The hearts of palm grown in the United States are mainly from Florida. This spectacular tall tough-barked palm is the state tree of Florida and is protected by Florida state law. Also field-grown in the tropical humid areas of Costa Rica, hearts of palm are, literally, the heart of the sabal Palmetto tree. In the Republic of Panama, Central America, top quality hearts of palm thrive in the rural area of Panama. They can be used in salads, served with a main dish or deep-fried for a delicious, crunchy treat. Young stems produced by a palm tree known as "bactris gasipaes", hearts of palm have been cultivated in Central America since the time of the Mayas. Reese Hearts of Palm are a known delicacy around the world. Favored in Costa Rica, "Picadillo de Palmito" is a traditional dish. Mild in flavor, hearts of palm pairs well with greens and seafood.Īlso known as "swamp cabbage" or "millionaire's salad". Add to stews, chowders, quiche and casseroles. Stuff or fill hollow cavity with cheeses, meats or herbs. Slice and add to salads, grains, pastas and fresh salsas. Steam or peel outer husk if still intact. Hearts of palm may be packaged fresh, or jarred in water, and may be served raw or cooked. About four inches in length, individual hearts may be as thin as a pencil or measure nearly one to one-and-one-half inches in diameter.Ĭontaining no cholesterol, fresh hearts of palm is a good source of nutritious fiber. Tasting somewhat like an artichoke, it has the appearance similar to that of white asparagus.
Inside is a velvety, tender flesh that is delicately flavored. When this plant is cut and cooked in the. Hearts of palm is encased in a tough cylindrical, ivory husk. Palmini is a pasta substitute made out of natural plant known as hearts of palm.