Boston bibb lettuce is an annual plant of the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is one of dozens of Butterhead types of lettuce. The Butterhead distinction explains that each lettuce variety in the Butterhead family will form compact rosette shaped heads and large, easily separated leaves that achieve a buttery quality in their texture. Boston bibb lettuce is known as a limestone lettuce variety, which essentially is lettuce that was successfully cultivated in limestone rich soils.

Boston bibb lettuce is the benchmark butterhead variety, providing superior texture and flavor. Its broad wavy green outer leaves encompass more tightly bound and yellow tinted inner leaves. Together they form a rosette of leaves that have sweet, nutty and mild flavors paired with textures both buttery and crispy.

Serving Ideas

Boston bibb lettuce's best virtues are displayed when it is used as the principle salad ingredient as its textures and its subtle flavors are a perfect canvas for savory and bold companion ingredients and bright, fruity flavors. Pair with citrus, tomatoes, radishes, chiles, cooked eggs, especially fried and soft boiled, cheeses, particularly fresh or aged goat and sheep's milk, champagne and balsamic vinegar and cream-based dressings such as yogurt or buttermilk, dried fruits, apples, pears, melon, roasted chicken, bacon, shellfish, smoked trout, herbs such as basil, cilantro and dill. As with many greens that can withstand the heat of slow or brief cooking, Boston lettuce can be transformed into an earthy and sultry ingredient when slow braised or added to a simmering soup, achieving a level of caramelization when paired with the right ingredients such as butter, rich meats and chicken stock.

Geography/History

Bibb lettuce is named for its original cultivator, John bibb. In 1865 he grew his special bibb lettuce in Kentucky's alkaline soil. This variety, also called Limestone, would become the first American gourmet lettuce. Bibb lettuce varieties are known for tolerating varied soils and heat and resisting bolt during summer months, making them a choice lettuce for home gardeners.

Seasons/Availability

Boston and bibb lettuces are available year round with a peak season summer through fall.