The immature shoots of a particular North American fern. They are a little sharp and delightfully crunchy if not overcooked. They should start to make an appearance at local stores and markets. Look for them!

 

 

     The typical American meal is a meat centerpiece with a couple of vegetable side dishes, one of them usually potatoes. The side vegetable portion is usually about three ounces. There are really only six or seven types of protein (with some subtle variations) to choose from and the standard Midwestern diet relies almost entirely on three or four. There are countless types of vegetables. We've relegated the largest portion of our foodstuffs to an afterthought on our plates