3/10/2010 3:51:36 AM CST see larger Sun Baby Orange Cherry Tomatoes *L* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12 pint baskets or 6 pint baskets (half case) Availability: February into May Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Please don't ask! There are lots!!! Storage/Handling: As Tomatoes Notice: In stock (Last Updated: 3/8/2010 7:11:47 AM 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 Baby Kiwi SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 12/.5 pint trays Availability: February through March (New Zealand); September through October (Oregon) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 3/8/2010 7:11:14 AM PST) Description: Kiwifruit has become very popular over the past 20 years, but even avid fans of this China native decry the fruit's tough, fuzzy skin. Enter BABY KIWI...Look Ma! No fuzz! The thin, smooth, bright green skin of the Hardy variety kiwifruit (fondly known as BABY KIWI) protects bright green flesh that looks exactly like a miniature version of the common kiwifruit. The flavor is similar, but BABY KIWI is often sweeter. Sweeter? No fuzz? What more could a kiwi-lover ask for? /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Baby Purple Artichokes *L* 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: 3/8/2010 6:45:54 AM 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 farmer 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 farmer suggests trimming these little babies, cutting them in quarters and serving them raw with bagna cauda. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Fiddlehead Fern SUPC: 3933751 Pack: 5 lb. carton Availability: March through June Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 36-40F Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 2/26/2010 4:29:47 AM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: FIDDLEHEAD FERNS are the young green shoots of any variety fern, but the commercially available variety is usually Ostrich fern. If you are unsure of the origin of their name, refer to the top of the nearest violin (or fiddle, depending on your neighborhood). Treated as a spring vegetable, fiddlehead ferns have a flavor reminiscent of artichokes, asparagus and green beans with the barest hint of mushrooms, and are at their best when treated simply. Trim the tail of each shoot to within a 1/4 inch of the coil, and steam them until fully cooked. Undercooked fiddlehead ferns do not fully develop their complex flavor. At certain times of year, the shoots come in quite fuzzy and the fuzz should be removed by gentle rubbing. Rinse well and blot dry. Their flavor profiles are similar, so treat fiddlehead ferns as you would artichokes or asparagus. Because they are so charming and unusual in appearance, serve steamed fiddlehead ferns as a first course, graced with clarified butter and lemon zest or drizzled with a less than assertive vinaigrette. Or garnish small game birds or soups. Or serve as a lovely side dish lightly dressed with Hollandaise. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Morel Mushrooms SUPC: 1324789 (1lb); 2552487 (3lb); 1473248 (5lb) Pack: 1lb; 3lb; 5lb Availability: February or March through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 2/25/2010 8:46:20 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 Greengage Plums SUPC: 0114470 Pack: 11 lb carton (NZ), 5lb (Calif) Availability: February through March from New Zealand; September from California Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 2/23/2010 7:20:13 AM PST) Description: Wild GREENGAGE PLUMS were probably introduced to Britain by the Romans, but disappeared from cultivation until Sir Thomas Gage brought them from France in the eighteenth century (and gave them his name). In France, they are known as Reine-Claude after the wife of Francios I, who adored their sweet flavor. These small members of the plum family have green skin, sometimes tinged with yellow or rose pink, which turn golden as the fruit ripens. There are many varieties of GREENGAGE; all have firm flesh and a delicious honeyed flavor. "Transparent" GAGES have fine, translucent flesh; if you hold the fruit up to the light, you can clearly see the shadow of the pit. These GOLDEN GAGES have a particularly sweet flavor. The deliciously sweet flavor of GREENGAGE PLUMS makes them ideal for eating out of hand. They can also be gently poached in syrup, pureed for mousses and fools or made into excellent compotes and jams. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Black Trumpet Mushroom SUPC: 8170607 Pack: By the pound (usually 5lb. carton) Availability: end of July and August, and November through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 34-36F; 85-90% relative humidity Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 2/22/2010 9:03:15 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: BLACK TRUMPET MUSHROOMS (Craterellus cornucopiodes) are a member of the chanterelle family, one of the most beloved wild mushroom groups. Black Trumpets are a favorite for cooking. They are great in soups, stews and casseroles, with a buttery woodsy flavor. Good partners for mushrooms include butter, sour cream, cream, olive oil, dark sesame oil, garlic, parsley, lemon, rosemary, tarragon, cumin, paprika, pine nuts, bread crumbs, wine sherry, Madeira, onions, potatoes, leeks, barley and rice. