In The Box

In the Box This Week Jan. 25 and 26, 2011

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Veggie Notes: The chioggia beets are similar to red or gold beets, but they have pretty concentric red rings inside. Remember you can also cook the beet greens; they are in the chard family. The romanesco is a relative of cauliflower that is strange and beautiful as well as delicious. Use it as you would cauliflower or broccoli. Collard greens are a favorite of mine as they have a sweet, bold flavor. They are easy to prepare simply sauteed with leeks. Once the leeks are softened, add the collards and a little water, cover and cook until the greens are soft. Add some salt and pepper if you like. Collards are also classic for southern “beans and greens” sort of dishes. Savoy cabbage is a looser crinkly-headed cabbage — it’s great for stir fries, cole slaws, or soups. Leeks can be used just about anywhere–potato leek soup, sautes, stir fries… The easiest way to wash leeks: Cut leek in half lengthwise, keeping the root end intact. Then, hold the leek under cold running water and fan out the layers to get at the dirt that sometimes gets trapped in between. Carnival squash is a sweet winter squash, great for baking or stuffing. It is really just a big sweet dumpling type and is similar to delicata in flavor.