August and September are the months to start harvesting and preparation of bamboo shoots in Belize.  I have put this day project as a Bored-in-Belize article.

All the details, with extra step by step pictures are in the specific page but I will attempt to tantilise you with some highlights in this post!

This part is Gnome’s job.

Basically, you have to use a machete to cut into the culm and then you bang the machete with a sturdy stick to cut into it.

Once you have the bamboo shoot, you carry it off to a Munchkin to prepare:

The shoot is chopped into sections, peeled and then cut into chunk sizes.

Next, the chunks are boiled to remove the bitter components.

Once cooked, they are soaked in cold water for a few hours and then they are ready for eating or preservation.  This time round, I layered slices of bamboo shoots with salt to dry brine.

What fun!!  I hope I have inspired some of you to go bamboo shoot hunting this season!!

And of course, we are eating fresh bamboo shoots everyday.  Once you have tasted the fresh stuff, you will never want to go back to the canned shoots.  Fresh shoots are velvety in texture with very little fibre.  They are sweet and totally delicious.  Here is a snapshot of what we had for lunch today: Sausage with exotic fruits and fresh bamboo shoots.  What a treat…will post the recipe up tomorrow.

Have a Good Night!!

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