Welcome to the first CSA share of 2021!
This week we have included lots of good over-wintered Spinach. Please enjoy this nutrient packed spring treat while it lasts for just another few weeks! Think spanikopita (in the photo above), creamed spinach, quiche, or homemade saag (easily made with greek yogurt)....
Boc Choy is another Spring item that will only be here for a few weeks. Try it stirfried with Green Garlic and cashews over basmati rice with a nice Spicy Peanut sauce! Boc Choy is also great chopped raw in quinoa salad.
We are grateful for all of the good moisture this Spring because it will fill the water reservoirs for good flow throughout the summer. However, this has been one of the most challenging Springs we have experienced in regards to getting things planted. Much of our crop plan has been delayed due to the soils being too wet to cultivate and to prep the beds for planting. If we try to work the soil when it is too wet, we end up with compaction and clumpy beds that don't germinate seeds well. Things are still coming along nicely, just a bit slower. You'll notice this week's CSA share is a bit limited to greens, garlic, herbs, and grains. The next 2 weeks will bring more options including radish and Hakurei Turnips.
The Green Garlic was planted last fall and is extremely happy in these wet spring conditions. Green garlic is the stage before the root forms into bulbs. In this green stage, please chop and eat similar to scallions or leeks. Start chopping at the base white part and on up to the lighter green parts. The green leafy parts can be used to soak for stew stock.
This is also a great time to enjoy our heritage grains grown and harvested right here at Aspen Moon late last Fall. These Heritage whole wheats are varieties that you won't find in stores and they are packed with flavor and protein that has been lost in mainstream wheat. Many people find heritage wheats to be much more digestible than mainstream wheat. The flours are great in pancakes, muffins, pie crust, and added to sourdough breads. The wheat berries can be cooked in place of rice or farro for a nice grain salad or added to soups. Our heirloom cornmeal is so special and makes the best cornbread ever! It is also great added to scones, muffins, pancakes, or used for a hearty porridge with just a bit of maple syrup.
