This weeks Hawaiʻi Farm-to-Car harvest highlight is the Heart of Palm!

The Palm
Heart of palm is a vegetable harvested from the inner core and growing bud of certain palm trees. These palms are the peach palm, Bactris gasipaes, a species of palm tree native to the tropical regions of South and Central America. While it is not originally from Hawaii, it has been introduced to the islands and cultivated here for its edible heart of palm.

The peach palm tree itself is a medium-sized palm that can reach heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet). It has a single, slender trunk covered in thorny stems. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length. The tree produces clusters of orange to red fruits that are about the size of a peach or plum. These fruits are edible and are often used to make jams, jellies, and beverages.

The Harvest
The heart of palm is harvested by cutting down the tree and removing the outer bark and tough outer layers until the tender, cylindrical, inner core is exposed.

Watch a Heart of Palm Harvest by Tasting Kauai

The Taste
It has a mild, delicate flavor with a slightly nutty and slightly sweet undertone. It is often described as having a tender and crisp texture, similar to that of a firm cucumber or jicama and uses as a meat substitute in many vegan recipes. It can be consumed raw or cooked.

Recipe Inspiration:
Vegan Lobster (Garlic Butter Heart of Palm) – It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken
Roasted Hearts of Palm and Artichoke – Mindy’s Cooking Obsession
Hearts of Palm Ceviche – Dara’s Table

Learn more about Peach Palms in Hawaii

Plant Pono: Bactris gasipaes (peach palm)

Sold by Double “D” Ranch
About: Double D Ranch was formed in 1996 in Laupahoehoe, Hawaii. We are a family owned and operated ranch that raises cattle, goats, sheep, and hogs. We also provide various farm services for the Hamakua area and beyond. Most of our leased land is located on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island. We also have a small farm that raises heart of palm. Learn more. 

This product is SNAP-eligible.
This product is Double Up Food Bucks eligible.