Author Archives: diary of a tomato

4.16.12 Spring emerges

Posted on April 16, 2012 by diary of a tomato

The rhubarb and asparagus have finally appeared — a sure sign that spring has finally arrived in our corner of Maine. As it leafs out, the rhubarb is like an unfurling piece of origami. We’ve been working on increasing fertility … Continue reading →

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Black Pepper Tofu

Posted on April 13, 2012 by diary of a tomato

With its bold spicing, sparked with fresh green onions and creamy tofu, Ottolenghi’s Black Pepper Tofu, from his cookbook, Plenty, quickly made its way into our household rotation, and is an especially warming dish to have on these cool spring evenings. At … Continue reading →

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4.9.12 Ramps and seedlings

Posted on April 10, 2012 by diary of a tomato

Several years ago we planted some ramp seedlings in a shady part of our garden in hopes that they would naturalize. Also known as wild leeks, they reproduce by seed which can take up to 18 months to germinate; we’ve … Continue reading →

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4.8.12 First plantings

Posted on April 9, 2012 by diary of a tomato

  We’ve been waiting for the soil to warm up to 50°F — the minimum temperature at which we attempt to start seeds — before direct seeding the first Spring crop. Another  sign we watch for is when the dandelions … Continue reading →

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Tagliatelle with Spring-Dug Parsnips and Bacon

Posted on April 6, 2012 by diary of a tomato

While other parts of the country are enjoying such seasonal delights as asparagus, this unlikely pairing of sweet, caramelized parsnips with rich egg tagliatelle is a celebration of what early spring here in Northern New England has on offer. The name … Continue reading →

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Biscotti al Mais, or Cornmeal Cookies

Posted on April 4, 2012 by diary of a tomato

Cookie cutters are one of those single purpose kitchen tools that are cluttery and take up a lot of room, but more than make up for it when the occasion calls for them. Spring has brought with it the usual … Continue reading →

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4.3.12 Spring-dug leeks, carrots and parsnips

Posted on April 3, 2012 by diary of a tomato

We’ve begun to clear the beds in preparation for new planting, and pulled the last of the over-wintered leeks. These are of the King Seig variety, which proved true their reputation for hardiness and good storing capability. The parsnips were … Continue reading →

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