Summer is a great time for produce of all sorts. While the exact growing season will vary according to climate, there are fruits and vegetables available at farmers markets, grocers, and possibly in your own backyard throughout the season. Chef Johnna has looked into the history of a variety of produce, showing you where each plant originated and how it was used over the centuries.
Humans love onions. And onions love us. Dill is grown around the world. It is used in everything from borscht to tofu. It has interesting medicinal properties as well.
They are one of the world’s earliest domesticated crops. Nine million acres are devoted annually to growing this staple crop. They are also one of the most consumed foods in the world. Americans eat an average of 18 pounds of onions per person per year.
Why do we love them so much? They are tasty, yes. It may not be obvious when eating them, but sugar is one of the main compounds present. During the cooking process that sweetness rises to the top and creates “caramelization.”
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