Chives
Photo: flickr user chefranden
About
A flowering perennial, hardy plant that produces many green shoots of tubular leaves, which are best used when new. The leaves of Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be chopped and used in salads, stir fries, soups, marinades, cheese spreads, bread and many other foods.
Chives are rich in vitamin C and are believed to aid digestion.
Information
Physical Description
Chives grow in clumps like grass, sending up graceful, hollow, thin leaves up to 12 inches. No large bulb forms underground. Thus, it is the leaves that are the source of the onion flavour.
Tasting Notes
Selecting and Buying
Preparation and Use
hives are a wonderful addition to the beginner's garden. They impart a light onion flavor in any dish and can be used interchangeably in recipes calling for onions. There is even a variety of chives that tastes like a blend of onion and garlic.
Conserving and Storing
Store fresh chives in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to a week. Do not wash until ready to use them, as excessive moisture will promote decay.