It’s a time of abundance and our veg display is absolutely bursting with fresh leafy produce. After a short hiatus, true spinach is back: available loose from market garden Glebelands (in Sale), as well as in bags from Duncan Gielty in Ormskirk. After much consideration Duncan has changed to a new supply of compostable bags. These are made using potato starch and can be used to line your kitchen compost caddy afterwards. They are not see-through like plastic bags, so the contents aren’t as clear to see, but they help to keep leafy produce just as fresh. Also look out for his lovely pak choi, which will also be packed in the new bags.
Our brassica range is very impressive, if we do say so ourselves! Broccoli, kale and cauliflowers are in good supply, and Lancashire cabbages have bulked up nicely – if you struggle to get through a whole hard cabbage just ask one of the veg team to chop one in half for you.
We are missing some seasonal UK roots due to a crop failure at the Wass’ farm based in North Yorkshire. Their early turnip, swede and celeriac plants were wiped out by pests and the next crop won’t be ready for a while, in the meantime we are filling in with some lovely Dutch stuff.
After a decent season, blueberries have come to an end and now is the time to celebrate French Bourjasotte figs – tasty, dark and delicate. They are at their best when almost oozing juice. They are lovely in sweet dishes of course, but also make a great addition to salads.
Finally, Muscat de Hambourg grapes deserve another shout out: their flavour is unrivalled. You’re welcome to try one on the shop floor.
