Newsletter, March 2009, news from Litsa " Artichoke the prickly flower"

Artichoke the European plant of the daisy family, its history goes back thousands of years in Ancient Greece.

An exotic green vegetable with nutty flavor and healthful nutrients.

It is a perennial plant, tall and wide and it is cultivated for its large thistle like flower heads. To look at the plant with its prickly appearance it makes you wonder who had the intelligence and courage to investigate this beautiful wild plant and find something so precious to enjoy.

The artichoke is a flower that is not allowed to bloom, an immature flower head.

When allowed to come to fool bloom it is magnificent tall and proud with it’s amazing purple color a haven for honey bees and other flying creatures.

Native to the Mediterranean the time to enjoy fresh artichoke is in the spring, from March to May. Rich source of vitamin C folate, dietary fiber and a multitude of minerals.

Today we can enjoy thornless varieties like the Imperial star.

Did you know that the Jerusalem artichoke is cultivated for its potato like tubers and they are used for livestock feed the production of sugar and alcohol? Fascinating indeed.

Many feel intimidated by this unusual plant but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Litsa!

My recipes are easy and fun to do, no complications and readily available ingredients.

Impress your family and friends with cooking advice from the best.

“Take the taste of Greece with you” the book that makes it possible!

Enjoy the flavors! Enjoy the spirit of the land! Get the book.

I would like to have your opinion about my news letter, or if you have any questions please email me at info@hummingbirdpublications.com

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