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ 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: 2/8/2010 6:32:00 AM 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 Fava Beans *L*S* SUPC: 0224170 Pack: 5 lb carton Availability: Late February through April; August and September Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 2 1/2 cups shelled beans Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 40F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!! Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 2/8/2010 6:31:17 AM PST) Description: Fava beans are one of Spring's greatest gifts. BABY FAVA BEANS are even better! Young, small and tender, BABY FAVAS are brighter green and sweeter than their fully grown counterparts! If you like Favas, you'll love BABY FAVA BEANS. Try a Saute of BABY FAVA BEANS with Onions, Fennel, Pancetta and Dill. Or BABY FAVA BEAN and Fresh Ricotta Bruschetta. Not inspired yet? How about Roasted Asparagus with BABY FAVAS and Morels. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Green Garlic *L*S* SUPC: 5023163 (10lb) Pack: 10lb ctn; 6 bunches Availability: Sporadically November through June Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Approx. 2 per pound Storage/Handling: Notice: 2 Days (Last Updated: 2/5/2010 5:42:13 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Some of America's most respected chefs have extolled the virtues of GREEN GARLIC. We're all used to seeing common garlic which is the dried mature bulb of the garlic plant. Green garlic is the same plant pulled from the ground at a much earlier stage, before the bulb forms. Green garlic looks like a really big green onion with leek-like tops. According the Alice Waters' Chez Panisse Cooking, "The quality of green garlic is unique and of great use in the kitchen. When cooked, it has none of the hot, pungent qualities of fresh garlic cloves. Its flavor, although unmistakably associated with the mature form, is much milder...The rich, earthy aroma of green garlic has inspired numerous dishes. Garlic consumme is a stew of green garlic, leeks, and ripe tomatoes to which we add a rich poultry or lamb broth...The flavor of green garlic is most clearly captured in a pureed soup made with new potatoes and finished with cream. Without the potatoes, the pureed and creamed garlic, seasoned with vinegar and salt and pepper, can serve as a sauce, or sauce element, and is good with grilled pigeon, roast chicken, and veal. Stewed green garlic is delicious in souffles and braised preparations or substituted for onions or leeks in the aromatic bases of soups such as corn, pepper, or eggplant." Nuff said. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Murcott Mandarin, Stem & Leaf *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 20lb carton Availability: February through April Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: As Citrus Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 2/5/2010 5:40:37 PM PST) Description: It is the consensus of Florida horticulturists that the MURCOTT MANDARIN variety is a tangor of unknown origin resulting from the breeding program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. According to Robert Willard Hodgson in Horticultural Varieties of Citrus, "The oldest known budded tree, from which the present commercial acreage largely if not entirely traces, still remains on the place formerly owned by a nurseryman, Charles Murcott Smith, in Bayview, Clearwater, Florida, and is thought to have been budded about 1922" (Ziegler and Wolfe, 1961). Under the name Honey Murcott, small-scale commercial propagation was undertaken in 1928. During the past decade, Murcott has been planted rather extensively in Florida. Typical of "common mandarins", Murcotts have thin rind, rather tightly adherent and not readily peelable. The rind surface is smooth to slightly pebbled and the color is yellowish-orange at maturity. The Murcott has a few seeds but because of its rich flavor and deep orange-colored flesh and juice, Murcott is a favorite with gift fruit packers. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Page Mandarin *L*S* SUPC: 5022199 Pack: 22 lb. carton Availability: mid December through March (California) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 45-48F; 85-90% relative humidity Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 2/2/2010 9:34:00 AM PST) Description: PAGE MANDARINS are a medium size citrus fruit, with medium-thin, leathery rind that is moderately adherent but easily peelable. Their skins' surface is smooth to moderately pebbled, and their color is reddish-orange at maturity. The Page's flesh is deep orange, tender and juicy, and the flavor rich and sweet (this variety is considered one of the very best...especially for juice). Seeds are moderately numerous and cotyledons pale yellow to almost white. This early ripening, high quality variety, the fruit of which has considerable resemblance to a sweet orange, originated from a Minneola tangelo X Clementine mandarin cross made by Gardner and Bellows of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1942. The Page mandarin was described and released in 1963 by P. C. Reece and F. E. Gardner at the U.S. Horticultural Field Station, Orlando, Florida. While officially released as an orange, technically speaking this variety should probably be referred to the tangelo hybrid group, since its parentage is three-fourths mandarin and one-fourth grapefruit. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger English Peas SUPC: 4603429 Pack: wire-bounds Availability: January through May, June through October Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Allow 1 pound English peas for 1 cup shelled, serving 2 or 3. Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 32-38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/31/2010 5:17:54 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: ENGLISH PEA, garden pea, green pea. Whatever you like to call them, there is evidence that they were cultivated as long ago as 5,700 B.C. They are descended from the wild form, which is indigenous to the Eastern Mediterranean and to the Middle East. Only about 5 percent of the pea crop reaches the fresh market; the vast proportion of the remainder finds it way into the food processing industry for canning, drying and freezing in particular. Commercially, peas are classified as wrinkled, round or smooth, and edible-pod peas. ENGLISH PEAS are round peas. Because of their high starch content, they taste slightly mealy and less sweet than wrinkled or sugar snap peas. Good partners for peas include butter, dark sesame and roasted peanut oils, dill, chives, chervil, parsley, basil, mint, ginger, garlic, shallots, onions, asparagus, turnips, fava beans and scallions. ENGLISH PEAS can be steamed, boiled, stir-fried, made into soups, and tossed shelled and uncooked into salads and pastas. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Watermelon Radish SUPC: 7649833 Pack: 10lb ctn Availability: Almost year-round with sporadic gaps (especially in April) Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/24/2010 8:30:52 PM PST) Description: Though its flavor is typically Radish, it is the Watermelon Radish's arresting color combination makes it a perennial favorite. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Cocktail Grapefruit (Triumph) SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 20 lb carton; 5 lb carton Availability: January through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 40F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!! Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/24/2010 7:19:52 PM PST) Description: Cocktail Grapefruit are small to medium (3 to 5 inches in diameter), white-apricot colored flesh, seedy, extra sweet, and very juicy. Grown in San Diego County by an organic farmer, this Cocktail variety is "Triumph", first propagated in Florida in 1884. The very mellow, low-acid flavor of the Cocktail Grapefruit makes it perfect for juicing. Some citrus experts posit that the "Triumph" is not really a grapefruit, but a "cultivar resembling a grapefruit" or a hybrid with an mandarin. We'll stay above the fray, call it a Cocktail Grapefruit, and enjoy its wonderful flavor! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Farmer's Market Mixed Carrots *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 18 bunches per carton Availability: almost year-round with weather related gaps Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 6 bunches Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/18/2010 4:30:21 PM PST) Description: The Carpenter famils grows these beautiful carrots using organic methods and lots of TLC. From week to week, the Farmer's Market Mix will contain a combination of some or all of the following five varieties (Solar Yellow, Nantes, and Indigo are pictured): Nantes (orange), Royal Scarlett (red), Solar Yellow (yellow), Belgium White (white) and Indigo (purple exterior and white core). The Carpenters choose the varieties for their sweet flavor...the exuberant colors are icing on the carrot cake! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Meiwa Kumquat *L*S*O* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 5lb cartons Availability: mid January into May Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies Storage/Handling: As Citrus Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/18/2010 4:13:33 PM PST) Description: Please allow us to quote from Alan Susser’s The Great Citrus Book: “Meiwa is the best kumquat for fresh, out-of-hand eating, where the rind is consumed along with the flesh…The Meiwa is large, round, and plump with a lemon-hued, tart-tasting flesh. Its golden orange rind is smooth and tender and is rich and sweet as candy.” Our summary: this is the very best tasting Kumquat we’ve found! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Hedgehog Mushroom SUPC: 2827814 (1lb.), 8240459 (3lb.), 1324573 (5lb.) Pack: 1,3, or 5 lb. cartons Availability: (Sporadic from August through October) November through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Varies Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:42:53 PM PST) Description: These mushrooms do not have gills, but they do have teeth or at least small, tooth-like projections on the under-side of their caps. Also known as Sweet Tooth mushrooms, they can be found in the wilds along the Pacific Coast in winter; some growing on trees as shelves, others on the ground in colors so vibrant they can be used to dye wool. These fleshy, buff-colored delicacies have often been compared to the Chanterelle in flavor. This is a chewy mushroom -- great sautéed and scattered over steaks and chops. They are also a perfect ingredient in cooking sauces and casseroles where they'll add a wild and woodsy flavor. The fresher and blonder, the better the flavor. Now in season, you can use Hedgehogs as a substitute for Chanterelles. