and harvests them ripe and delivers them to us the very same day. Be aware that these very perishable berries will arrive to you wet, with a whole lot of juice in the bottom of the container...Testament to their ripe and juicy character! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Mango Nectarines SUPC: 5750344 Pack: 2 layer Availability: Short Season...Summer (End of June and early July) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 20, 30, and 40 series Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:09:01 PM PST) Description: A MANGO NECTARINE is one of those special fruits that is really best appreciated in person. We cannot effectively communicate the wonderful fragrance and outstanding flavor of this tender, short-season fruit. Sweet, exotic and perfumey, they are a wonderful summer fruit, grown exclusively in California. Suffice to say, they must be tasted to be believed. Get 'em while they're hot, because their season will be over before you know it. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Lemon Verbena SUPC: In Process Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: Spring/Summer Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 7:07:19 PM PST) Description: /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Gold Kiwi SUPC: 3007622 (1 layers) Pack: Volume Fill (27s, 36s); 1 layer Availability: May through October from New Zealand; late November through January from California Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 36, 39 Storage/Handling: 32F, 90-95% relative humidity Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:58:24 PM PST) Description: Sometimes, it's a little difficult to work bright green into the color scheme of a presentation. Well, GOLD KIWI brings a completely different color and flavor (beautiful yellow-gold and a bit of a mango taste with hints of melon) to salads and recipes. It is quite sweet, very juicy. GOLD KIWI has a smoother, almost fuzz free skin, much like the skin of baby kiwi. It is an absolutely natural grown product. GOLD KIWI is not genetically altered in any way. It was started roughly 15 years ago with a rootstock that arrived in New Zealand via China. Only 15 to 20 percent of the total New Zealand kiwi crop is devoted to GOLD KIWI. Bottom line...GOLD KIWI is a valuable addition to a specialty fruit repertoire. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Extra Small Haricot Vert Beans SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1lb bags Availability: late April into January Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:54:34 PM PST) Description: Very fine, tender and sweet, our Extra Small Haricot Vert Beans have exceptional flavor and texture. Their diameter is about half that of commercially grown French Beans. They look lovely and taste wonderful. This is how Haricot Vert were meant to be, and replacing commercially grown run-of-the-mill French Beans with our Extra Small Haricot Vert will make your plates look elegant and unique. Perfect for the holidays! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Chocolate Mint SUPC: 4183042 Pack: 1 lb. Availability: Spring Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:51:21 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Botanists know this herb as mentha piperita var. "Chocolate". We know it as CHOCOLATE MINT. This beautiful mint family member's scent actually has hints of chocolate. Chocolate mint reaches its full color potential when grown in full sun. If this herb is grown in partial shade, its fragrance will be the same, but its color will be pure green. Chocolate mint is a great alternative to traditional mint as a garnish and in recipes. Try infusing cream with chopped chocolate mint. Strain it and whip for flavored whipped cream. Or whip further into a chocolate mint butter. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Champagne Grapes SUPC: 8277360 Pack: 18 lb Availability: July through September from Arizona and California Ship: Truck Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 33F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:50:21 PM PST) Description: We've been eagerly awaiting their arrival...Champagne Grapes, also known as Black Corinth, are named for their sweet, wine-like flavor. Small and seedless, they are mouth-watering when chilled and eaten out-of-hand. You need not pull the berries from their very tender stems...just pop the whole cluster into your mouth or drape them on the edge of a champagne glass that holds a scoop of sorbet. The stems are so thin and tender that they do not detract from the fruit's sweet flavor. CHAMPAGNE GRAPES are a delicious addition to a green salad with roasted walnuts and a light dressing, or a beautiful garnish for slices of roasted pork or duck breast. For breakfast with a flair, try stirring champagne grapes into yogurt for a blast of flavor and color. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Brentwood Yellow Corn SUPC: Yes Pack: 48 count; 24 count Availability: mid-May through September Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Two ears yield 1 cup kernels Count: 48 or 24 ears Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:44:45 PM PST) Description: The Sweet Corn grown in the Brentwood area of California’s Sacramento River Delta is the best tasting, sweetest Corn we’ve found. Known as Brentwood Corn, this product has the well-deserved reputation across the country as the benchmark against which all other Corn is measured. The Sacramento River Delta boasts some of this country’s richest agricultural land, and is perfectly suited for growing outstanding Asparagus and Sweet Corn. For eons, the river has deposited sediment in lowest point of the central valley, the Delta. Thick organic soil (a.k.a. peat) was created as plants were covered by the sediment over time. First farmed in the mid-1800s, these organic soils are up to 60 feet deep in some areas. Brentwood Corn is all about terroir. