Leeks are in the allium family related to onions, garlic, chives, shallots, ramps and scallions. One taste and you will be able to tell that very easily. Leeks have a sweet, milder onion flavor that works so well as a base for soups, stews, pasta dishes. It’s a long bulbous vegetable with white flesh and… Read More »

It’s Mid May here in Chester NJ, and that means it’s safe to plant without fear of frost in this region, so it’s time to get outside to the garden. Gardening is such a great pastime with so many added benefits. It can help reduce stress, helps you connect with nature while staying active, and… Read More »

Asparagus is a nutrient-dense perennial vegetable and a member of the lily family. It is only harvested during spring months in our area, so when it’s available be sure not miss the chance to savor some of these tender veggies. Remember that eating in season and eating local is more sustainable and tastes best! We… Read More »

Passover or Easter can be a traditional time for eating this delicious Jewish, and some say German, inspired baked casserole. Culinary Specialists say Kugel is basically a baked casserole that begins with a starch then with the addition of some eggs and fat turns into a yummy dish. Typically the starch is potato based for… Read More »

Spinach is a cool weather vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Belonging to the amaranth family, spinach is also related to beets and quinoa. It is said that this vegetable originated from Persia and that during medieval times the green pigment may have been used as ink for artwork.  We grow the… Read More »

Culinary herbs are herbaceous plants meaning they have non-woody stems, their above ground growth typically dies back in winter and may have underground plant parts to it. Herbs are a renewable resource used to add flavor and color to all types of meal for centuries. Herbs have also been known in history to be used… Read More »

Radishes are an annual, edible, root veggie in the Brassicaceae family. The word radish originated from the Latin word “Radix” meaning  root. Radish is related to kale, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and mustard greens. They all typically have a light colored flesh inside however the skin color may vary to include white, yellow, pink, purple, black… Read More »

The future of Alstede Farms looks peachy keen thanks to family members inheriting the passion for growing food and learning the business including the oldest child in the Alstede Family, Rebekah A. Alstede.  Rebekah is an integral part of the succession plan for Alstede Farms as she follows in her father’s footsteps and as March… Read More »

It’s mid March here in Morris County, New Jersey and warmer temperatures are on the horizon which means it’s time to start thinking about your home garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newly emerging one, it’s always a good idea to start your Spring planting with a little know-how and we’re here to… Read More »

Cabbage is from the genus of plants called Brassica also known as cruciferous vegetables and is a humble vegetable that oftentimes gets overlooked despite the fact that it is a main ingredient in staple foods such as sauerkraut, Cole slaw and kimchi . It’s a cold weather veggie with many varieties including; red & green,… Read More »

Sorrel is a leafy green vegetable that can also be used as an herb and cultures around the world have been growing and using it for centuries. Sorrel is from the knotweed family, the same botanical family as buckwheat and rhubarb and you may hear it going by another name “dock”.  You may have seen… Read More »

The Linzer torte is a traditional Austrian pastry said to be named after the city of Linz , Austria. The Linzer torte is a type of shortcake topped with fruit preserves and sliced nuts. Linzer tarts are not only pretty to look at but their buttery, flaky & sweet flavor makes them a Christmas cookie… Read More »