Salsify - Oyster Plant

Here is a bit more information about the Oyster Plant, or Salsify as it is known by at the market.



"Although cultivated for food and medicinal purposes since the thirteenth century and still extremely popular in Europe, salsify is probably one of the most elusive root vegetables to find in the United States. A recent find at a local market conjured memories from visits to Europe and hopes for more popularity in the States. Possessing an almost sweet yet mild flavor, salsify makes a wonderful accompaniment to cold weather roasts and braises." - Cook's Fresh Market

Salsify in Cream with Mushrooms and White Truffle Oil
(Serves 4)

Serve this very special dish with any meat, poultry or game, especially roasted or braised. The white truffle oil can be omitted with great results.

1 pound black salsify
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 cups water
1 1/2 tablespoons whole butter
2 tablespoons shallot, minced
2 cups sliced button mushrooms
3 tablespoons dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon white truffle oil (available at specialty food grocers)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
Kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste

Scrub salsify well with a brush and to facilitate peeling, soak in cold water for an hour. Peel salsify and immediately place in 3 cups water with lemon juice. After all salsify is peeled, cut each root into 2 to 3 inch lengths and each piece in quarters lengthwise. Add kosher salt to the lemon water and bring to a simmer. Simmer the salsify covered until tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

While the salsify is cooking, melt the butter over low heat in a medium size saute pan. Add the shallots and sweat until almost tender but do not brown. Add the mushrooms and cook until the juices start to release but do not brown. Add the white wine and cook until all the wine and mushroom juice has evaporated. Add the heavy cream and cook until reduced and thickened. Add the cooked salsify, the white truffle oil, and the minced parsley. Cook an additional minute or two, season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.