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Produce Briefs...
Ramps
The wild ramp, AKA wild leek, botanical name Allium tricoccum, is a flowering perennial plant that grows in clusters. It is a member of the Allium family along with onions and leeks
Calamondin Limes
The Calamondin lime is a cross between a sour, loose skinned mandarin and a kumquat, therefore technically making it an orangequat.
Salanova® Lettuces
Salanova® lettuce is a full-sized variety developed for the baby lettuce market. Botanically these varieties are scientifically known as Lactuca sativa.
Description/Taste
Snowball radishes are grown mainly for their small, round root. Ranging in size from one to three inches in diameter the roots of the Snowball radish are creamy white from the skin through to their flesh. Exceptionally crisp and spicy, this variety is known to maintain its crispness. The leaves of the Snowball radish are also edible, providing a spicy radish like flavor and textural alternative to the roots.
Seasons/Availability
Snowball radishes are available year-round with the best flavored radishes being harvested in the spring.
Current Facts
The Snowball radish (Raphanus sativus), is a cruciferous root vegetable and a member of the Brassicaceae family. This spring variety radish is also known as Snow Belle and is similar in shape and size to the popular red cherry belle radish.
Nutritional Value
Snowball radishes contain vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, folate, and potassium. They are often recommended as a digestive stimulant. They also contain glucosinolates which have been shown to be beneficial in the prevention of certain cancers and are responsible for the piquant flavor of the radish.
Applications
Spicy Snowball radishes are a versatile root vegetable and can be utilized in both raw and cooked applications. Slice and add to salads, sandwiches, soups and sandwiches. Julienne and add to salad rolls, sashimi, and sushi. Their size makes them perfect for roasting halved or whole and will bring out their natural sweetness. Use in picked preparations or when making kimchee. The Snowball radish's flavor marries well with cream based sauces, butter, fresh herbs, sea salt, shellfish, root vegetables, and avocado. To store keep the Snowball radish refrigerated and dry and use within one week.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
White radishes such as the Snowball have long been popularly served in France as a snack paired with softened butter and flaky sea salt.
Geography/History
Snowball radishes are believed to have first been cultivated in the eastern Mediterranean region. Radish comes from the Greek word for "fast appearing". Once the root becomes visible the radish should be pulled as they run the risk of becoming too sharp or pithy if left in the soil for too long. The Snowball radish is typically ready to harvest within thirty days of planting. Snowball radishes are easy to grow and because of their petite size are well suited to smaller gardens.
