We’ve passed the solstice and it’s all go on the fruit and veg front! So many new lines coming in, that the majority of our veg offer now comes from the UK.
The first delivery of broccoli from Nacton Farm in Suffolk is in and looks promising; fresh, big, tight heads to start the season of with. Nacton Farm is a patchwork of woodland, heath, grass and arable land, 140 hectares of which under Soil Association organic certification since the late 90s.
Lancashire courgettes are now more abundant and coming down in price. Also look out for stocky little gems from Strawberry Field (Lincs) – griddling or frying (!) gives them a deliciously smoky flavour.
UK cherries are starting today from Carey (Herefordshire) with Merton Glory – a white and blush variety. Then on Thursday we expect a big hit of Joe Pardoe’s, which we’ve been looking forward to for ages. Early season cherry varieties are softer and more delicate – so handle with care!
Strawberries also from Carey continue to shine. We get different varieties and whilst they all have their own flavour characteristics, what they have in common is sweetness and juiciness.
Soft fruits are also starting to appear from local grower Alan Hewitt, Dunham Massey – just a few miles down the road! Gooseberries, redcurrants and blackcurrants all tend to (undeservedly) play second fiddle to their popular blueberry cousins, but they make a lovely tangy addition to breakfast and are great in baking.
