DESCRIPTION

The head of the cauliflower is surrounded by crisp, bluish-green leaves. The head should be firm, compact and creamy white with florets pressed tightly together. There should be no bruises or spots on the head.

HISTORY

The cauliflower originally came from Cyprus. It is thought to have been used since the 6th century B.C. and grown in Turkey and Egypt since 400 B.C.

SEASON

From January To December

BEST VALUE

From May To September

UNAVAILABLE

Generally available

PREPARATION TIPS AND USAGE

The cauliflower should be rinsed and the core cut out. The heads may be left whole or cut into florets. It may be eaten raw with salt, in a vegetable fondue, boiled, braised, sauteed or fried. Cauliflower should be blanched in boiling unsalted water. To absorb the odor while cooking cauliflower, add a stale piece of bread. The leaf ribs and core may be used to prepare soup.

STORAGE

The leaves of the cauliflower should be removed before it is stored in the a plastic bag in the refrigerator with the head down. The cauliflower should be used while the head is still white.