Week 6

Week 6

Each year we trial new vegetables.  Often they are just different varieties of stuff we already grow.  For example we always grow a couple new tomatoes.  This year we are growing one called Cherokee Chocolate.  We currently grow Cherokee Purple and and Cherokee Green.  I think both the green and the chocolate where found as mutations in plantings of Cherokee Purple.  The Cherokee Chocolate is a dark tomato like the purple but with a distinct reddish brown color.  I have high hopes for it, like I always do, but rarely do new varieties make the cut.  The highlight of my week was our red napa trials.  Napa cabbage is one of the most difficult things we grow.  It attracts bugs in a way no other veggie does.  We cover it from start to finish and we still have a high cull rate.  So, I don't know that the red napa will actually make the cut but it is stunning!

It shows no consistency in maturity which is another down side.  We also are trialing some new green napa varieties and that is what will be in the large share's box.  Not as flashy, but growing and heading up much better than the reds.

I think we might be pushing the limits of our cherry tomato supply by putting them in your boxes, but they are so good and the first ones are always exciting.  Peas, which at this point have become less exciting, but still delicious, will hopefully make one final showing in your box next week.  We are rolling the dice just a little, but I am fairly certain they will be around next week.

Lettuce - Dealers choice - holler at me when I am grabbing your box if you have a preference.
Carrots
Broccoli
Zucchini
Cherry Tomatoes
Collards/Kale/Chard - Your Choice When the collards get big we refer to them as elephant ears.   Some of them can be comical.   They are from a new planting and while big, they are also tender.  If you find the assertive flavor of kale and collards to be a bit much try simmering them in coconut milk.  A little sauteed onion, garlic and/or ginger all make welcome addition as would a splash of tamari or soy and a fresh squeeze of lemon or lime.  Similarly, the fat of heavy cream and a generous grating of a hard cheese are delicious with them as well.  If you enjoy the flavor of kale and collards then these collards would be great for rolling tight and cutting into ribbons for a salad or just lightly sauteed. 
Napa Cabbage - Large Only
Herb Choice - Large Only - Basil, Mint or Parsley