Sauerkraut stands as a favorite beginner’s project for home fermentation enthusiasts due to its simplicity. It’s a straightforward recipe requiring just cabbage, salt, and a bit of scientific understanding. Once mastered, it opens doors to a variety of other fermented foods like pickles and kimchi! The Science Behind Sauerkraut Lactobacillus bacteria, known as “friendly” bacteria,...Read More

Elevate your diet effortlessly by incorporating microgreens – the tiny but mighty nutrition boosters. Ounce for ounce, microgreens pack more nutrients than virtually any other natural food. These miniature wonders are the seedlings of various plants, typically between seven to ten days old, sprouted from seeds yet to develop true leaves. Despite their small size,...Read More

Artichokes are ubiquitous on the Central California coast. Artichokes love the mild, foggy climate. Fields of artichokes in various stages of maturing flank both sides of Highway One on the way to Monterey. Castroville is the official artichoke capital and hosts the annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival. While artichokes are available year-round, the...Read More

This hot honey recipe is easy to make and can be used in so many delicious ways! Everyone loves this spicy-sweet condiment on everything from drizzling a bit over appetizers, on fried chicken, grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, and cornbread, or adding a bit to your hot tea or a cocktail. It also makes a great...Read More

If you are thinking about holiday gift ideas for friends and family, you may not have to go any further than your pantry! Ingredients like dried fruits and nuts are plentiful now at our farmers’ markets — just in time for making delectable food gifts. Late fall fruits like apples and persimmons make excellent fruit...Read More

Instead of reaching for a can of commercially canned pumpkin, consider making your own delectable fresh pie filling with locally grown squash from the farmers’ market. But wait — which pumpkins are used for pies? Pumpkins are squash — but not all squash are pumpkins — nor are all pumpkins created equally! To understand this...Read More

Just like Mama used to make — well, almost. Our version is easier and just as tasty! Nothing beats fresh pasta with a texture and flavor that’s far superior to store-bought varieties. This simple semolina and egg pasta dough is simple. Rather than mixing by hand, we use a food processor to do the mixing....Read More

Okra, scientifically known as Abelmoschus esculentus, is a remarkable vegetable celebrated for its unique flavor, nutritional value, and culinary versatility. Commonly referred to as “lady’s finger” due to its elongated shape and tender texture, okra has been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries. Okra plants are characterized by their vibrant green, ribbed...Read More

With its vibrant red flesh and juicy sweetness, watermelon is a favorite summertime treat for many. But beyond its refreshing taste, this beloved fruit also offers a range of health benefits that make it a perfect addition to your diet. Hydration Powerhouse: As its name suggests, watermelon is incredibly hydrating. Comprising about 90% water, this...Read More

Growing kitchen herbs in containers is a convenient and rewarding way to have a fresh supply of aromatic flavors right in your kitchen, backyard, or deck. Whether you have limited outdoor space or simply want easy access to your favorite herbs, container gardening offers a practical solution. Many herbs and starts are available at the...Read More