romanesco
We came upon this wondrous vegetable (top image) in our small, local market. We were in awe. First, of the fractals—whirling patterns cascading across its globe. And, then, of the color—a radiant spring green. We bought six. We shared our discovery, and our six Romanesco, with others. That was three years ago. Each year, we requested our local market, and our grocer, to carry our treasured finds. But, we never saw them again. This year, we will plant our own. We found Romanesco seeds (Amazon Affiliate link)—in the very same market and garden nursery we first happened upon the harvested Romanesco, so long ago.
preparing romanesco
While sometimes considered a member of the broccoli family (as our seed packet does), I would compare the taste, texture, and appearance most closely to cauliflower— where it is also sometimes categorized. We tried our Romanesco raw. We also found it delicious lightly steamed with a sprinkle of salt. Even little picky eaters are sure to find this vegetable exciting enough to try.
where did romanesco come from?
Romanesco has been around for centuries. It is not a new discovery. But, it was new to us, and to any we have shared these vegetables with. And, very hard for us to find. After all, we waited three years after our initial discovery (and a few grocery store requests to order more for us), to find the seeds to plant our own Romanesco garden. But, soon we'll have a garden full of them. And, I imagine these beauties, full of natural wonder, will soon gain the widespread adoration they are worthy of.
You will find so many more wonders in your local nursery, if you explore the seeds and bulbs available. Involve children in the seed selection process, not just the planting. Consider heirloom seeds or peculiar-colored varieties of your favorite garden vegetables. You will find black tomatoes, (the following contain Amazon Affiliate links) purple carrots
And, don't forget the Romanesco.
Our Romanesco seedlings and our prepared, raised garden beds.
want to know more about Romanesco?
1 the fractals and science behind Romanesco 2 more Romanesco facts—the number of spirals on the Romanesco is a fibonacci number too! 3 plant your own Romanesco seeds: Broccoli Romanesco Heirloom Seeds
garden goodness for children The following contain Amazon Affiliate links:
©heather cahoon • wordplayhouse®
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