Selecting Spring Produce
The transition from winter storage crops to fresh spring harvests happens quickly. Knowing what to look for at the market prevents bringing home bitter greens or woody stalks that lose their character before they even hit the pan.
Check the moisture, not just the color
Avoid anything with dry, yellowing, or slimy edges, as these are signs of poor storage or over-exposure to light.
- produce bags
- sharp knife
What goes in.
- 1 bunchAsparagus: look for firm, closed tips
- 1 bundleSpring onions: white bulbs should be firm and white
- 1 basketPeas: pods should be taut and bright green
- 1 bunchRadishes: greens should be crisp, not limp
Testing Asparagus and Snap Peas
Bend the stalk or pod gently; if it snaps cleanly, it is fresh and crisp. If it bends like rubber, it has lost its moisture and will be fibrous when cooked.
The method.
Examine the asparagus
Avoid stalks that are shriveled at the base or have tips that are opening up and turning mushy.
Inspect spring onions and ramps
The white bulb should be tight and hard to the touch; the green tops should stand up rather than drape over your hand.
Check the peas
The pods should snap when bent, and you should be able to feel the individual peas inside without the pod feeling hollow or paper-thin.
Review the radishes
If the greens are attached, they tell you everything; if they are yellow or grey, the radish inside is likely pithy rather than crunchy.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Always remove rubber bands from greens immediately upon getting home to prevent them from bruising.
Store tender spring vegetables in the crisper drawer wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel to maintain hydration.
Do not wash spring produce until you are ready to cook, as excess moisture speeds up decay.
The ones that keep coming up.
Why are some asparagus stalks woody?
Woodiness usually occurs when the asparagus is older or the stalk is too thick and was harvested late in the season.
Are small radishes better than large ones?
Smaller radishes generally have a more balanced, mild flavor, while very large ones can become woody or overly sharp in the center.
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