Bibb Lettuce ~ 19th century
American farmer, John Bibb, must have really dug this delicate,
fresh, light and refreshing green because it’s named
after him.
Chamomile ~ Now known mostly
as a calming tea, the mighty Chamomile goes back to the
ancient Egyptians who prized its light, sweet flavor.
Chipotle ~ This hot, smoky
chili is actually a dried, smoked jalapeno. Who knew? Now
you do!
Daikon ~ Take the Japanese
words dai (large) and kon (root), slap them together and
you get this large Asian radish whose sprouts are prized
by those seeking a sweet, pungent, refreshing flavor.
Gorgonzola ~ Originating
in its namesake town outside Milan, Italy where the people
and the cheese share the same rich, stylish, creamy, savory/sweet
flavor.
Jicama ~ The lowly jicama (it is a tuber after all) rarely gets its share of the limelight, either cast as a water chestnut knock-off or a convenient compilation (like "apple meets potato"), though its crunchy, sweet flavor is a popular staple in Latin American cuisine.
Lemongrass ~ One of the most important flavorings
in Thai cooking, this herb has long, thin, gray-green leaves,
a scallion-like base and mimics the freshness of lemons.
Hence, it’s name.
Mesclun ~ Mix a bunch of
baby greens like spinach, crispy red Radiccio, green and
white frissé and arugula together, and you get this
great bunch of greens.
Panko ~ These crispy Japanese-style
breadcrumbs are coarser than regular breadcrumbs, so cover
your ears if you’re easily offended.
Roquefort ~ Aged in caves
in France, and one of Charlemagne’s favorite cheeses,
this oldest of blue cheeses boasts a heavenly pungent, sweet/sour
taste.
Tzatziki ~ No smashing plates or loud rejoices of "Opa!" here. Tzatziki's mild cucumber, onion and garlic flavors waft through the smooth, creamy yogurt base like a Mediterranean breeze in summer.
Wasabi ~
Holy smokes! This green Japanese horseradish comes from
the root of an Asian plant and is so yummy, pungent and
spicy, it’ll make you slap yo’ mama to get some
relief. It’s that good.