Ella Chiang 6/29/23 Ella Chiang 6/29/23

57: Leeks

Leeks have slender, elongated green stalks with delicate white bulbs. They are a versatile and delightful addition to a dish. Known for their mild onion-like flavor, leeks bring a unique depth and complexity to dishes when cooked. They can be sautéed in butter, caramelized to golden perfection, or incorporated into soups and stews. In addition to adding unique flavor, leeks are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Ella Chiang 6/28/23 Ella Chiang 6/28/23

56: Kale

Kale has skyrocketed in popularity over the last several years to become a regular culinary staple. It has a reputation as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, calcium, and antioxidants.

Kale has a robust and slightly bitter taste which adds a delightful dimension to salads, smoothies, and stir-fries. There are curly and frilly varieties as well as tender and milder baby kale. Kale can be enjoyed raw like in a salad or cooked in many preparations, including my favorite - kale chips! This is my favorite pack of kale chips from the local grocery store. I prefer these over regular chips as they’re healthier and lighter feeling.

Ella Chiang 6/27/23 Ella Chiang 6/27/23

55: Grapefruit

Grapefruit, with its vibrant and tangy profile, is a citrus fruit that never fails to awaken the taste buds. It has an invigorating aroma and pink or yellow flesh that blends both sweet and sour flavors.

Grapefruit is a colorful and delicious fruit with a tart taste that can enhance any dish. Enjoy it by itself, in juice, or in salads and desserts. Grapefruit is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

a pencil sketch of grapefruit — Grapefruit

Ella Chiang 6/26/23 Ella Chiang 6/26/23

54: Fennel

Fennel, scientifically known as Foeniculum vulgare, is an aromatic and versatile herb. It has feathery emerald-green leaves and a bulbous white base. Fennel boasts a unique flavor profile. The taste of this herb can be described as a delicate fusion of licorice, citrus, and herbal undertones.

Fennel is also known for its medicinal properties - used for soothing digestion. Fennel can be incorporated raw into salads, roasted with vegetables, or infused into teas, adding a refreshing and complex dimension to a dish.

Ella Chiang 6/23/23 Ella Chiang 6/23/23

53: Eggplant

Everybody’s favorite emoji. Eggplant, also known aubergine (I’ve seen aubergine more commonly used in Europe), is a versatile vegetable. It has glossy, deep purple skin with smooth and creamy flesh delivering a rich and earthy flavor.

Eggplant can be grilled to perfection, roasted until tender, or sautéed until golden brown, offering a balance of softness and firmness.

In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, eggplant takes center stage in dishes such as moussaka and baba ganoush, where it effortlessly absorbs the flavors of herbs and spices. Those are two of my favorite ways to eat eggplant!

Beyond its culinary attributes, eggplant is also a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. So, next time you encounter an eggplant, give it a shot and explore its diverse culinary possibilities and savory taste.