Verodita Lettuce
Estimated Inventory, 24 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Verodita lettuce is small to medium in size and grows upright, in a conical shape. The shiny outer leaves are broad, bright to dark green and average 15-20 centimeters in length. There are also firm, base ribs that are crisp, juicy, and thick. The tightly packed inner leaves are yellow-green, and the heart is a translucent white. Verodita lettuce has a very crunchy texture, much like iceberg lettuce, and is mild and sweet in flavor.
Seasons/Availability
Verodita lettuce is available year-round.
Current Facts
Verodita lettuce, botanically classified as Lactuca sativa, is a new variety of romaine or cos lettuce that belongs to the Asteraceae family, along with chicory, artichokes, and endives. Growing 15-30 centimeters in height, Verodita lettuce is known for its sturdy texture and is commonly used as an edible spoon for dips and as a crunchy ingredient in sandwiches. The greens can be grown hydroponically, in an open field, or in home gardens and are grown year-round in all four seasons.
Nutritional Value
Verodita lettuce contains vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, folate, iron, potassium, manganese, and dietary fiber.
Applications
Verodita lettuce is best suited for raw applications as its crunchy texture is showcased when consumed fresh. The leaves are commonly used as a dipping vessel and can be served alongside other vegetables like carrots and cucumbers on platters or chopped up in salads. The leaves can also be used in sandwiches and burgers. Verodita lettuce pairs well with herbs such as basil, mint, and flat leaf parsley, tomatoes, shallots, green onions, chives, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, pork, fish, shrimp, and grilled chicken. The leaves will keep up to a week when stored in a bag in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Verodita lettuce is featured on a gourmet sandwich guide created by vegetable breeding company Rijik Zwaan, also known as RZ. The guide is meant to classify different varieties of lettuce that RZ produces and how each variety offers a unique texture that can add depth to distinct sandwiches. Classified as crunchy lettuce, Verodita is recommended by RZ for use on flatbread sandwiches to add a crisp and crunchy texture in contrast to the soft, thin bread.
Geography/History
Verodita lettuce was bred in northwest Holland by Rijk Zwaan, a vegetable and seed breeding company. Sometimes referred to in seed catalogs as Verodita RZ with the initials of its breeder, Verodita lettuce was tested in the field in 2015 and patented in Europe in 2016. Today Verodita lettuce can be found at farmers markets and specialty grocers in Europe and the United States.
