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We found this at a local food bank, and couldn't resist but have no idea what it is. We live in the bay area of California, so there are any number of communities it could have come from. Any help is appreciated :)

In response to comments, I'll give sensory description of the vegetable. There is little smell. The stalks are hollow inside, and crunchy with none of the stringiness of celery. The flavor is light and bitter and reminds me a lot of dandelions.

unknown celery like vegetable

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  • 1
    What does it smell / taste like?
    – myklbykl
    Apr 18, 2020 at 1:38
  • 2
    Where in the world are you?
    – GdD
    Apr 18, 2020 at 14:13

1 Answer 1

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It is an asparagus chicory, or more formally known as Puntarelle. They are grown in Rome and in Italy. They are similar to endives and have that bitter taste. A famous dish that uses it is Puntarelle alla Romana, a salad with anchovies and the asparagus chicory. It is quite hard to find outside of Italy, surprised you found it in California. Enjoy it!

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  • Thank you very much, look forward to trying the salad tonight :) Apr 19, 2020 at 20:06

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