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Meyer Lemons *L*S* 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: 1/4/2010 4:38:11 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 Pink Lady (r) brand Apples *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 10lb carton; 40lb carton Availability: November through February Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 36F Notice: 1 day notice (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:37:44 PM PST) Description: Sweet, spicy, fragrant, tart and juicy. Those are the adjectives that are used most often to describe these wonderful Pink Lady (r) brand Apples. The Pink Lady (r) brand (also known as Cripps Pink) was developed in Australia, the result of a cross between the Golden Delicious and Lady Williams varieties. The fine-grained flesh is crisp and crunchy and does not brown easily after the fruit has been cut. Our Pink Lady (r) brand Apples are grown on a small family farm in Ventura County and have the best flavor of all the Pink Lady (r) brand Apples we've tasted. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Paper Shell White Pomegranate *L*S*O* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 5lb carton Availability: October into January Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:37:07 PM PST) Description: Also known as Spanish Sweet Pomegranates, the Paper Shell variety is named for its very thin shell. Seldom seen commercially, the Paper Shell Pomegranate's arils are a lovely blush pink or white. Don't be fooled by their lack of color! Paper Shell Pomegranates are very juicy and extremely sweet. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ 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: 1/4/2010 4:36:24 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 Tahitian Squash *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: Each Availability: October through January Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: Tuesday morning for Wednesday loading (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:34:54 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Tahitian Squash is a big, beautiful variety weighs around 10 pounds, and has a gorgeous orange flesh; rich, sweet flavor; and smooth texture once cooked. Due to the high solids in this variety, once cooked Tahitian Squash loses very little water and holds its shape well. Good partners for winter squash include olive oil, butter, brown butter, sunflower seed oil, fontina, Gruyere, pecorino Romano, Parmesan, sage, rosemary, garlic, red pepper flakes, chili, cumin coriander, brown sugar, coconut milk, ginger, lime, lemongrass, curry, onions, radicchio, apple, and quince. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Sweet Scarlet Turnips *L*S* SUPC: Yes Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: November through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 3 per bunch Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:31:24 PM PST) Description: These Turnips have magenta-colored skin and a very sweet white flesh with a hint radishy-Turnip flavor. Their texture is elegant and very fine. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger California Crosnes *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 lb. Availability: November through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 36F to 40F in closed plastic bags (they will sweat, but they do hold up better) Notice: 2 days (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:29:40 PM PST) Description: Also known as Japanese artichokes, Chinese artichokes, knotroot and Chorogi, CROSNES are an heirloom member of the mint family. But there's no familial resemblence. First cultivated in France outside Paris, near Crosne, these unusually shaped edible tubers were very popular in Europe from their introduction in the 1880s until the 1920s. CROSNES are still cultivated in Europe but we now have California-grown Crosnes! Chefs who have used CROSNES grown in both countries are said to prefer the flavor of United States product, perhaps due to the richer soil here (in France they are grown in sand). Our grower's soil is sandy-loam...which as all you former members of the soil-judging team know, is the best soil for row crops, and we are thrilled with the results! CROSNES are eaten raw (their flavor when raw is somewhere between a potato and jicama with a distinct nuttiness), in salads, or stir fried, boiled, in or on soups, gratineed, as a side dish or garnish. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Oro Blanco Grapefruit *L*S* (Farmers Mkt) SUPC: Yes...call Pack: 20lb carton Availability: December through February Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 5lb Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:29:00 PM PST) Description: The flesh of this grapefruit-pummelo cross is pale, tender and very juicy. Oro Blancos are a sweet, low-acid variety perfect for juicing or eating fresh. They have a round shape with a yellow skin with a thick rind. