Friday Food Find: Arugula Flowers

While SXSW 2013 is going on I’m basking in the great weather here at the casa and pondering all the different ways I can use arugula flowers.

That’s right arugula flowers.  It’s what happens when you let your home-grown arugula go to seed - then flower.

Right now the bees are surrounding the flower tips.  With their droning bzzzz it sounds like they are warning me off this long awaited treasure.

And a treasure it is; I won’t be detoured.  

I took some scissors out to the garden this morning and playing nice with the bees I had my share of flower pickings.  

The arugula flower flavor is much like it’s leaves; a bit of spice with a lingering sweet note. With a winter white color and aubergine veins flowing throughout, it’s a perfect accoutrement to a salad, protein (meat or fish) or garnish. Using arugula flowers in any number of dishes just makes me happy!  

Enjoy your Friday Food Find!

p.s. Arugula is also called rocket or roquette.  So our arugula flowers could then be named rocket or roquette flowers.  Your choice!

Friday Food Find: The Biggest Mandarin in the World

Recently I found myself walking around the market perusing the produce. I felt a tap on my shoulder, turned around and saw a person with a huge orangy & bumpy piece of citrus in hand.  “Miss, would you like to try a piece?” he said.    But of course, I chimed back.  He handed me a segment.  I took it, placed it in my mouth and bit down.  Immediately there was a burst of bright sunshine; rays of sweet juice exploding in my mouth.  I think I may have found nirvana.

Who knew that it could happen with a sweet not so little piece of citrus: the biggest madarin in the world.

 The Sumo.  

It can be found in local markets such as Whole Foods and Central Market.  Check it out because they won’t be in the markets for long.  

If you are feeling a bit daring and rather than going for the easy peel, slice the Sumo and sprinkle a little cinnamon over the flesh.  It’s delish.