Andy’s Market report - 26th January 2010
Unless you’ve been lucky enough to be down in South Africa watching the cricket then you’ll have noticed that it’s been a bit chilly recently! The cold snap certainly had, and is continuing to have an effect on the market, with a lack of availability pushing up prices, particularly brassicas. Herbs have also suffered badly, with some doubling in price.
We have however got some beautiful January King cabbages that came onto the market last week and should be here for a while. Try steaming them and dressing with a little butter.
If you’re on a post-Christmas diet and are looking for some inspiration for a nice winter salad then you should be opting for some hearty leaves such as Batavia or Chicory. Chicory has a slightly bitter taste which can put some people off, but serve it with the right dressing and it’s delicious. Zesty dressings made with lemon or orange juice instead of vinegar work well. Dijon Mustard dressing is good too. Personally I prefer a dressing made using a mix of walnut and sunflower oil with chicory as the flavour of olive oil tends to clash with it.
Seville oranges are around now but not for long so get them while you can. As well as making the best marmalade, Seville oranges are great for cakes and desserts and are good in dressings for winter salads. If you want to try and make your own marmalade but are short of time then you can buy Sevilles while them available and freeze them until you’re ready!
Also in plentiful supply are blood oranges. The deep red flesh has a terrific flavour and they make a great breakfast juice. Put them in the fridge before you go to bed so that the juice will nice and cold when you squeeze them in the morning.
Just coming onto the market is the first forced rhubarb. Rhubarb has had something of a renaissance in recent years thanks to the exposure it’s been given by some of our famous chefs. It doesn’t just go with custard; its tangy flavour also works well with game. Personally I’m glad it’s no longer being overlooked. And anyone who doesn’t enjoy a lovely rhubarb crumble should have their passport revoked in my opinion!