Although a bit labor-intensive, the work is worth it for these meaty beans. They are also often used as a cover crop because of their nitrogen-fixing properties.
Not only do shiitake mushrooms enhance the flavor of many dishes, they are also known for their medicinal properties, including research concluding immune-function increase, and they are often used in Japan as a complementary alternative medicine by cancer patients.
Oyster mushrooms are the most widely eaten mushrooms in the world and very easy to grow. Their oyster-like flavor makes them great in soups.
Azuki beans are traditionally used as paste in Japanese desserts, but they can be grown here in the U.S. and used in many other dishes as well.
The black-eyed pea is hard-to-miss with its pale body and small, black "eye." Traditionally, in the United States, it's used in Southern dishes.
These mild-flavored onions are a little bit sweeter than white onions. They are great on salads and sandwiches.
Not only are pungent white onions great for grilling and sautéeing, they can also be used as an insect repellent for your garden.
Packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes are a staple food all over the world. In the United States, they are usually made into a sweet pie for Thanksgiving Day.
The Russet Burbank potato is what Idaho is known for. This potato is commonly used at fast-food restaurants for French fries, but because of the higher sugar content, it's great for simply baking and topping off with butter.
Great for mashing or boiling, the sweet Yukon Gold potato stands up to high heat when cooking.
Scallions are onions that have been harvested early. The mild flavor makes them perfect as a topping on a baked potato or stir-fried.
Leeks are mild in flavor, even milder than scallions, and usually used in stock.