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Blood Oranges SUPC: 1342856 Pack: 20 lb. Availability: November through May or later, Southern Hemisphere fruit in September and October Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 20 lbs of blood oranges yield 1 to 1 1/4 gallons juice Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 45-48F, 85-90% relative humidity Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:26:21 PM PST) Description: The BLOOD ORANGE is a hybrid that first appeared in Europe around 1850. Common throughout Italy, Moro is the most desirable variety, and is easily distinguished by the rich burgundy color of its juice. A medium-sized fruit, the Moro has a relatively long, early harvest from December through April. The rind is orange, and will acquire a deep blush as the season progresses. The ten to twelve segments of its fruit are nearly seedless. Moro's blood-red pulp has a sweet to tart taste with berrylike overtones. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Stem & Leaf Satsuma Mandarins *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 20lb carton Availability: November through February Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 80 to 100 per ctn Storage/Handling: 40F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:24:09 PM PST) Description: SATSUMA mandarins were developed in Japan in the 16th century from seedlings that originated in China. The trees are highly cold tolerant, and production is viable in areas not usually friendly to citrus. The fruit is seedless, bright orange in color and less acid than other mandarins. Our farmer harvests by color so every fruit is a bright, tempting orange. Easy to peel, easy to separate into segments, seedless, juicy and very flavorful, Satsumas are the epitome of citrus fruit for eating out of hand. The stem and leaf attached to the fruit adds to the presentation value, and is often the preferred pack for amenities and retail display. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Cara Cara Pink Navel Orange *L*S* SUPC: 2297992 Pack: 20 lb cartons Availability: August and September from South Africa, late November through May from California Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 45-48F, 85-90% relative humidity Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 4:19:28 PM PST) Description: The CARA CARA Navel Orange (also known as the Red or Pink Navel) is probably the result of a cross between Washington and Brazilian Bahia navels, according to Allen Susser's The Great Citrus Book. This picture does not do the fruit justice. The pulp is actually more the color of a ruby grapefruit, not nearly as orange as it looks in here. Attributed to the Hacienda de Cara Cara in Valencia, Venezuela, the CARA CARA's flavor is low acid and sweet, and has more depth and richness than that of the traditional Navel. Locally grown by a sustainable farmer. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Seville Sour Orange *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 20lb carton Availability: January through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 1/4/2010 12:44:45 PM PST) Description: SEVILLE SOUR ORANGES are deep orange with a slightly flattened shape. The fruit is very juicy, aromatic and sour. SEVILLE SOUR ORANGES are used in the production of marmalades, liqueurs, orange flower water, perfumes and rind oils. For a contemporary twist, use SEVILLE SOUR ORANGES in any recipe that calls for lemon. A classic Cuban mojo or marinade is made with equal parts of SEVILLE SOUR ORANGE juice and olive oil, with the addition of garlic and onion. Our SEVILLE SOUR ORANGES are grown in California, and the quality is superior! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Medjool Dates SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1lb bags Availability: May through July Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: 40F Notice: PLEASE NOTE!!!: Order Monday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 11/30/2009 8:43:45 PM PST) Description: These are the very best Medjools we have found. Grown by a small farmer in California's Coachella Valley, these Medjools are large, rich, meaty, and super sweet with a smooth texture...everything a Medjool is supposed to be! Absolutely gorgeous amenity! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ 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: 11/11/2009 8:11:08 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 Bloomsdale Savoy Spinach *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 5lb carton Availability: September through May Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 1lb cooked Count: Storage/Handling: As any leaf item Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 10/26/2009 3:40:06 PM PST) Description: Bloomsdale Savoy Spinach has soft, thick leaves and virtually no detectable tannins. This wonderful Spinach variety is great for both braising and salads. Even the stems are juicy, tender and sweet! And our Bloomsdale Savoy Spinach is organically grown! