Did you know that you can make a coffee substitute from okra seed? During the Civil War, coffee was a scarce commodity, especially for southerners whose food supplies were being blocked by Northern forces.
Here is an excerpt from a letter sent in from a reader, H.A. Terry of Crescent City, Iowa, that was published in the March 1862 issue of Nebraska Farmer. He wrote:
"During these [Civil] War times, when real coffee is worth 25 to 33 cts. per pound, it is necessary for farmers, and farmers wives to cast about for a cheaper substitute for the real article; and from my own experience, I can recommend the following:
...Okra or Gumbo. This makes the best coffee of any article that I have ever used as a substitute for coffee. The seed should be browned the same as coffee and makes a very palatable drink alone but is a little better if a little coffee is used with it. The plant is very productive and is easily grown. An ounce of the seed will produce enough for almost any family. The seed can be procured of any seedsman for 25 to 30 cents per ounce."
Monday, August 22, 2011
Fun Facts about Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash variety that is a popular choice with home gardeners. This delicious edible can be easily cultivated in a variety of soils in all areas with a temperate climate. the largest zucchini ever recorded weighed in at 65 lbs. Here are some other interesting zucchini facts:
- One small zucchini contains only 25 calories. Compare that to a plain baked potato at approximately 130 calories.
- The zucchini blossoms are not only edible but are considered a delicacy when fried in many parts of the world.
- Zucchini has more potassium than a banana and is a fat free, cholesterol free food.
- The skin of the zucchini can range from pale green to nearly black. The darker the skin color the more nutrients it has.
- In late August, the town of Obetz, Ohio hosts an annual zucchini festival.
- Boiled until very soft, cooled, and mashed, zucchini makes a great first food for baby.
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