By: Cheri Browne | August 15 2011
Posted in Rogue Valley - Cook It - Rogue Valley

Young chefs in the making browse the unusual plant starts at Wagon Trail Farms. All photos by: Cheri Browne

If you’ve ever walked through a Farmers Market and felt a little overwhelmed by some of the more exotic sounding items and left wondering about what you’re missing out on, you’re not alone. These baskets full of unusual, leafy, gorgeous greens and pretty purples hold many pleasant surprises if you’re willing to take the chance and grab a bunch. They’re set out on display, waiting for you to bring them home to brighten up an otherwise dull salad, add some spice to a sauce or earthy sweetness to a smoothie, or beautify your stir-fry. These locally-grown plants that are too often considered obnoxious weeds all pack a highly nutritious punch and have many medicinal qualities as well!

We cruised over to the Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters Market and visited the experts at Wagon Trail Gardens, where they sell plants starts for many of these fancy forageables, and Whistling Duck Farm, where they grow and sell their own harvested delicacies. We talked with them about some of these unusual items they specialize in and got the low-down on exactly what they’re good for.

Click through our slideshow to learn more about spotting these unusual items and how-to use them to kick up your culinary creations.

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