A journey through the finest seasonal and local ingredients by Chef Craig Hennessey from The Robin Hood Inn - Smithfield and Titanilla Hennessey of Hungarian wine cellar
CHAMPION OF THE MONTH The start of the English asparagus season is eagerly anticipated by chef's and food lovers, up and down the country. Although the prime season is quiet brief, the quality is exceptional. From mid March, thin, fat purple and white UK varieties, become available. They have been known to make a freak appearance for Valentines day
The first shoots of the year usually come from the Chinn Family farm in the beautiful Wye Valley, near Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire, a region perfectly suited to growing asparagus. The light, sandy soil and south-facing slopes of the meandering Wye Valley capture the earliest spring sunlight, and create a microclimate that is perfectly formed to produce some of the earliest, and the best, produce in the UK.
Caterite stock over 350 lines of fresh fruit and vegetables. They now offer click and collect to the general public from their depot in Embleton, Cockermouth.
So far, they have fulfilled over 25,000 orders to local communities and helped to slow the spread of the coronavirus by providing an alternative to supermarkets.
They have the most expansive and accessible fresh produce range in Cumbria. Understanding the importance of availability, quality and price. Unlike most other wholesalers, they purchase direct from growers or farmers in the UK and Europe. From field to Caterite and to customers in less than 24 hours, it just does not get any fresher.
Asparagus deteriorates relatively quickly after picking, which is why freshly picked English asparagus in peak season is what you should be eating right now.
Wines that Pair Best with Asparagus?
Try a crisp and refreshing wine, like our Bodri, Chardonay 'Sari' - 2019
Vibrant dry white wine which has a fruity aroma of green apple & peach blossom with a brilliant pale straw colour and racy acidity.
THE FACTS
British asparagus is packed full of goodness, so not only are you getting a delicious vegetable but a healthy one too:
Asparagus contains 41.6mcg per 100 g vitamin K. 4x more than carrots, Vitamin K is essential for healthy blood clotting
Asparagus is a mild diuretic and is believed to help detoxify the body. It is a nutrient-packed vegetable. It is a very good source of fibre, vitamins as well as chromium, folate, potassium, and phosphorous, in addition to other micronutrients that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. That's good news if you're watching your blood sugar.
It also Promotes healthy skin: Six spears of asparagus contain 25% of the RDA of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant in the body that can protect the skin against sun damage.
Also its been remarked that asparagus can aid in curing a hangover, anti ageing and an aphrodisiac.
CHEF SAYS...
BUYING Look for firm but tender stalks with good colour and closed tips. Thinner stalks are not necessarily more tender; in fact thicker specimens can often be delicious if cooked correctly
STORING Once picked, asparagus rapidly loses flavour and tenderness, so it really is worth eating it on the day you buy it. To store asparagus, remove any rubber bands from the bunch. Place in the fridge with a damp paper towel wrapped around the bottom of the stalks.
COOKING
Remove the end of the stalk and rinse, gently peel the bottom half of the stem. Blanch in salted boiling water for 2 minutes then chill on to ice. you can use this blanched asparagus to grill, roast, pan-fry or even deep-fry in a batter. Using this method will maintain colour an flavour.
We currently have our Spring and Vegetarian tasting menus available to be booked via our website. ✅ 7 course seasonal menu ✅ in your own home ✅ social distancing followed ✅ full flavours ✅ unique matched wines ✅ no washing up Service currently available for 2 - 6 people from the same household. As restrictions are lifted we will be able to cater for mixed households.
If you are eco conscious and flexible? This delivery option is for you! Join our regular monthly delivery to receive your wine for FREE within 30 days. Our new delivery service allows you to enjoy delicious Hungarian wine while helping to reduce pollution & protect the environment. We do this by reducing the amount of packaging required and by having our delivery drivers plot the most efficient route.
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