Welcome

I am constantly amazed at how animated and talkative people get when you mention food. The mere aroma of certain foods can evoke memories that transport us back to a special place and time. Food can bridge the gap between all ages, races and ethnicities.
Let's face it, the only thing that should ever come between people is a table and some serving bowls.

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Oysters Without The Pearl

This amazing little root really does taste like a mild version of an oyster, probably more of an acquired taste for many. Texturally they are quite different than that of an oyster but flavor wise they are very similar. Salsify is great in stews, soups and is also delicious creamed or mashed.
They carry Salsify in most supermarkets in the produce section usually only during the winter months. It’s a very interesting vegetable really worth exploring.

Salsify Casserole (Poor Man’s Baked Oysters)

2 cups of Salsify, cooked and drained
3 cups of broken saltine crackers (just crush in your hand)
2 eggs
3 cups of milk
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
2 tbsp. butter

Scrape salsify as you would a carrot, slice in 1/4 inch pieces, and put in cold water to keep from turning dark, simmer for 20 minutes until tender then drain.
Butter a 1 1/2 quart baking dish layer salsify and crackers (starting and ending with crackers). Beat eggs, add milk, salt and pepper and pour over casserole, dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

3 comments:

Seena said...

HI Julie,
Is this Tapioca roots?
Liked your simple blog, have added you in my food blog list..:)

Judy@nofearentertaining said...

This is something that I have never tried. I am going to look for it and give it a shot!!!

Anonymous said...

oooh salsify... at last, I've found out what to do with this wierd and wonderful vegetable! can't find it in the shops here in the UK but would so like to grow some for next year so I can taste it. They say it's kind of like oysters, kind of like asparagus? And have you ever tried scorzonera? same thing but black....!

great site, really enjoying reading through your recipes (and when I can find some salsify, I'll try them out too! :)

Sally
the one who’s trying to eat seasonally for a year
http://theyearofeatingseasonally.wordpress.com/