Strangely shaped apples, stunted carrots and knobby potatoes. We tend to avoid purchasing aesthetically challenged, Frankenstein-esque and just plain ugly fruits and vegetables — that’s if they even make it to the supermarket shelf.
But the good news is that consumers are beginning to look beyond picture-perfect produce, knowing that while that carrot may look like two entwined legs, it still provides the same vitamins, antioxidants, fiber and taste as a more visually pleasing carrot.
This not only applies to less-than-pretty produce, but also to varieties that consumers tend to shy away from because their appearance is not as enticing or familiar as their harvest counterparts. So the next time you’re shopping for produce, consider these four “ugly” options — their taste and versatility may surprise you:
1. Heirloom Tomatoes: Many heirloom varieties are irregularly shaped or unusually colored, but their rich, complex flavor makes them a tomato-lover’s dream as compared to other varietals. And with names like Super Snow White, Green Zebra and Marvel Stripe to choose from, how can you go wrong? They also come in the form of miniature cherry tomatoes, which pack a flavorful punch in Green Bean “Pasta” with Heirloom Cherry Tomato Marinara. Pro tip: If you can’t find fresh green beans, French Style Green Beans from Del Monte should do the trick!
2. Kohlrabi: Part bulb, part bundle of greens, kohlrabi can be a more intimidating choice. Meaning “cabbage turnip,” this may be one of the weirdest looking veggies you’ve ever seen, but this crispy, crunchy, alien vegetable can be eaten raw or cooked. The good news is that kohlrabi, kale, Brussels sprouts and cabbage are all cousins in the food world, so you can expect that any flavor that goes nicely with one, will work well with another. If you’re looking for a simple side dish, try this Roasted Kohlrabi.
3. Rutabaga: This vegetable is cursed with a confounding name and a bad reputation. Is it a cabbage or a turnip? Well, it’s both, as well as a root vegetable that may have originated as a cross between the two. While most people boil this underutilized vegetable, it is slightly sweet and can also be enjoyed raw. Want to try rutabaga as a healthy afternoon snack? Why not go for some Turmeric Roasted Rutabagas.
4. Romanesco: This “see it to believe it” vegetable has intricate spiraling florets that make up a fluorescent cone-shaped head. As interesting as it is to look at, it’s even nicer to eat. Known as Roman cauliflower, it almost looks like a miniature Christmas tree, and tastes like broccoli. Perfect as a side dish, Roasted Romanesco is visually stimulating and easy to prepare.
