February 10, 2015 - Radio Kitchen - Even’ Star Farms
When it comes to visiting Maryland farms, one of the biggest surprises I've ever had was seeing the winter fields of Even' Star Farm down in St. Mary's County several years ago. Even in the middle of winter Even' Star looked like Ireland, it was so green. And that's why we have invited the owner Brett Grohsgal to talk with.
Brett, who is a former chef, runs a certified organic farm and a CSA that stays in production year round, unless we get a winter like early 2014. Currently Brett is growing the following: arugula, Chinese greens, collards, daikon, green onions, kale, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, radishes, rutabagas, salad greens, salad mix, sweet potatoes, and turnips. Some of the produce is coming up in the open fields, and others are being raised in high tunnel hoop houses.
One thing that made a big impression on me was the mustard greens he grew. Intensely flavored, fresh and bright, they were inspiring little plants. Brett put together a wonderful recipe for his mustard greens that he's allowing us to copy.
Garlicky Mustard Greens
1 tsp coarse sea salt, (divided)
2 bunches mustard greens, about 1 1/2 pounds, de-stemmed, and torn into pieces
6 large garlic cloves thinly sliced
1 tsp raw cane sugar or agave nectar
2 tbs red wine vinegar
Grits with Creamed Cashews
1. Bring a large pot of water to boil, with half the salt. Meanwhile, fill a sink with cold water.
2. Boil the mustard green until bright green, about 2 minutes. Drain well in a colander and press hard to remove excess water. Set aside.
3. Heat garlic and oil together in a medium frying pan over medium heat until garlic is golden and fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes. Do not scorch the garlic. Transfer the garlic to a plate.
4. Raise the heat to high and quickly add sugar, remaining salt, and the vinegar. Cook until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Add the mustard greens and stir to coat. Cook until most of the liquid is gone, about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic chips and serve on a bed of grits with creamed cashews.
To visit a link to a website that covers Even' Star Farm, just click here. You can learn about his CSA and call ahead to schedule a visit. It's worth the effort.
