The British growing season is just cranking into gear. For now, highlights from these islands include Yorkshire forced rhubarb and Jersey Royal Potatoes.
Fruit
Citrus is mainly Spanish, including some lovely Primofiore lemons, Nardicott clementines and Navel oranges. Blood oranges from Sicily are always welcome on the menus at this time of year. Lychees are well-priced. Brazilian figs are now arriving in force, along with mangoes from Venezuela. Cherries remain expensive. English apples from store include Cox and Braeburn. Forced rhubarb is a delight – see out recent Seasonal Highlight feature and top tips from our friendly chef Steve Walpole.
Veg
Jersey Royals are available in Mids and Ware grades. Cypriot are also a good shout. For a price, you can enjoy broad beans and peas over from Italy. Brassicas include January King and Hispi cabbage. Other British roots include parsnips, swede, turnips and beets. Wet garlic from Egypt is also on hand.
Extras
From Italy, you can still lay your hands on puntarelle – that most classy of leaves. Radicchios are also in season. Violet, Globe and Jerusalem artichokes offer earthy flavours for your winter dishes.