Summer Cornucopia
The heavyweights of summer produce-tomatoes, corn, squashes, fresh beans, stone fruit-remain plentiful and of good quality. It is at this time of the season that many chefs ask us "Ok, what's next?".
It's Still Summer, Folks!
We at Produce Express are of the opinion that the month of August represents the peak, the virtual height, the apex, of all that is summer produce. In terms of both quality and quantity, all manner of local and seasonal fruits and vegetables, be they conventional or organic, are available during this month. So, this is the month to emphasize, to highlight, to showcase, indeed to shout about from the rafters and rooftop of your restaurants, the natural bounty that emanates from fields and orchards throughout the Sacramento and surrounding valleys. Here's an update: Shelling Beans-Cranberry, Speckled Butter and Purple Hull Black-Eyed Peas.
Dredge in cornmeal and fry whole to serve on its own or as part of a Fritto Misto, it is often used in Japanese Tempura, slice it thin to thicken soups and Gumbo, chop it and cook quickly into stir-fries and curries.