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Yuzu Lemon SUPC: 9770694 Pack: 1 lb. Availability: mid-April into June, and September through January Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 9/21/2009 4:31:45 PM PST) Description: YUZU is a citrus fruit common in Japanese kitchens. The surface of the fruit is uneven, and the peel's fragrance is sweet and slightly bitter. The flavor of the juice is similar to grapefruit but has definite overtones of Mandarin orange. YUZU juice is very fresh and tangy-tasting, and is an important ingredient in ponzu. Traditionally, shreded YUZU peel is used to garnish clear soups and simmered dishes. Today's fusion cuisine has resulted in dishes such as Tuna Sashimi with Wasabi-YUZU, Tuna Tartare with YUZU on Fried Potato Gaufrettes, YUZU Monogatari (Gin, Ginger Ale and YUZU juice), and YUZU-Maui Onion Salad. YUZU's exterior color changes from green to yellow as the season progresses. Exterior color is not important, and either color fruit is used interchangably. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger French Butter Pears SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 22 lb. carton Availability: September, October and maybe November Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Jumble pack Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 9/20/2009 11:35:57 PM PST) Description: FRENCH BUTTER PEARS are characterized by rich flavor and creamy texture. They are great for cooking, and when fully ripe exceptional for eating out of hand. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Moroccan Pumpkin *L*S*O* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: Each; sold by the pound Availability: late September through February Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Each Storage/Handling: 45F Notice: Order Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 9/20/2009 11:34:09 PM PST) Description: The hard squash family, which includes pumpkins, is fascinating and extensive. The many varieties exhibit a wide range in color, texture (from superfine to stringy), and degree of sweetness. McGrath Family Farms is growing MOROCCAN PUMPKINS. Due to their bumpy exterior the easiest way to get to their sweet, orange flesh is to bake the MOROCCAN PUMPKIN without peeling it. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds and strings, brush the cut surface with oil, and place cut side down on a sheet pan. Bake until very soft when pressed with a finger. Now you'll be able to scoop out the tender, sweet, cooked flesh. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Fuyu Persimmon SUPC: 1973635 Pack: 1 layer trays Availability: April and May from Chile; September through November from California; December th Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 Day (Last Updated: 9/20/2009 11:32:26 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: There are basically two commercially important varieties of persimmons (also known as Kaki fruit), both bright orange in color and Asian in origin. Pointy Hachiyas should be ripened until squishy-soft before eating, but flat, tomato-shaped FUYU PERSIMMONS can be enjoyed crisp like apples. FUYUS are the first persimmon variety to be harvested, the harbinger of the persimmon season and Hachiyas will not be far behind. For eating out of hand, rinse and eat Fuyu persimmons just like an apple, discarding the stem end. For breakfast, slice a firm FUYU PERSIMMON and serve with cream or milk. Generally, FUYU PERSIMMONS are at their best when least tampered with, as their unusual texture and delicate flavor are easily obscured. A ripe Fuyu has the texture of a plum inside, and slices neatly and easily. Halve and glaze quickly under the broiler as a simple main course accompaniment. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Pomegranates SUPC: 7103930 Pack: 2 layer cartons Availability: Late Summer (August) through mid-February Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 48 to 50 Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 8/20/2009 10:40:02 AM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Long considered an autumn fruit, POMEGRANATES make their entrance in late summer, thanks to the early Granada variety. These early pomegranates are historically a little light in exterior color, but this year's crop is exhibiting more color (in both seeds and exterior) than usual. Early Wonderfuls will make their appearance by the beginning of September, and by the middle of October, the Wonderful variety will be available and we will see the deep ruby red exterior color that typifies the pomegranate. Just about any dish will be enhanced by a sprinkling of the pomegranate's tart, glistening seeds, which are the perfect size for garnishing dishes throughout a meal. They add texture, color and a burst of flavor to vegetable or fruit salads; they provide a lovely finish for soups; point up the acidity of a sauce for meat or fowl; and look ravishing on fruit desserts, ices, ice creams, and tarts. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Rose Finn Apple Fingerling Potato *L*S* SUPC: Yes...call Pack: 10 lb cartons/50 lb cartons Availability: June through December Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Varies widely Storage/Handling: As potatoes Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 6/21/2009 7:37:00 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 White (Alba) Clamshell Mushroom *L*O* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 3lb carton Availability: Year Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: As Mushrooms Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 5:34:36 PM PST) Description: /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Tamarillo, Red or Gold SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 layer tray Availability: April through December Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 5:32:09 PM PST) Description: Also known as Tree Tomato and Arbol de Tomate, the TAMARILLO is a subtropical fruit generally believed to be native to the Andes of Peru and probably also Chile, Ecuador and Bolivia. It is cultivated and naturalized in Argentina, Brazil, Columbia and Venezuela, and is widely grown in New Zealand as a commercial crop. Each long-stemmed, dangling fruit, borne singly or in clusters of 3 to 12, is smooth and egg-shaped but pointy at both ends. The TAMARILLO is 2 to 4 inches long and 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Skin color is red or gold. While the skin is somewhat tough and unpleasant in flavor, the outer layer of the flesh is slightly firm, succulent and bland, and the pulp surrounding the seed in two lengthwise compartments is soft, juicy, and sweet/tart. The YELLOW TAMARILLO is usually a little sweeter than the RED. The edible seeds are thin, nearly flat, curcular, larger and harder than those of the true tomato. Ripe TAMARILLOS may be merely cut in half lengthwise, sprinkled with sugar and served for eating by scooping out the flesh and pulp. The fruit should not be cut on a wooden or other permeable surface, as the juice will make an indelible stain. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Russian Banana Fingerling Potato *L*S* 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: 5/25/2009 5:23:41 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 Red Dandelion Greens *L*S* SUPC: 9222803 Pack: 6 bunches per carton Availability: Year-round with weather-related gaps Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Varies Count: 6 bunches Storage/Handling: Notice: Tuesday morning for Wednesday shipment (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 5:20:49 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Commercially grown Dandelion Greens are usually about 2 feet long, very dark green and fairly tough. These Red Dandelion Greens are grown on a family farm in Ventura County, California, and they are nothing like what we are used to. They are about 10 inches long, bright spring green with red ribs, and very tender. They are assertive and bitter, and are wonderful when sauteed as a side, wilted in hot pasta or mixed with milder greens for a salad. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Mixed Marble Potatoes *L*S* 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: 5/25/2009 5:06:33 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 Gold Chanterelle Mushroom SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1lb or 5lb cartons Availability: Almost year-round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: close to 100% Count: Storage/Handling: Low humidity 40F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:42:58 PM PST) Description: Gold Chanterelles are among the most favored of all the forest mushrooms. Distinguished from Hedge Hog Mushrooms by their prominent gills under every cap, Gold Chanterelles grow on the forest floor. Very visible in the forest especially after a heavy rain this wild mushroom is typified by a very fragrant, woodsy apricot aroma. It is one of the few mushrooms that can be paired with lemon juice or another citric element and not lose its character. Try braising Gold Chanterelles with onions, butter and chopped dried apricot. Otherwise, avoid strong competing flavors such as garlic or spices. Fresh herbs, such as lemon thyme can be used in moderation. Generally, you may cook the stems and caps together. Gold Chanterelles pair well with game or shellfish. Soaking good specimens in vodka for a month yields an interesting essence for sauces. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Dragon Fruit SUPC: 6620538 Pack: 6 lb carton Availability: May and June; August through December Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: 2 per carton Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:34:11 PM PST) Description: Also known as Pitahaya, DRAGON FRUIT is the fruit of a vine-like cactus. The exact origin of this amazing fruit is unknown, but is likely from Southern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador and Costa Rica. Its many different cultivars (yellow, red, red-flesh) are grown around the world in tropical regions including Viet Nam and Columbia. California growers are now commercially growing DRAGON FRUIT. Although related to the Cactus Pear (note the look of the seeds and flesh), the DRAGON FRUIT is likened to Kiwi in texture and flavor, but is a little sweeter. It is popular eaten chilled, out of hand, and is also used to flavor drinks and pastries. