I can't believe they are not eggs?
Contrary to their name, eggplants do not contain eggs, or resemble eggs in any fashion, neither are they a vegetable. In fact, eggplants are considered a berry, but have similar nutritional benefits like most vegetables. Eggplants are low in fat and calories and rich in fiber, minerals such as copper, iron, magnesium, and filled with anti oxidants. Eggplants come in a variety of shapes, sizes and color, but it is important that when purchasing eggplants, they have had time to grow. Before consuming eggplants, make sure they are shiny, firm, solid and heavy. Avoid eggplants that are shriveled, soft when touched, bruised at the surface or over matured. Old, or unhealthy eggplants can have a bitter taste ruining the consumers eggplant experience. For longer edible life, eggplants should be stored in the refrigerator but they can also be stored in a cool place for 1-3 days. Eggplants can be cooked in a variety of ways such as boiling, frying, stir fried, grilled, and baked but it is important to fully wash them before use and remove their stalk. To help with the bitter taste, it is recommended to salt eggplants before use, but this is not mandatory. The whole eggplant can be eaten including the skin and seeds. Eggplants are in season from July until October.
Beets, Beets, Beets
Similar to other vegetables, beets can be found in a variety of colors and shapes but the most popular beets are the ones which are purplish/reddish in color. Along with their attractive color, beets are also known for their ability to be cooked in various ways. For example, beets can be boiled, grilled, fried, baked and roasted, with their leafy portion also being edible. Beets are a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, calcium, dietary fiber and aids in protecting the body from free radicals and lowers the risk of heart disease.It is important to note that beets stain easily hence care must be taken when preparing beets. Also, beets concentration of phytonutrients decreases with heat, and care must be taken to ensure beets are not overcooked. A recommended time frame is 15 minutes or less.
An easy way to enjoy beets is after rinsing it off under cool water, and peeling of their skin, steam beets for about 10 minutes. Afterwards, add orange juice, brown sugar, butter, salt and pepper in a large nonstick skillet. Cook until the butter and sugar starts to bubble and then stir in beets for 6-8 minutes. You are ready to enjoy!
By Jen B., EP!C Harvest intern.
