What the Heck Do I Do With a Cardoon?
Introduction
Cardoons are a unique and intriguing vegetable that has been enjoyed for centuries. They are a member of the daisy family and are closely related to artichokes. Cardoons have a distinctive flavor that is often described as bitter or earthy. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or used to make cheese.
What Do Cardoons Look Like?
Cardoons are tall, thistle-like plants with silvery-green leaves and purple-blue flower buds. The edible part of the cardoon is the stalk, which looks like a celery stalk. The flower buds are not edible, but they are often used for ornamental purposes.
Where Do Cardoons Grow?
Cardoons are native to the Mediterranean region and are now grown in many parts of the world. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Cardoons are a perennial plant, meaning that they will grow back year after year.
How to Prepare Cardoons
Cardoons require a bit of preparation before they can be eaten. The outer skin of the stalk is tough and must be removed. The stalk can then be cut into pieces and soaked in water to remove the bitterness.
How to Cook Cardoons
Cardoons can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, boiling, and stewing. They can also be eaten raw, dipped in nut butter or hummus.
Cardoon Recipes
Here are a few popular cardoon recipes:
- Fried Cardoons: Cut the cardoons into two- to three-inch pieces and soak them in water for several hours. Dip the cardoons in egg, roll them in bread crumbs, and fry them in oil until golden brown.
- Raw Cardoons: Peel away the outer layer of the cardoon stalk and cut it into sticks. Dip the cardoons in nut butter or hummus.
- Cardoon Stew: Add cardoons to your favorite soup recipe. Cardoons require a longer cooking time than other vegetables, so add them to the pot first.
- Cardoon Cheese: The dried flowers of a cardoon contain enzymes that can be used to curdle milk. This enzyme is used to make several types of cheese, including Serra da Estrela, Azeitao, and Nisa.
Growing Cardoons
Cardoons are relatively easy to grow from seed. They can be started indoors or outdoors in the spring. Cardoons prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They will need to be watered regularly, especially during hot weather.
Cardoons as an Ornamental Plant
Cardoons are not only edible, but they are also beautiful ornamental plants. The silvery-green leaves and purple-blue flower buds make them a striking addition to any garden. Cardoons can grow up to five feet tall, so they make a great statement plant.
Conclusion
Cardoons are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and they are also low in calories. If you are looking for a new and exciting vegetable to try, cardoons are a great option.
