The produce section at your local grocery store probably looks a lot different than it did 30 years ago. Today, you can find Asian sections just about everywhere. There are also Asian markets scattered throughout Iowa with large selections. Patrick O’Malley, Horticulture Specialist at Iowa State University, has recommendations for Asian vegetables to grow in your Iowa garden.

Bok Choy is easy to grow and heat tolerant, which is ideal for Iowa. You can cook it or eat it raw. Also check out Joi Choi, Kai Choi and Ong Choi.

 bok choy plants grow in a garden.

University of Missouri Extension

Bok Choy

Lemongrass likes hot weather, and will do especially well during Iowa’s summers. Use it for teas and oils, or to add a vibrant aroma to any dish.

tall lemongrass grows in white containers.

Gary Bachman

/

Mississippi State University Extension Service

Lemongrass

Daikon Radish
Daikon, (or Chinese White radish) is mildly spicy, and tastes great fresh or pickled!

 stacks of harvested white radishes

Purdue University Extension

Daikon radish

Soybeans – OR – Edamame!
Harvest soybeans while the pods are still green. Soak in salt water and cook or boil. Peel them open and eat them like peanuts!

 Young soybeans grow in the ground

Kevin Hudson

/

Mississippi State University Extension Service

Soybeans

Long yard beans can grow up to 18 inches long – cook them just like green beans. They’re crunchy and sweet, and perfect for a stir fry dish.

 A person holding a handful of long yard beans in a garden

Ralph Mitchell

/

The University of Florida Extension Service

Long yard beans

Comments are closed.

Pin