Readers ofthen ask me for tips on how to select vegetables; doing so successfully can prove to be a daunting task.
With increasing frequency I encounter “taste-testers” in the supermarket. Be it for biscuits, beverages, cheese, instant cou-cou or otherwise, I just can’t recall there ever being a sampling of vegetables. Perhaps this is the reason we gravitate toward pre-packaged convenience foods.
These more stable, quality-controlled items deliver a perceived value for our dollar but, let’s be clear, in most cases the nutritive value just isn’t there.
Selecting vegetables takes practice but in these economic times an allowance for error cannot be absorbed. Always bear in mind that the consumer bares the burden so make wise, informed decisions.
Just because a bunch of broccoli is on the shelf doesn’t mean that it is at the peak of freshness. Think before you buy!
Here are a few tips when making selections in the vegetable aisle.
Since we already mentioned it, let’s start off with broccoli. Broccoli is simple: look for a beautiful, bright, green colour, with the florets tight and firm. Don’t buy broccoli with rubbery, bendy stems; if they are rubbery now, just wait until you are ready to use.
As an aside, you pay for the stem so don’t waste it. The stem can be peeled and prepared just as you would the crown. Don’t store broccoli in the bag that you bought it in as any moisture that develops will rapidly reduce its lifespan.
Next, carrots. Imported carrots are becoming increasingly popular for healthy snacking and seem to be more affordable at the same time. Not all bags of carrots are created equal; get a good look inside and ensure that the carrots aren’t sprouting and are firm and mould-free.
Properly-stored root vegetables should last quite a while in the fridge. If carrot sticks are part of your snack regimen, it’s easy enough to prepare a good quantity in advance and store them in water in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Doing so will prevent them from dehydrating and will make an easy grab-and-go snack.
Packaged lettuce is a super convenience item. Always check the bag you have selected front and back, top and bottom for leaves that may be showing signs of deterioration.
In my experience, the darker, purple in colour leaves tend to go first.
Also check the expiration date on the package; if you are planning not to eat at home for a few days you should probably put it back on the shelf.
When you store your lettuce at home be kind to it, don’t bury it at the bottom of the crisper drawer! Each time you take lettuce from the bag, carefully seal it back.
These are just a few vegetables but I am interested in learning from readers their tips on selecting local produce such as avocado pears, breadfruit, plantains, bananas and pumpkin.
So many delicious options are out there!