Just In

        • John Morrell's Homestyle-Seasoned Pork Roast with Gravy won one of five “Consumer Choice Pork Awards” from the National Pork Board this spring. Made by Cincinnati-based John Morrell & Co., the ready-to-eat pork roast is available in grocery store meat cases for $6.99.

Market Scan

        Also called wild leeks, ramps resemble large scallions with broad green leaves. They grow wild from Canada to the Carolinas and have an assertive garlicky flavor stronger than leeks, scallions or onions, but can be substituted for any of those three. Look for ramps from March to June, mostly in specialty or farmers' markets. Choose those that are firm with bright-colored greenery. Wrap tightly in plastic bag and refrigerate for just up to a week. Trim root ends just before using. Parboil ramps and serve like asparagus, braise in cream or stock, alone or with chicken.

Sip It

        McChouffe $6.50 (750 ml bottle): From a small Belgian microbrewery, McChouffe is a unique beer any way you look at it. Described as a Belgian brown ale, it is really a combination of Scottish-style ale and Belgian abbey-style ale. The subtle spicy note of the Belgian yeast sits lightly on top of the Scottish malt flavor, accenting it without competing. One of my favorites.

— Ed Westemeier

You-pick markets

        Our annual list of pick-your-own farms will be published May 30. To get on the list, send your farm's name, address, phone number, days and hours of operation and a list of the produce you will be offering this season to: You-Pick, The Enquirer, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati 45202. Fax: 768-8330. E-mail: mfuqua@enquirer.com. Deadline: next Wednesday.

Hot Date

        Sip some of the best white wines in the world from the Loire Valley, 7 p.m. Tuesday at Chateau Pomije in O'Bryonville. $25. 871-8788.

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