At long last, spring has sprung. The first Jersey Royal potatoes are always a sign that the British season is gathering speed. Right now, prices for these early prized spuds are high but will steadily ease in the weeks and months to come.
FRUIT
Blood oranges are in their prime. From Sicily, expect both Moro and Tarocco varieties. Sanguinello from Spain are also on hand. (More on these beauties in our Seasonal Highlight post).
South Africa is a key player at this time of year. Their plums are a good bet. (Laeticia variety is a good eater). Most grapes are also South African and their growers are also sending decent black figs.
On the citrus front, lovely leafy lemons, clems and nardecotts are available. Soft fruit includes Dutch redcurrant and Spanish strawberries and raspberries. Note that lychees are coming to an end. Chilean cherries are on the Market but dear.
Rhubarb, of course, is botanically a vegetable. In fact, if we are going to get nerdy about it the stalks we at are correctly called ‘petioles’. But I digress. The key point is that both Yorkshire and Dutch forced rhubarb are still an excellent choice.
Pomegranates are still are colourful choice. For something more offbeat, quince is famous for its lovely honeyed flavour, and is also an excellent accompaniment to roast meats such as roast pork.
VEGETABLES
Brassicas are still a top choice, including kales, January King cabbage and purple sprouting. Mostly British, although Portuguese Hispi is also well worth considering. Root veg is on fine form, too.
From Italy, fennel is always terrific in the colder months. Courgettes have eased in price. There’s a huge range of spuds on hand, but note that Jersey Royals are definitely a premium option for the next couple of weeks. Mid and Ware sizes both available. English Jerusalem artichokes also available. Asparagus hails from the USA and Mexico.
EXTRAS
The first flushes of wild garlic have been spotted, down from warmer parts of the country. All wild mushrooms can be sourced, although Morels are very scarce. Petit violet and globe artichokes are worth considering. Round courgettes also available if you want an eye-catcher for the plate.
