Good Taste has many Roots

That last storm blew the door wide open for fall to come in. The high winds almost took all the leaves off the trees in one shot. No more 80 degree days. That boat has sailed. That means its finally time for much heartier dishes and seasonal root vegetables.

Root vegetables are like the sensible plain-looking chubby girls of the supermarket aisles. They aren't as exciting or visually appealing at first glance as say the red ripe tomatoes or the golden sweet corn. But they definitely fill you up, they taste earthy and they're so good for you. Once you get them home and cook with them, you realize just how special they really are...inside. Sometimes that natural basic flavor is amazing with just a little added dash of salt and pepper.

Last night I made Braised Turnip Greens with Turnips and Apples to go along side my jerk chicken. The dull looking turnips had tons of flavor and just a little pat of butter made them come alive. But just to be sure, I brought the ham hock along to get these little wallflowers on the dance floor.