1.
Placing a green tomato into a paper bag helps it to do what?
Correct Answer
C. Ripen
Explanation
Placing a green tomato into a paper bag helps it to ripen. When a green tomato is placed in a paper bag, it creates a closed environment that traps ethylene gas, which is naturally produced by the tomato. This trapped gas speeds up the ripening process by initiating the production of enzymes that break down starches into sugars, resulting in a ripe tomato.
2.
Which tennis-ball-sized vegetable popular for dipping actually grows on a thistle?
Correct Answer
B. Artichoke
Explanation
The correct answer is Artichoke. Artichoke is a tennis-ball-sized vegetable that is popular for dipping and it actually grows on a thistle. The artichoke plant is a type of thistle and the edible part of the vegetable is the flower bud before it blooms. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its unique flavor and texture when cooked.
3.
What vegetable does a parsnip look like?
Correct Answer
A. Carrot
Explanation
A parsnip looks like a carrot. Both vegetables have a similar shape and color, with a tapered root and a pale, creamy-white exterior. They also have a similar taste, although parsnips are slightly sweeter and have a more earthy flavor compared to carrots. Overall, the appearance of a parsnip closely resembles that of a carrot, making it the correct answer to the question.
4.
What do Mexican people do with radishes on Christmas Eve?
Correct Answer
C. Carve Into Animal Shapes
Explanation
Mexican people carve radishes into animal shapes on Christmas Eve. This is a traditional practice known as "La Noche de los Rábanos" or "Night of the Radishes" in Mexico. It dates back to the colonial period when radishes were introduced by the Spanish. Farmers began carving intricate designs and shapes out of radishes to attract customers to their market stalls. Over time, it became a popular Christmas tradition, with participants competing in a radish carving contest. The carved radishes are displayed in the main square of Oaxaca City, attracting tourists and showcasing the creativity and skill of the Mexican people.
5.
Which of the following is not a root vegetable?
Correct Answer
D. Cucumber
Explanation
Cucumber is not a root vegetable because it belongs to the gourd family and is classified as a fruit. Root vegetables are plants whose edible parts grow underground, such as beets, potatoes, and carrots. Cucumbers, on the other hand, are grown above ground and are typically considered a vegetable due to their culinary uses, but they are technically a fruit because they develop from the flower and contain seeds.
6.
"Aubergine" is another name for which vegetable?
Correct Answer
A. Eggplant
Explanation
"Aubergine" is another name for the vegetable commonly known as "Eggplant".
7.
A leek is related to which other vegetables?
Correct Answer
C. Onions
Explanation
Leeks are related to onions because they both belong to the same plant family, Allium. They share similar characteristics and flavors, making them suitable substitutes for each other in many recipes. Both leeks and onions have a mild, slightly sweet taste and are commonly used in soups, stews, and other savory dishes. Additionally, they have similar nutritional profiles and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Therefore, it is accurate to say that leeks are related to onions.
8.
Which vegetable is not a head?
Correct Answer
C. Potato
Explanation
Potato is not a head vegetable because it does not grow in a compact, rounded shape like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. While broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower all have a central head or cluster of tightly packed leaves, potatoes are tubers that grow underground and have a different structure. They are starchy root vegetables that do not have a head formation like the other options.
9.
How many kernels does the average ear of corn have?
Correct Answer
D. 800
10.
Where were potatoes first grown?
Correct Answer
D. Andes Mountains, Peru
Explanation
Potatoes were first grown in the Andes Mountains of Peru. The Andes region has a long history of potato cultivation, dating back thousands of years. The native people of this region, such as the Incas, were the first to cultivate and domesticate potatoes, which eventually spread to other parts of the world. The Andes Mountains provide an ideal environment for potato cultivation, with their high altitude, cool temperatures, and rich volcanic soil. Today, Peru remains a major producer and exporter of potatoes, showcasing the deep-rooted connection between the crop and its place of origin.
11.
Which vegetable was given to the winner of an athletic event in ancient Greece?
Correct Answer
A. Celery
Explanation
In ancient Greece, celery was given to the winner of an athletic event as a prize. This could be because celery was considered a symbol of victory and was associated with athletic prowess. Additionally, celery was believed to have medicinal properties and was highly valued for its health benefits. Therefore, it was a fitting choice to honor the victor of an athletic competition.
12.
What vegetable will not produce seeds when grown in a greenhouse?
Correct Answer
C. Cucumber
Explanation
Cucumbers will not produce seeds when grown in a greenhouse because they are typically grown from hybrid varieties that have been bred to produce seedless fruits. This is done to ensure that the cucumbers have a consistent taste and texture. In order to produce seeds, cucumbers need to be pollinated by bees or other insects, which may not be present in a greenhouse environment. Therefore, cucumbers grown in a greenhouse will not produce seeds.
13.
What part of the artichoke is eaten as a vegetable?
Correct Answer
B. Flower
Explanation
The correct answer is flower. Artichokes are actually the flower buds of a thistle-like plant. They are harvested before they fully bloom and are commonly consumed as a vegetable. The outer leaves are removed, and the tender inner leaves and the heart of the flower are typically eaten. The flower has a unique taste and texture, making it a popular choice in various culinary dishes.
14.
What was the first vegetable grown in outer space?
Correct Answer
C. Potato
Explanation
Potato was the first vegetable grown in outer space. This is because potatoes are versatile, easy to grow, and can provide essential nutrients to astronauts. They are also rich in carbohydrates, which are important for energy. Additionally, potatoes can be grown in a variety of environments and can withstand harsh conditions, making them suitable for space cultivation. Therefore, potatoes were chosen as the first vegetable to be grown in outer space.
15.
Which of the following vegetables is considered a tuber?
Correct Answer
C. Potato
Explanation
Potato is considered a tuber because it is an underground stem modification that stores nutrients for the plant. It has buds called "eyes" that can grow into new plants. Carrots, snap peas, and string beans are not tubers; they are root vegetables, legumes, and beans respectively.
16.
Which of the following is a cruciferous vegetable?
Correct Answer
C. Broccoli
Explanation
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable because it belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which is commonly known as the cruciferous or cabbage family. Cruciferous vegetables are known for their high nutrient content and health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are also known for their potential cancer-fighting properties. Broccoli specifically is a popular cruciferous vegetable that is known for its high levels of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and various other beneficial compounds.