Barley and Roasted Tomato Risotto (see below) is a recipe I HAVE to try. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
We have a small and somewhat shady yard so we are not able to grow much in the way of fruit or vegetables. But we do belong to a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. And we should be getting tomatoes this week.
What is a CSA? I’ll try to explain. A number of people band together to support a local farmer. We each purchase one "share" of the produce grown by a local farmer. A certain percentage of our purchase cost or price is paid in advance of the growing season (and more later on). This provides the farmer with the necessary funds to get his planting accomplished. We then receive a return on our "investment" with local organically grown fruits and vegetables. However, we also assume some risk as well because the weather conditions change from one year to the next. So a given crop may do well one year and not so well the next.
Each week we receive a "basketful" (the produce actually comes in a box but basket sounds better) of produce. We do have some say about what we would like and how much. But a lot of it is a surprise each week.
We actually split our "share" each week with a neighbor. This works out well for both families because it reduces our cost and helps guarantee that nothing goes to waste. When we receive something we may not be able to use we can pass our part on.
If you would like to learn more about CSA’s and where you might find one to join check out this site: http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/csa/ .
Don’t forget to try the tomato recipe! Nutritious!
Recipe: Barley and roasted tomato risotto
"Dietitian’s tip: When cooked slowly, barley takes on a creamy texture like that of the short-grain arborio rice used in Italian risottos — but with a lot more fiber. Serve as a hearty side dish or light vegetarian main course. SERVES 8"
Recipe: Barley and roasted tomato risotto – MayoClinic.com
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