Most popular lettuce in Switzerland
Iceberg lettuce is number one among the Swiss population.
On the ranking lists of most consumed vegetables, iceberg lettuce occupied the third spot in 2014, with 38,210 tons – behind carrots and tomatoes. Last year, each person in Switzerland has eaten 4.69 kilos. With that, iceberg lettuce is the undisputed number one among lettuces.
Crispy and longer lasting
The lettuce pertaining to the Korbblütler family is crispy and has a slightly nutty taste. Furthermore, contrary to other kinds of lettuce, it has a longer shelf life. It stays fresh for up until two weeks in the fridge. Even when cut up it retains its bite and flavor for several days.
Contrary to cabbage lettuce, iceberg lettuce features a compact, solid shape: the leaves, closely layered on top of another, form a closed head, so that the iceberg lettuce resembles a cabbage. Iceberg lettuce is up to three times heavier than cabbage lettuce. While both kinds of lettuce differ strongly on the outside, cabbage lettuce and iceberg lettuce are equal in terms of mineral- and vitamin content.
The name comes from transportation
Ice lettuce, which is called iceberg lettuce in Germany, originates from the USA. To be able to sell it fresh on the market, they transported it in crates with ice. Hence the name iceberg lettuce.
Although iceberg lettuce is edible cooked, normally it is consumed raw. A notable culinary delight is the combination with cheese, eggs or bacon cubes. However, iceberg lettuce also tastes excellent with fruits, such as pears.
Iceberg lettuce is for sale throughout the year. From May until October it comes onto the market from domestic cultivation. Around half of the sold quantities originate from Switzerland.
Source: www.bauernzeitung.ch