Pretty soon after we moved from NYC to Virginia, Brian and I installed raised beds in the backyard. Brimming with a sense of accomplishment and pride, we filled them with dirt and began planting tiny tomatoes, pickling cucumbers, peppers, zucchini, squash, and herbs. Admittedly, that was kind of a lot for two two by four foot beds. No matter! I wanted a garden! I thought we’d be living off of it come August. But the rainy, then humid Virginia summer had other plans. [Read more…]
now in season: chive blossoms + fried rice with turnips & chive blossoms
Brian and I are absolutely heartbroken over the events in Oklahoma yesterday and our hearts and thoughts are with all those who have been touched by this awful tragedy. We are especially saddened by the losses at the Plaza Towers Elementary School, though amazed at the bravery shown by teachers, staff, and young students there. If you’d like to help those affected, here are some ways to give.
Chive blossoms have always been harbinger of the season, their purple blossoms heralding the advent of warmer weather. This year, though, the chive blossoms are even more significant. These chives sprouted on our rooftop garden in Brooklyn, and by the time we moved the chive-filled window boxes into the truck, they had a spray of tiny purple buds. Now we’re in Virginia, the chives are blossoming and it feels right. They’ve made the journey and so have we. [Read more…]
green garlic: now in season
Green garlic, otherwise known as young or spring garlic, is now available at local markets. It’s one of many springtime garlic variations–garlic chives and scapes being others. Milder than its full-grown counterpart, spring garlic can be used anywhere you might add garlic or onions. Because it’s more mild than garlic, green garlic can play a mellow role in spring-friendly raw garlic dishes like pesto. [Read more…]