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Boysenberries SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12/half pints; 6/half pints Availability: The month of June Ship: Airfreight only Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:44:06 PM PST) Description: Oh boy, they're here! The BOYSENBERRY, a hybrid of the blackberry and raspberry, have a rich, sweet, very distinctive flavor that combines the best qualities of both berries. The warm weather and sunlight of late Spring ripens the fruit, and they are perfect now for mouth-watering sauces, pies and other desserts. BOYSENBERRIES are highly perishable and very ripe when harvested, so please plan on using them only as an ingredient. They won't look pretty enough to use as a garnish but they will taste fabulous! Their season is brief, but their impact is mighty. Knott's Berry Farm is one of Southern California's most popular theme parks, and its humble beginnings were as a roadside stand where Mrs. Knott sold her BOYSENBERRY pies and preserves. Never underestimate the power of the BOYSENBERRY! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Velvet Apricot (Aprium) SUPC: In Process Pack: 1 layer tray Availability: July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 50 series Storage/Handling: 44F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:41:24 PM PST) Description: The results of crossing an Apricot with a Plum are apparently infinite. The latest hybrid to make an appearance is the Black Velvet Apricot (actually an Aprium). Its skin is the color of a Black Plum but it has the light colored fuzz of an Apricot. The texture and color are Plum-esque but the Apricot heritage has mellowed the flavor of the skin. Very, very pretty fruit. Perfect for amenities. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Mission Figs SUPC: Yes...call Pack: 1 layer trays Availability: June through November from California Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:38:34 PM PST) Description: The story that Adam (yes, that Adam) wandered through the Garden of Eden wearing a fig leaf should give you an idea of how long figs have been around. It's a shame that more Americans are not familiar with their attributes. According to Alice Waters in her new book, Chez Panisse Fruit, "Their soft, honeyed character tames the aggressiveness of hot peppers, garlic, and onions; stands up to the assertiveness of anchovies; and is beautifully complemented by the herbaceous flavors of thyme, mint and lavender. The classic Italian combination of figs and prosciutto has led us to explore other combinations of figs with salty or smoky pork and poultry". Waters continues, "(the BLACK MISSION's) purple-black delicate skin contains flesh that ranges from pale to dark pink and has good flavor...Ripe figs give to gentle pressure and often have small cracks in the skin." /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Knight (Purple) Carrots SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 10lb (small or Table sizes available) Availability: August through March; July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:38:11 PM PST) Description: In Roman times, Carrots were either purple or white. It was the Dutch who popularized the orange Carrot. So while purple Carrots are new to us, they represent the Carrot’s earliest incarnations. We were only mildly interested in these Black Knight Carrots when we first saw them. Yes, their very dark purple color goes all the way to their white core (they appear red in this picture but they really are a dark purple in real life!). Yes, they still have tons of color even after they are peeled. Yes, the purple color is rich and deep. But it was when we threw them in the oven and roasted them that we were really impressed. When cooked, the Black Knight Carrot’s intense purple color becomes even darker; more saturated. We cut them in half length-wise; the white core was beautifully displayed in stark relief next the dark purple flesh. Truly unusual. Really beautiful. And icing on the Carrot cake: their flavor is excellent and their texture is smooth. Wow. Those Romans really knew a good Carrot! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Currant Berry SUPC: Yes Pack: 12/half pints; 6/half pints Availability: early-July into August Ship: Airfreight only Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:37:40 PM PST) Description: From Alice Waters’ book Chez Panisse Fruit: “Black currants are seldom eaten as fresh fruit. They have a very strong almost resinous character, which is tamed and altered somewhat by cooking. Black currants are extensively grown in Burgundy, where they go into the making of crème de cassis…Black currants can be cooked down for jam or strained to make a puree, and they are delicious for syrups and superb in sherbet and ice cream.” Their season is short, so don’t miss out! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Baby Pearl Onions with Tops SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: mid-February through April; late May through August; November through December Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 7/6/2008 6:36:07 PM PST) Description: Our grower plants Pearl Onions and harvests them while still young and tender, with their tops attached. These little onions are so young they have not yet formed a skin…so no peeling! And isn’t that what every chef hates about Pearl Onions?!? Baby Pearl Onions served with just an inch or so of their lovely green tops personify the Spring harvest! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Radish SUPC: Pack: 20lb ctn; 10lb ctn Availability: late December through April Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 6/16/2008 9:33:05 AM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: BLACK RADISHES can be almost as pungent as horseradish, and are firm and rather dry; in short, nothing like the little red radishes that have graced salads and crudite platters for time immemorial. These sturdy, somewhat daunting, characters are roughly the shape and size of a turnip, sooty black or matte black-brown on the outside and white-fleshed. Their dense flesh has proved great for extended storage in root cellars through the years. People of Russian, Polish, German, Hungarian, Ukrainian, Lithuanian and/or Jewish heritage will recognize a black radish on sight, but the uninitiated may need a little coaxing to try them. Use black radishes to make amazing garnishes. Scrub the radish and carve away, leaving designs of black and white. In most countries that serve them, black radishes are enjoyed as an appetizer, but not eaten straight. They are either coarsely shredded or sliced thin, salted to mellow the bite, then rinsed, drained, and bound with sour cream or chicken fat; or radish slices are dipped in the latter. This unlikely and delicious duo is ususally offered with pumpernickel or shewy sour rye bread. But don't be bound by tradition. When black radishes are cut in fine julienne or coarsely shredded, their peppery bite works well in mixed slaws or as cooked vegetable strips in a remoulade dressing. Or chop the radish and combine with soft cheeses, sour cream, or chopped chicken liver. Black radishes taste like firm, rather strong turnips when cooked, but their cooking time is less predictable, ranging from 10-25 minutes, depending on how long the radish has been stored or how dense its flesh. Sliced, diced, or shredded, they add a piquancy to soups, stews, braises, or stir-fries. Or chop fine to add to meatball or meatloaf mixtures. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Ataulfo Mango SUPC: Yes Pack: 1 layer (16 to 22 ct) Availability: Mid-March through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 6/13/2008 4:33:04 PM PST) Description: Also known as Manila Mangoes, Ataulfo Mangoes are prized for their creamy, smooth texture and sweet flavor. Once they are available, we know that Champagne Mangoes (a branded Mango packed in Texas) are just around the corner. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Dry Satsuma Mandarin SUPC: Please Call Pack: 14oz bag Availability: Off and On throughout the year Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: please don't ask! Storage/Handling: Freezer (long term); Cool and Dry (short term) Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 6/9/2008 9:23:45 AM PST) Description: Our grower harvests ripe Satsuma Mandarins, peels them and slices them into 1/4- to 1/2-inch wheels. Then he dries them, and voila! The result is a high sugar, high acid, crispy, crunchy dried fruit that is the single most addictive fruit product we've found. Dry Satsuma Mandarins are like citrus popcorn...and once you start eating them, you can't stop! The wonderful bright citrus flavor rings true and the unexpected crunch is a welcome counter-point. Chefs have suggested topping salads and soups with Dry Satsuma Mandarins but they are so good they may be gone before service! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Quince SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 2 layer carton (30, 40 and 50 series) Availability: March through May from Chile; August through January from California Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: depends on pack size Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: (Last Updated: 4/21/2008 2:11:00 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Some botanists believe that the QUINCE was the "apple" in the Garden of Eden, so we can probably consider this an heirloom fruit. The PINEAPPLE variety is the most fragrant and flavorful, and therefore, the most popular and readily available. Hard as a rock, the QUINCE requires some effort from the cook, but the results are well worth the commitment. When cooked with sugar, PINEAPPLE QUINCE turns a lovely shade of rose and its fragrance is wonderfully spicy and rich. QUINCE's high pectin content makes it especially wonderful in jams, jellies and preserves. Cook as or with apples in sweet or savory dishes. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Sun Baby Orange Cherry Tomatoes SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12 pint baskets or 6 pint baskets (half case) Availability: February through April; May through August Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Please don't ask! There are lots!!! Storage/Handling: As Tomatoes Notice: In stock (Last Updated: 3/8/2008 8:43:08 PM PST) Description: They're back! Yay! Very small and super sweet, these little Sun Babies have deep orange color, and since they are vine-ripe, lots of flavor! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Veggie Sweet Peppers SUPC: Yes Pack: 12/full pints Availability: September through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 50F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 2/18/2008 8:04:27 PM PST) Description: Veggie Sweet Peppers look very similar to Red Fresno Chiles but they are sweet, not hot, and they come in red, yellow and orange colors. Great for garnish and perfect for stuffing and baking. They add great color and sweet flavor to any plate presentation. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Broccoli Spigarello SUPC: Yes Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: Year Round with a few weather-related gaps Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 2/17/2008 9:53:25 AM PST) Description: These beautiful greens taste just like Broccoli, and are perfect for braising or wilting and tossing with pasta. Broccoli Spigarello is actually a non-heading, heirloom Broccoli variety from Italy. The leaves are fiarly thick and their texture holds up well when cooked. Perfect for wilting, braising or sauteing and tossing with pasta, serving as a side or folding into polenta. The leaf shape changes as we go through the season: the leaves from new plantings are wide and not very curly, and as the plant matures the leaves narrow and become more curly. Either way, they are a wonderful addition to your greens choices! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Baby Arrowhead Spinach SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 3lb carton Availability: Year Round with weather-related gaps Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: As Spring Mix Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/18/2008 9:18:25 AM PST) Description: Grown on a small, family farm in Ventura County, California, Baby Arrowhead Spinach is our favorite Spinach for salads. Why? It's all about the flavor. Baby Arrowhead Spinach flavor starts out typically green and spinachy but its finish is quite rich with distinct notes of toasted nut. The lovely, unusual shape of the leaves is the icing on this cake! Add Baby Arrowhead Spinach to your regular Spring Mix or let it stand alone. Either way, you'll be serving the best Baby Spinach we've found! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Farmer's Market Mixed Berries SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12/half pints Availability: June through October; Blacks, Blues and Rasp only June through February Ship: Airfreight only Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/11/2008 9:24:15 PM PST) Description: This beautiful pack of Mixed Berries contains three pints each of four different truly ripe specialty Berries. Right now the pack contains Golden Raspberries, Tulameen Raspberries (15% sugar with floral notes), Triple Crown Blackberries (16% sugar...amazingly sweet Blackberries!) and Blueberries (17% sugar with surprising depth of flavor). Once you taste these Berries you will understand why Farmer's Markets have such devoted fans...commercially grown and distributed Berries don't even come close to these! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Okinawa Sweet Potatoes SUPC: In Process Pack: 10 lb. Availability: Year-round with weather-related gaps in winter Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 50F; low humidity Notice: 1 day before shipment (Last Updated: 1/4/2008 6:13:58 PM PST) Description: A native of the Japanese island Okinawa, the Okinawa Sweet Potato with its light brown skin and unusual purple flesh is richly nutritious and surprisingly sweet. Scientifically classified as a yam, this root vegetable is a staple among the people of Okinawa and Hawaii, and has surpassed the popularity of the ordinary yam due to the presence of of the antioxidant, polyphenol. Because of its delicate sweet taste, it is often simply boiled, cut into chunks and served, but those with a more creative flair treat it in less traditional ways. PIcture a wilted spinach salad piled in the center of a salad plate with rosettes of the warm, slightly sweet Okinawas piped around the salad, or a mound of caramelized onions and apples and a couple of lamb chops. Mashed, mixed with grated ginger and topped with sesame seeds, Okinawa Sweet Potatoes are often served toward the end of the meal. For a taste of the Orient, serve purple sweet potato tempura as an appetizer or a side dish. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Rose Finn Apple Fingerling Potato SUPC: In Process Pack: 10 lb cartons/50 lb cartons Availability: January through August Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies widely Storage/Handling: As potatoes Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2008 6:10:21 PM PST) Description: The ROSE FINN APPLE is a fingerling potato. The small finger shaped tubers exhibit eyes of medium depth, rose-colored smooth skin and pale yellow, waxy, moist flesh. ROSE FINN APPLE FINGERLINGS are especially yummy when roasted. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Meyer Lemons SUPC: 2519262 (20 lb); 2519270 (10 lb); (a new code for the 30lb Choice carton is in process) Pack: 20lb, 10lb or Choice 35lb Availability: September through May, then sporadically through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2008 5:54:10 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Botanists believe the MEYER LEMON is a hybrid, a cross between a regular lemon and either an orange or a mandarin. They're sometimes smaller than a regular lemon, rounder in shape, with a thin, soft, and smooth rind which ranges from greenish when slightly immature to a rich yellow-orange when fully ripe. The rind lacks the typical lemon peel oil aroma and the pulp is darker yellow and less acidic than a regular lemon. The complex flavor and aroma hints of sweet lime, lemon and mandarin and a lingering essence of lavender. Like most citrus, Meyer lemons originated in China where they have been grown for at least several hundred years. Frank Meyer, a plant explorer for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, found them growing near Peking and introduced them to the U.S. in 1908. Today, most are grown in California's Central Valley, south of Fresno and in the Sacramento Valley. A few growers in northern San Diego County sell mainly to organic and farmers' markets. They're also grown in Texas and Florida. Peak season in most areas is November, December, and January, but can extend to April. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Fava Bean SUPC: 2016806 Pack: Wire-Bounds Availability: Almost Year-round; May and June is peak of season Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: One pound of pods yields about ½ cup of beans. Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2008 5:34:21 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Fans of FAVA BEANS don't seem to mind the work it takes to prepare them. They laud the bean's distinctive flavor and creamy texture. How much work? you ask. Well, in addition to having to strip them from their sleeping bag of a pod, you must also remove the tender beans from the pale green, bitter skin enclosing them. To do so, strip the beans from the pod. Plunge them into boiling water for one minute, drain, and let cool. Pierce the smooth top of the shell with your thumbnail and squeeze out the bean inside. Skinned favas are a brilliant spring green. They can stand on their own as a side dish, or you may add them to vegetable stews and pasta dishes. One pound of pods yields only about ½ cup of beans. They go well with olive oil, yogurt, rosemary, dill, parsley and thyme. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Baby Purple Artichokes SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 5lb carton Availability: Year Round (with short gaps in July and November) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/4/2008 5:14:30 PM PST) Description: We love these little chokes! The offshoots of an Artichoke variety developed here in Southern California, BABY PURPLE ARTICHOKES have a more intense, nuttier flavor than their Green Globe cousins. They also cook faster. Our grower developed this variety, Fiesole, in 2004 from traditional European varieties such as French 'Violet de Provence' and Italian cousins in Sicily, Tuscany, and Venice, like 'Violetto di Toscana'. Along with cooking BABY PURPLE ARTICHOKES, our grower suggests trimming these little babies, cutting them in quarters and serving them raw with bagna cauda. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Russian Banana Fingerling Potato SUPC: 4794921 (10lb.), 7500127 (50lb.) Pack: 10 lb cartons/50 lb cartons Availability: Year-Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 40-45F, 90% relative humidity Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 9/10/2007 9:44:02 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Developed in the Baltic region of Eurasia and praised for its excellence as a salad potato, the RUSSIAN BANANA FINGERLING POTATO is a medium sized tuber with yellow skin and flesh. This particular variety has firm texture and great flavor...perfect for salads or sautes. At this time of year, our RUSSIAN BANANA FINGERLINGS are true "new potatoes"...we receive them less than 24 hours after they were dug. In addition, all of our Russian Bananas have been hand-sorted to a consistant size by our grower. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Sugar Crisp Carrots SUPC: 0851576 Pack: 10 lb cartons Availability: July through May Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!! Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 9/10/2007 9:43:45 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: These big, yellow carrots are amazingly juicy, crisp and sweet. A Nantes variety, SUGAR CRISP CARROTS are very desirable for several reasons: 1) Their bright yellow color is a colorful change from traditional orange carrots, 2) their juicy texture is worlds apart from commercially grown carrots, and 3) their sweet flavor is a welcome surprise. Every carrot recipe known to man will be enhanced by SUGAR CRISP CARROTS. Try Shredded SUGAR CRISP CARROT and Gold Beet Salad with Ginger Sesame Vinaigrette served on Baby Spinach. Or try a Chilled Golden Carrot Soup with Lovage and Mint. Or slice for an amazing, colorful addition to your crudite platter. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Sunchokes (Jerusalem Artichokes) SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 5lb (Farmer's Market); 10lb; 20lb; 12/1lb cello Availability: September into November (Farmer's Market); November through August (commercial) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 9/6/2007 9:58:17 AM PST) Description: The French explorer Samuel de Champlain (1567–1635) found the Sunchoke growing in Indian gardens along the Saint Lawrence seaway and carried specimens of it back to France in 1603. By the late eighteenth century it became a popular vegetable in both Europe and America, though it yielded to the larger potato during the first half of the nineteenth century. The Sunchoke is a lumpy, brown-skinned tuber that resembles gingerroot. A member of the Sunflower family, the "Jerusalem" part of its name is believed to be derived from the Italian word for Sunflower, girasole. Sunchokes can be used in recipes that call for potatoes, and their nutty flavor deserves to be featured. Serve raw in salads or cook in soups, gratins, sautes and purees. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/