Yesterday I was in the vicinity of my favorite Asian market where I find the best selection of produce items I like to occasionally buy. It's not in a convenient location so I don't go very often, but when I do, I always come away with some special treats. I spent $8.86 for 8 blood oranges, 2 large Asian pears, a big bag of taku choy, and ~ 1/4 lb. of winter mushrooms (shitake).

The blood oranges are delicious... wish I'd bought more. Taku choy is similar to bok choy but the stem is thinner and the tops are leafier and darker green. I will use it to make a stir-fry with fresh garlic, winter mushrooms and strips of lean pork, served over brown rice. I also put it in soup. The pears will be chilled, sliced and served for dessert with slices of gouda.

I wish I lived where I could walk to a store for fresh produce several times a week, or even daily. Unfortunately, getting fresh produce entails driving but that is how it is... I live out in the boondocks. But I'm beginning to think the bargain-priced produce I get at Costco is not really a good deal because I inevitably end up throwing half of it away.

In case you've never seen a blood orange, here is what they look like: