This vegetable resembles a long, pale-brown skinned root and can grow to as long as 10 inches. It has an oyster-like flavor, and is sometimes called the vegetable oyster or oyster plant. Peel before steaming (its most common preparation) and then puree to add to soup or stew, or serve as is with meat dishes. It is available year-round. Black salsify, also called scorzonera, is available in winter and spring.
