If our ancestors used these plants to survive, then you know they're good for you. You'll notice the list also has some variety since a diet exclusively of potatoes and corn was not appetizing year-round. Even though the 1700's didn't know grocery stores, our ancestors had plenty of options when it came to their meals. You might be surprised to see how many vegetables below are still popular today.

1. Cardoon

These are related to the artichoke, but are not nearly as common today. Cardoon is native to Europe and was said to have been brought to the Americas by the Quakers.

2. Artichokes

Artichokes have been cultivated since at least the 1500s, but I never imagined them in the everyday garden.

3. Fava beans

I was certain that green beans would have been a favorite, but fava beans, sometimes called broad beans, beat out green beans by a mile. These were popular right into the 19th century.

4. Pumpkins

A certain variety called Connecticut Field was the popular seed. These were grown for both human and animal consumption.

5. Lettuce

That old gardener Thomas Jefferson loved lettuce, and he grew several different types. The most popular was at that time called Parris Island. Today, we call it Romaine lettuce.

6. Cucumber

During this time period, it was white cucumbers that were favored over other varieties.

7. Lemon balm

This herb has been cultivated since at least the 1500s. It’s a natural calming agent that was probably used often by the women of those times. The leaves can be used dried or fresh, and it has a delightful lemon taste when made into tea.

8. Leeks

You may have seen these in your local grocery store and wondered how they were cooked and who ate them. Leeks are something like a cross between a potato and an onion. They have a mild onion taste. Even the leaves can be chopped and used in salads.

9. Cabbage

This is another staple that has stood the test of time. Cabbage is popular due to its ability to be stored for long periods of time.

10. Salsify

This is another vegetable that I have never heard of, but was very popular in 18th century gardens. Salsify is related to parsnip and was used about the same way. Salsify was easy to store and can be boiled, mashed or fried.

If you had lived in the 1700s, which vegetables would you grow in your garden? Let us know if you've grown any other interesting plants!

Article Source: Off The Grid News