Written by Tom Moggach
November 06, 2019
Leafy clementines now flooding into the Market - always a highlight for November.
Citrus of all kinds is exceptional. Here are a couple of rare ones from wholesaler Gilgrove. Ever seen a limequat?
How about a Buddha's Hand?
And - a bit more mainstream - some juicy kumquats. These snack-size fruit can be eaten skin and all.
For British fruit, a wide range of British apples and pears are on hand. In addition to the varieties below, you'll find Russets, Gala and Bramley.
This is a new variety, grown in France, spotted at P & I Fruits. Kissabel has a pink tinge to the flesh.
For veg, brassicas are strong. This includes sprouts and tops, kales, Romanesco and purple sprouting. Many traders are moving to Spain for their broccoli. Squashes of all kinds are also plentiful.
From under the ground, Jerusalem 'chokes are a good bet - these are British from wholesaler S Thorogood. A wide range of standard spuds also available.
From the Continent, specialities include radicchios (Tardivo, Castel Franco, Chiccorinos), salsify, chervil root, Thema artichokes, crosnes and celeriac.
Don't forget nuts - fresh chestnuts are in their prime. Seen last month's Chef's Guide to Chestnuts?
Wet walnuts also here - these over at H G Walker.
Familiar with persimmons? These are growing in popularity. Spain is a key exporter at this time of year.
Turkish figs are all but over. But you will find some Italian (below), French and new crops from the Southern Hemisphere.
These are from Peru - this batch from Premier.
The last of the European plums are the Angeleno variety from Spain and Italy.
Chillies are bringing plenty of colour. These are from the same wholesaler as the figs - Premier.
It's a good time for wild mushrooms, especially ceps.
A new trader for the Market is the London Herb Company. They are fully stocked and trading in the units once occupied by Worldwide Exotics, which has been bought by The French Garden.
They sell the full range - including Westlands products.
This is their wheatgrass - often juiced by customers and sold by the shot.
See you in December. As ever, drop us a line with any comments and queries.
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