The term baby vegetables It is becoming especially popular among consumers, because we are beginning to see it frequently in supermarkets, and these types of vegetables are increasingly present in home and restaurant recipes.
But what exactly is a baby vegetable? Let's analyze it in detail and learn more about this type of vegetables.
What are baby vegetables?
They are normal and ordinary vegetables, but These are slightly smaller versions than usual., because they are harvested before they reach their full size.
Harvesting takes place when The vegetable is still immature and small in size. This makes it more tender and has a more delicate flavor.
Currently, we can find baby versions of the most popular vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, zucchini, etc.
Their size is quite curious and, precisely for that reason, they are a good way for Those who are less “friendly” to vegetables approach them. In the case of children, it is much easier to convince them to eat vegetables if they see them in their mini version.
Another reason for their success is that their flavor is mild and they can be added to hundreds of dishes. They can even be eaten raw.
Among its features we will highlight:
Small size
They are mini versions of vegetables that are usually in our diet. It's not that they are a different variety, they are the same as always, but harvested ahead of time. That is The baby carrot is not a subgenre of carrot.
tender texture
These vegetables are more appetizing, because their texture is more tender and softer than their fully ripe version. Consequently, Eating a vegetable in a mini version is a more pleasant experience, even if taken raw.
delicate flavor
Baby vegetables taste slightly different from their version "big". It is common that they are sweeter and that the touch of bitterness typical of some varieties of vegetables is not present in them.
vibrant color
These mini varieties often have vibrant and attractive colors. Which makes them a good option to add a touch of freshness to dishes.
Versatility
Due to their size and texture, they can be used in a large number of recipes. They can be added raw to salads, but They can also be part of stir-fries, soups, stews or stews. And they are delicious steamed, grilled or baked.
Cooking time
Since your size is smaller and its texture is more tender, The cooking time is faster than those of the same vegetables. when we use them in their fully developed version. Therefore, they are a good choice when we are in a hurry in the kitchen.
How are baby vegetables grown?
If you are considering adding baby vegetables to your garden, here are the keys to achieving a good result:
Soil preparation
Start by preparing the soil by adding a little compost or organic fertilizer to improve its structure and make it more fertile. Besides, make sure it has good drainage capacity, because waterlogging is not good for the roots of vegetables.
Select the seeds
Decide which baby vegetables you are going to grow. Some suppliers already have specially selected seeds to be harvested in early stages of growth.
Siembra
Sow the seeds according to the needs of each variety of vegetable. As a particularity, since the vegetables are not going to develop fully, you can place the seeds closer to each other than when you are going to do a full cycle crop.
Irrigation
Make sure the substrate stays evenly moist, but not soggy. Keep in mind that baby vegetables do not tolerate drought well, but It is also not good to subject them to too much humidity.
Weed control
Keep the area around your seedlings clear of weeds, so they don't have to compete for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Apply some organic mulch around of the area in which you have planted the seeds will help you reduce the appearance of weeds.
Fertilization
The best thing in these cases is to apply organic fertilizers such as homemade compost or some manure. If you are going to use industrial-type fertilizer, make sure it is one developed for vegetables.
Harvesting baby vegetables
The key to obtaining these mini vegetables is to collect them at an early stage of their growth. Depending on the variety you have planted, you will have to do the collection at one time or another.
The ideal is to pick them when they are still small and tender, but have matured enough to have a good flavor.
Storage and consumption
Once the baby vegetables are harvested, You can eat them fresh or store them in the refrigerator for a few days. Also use them to make preserves.
Which are the best known
We leave you a small list with the most popular baby versions:
- Baby carrots. They are tender and sweet, and can even be consumed as an appetizer, as well as cooked in stews or stir-fries.
- Baby zucchini. Due to their mild flavor and tender texture, they are ideal for roasting, sautéing, adding to stews, and even for stuffing.
- Baby cucumbers. They stand out for their fresh texture and refreshing flavor. The most common thing is to consume them raw in salads, in sandwiches, or pickled in vinegar to make classic pickles.
- Baby peppers. They are highly appreciated because they have a mild and sweet flavor. They can be consumed raw as an appetizer, but they also work well when roasting and sautéing.
- Baby broccoli. The mini version of broccoli is a very interesting alternative to get the little ones in the house to eat more vegetables.
- Baby spinach. Spinach with young, small leaves is tender and has a slightly sweet flavor. This makes them a real delight.
Baby vegetables are little by little conquering kitchens around the world, and it is interesting to grow them in our own garden. Do you dare with them?