Alpine Strawberry- The sweet, red fruit of the alpine strawberry plant. Compared to more common varieties, alpine strawberries are very small and have a pointed shape. Although sweet and aromatic, they are not very juicy and they are not usually grown commercially.

Preparation: alpine strawberries are relatively unusual and so are best enjoyed whole and fresh.

Uses: small ones may be used as decoration or served in individual pastry tartlets.

Amaranth- The large, nutritious seed of a decorative, ornamental plant of the pigweed family. Amaranth is available as a seed, flour (see amaranth flour) or as puffed seeds from specialist outlet. It is gluten free and high in protein.

Preparation: the seeds may be cooked in boiling water as you would a grain.

Uses: puffed amaranth may be used as a breakfast cereal. (more…)