Show 259, February 3, 2018: Robert Schueller, Melissa’s World Variety Produce, Inc.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA StudioOur resident produce guru, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce, is back with us to complete his 2018 “Trends in Produce” insights. This time his observant eye is on specialty vegetables. He’s profiling his Top Ten picks (based on sales) including everything from organic ginger to watermelon radishes. Melissa’s distributes specialty produce in all 50 States.

A tuber that develops in the stem just above ground level, Kohlrabi from Melissa’s is a cruciferous vegetable, along with cabbage, kale, cauliflower and broccoli. About the size of an orange, Kohlrabi is pale green or purple-tinged (purple kohlrabi), and rounded. Firm stems with large leaves branch out evenly at all angles. The leaves, which taste like kale, collards or cabbage, can be steamed, boiled or added to soups.

Kohlrabi from Melissa’s is hand-selected for excellent quality. Choose smooth, unblemished tubers. The smaller bulbs are more flavorful. If the leaves are still attached, they should be firm and fresh. Cut the leaves from the tubers and refrigerate separately in plastic bags. The Kohlrabi will keep up to a week or more and the leaves for several days.