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Dates, Honey and Empress *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1lb basket or bag Availability: September through March Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 75% Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:33:15 PM PST) Description: In 1915, Californian Everett K. DaVall developed two new Date varieties with the help of the Coachella Valley Agricultural Extension Station staff. To this day, his grandson, Everett, grows the same two Dates; Empress and Honey. Both have exceptional flavor but have their own personalities. The Empress is perfect for stuffing; its texture is somewhat firm and is easily handled even when fully ripe and ready to eat. The Honey is rich and gooey and very, very soft; perfect for amenities. Few Dates can claim a California heritage, and even fewer can match the flavor of the Empress and the Honey! /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Cavolo Nero *L*S* SUPC: 8139008 Pack: 12 bunches per carton Availability: Year-round w/some gaps Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:29:31 PM PST) Recipe/Serving Ideas Description: Cavolo nero (also known as black cabbage, Tuscan kale, Lacinato and dinosaur kale) is a hearty, spicy, long-leaf borecole, so called on account of its extremely dark color. Like its close relative, curly kale, cavolo nero is suitable for serving with hearty, winter dishes. Its hearty flavor and almost sweet aftertaste is enjoyed in winter soups, especially those with potatoes and beans, and as a vegetable, braised or blanched and stir fried with a little garlic and fresh tomato. It tastes best after the first night frosts, which convert its starch into sugar and make it more digestible. The heads, which are actually leaf rosettes, survive freezing temperatures unharmed. Allow one pound of this kale (usually one bunch) for two generous servings. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger California Wildflower Honey *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 quart Availability: Year Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 50F+ Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:27:48 PM PST) Description: A light Honey created by Jeff Erb's bees who gather nectar from California's poppies, lupin and other wildflowers. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger California Orange Blossom Honey *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 quart Availability: Year Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 50F+ Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:19:29 PM PST) Description: Our California Orange Blossom Honey tastes far better than commercially gathered Honey; the flavor of the California Oranges comes through, especially on the finish. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger California Buckwheat Honey *L*S* SUPC: Yes...Call Pack: 1 quart Availability: Year Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 50F+ Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:18:29 PM PST) Description: The richest and darkest of all our Honeys. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ see larger Broccoli Spigarello *L*S* 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: 5/25/2009 4:16:45 PM 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 Wild Arugula *L*S*O* SUPC: In Process Pack: 3lb carton Availability: year-round with weather related gaps Ship: Airfreight only Yield: 100% Count: Storage/Handling: 38F Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 5/25/2009 4:09:11 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 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: 10/1/2008 10:02:05 PM 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. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ 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 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 Vanilla Beans SUPC: 1525419 Pack: 1 lb. Availability: Year Round Ship: Truck or Airfreight Yield: Count: Varies Storage/Handling: Notice: 1 day (Last Updated: 3/18/2005 10:30:08 AM PST) Description: VANILLA BEAN prices are falling...please call for quotes! Freshly picked VANILLA BEANS are odorless; the distinctive aroma develops as the beans are dried and fermented. Harvested, before they ripen, from the plant Vanilla planifolia, vanilla pods are then plunged into hot steam at 160F before being left to ferment for up to four weeks. After this time the surface if the fruit will be covered in crystals of glucose and vanilin and the fruits themselves have become black from oxidization but are still flexible. The price on vanilla beans are on a upward trend and are not showing any signs of reversing the trend. In April 2000, a cyclone hit Madagascar (a major growing area) wiping out half of the vanilla bean crop. As a result most of the Vanilla planifolia flowers were destroyed, and Mexico and Tahiti's crops do not have enough volume to make up the difference. Adding to the vanilla crop woes, it takes three year for a vanilla bean to complete its production cycle. Because the crop is so short, growers are picking the beans before their development is complete. As a result, the curing process is not as efficient and quality begins to drop. Like any stone-fruit, the longer vanilla stays on the plant, the more developed the flavor will be. Look for vanilla beans to continue to climb in price. /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ Freshpoint.com |  Home |  The Story