In a month of plenty like September it is hard to find something a bit different, something that will impress at the dinner table and a vegetable the children will enjoy.
You won’t be disappointed if you seek out a romanesco cauliflower, also known as minaret or romanesco broccoli. This beautiful vegetable is a member of the brassica family and well worth visiting your farm shop or specialist greengrocer for. It is generally available from late summer onwards. Romanesco is, as its name suggests, of 16th century Italian origin, then only grown exclusively around Rome. First noted here in the 19th century its magnificent lime green spiral florets (also known as fractals) and sweet, nutty flavour are becoming increasing popular. A real plus point is that its mild flavour and unusual shape is enough to encourage the children to eat their greens!
It can be eaten raw or lightly steamed. Romanesco makes an interesting variation on the usual white cauliflower gratin; just add some crème fraiche, parmesan and bread crumbs on top of the hot florets and brown under the grill.
Another great natural food now being harvested is wild duck, easily bought oven ready from your butcher. Its superior flavour and healthier fat content makes it a treat served with an English apple and cider sauce, some home made game chips and watercress alongside your favourite veggies.
The finale to any meal for me this autumn would be some fine local cheese served with a russet apple or juicy comice pear – fresh from the tree!
Sally Bendall co-owns Hollow Trees Farm Shop as well as finding time to chair FARMA, the National Farmers’ Retail and Markets Association.
Hollow Tree Farm Shop, A1141 Semer, Suffolk, IP7 6HX
T: 01449 741247 W: hollowtrees.co.uk
