Brace yourself: the Christmas run-up is always a hectic time in the catering trade. Here on the market, there’s a wide range of tip tip produce to perk up your festive menus.
Fruit
Citrus from Southern Europe is flooding in, including leafy clementines and lovely Spanish navel oranges. English apples include Braeburn, Cox and russet. Conference and Comice pears are also a good shout.
From South Africa and nearby, we’re seeing the first peaches and nectarines. Dutch indoor rhubarb is an option. Pomegranates are also a good call. Lychees, of course, are a real taste of winter – I always had one in my Christmas stocking. Kiwis are selling well.
Veg
Expect no surprise when it comes to British veg. All the staples are on hand and reasonably priced, including sprouts and sprout tops, caulis (including Romanesco), cabbages, kales and purple sprouting. Squashes are abundant: if you would like a specific variety, please ask. Celeriac and Jerusalem artichokes are among the roots that are at their best in these colder months.
On the salad front, the British growers are winding up. For something a bit different, how about Italian radicchio, puntarelle or cime di rapa? Watercress also makes a lovely winter salad. Courgettes are on the pricey side.
Extras
Wild mushrooms include Pied Bleu, black Trompette, Pied de Mouton and Cep. Cherries are scarce and expensive, so only for the big spenders. Chestnuts and walnuts are also on hand.
